Kai Belton

A number of new laws, that my colleagues and I worked on during the 2023 legislative session to implement meaningful change in our state, will take effect in Connecticut on July 1.

A number of new laws that my colleagues and I worked on during the 2023 legislative session to implement meaningful change in our state will take effect in Connecticut on July 1.

See below for some highlights.

My colleagues and I delivered on our promise to lower taxes for those who need the most help. According to a report from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Connecticut is a leader on tax relief for low- and middle-income earners. While other states cut taxes for the wealthy and corporations, Connecticut stands out for providing nearly $500 million in relief for individuals and families.

Earlier today, I held a Mental Health Awareness Fair at the state Capitol. The goal of this event was to provide my colleagues and the public with an opportunity to learn more about mental health and different strategies on how to improve personal wellness. Nonprofits and small businesses from across the state provided information to attendees seeking to learn how they can improve their mental health.

Sadly, wrong-way crashes and deaths have been on the rise in Connecticut. Studies have shown that wrong-way driving crashes are 100 times more likely to be fatal than other types of crashes.

For the past 20 years, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has recognized Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM) every May to increase awareness about the vital role mental health plays in our overall health and well-being.

We are delivering on key legislative priorities this session by addressing specific concerns affecting our Intellectually, Developmentally Disabled (IDD) population, which has been lacking adequate funding and services for far too long.

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, I am hosting a Mental Health and Wellness Day Fair at the State Capitol next Tuesday, May 23. The purpose of this event is to spotlight mental health and learn more about this medical condition affecting adults and children in the state.