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Dear Neighbor,
Another legislative session is in the books. This year, I was proud to champion and pass bills protecting our environment, supporting special education, expanding affordable housing, and so much more. I cannot thank you all enough for picking me to represent the 41st district. It is an honor to be serving our state in Hartford and doing everything I can to build stronger communities for all of us.
While things are going to slow down at the capitol with session ending, I promise I will continue to work hard for Groton and Stonington year-round.
Here's a detailed breakdown of the topics I'll cover in this week's update.
- Around N' About the Capitol, 41st District
- Join Me for Coffee @ The Ditty Bag on Saturday!
- Signed by the Governor: HB6222
- HB6917 Takes on CT's Waste Crisis
- HB5004 Headed to Governor's Desk
- Groton, Stonington Get Youth Violence Prevention Funding
- Democrat Budget Puts People First
- Addressing Childcare Crisis
- In the House: Connecticut Hero Act Part II Passes
- ICYMI: Bills Passed in the House
- CT Department Of Transportation News
- Veterans Resources & Updates
- Community Events And Notices
Do not hesitate to contact me with any thoughts or concerns you may have at Aundre.Bumgardner@cga.ct.gov or 1-800-842-8267.
Sincerely,
Aundré Bumgardner
State Representative
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The 2025 legislative session has officially gaveled out — sine die!
It’s been a marathon of a final day, but we delivered real wins for our climate, our kids, and our collective future. I’m proud of what we accomplished together and grateful for all the partners, advocates, and constituents who made their voices heard.
Scroll down for some final moments from the People’s House as we wrap up another historic session. Onward! |
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| Kicking things off early on the last day of the 2025 session with great energy and purpose. |
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The House—and the Environment Committee—had a marathon day of legislative action on the eve of our final day of session. We passed dozens upon dozens of bills, working just past midnight. We’re back at it today, continuing to advance meaningful legislation.
As vice chair of the Environment Committee, I was proud to bring SB 59 to the floor, which passed the House unanimously. This bill requires DEEP to develop a plan by February 1, 2027, for the beneficial reuse of dredged sediment—transforming routine dredging from marinas and navigable channels into a powerful tool for wetland restoration.
This sediment can be used to build hummocks—elevated mounds that provide critical nesting habitat for the saltmarsh sparrow, a vulnerable species whose population has declined by 87% since 1998. These birds are found all along our coastline, including at Stonington’s Barn Island.
This bill is a win-win: supporting our thriving marine trades and boating industry while also protecting our pristine marine ecosystems and strengthening our resilience to climate change.
Huge thanks to Senator Heather Somers—my legislative partner for Groton and Stonington—for her leadership and bipartisan collaboration on this effort. |
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I cast my vote on the FY 2026–2027 state budget. This budget moves us in the right direction—by investing in what matters most: our kids, our schools, our childcare system, and the working families who call our communities home. That’s always been my reason for serving: to help build a better Connecticut for the next generation.
The budget stays just under the spending cap in the first year and comes in roughly $70 million below it in the second. As we face uncertainty around future federal support, we’re doing our best to make thoughtful decisions—balancing immediate needs with long-term fiscal responsibility. |
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I had the honor of attending and participating in the Bridge to Recovery Walk and the grand opening of The Recovery Hub at 124 North Street in the City of Groton—an incredible milestone led by Community Speaks Out.
We walked across the Gold Star Memorial Bridge in solidarity: to uplift those in recovery, honor those we’ve lost, and support those still on the journey. The ribbon-cutting of the CSO Recovery Hub marked more than the opening of a building—it marked the creation of a safe, healing space where hope, recovery, and community resilience will thrive.
A heartfelt thank-you to Joe and Tammy de la Cruz as well as the CSO team for your extraordinary leadership, compassion, and tireless advocacy. Your work is transforming lives and bringing light to families affected by addiction.
The Hub will serve as a powerful resource and refuge for our community—and it wouldn’t exist without your vision and determination.
