Gary Turco

In just under two months, we will be casting our ballots in the 2020 general elections, however, due to COVID-19, voting will look different from past years. In July, the Governor signed legislation passed during a special session of the legislature to expand absentee voting so no one has to choose between their health and their fundamental right to vote.

If you were unable to comment on Eversource Energy's recent rate increases and other related issues, you will have another opportunity September 10 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.when the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) conducts a public comment hearing. 

A resource that offers potential relief to your energy bills is weatherizing your home, and now is the perfect time to check-in on how efficient your homes are to hopefully lower your energy costs.

The ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic has been life-changing, impacting families across our state and region. If you are able to, please consider joining the Newington Human Services Department Food Bank and me in raising awareness of food insecurity and resources to directly assist those in need.

Thursday the legislature's Energy & Technology Committee held an informational forum on Eversource's Tropical Storm Isaias response and July 2020 electric rate increases.

If you have been affected by the ongoing COVID-19/coronavirus pandemic and are struggling to pay your rent or mortgage, the Connecticut Department of Housing (DOH) and the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA) partnered to offer temporary assistance programs.

On the steps of the State Capitol Monday, State Senator Norm Needleman and State Representative David Arconti, the chairs of the Energy and Technology Committee, and ranking committee members unveiled the "Take Back Our Grid Act." The legislation seeks to hold Connecticut utilities responsible and provide stronger protections for ratepayers.

You have the opportunity to express your opinion on the recent rate increase by Eversource. The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority has announced a hearing is scheduled for Monday, August 24 to conduct a review of Eversource to determine if the utility is benefiting from increased revenues at ratepayer expense.