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This week is National Emergency Medical Services Week.
In Connecticut we have 20,000+ certified EMS personnel that handle 450,000 emergency calls annually. Join me in honoring the dedication, courage, and lifesaving care of Connecticut’s EMS professionals. Thank you to every EMT, paramedic, dispatcher, and first responder who make the difference between life and death. |
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Monday is Memorial Day. On this day, we remember and honor those who sacrificed everything.
West Haven, Milford, and Orange will hold parades over the weekend.
West Haven will hold their annual parade on Monday at 10:30 AM. The parade will begin on Campbell Avenue. Click here to view a Facebook post from Mayor Borer with more information.
The Orange parade will be held on Sunday at 10:30 AM. The parade will begin the at the High Plains Community Center. Click here for more information.
In addition to a parade, the City of Milford will have an annual Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony on Sunday at 9:45 a.m. in front of City Hall. The parade will begin at 2 pm. Click here to learn more. |
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| Please see below to see what else I've been up to in Hartford and in the 117th district! |
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On Monday, House Democrats passed legislation on Monday that saves money for EVERY EMPLOYER in the state since all of them faced skyrocketing workers’ compensation claims costs after a CT Supreme Court ruling.
This legislation was a top priority of businesses and municipalities and saves them millions of dollars. Business advocates estimate workers’ compensation costs would have increased 265% absent any action. |
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| We also passed HB 7065, which decriminalized psilocybin in small amounts. If signed, Connecticut will join states like Oregon and Colorado to take a step toward harm reduction. |
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Amid unprecedented federal immigration crackdowns - even targeting properly documented immigrants - and the denial of due process and Habeus Corpus, we are standing by our Connecticut values, and protecting our friends and neighbors.
Connecticut has one of the strongest TRUST Act’s in the country - it was approved unanimously in 2013 - and we added to it on Wednesday:
➡️ Make sure that officials like juvenile probation officers, and employees of the Division of Criminal Justice and the Board of Pardons and Paroles are included in existing TRUST Act protections. ➡️ The TRUST Act allows cooperation with federal immigration authorities when someone has been convicted of serious crimes. ➡️ Added a slew of Class C and Class D felonies including those related to domestic violence, sexual assault and possession of child sexual abuse material to the list of post-conviction offenses where law enforcement can cooperate with federal immigration authorities. |
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| Click here to find the full list of bills passed. |
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On Wednesday, I had the honor of joining nonprofit organizations from around the state for a rally in front of the Capitol.
For too long, Connecticut’s nonprofit organizations have been asked to do more with less—tight budgets and limited resources. That’s why my colleagues and I are fighting to ensure this year’s state budget includes the increased funding and support these vital organizations deserve. |
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| Over the weekend, I attended ConnJam in Orange. Scout troops from across the state, including Troop 1 from Milford, came together for fun activities, learning, and community. Rep. Ken Gucker of Danbury, who is an Eagle Scout, was also in attendance. I had a great time and was honored to take part in the opening ceremony. |
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| On Saturday, I attended the Milford Marine Institute Open House. This event provided more information about the Institute's summer camp program. |
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May is Mental Health Awareness Month
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May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Learning to identify the signs is an important step when seeking help or when trying to help others. Here are some common signs to be aware of:
- Feeling sad or hopeless
- Confused thinking or reduced ability to concentrate
- Excessive fears or worries, or extreme feelings of guilt
- Extreme mood changes of highs and lows
- Withdrawal from friends and activities
- Significant tiredness, low energy or problems sleeping
- You think about hurting yourself or feel like life isn't worth living
Taking small steps to support your mental health can make a big difference:
- Take breaks from social media
- Go outside and relax or be active
- Connect with others
- Take care of your body by getting at least 7 hours of sleep, staying physically active, and eating healthy
- Reduce your alcohol intake and avoid smoking
Click here for local resources for mental health assistance.
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Bridge Replacement on I-95 in West Haven
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The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT announced that a bridge replacement will commence on I-95 over First Avenue and Bridge 00162 carrying I-95 over Metro North Railroad. This project is set to begin on May 27, and be completed on July 22, 2027.
Motorists can expect various lane closures in both the north and southbound directions for the duration of the project.
Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area.
Click here to learn more. |
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Coming up at the Capitol! The House will be back in session next week. Stay tuned for key updates, votes, and what’s on the legislative agenda. Here are some great ways to stay informed:
- The Connecticut Network (CT-N) provides live, gavel-to-gavel coverage of legislative sessions. You can watch sessions live on Roku, YouTube or their website: https://www.ct-n.com.
- Connecticut General Assembly's official website offers a Schedule of Events: cga.ct.gov/calendarofevents.asp.
- Follow Connecticut House Democrats on social media for legislative updates and policy priorities.
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Sincerely,
 MJ Shannon State Representative |
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