Travis Simms

Updates from State Rep. Travis Simms for Oct. 3, 2025

With fall comes cooler weather, changing leaves, and a number of new laws hitting the books. Several measures passed during the 2025 legislative session took effect on Oct. 1. Below is a brief overview of some of these important changes. We've updated our motorcycle and e-bike laws to reflect our continued efforts to promote public safety and adapt to emerging technologies on our roads. A new law raises the age from 18 to 21 for requiring motorcyclists to wear a helmet and raises the age from 16 to 18 and under for children to wear a helmet while riding bicycles, scooters and skateboards. New regulations are also being introduced for certain high-powered electric bikes. Riders of e-bikes without pedals and equipped with batteries over 750 watts (25-28 mph) will now need a valid driver’s license to operate them. Additionally, e-bikes with batteries over 3,500 watts (35 mph to over 50 mph) will require registration and insurance, similar to motorcycles. Follow the link below for the complete list and feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. New Laws Federal Shutdown The U.S. government is officially shut down. To help break down the impacts of the shutdown and provide some clarity during a time of uncertainty, please click on the image below for an overview of how the federal government shutdown affects students and schools in Connecticut. Breast Cancer Awareness Month This is the time each year we bring awareness and honor the millions of lives affected by the disease in one way or another. Throughout the month, we stress the importance of mammograms as the best way to screen for breast cancer, which is the second most common cancer among women.  One in eight women in the United States will get breast cancer. More than 40,000 women die from breast cancer in the U.S. each year. There is hope. Awareness is the key. Click on the image below for more details. Domestic Violence Awareness Month Also during this month, victim advocates, survivors of abuse, their loved ones, communities, and more come together to mourn the lives lost to domestic violence and acknowledge the progress made in curbing this epidemic, and connecting with others working for change. Please click on the image below for more information. Understanding Hate Crimes Hate crimes have been rising in Connecticut since 2021. The Hate Crimes Investigative Unit of the CT State Police has created a resource with tips on recognizing, reporting, and preventing hate crimes.  The unit's goal is to ensure every community is equipped with the necessary resources to foster a safe and inclusive environment for all residents. The flyers below feature a detailed breakdown of how to identify hate crimes, the steps to take if you or someone you know is a victim, and the support services available. Please visit the Hate Crimes Advisory Council website for more information.   Click Here: State of Connecticut Hate Crime Laws  NICE Festival The Norwalk International Cultural Exchange (NICE) Fest is Saturday, Oct. 4, from noon to 8 p.m. at Oyster Shell Park.  This free, family friendly event is Connecticut's leading multicultural festival with two stages of live performances, as well as over 50 international food, crafts, arts and exhibitors. Please click here for more details. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to my office. Sincerely, Travis Simms State Representative Website Email Facebook Forward to a friend | Unsubscribe from this list | Update subscription preferences