Laurie Sweet

The General Assembly passed a few pieces of environmental legislation, including:

House Bill 5004 (Public Act 25-125): 

• Establishes a net-zero greenhouse gas emissions target for Connecticut by 2050, with a new interim target for 2040
• Includes incentives for solar canopies and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems
• Supports the growth of the green economy through workforce development and sustainable business incentives
• Requires studies on heat pumps, solar canopies, nature-based solutions, and renter access to state energy efficiency plans

Senate Bill 9 (Public Act 25-33):

• Strengthens state and local planning for flood and other climate-related emergencies
• Focuses on making infrastructure like bridges and roads better able to withstand severe weather
• Requires insurance companies to inform homeowners about flood coverage and provides resources for communities to invest in climate resilience planning and project development
• Includes tougher restrictions on certain rodent poisons and neonicotinoid pesticides

New regulations will take effect for some electric bikes, or e-bikes, on October 1. The new law pertains to E-bikes without pedals and with batteries over 750 watts. They will be classified as motor-driven cycles and require a driver's license to operate them. E-bikes exceeding 3,500 watts will require registration and insurance, like motorcycles.

E-bikes are gaining popularity but medical professionals are warning that these bikes can be dangerous. Connecticut Children's Medical Center treated 25 e-bike injuries in May and June 2025, compared to three in May and June 2024.

Here’s what parents and kids need to know about riding e-bikes in Connecticut:

• Speed limits matter: Class 2 e-bikes (the ones with a throttle) are capped at 20 mph. Class 3 models can go up to 28 mph—but only if they’re not throttle-powered
• No passengers unless built for two: Most e-bikes aren’t designed for a second rider
• Stay off the sidewalk: Unless otherwise posted, e-bikes are considered vehicles. They belong on the road, in the right lane
• Be courteous and cautious: If riding on sidewalks or shared paths, yield to pedestrians
• New in 2025: Class 1 e-bikes are now allowed on bikes and multi-use trails statewide, unless a town says otherwise.

Click here for more information. 

Supporting maternal health doesn't begin in the delivery room.

It starts with access to care, education, and resources, long before pregnancy.

Connecticut committed to providing access to maternal health services during the 2025 legislative session with the passage of  HB7102, An Act Concerning Maternal and Infant Health Care, and HB 7214, An Act Concerning Maternal Health.

Both pieces of legislation were signed into law this week.

HB7102 requires the state to develop a strategic plan to increase the number of birth centers and birthing hospitals in parts of the state with high percentages of Medicaid recipients and limited access to these facilities.

The bill also expands perinatal mental health services and strengthens family support, including programs that aid fathers in supporting maternal health.

HB7214 enhances hospital transparency and accountability in maternal care by establishing a task force to assess the availability of perinatal mental health care services and identify care gaps. It also calls for an advisory committee to study doula-friendly practices in hospitals.

HB7102 and HB7214 affirm Connecticut's dedication to ensuring safe, high-quality care, regardless of race, income, or zip code.