To learn more or support the Hub, visit communityspeaksout.org. |
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| With the 2025 legislative in the books, I’ll be sharing what we accomplished at the Capitol! Please join me at the Ditty Bag in Mystic on Saturday, from 10 a.m. to noon. |
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Bumgardner Applauds Governor’s Signing of Bipartisan Shellfish and Invasive Aquatic Species Bill
MYSTIC, CT – State Representative Aundré Bumgardner (D–Groton, Stonington) today celebrated the signing of Public Act No. 25-14, originally introduced as House Bill 6222, An Act Concerning the Taking of Eastern Oysters and Invasive Aquatic Species. The bill passed unanimously in both the House and Senate and was officially signed into law by Governor Ned Lamont on June 3, 2025.
Rep. Bumgardner, Vice Chair of the Environment Committee, brought out the bill on the House floor and led its passage as a major bipartisan win for southeastern Connecticut’s working waterfronts, aquaculture sector, and culinary economy, anchored by Mystic.
“This collaborative effort is a big win for our working waterfronts, our marine ecosystem, and our local restaurant economy,” said Rep. Bumgardner. “Oyster Farming and fishing has long been a cornerstone of our coastal heritage, and this law strikes a smart balance between sustainability and economic opportunity.”
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The new law includes two key provisions:
- Green Crab Reform: Restaurants may now legally purchase and serve invasive bait species like green crabs for human consumption without obtaining a bait dealer’s license—so long as the species are not resold as bait. This change supports ecological management while unlocking new culinary uses for invasive species.
- Oyster Harvest Size Study: The Department of Agriculture, in coordination with Connecticut Sea Grant, will review and recommend updates to state oyster size regulations based on scientific research and market trends.
A central focus of the bill originated from a concern raised directly to Rep. Bumgardner by David Standridge, a James Beard Award-winning chef at The Shipwright’s Daughter in Mystic. Standridge brought to Bumgardner’s attention the regulatory barrier that prevented Connecticut restaurants from purchasing green crabs harvested locally for human consumption—forcing him to source the invasive species from Rhode Island instead. In response, the two closely collaborated to advance a legislative fix, recognizing the green crab’s dual role as an ecological threat and the economic potential of incorporating them into local cuisine.
“Green crabs are one of the most destructive invasive species in our waters—preying on native shellfish and destroying eelgrass beds,” said Rep. Bumgardner. “Allowing chefs to serve them turns a serious environmental threat into an economic opportunity. It’s pro-environment and pro-economy.”
In public testimony, Chef Standridge explained that his restaurant uses up to 200 pounds of green crabs weekly during peak season but was previously forced to source them from Rhode Island due to outdated Connecticut regulations.
“Green crabs are a menace to our marine ecosystems—they destroy eelgrass beds, prey on baby clams, and outcompete native species,” said Standridge. “But they also have real culinary value. The ability to source them locally is a game-changer for restaurants like mine.”
The bill benefited from strong public testimony and input from numerous stakeholders, including Suzie Flores of Stonington Kelp Co., Dr. Zosia Baumann, a marine studies professor at UConn Avery Point, and oyster farmers across Noank and southeastern Connecticut.
A provision in the new law also authorizes a formal review of oyster harvest sizes to align with current science and market realities. Rep. Bumgardner praised the partnership with Sea Grant and Dr. Baumann in shaping this forward-looking section.
“I’m grateful to Dr. Zosia Baumann and the team at Connecticut Sea Grant for their close partnership on this critical issue,” said Rep. Bumgardner. “As we study oyster growth and market dynamics, we’re committed to a science-first, collaborative process that supports the full range of Connecticut’s oyster farmers—from the smallest to the largest.”
Public Act No. 25-14 takes effect on October 1, 2025, with the oyster study provision effective immediately.
For more information, click HERE.
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On the final day of session, I brought out the first bill of the day—a session-long effort to confront Connecticut’s mounting waste crisis. HB 6917 passed the House unanimously.
This bill tackles plastic pollution, food waste, and outdated waste infrastructure.
It creates a state task force to study the reduction of single-use plastics, including polystyrene. It requires large commercial food generators to adopt food donation policies to curb waste and support food relief partners. It also strengthens the Sustainable Materials Management fund to better support small towns and modernize our waste systems.
