Updates from State Rep. Travis Simms for Oct. 10, 2025

October 10, 2025



 

 

There's been a lot of misinformation (and disinformation) surrounding the reason(s) for the federal shutdown.

Here's the truth: The issues at stake are far too important to deflect. Without action from President Trump and Republicans in Congress, thousands of Connecticut residents — and millions across the country — will see their health insurance premiums rise dramatically.

Let’s be clear: this is not about providing healthcare for undocumented residents, as President Trump has falsely claimed. They are not eligible for this program or any federally funded program. This is about hardworking middle-class Americans who get coverage through Obamacare/Affordable Care Act. In Connecticut, that’s over 200,000 people insured through Access Health CT. Many face premium hikes of thousands of dollars a year if nothing is done, and will get alarming letters notifying them of these unaffordable cost spikes as soon as next week.

I’ve spoken directly with 140th District residents, all hardworking neighbors who will struggle to afford their insurance without these tax credits, and many who will drop health insurance as a result, raising health costs and premiums for everyone else.

Some may argue this isn’t the fault of Republicans because these credits were set to expire. But they had the opportunity in their so-called One Big Beautiful Bill to extend them for the middle class. Instead, they chose more tax breaks for multi-millionaires and billionaires and the wealthiest corporations.

I hope a resolution is reached soon so the government can reopen and families can keep their healthcare affordable.

Republicans control all branches of government, and they have the power to put the middle class ahead of the 1% today — if they choose to truly represent the people. In the meantime, my colleagues and I are working to plug the gaping wounds caused by this shutdown and working every day to protect our people and keep funding the services everyone relies on.
 

New West Rocks Middle School Building

I support the construction of a brand-new, state-of-the-art building for West Rocks Middle School, which was recently announced by the city and Senator Bob Duff. The West Rocks Middle School is part of Norwalk’s 25-year plan for new and upgraded school facilities at a 60% reimbursement rate.

I'm looking forward to that project to start.
 

Free Breakfast and Lunch in NPS

I'm pleased that city leaders secured funding to offer free breakfast and lunch to all Norwalk Public School students for the 2025–26 school year.

The continuation of this program was made possible thanks to a generous philanthropic donation and matching funds from the city of Norwalk, as well as Norwalk Public School funds.

Access to healthy meals leads to better educational outcomes across the board. On an even more basic level, no child should ever go hungry in the most prosperous country on the planet.
 

Harvest Festival

Celebrate the 2025 First Congregational Church of Norwalk's Farmers Market's last day at its annual Harvest Festival on Saturday, Oct. 11, from noon to 4 p.m., on the Norwalk Green.

The event will feature crafts, games, trunk or treat, raffles, gently used clothing/jackets and purses, and more. 
 

Family Fall Festival

The American Legion Post 12 is hosting a Family Fall Festival from noon to 4 p.m. at 60 County St.

The event will food from local Norwalk food trucks, games, relay races, balloon uppie, gaga pit, archery, and a scavenger hunt. Kids can also explore arts and crafts, including face painting, bead crafts, pumpkin decorating, and coloring books.
 

New Fire Chief

Congratulations to Edward McCabe, who was recently sworn in as the chief of the Norwalk Fire Department.

McCabe was appointed by Mayor Harry Rilling and the Norwalk Fire Commission. 

Chief McCabe has served in the department for more than 30 years and I am grateful for his service to the city.

He replaces former Chief Gino Gatto, who retired after more than 40 years with the fire service.
 

As always, feel free to call me at 1-800-842-8267 or email me at Travis.Simms@cga.ct.gov if you have any questions or concerns. Also, please like my official Facebook Page for regular updates.

Sincerely,

Travis Simms
State Representative

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