A key provision in this bill comes directly from HB 6229, which I introduced and championed as Vice Chair of the Environment Committee. That proposal focused on reducing single-use plastics and phasing out polystyrene food ware across Connecticut. |
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We worked with so many partners this session—CT School Nutrition Association, CT Food Association, CT Restaurant Association, environmental advocates, businesses, and municipal voices. I want to especially thank Jeanine Behr of BYOCT, Dave Aldridge from SCRRRA, Mystic Aquarium as well as the Aquarium Conservation Partnership, Jason Hine along with my Ditty Bag gang, and my dear friends at Groton Conservation Advocates for your advocacy and partnership on polystyrene reform.
This builds on work I helped lead as a Groton Town Councilor when we passed our local plastics reduction ordinance, and Stonington passed a straw-by-request policy.
Polystyrene is toxic, nearly impossible to recycle, and burdens local budgets. This policy protects public health, cuts plastic waste, and helps our towns plan for a cleaner, more sustainable future.
I am so proud of all the work we put into this bill and appreciate the collaboration of my current and former Environment chairs Rep. John-Michael Parker and Rep. Joe Gresko, and insights from Rep. Maria Horn and Rep. Jennifer Leeper—who respectively chair the Finance Committee and Education Committee.
We must get serious about tackling plastic pollution, food waste diversion/composting, and getting serious about recycling.
This is real momentum. This is just the start. Let’s keep going. |
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HB 5004 An Act Concerning the Protection of the Environment and the Development of Renewable Energy Sources and Associated Job Sectors has advanced out of the Senate!
This bill has been the House Democrats’ and our Speaker’s top climate action priority for this session, and I’m proud to be part of this critical effort.
This victory is the result of incredible teamwork, and I want to give a special thanks to my committee co-chairs, Rep. John-Michael Parker and Senator Rick Lopes, for their leadership on this important measure.
Together, we’re taking meaningful steps toward protecting our environment and creating green jobs here in Connecticut.
Stay tuned as we keep pushing forward for a cleaner, greener future! |
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| I am proud to have secured funding for multiple youth violence prevention initiatives in Groton and Stonington! |
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As the CT Mirror’s budget reporter pointed out: “The state House of Representatives adopted a $55.8 billion two-year budget early Tuesday that invests in child care and K-12 education, provides a $250 tax cut to working poor families...”
Tax relief for working families; investing in education and special education; transformative funding for childcare and early childhood education; and standing up for nonprofit service providers are the pillars of the next state budget.
Our budget reflects shared values, marked by historic investments in children through expanded funding for special education and childcare.
It strengthens support for working families and ensures that the essential work of nonprofits is both valued and financially supported. These organizations are on the frontlines every day, serving our most vulnerable neighbors. This budget affirms and reinforces their vital role in building a stronger, more inclusive community for all. |
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This budget stands up for:
HISTORIC NEW FUNDING FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION
- $40 million for Excess Cost Grant in each of the next two years
- $30 million for Special Education Expansion and Development (SEED) grant program
- $20 million in bonding to expand and upgrade special education facilities
- $10 million in bonding for capital development
- $10 million for Governor's Incentive District Grant
- Hold harmless funding for Education Cost Sharing, so no school district sees a cut
CHILDCARE
- Investible trust to provide sustainable funding for new childcare programs
- Funding for direct healthcare of our children through DSS Medicaid
NONPROFIT PROVIDERS
- Access to better health care and nonprofit community providers
- $150 million for group homes and nursing homes
- More than $60 million in Medicaid rate increases, which will benefit nonprofit providers
TAX RELIEF FOR WORKING FAMILIES
- Targeted, meaningful relief and long-term support for working families
- Refundable tax credit of $250 through the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) framework
- $500 refundable tax credit for home daycare owners that recognizes and sustains the vital care workforce
- Tax credit for employers who contribute to their employees' CHET accounts
- This is a budget that works for the people — one that safeguards essential services, uplifts communities, and lays the foundation for a future where every resident is supported and protected.
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| Every Connecticut family deserves affordable, high-quality childcare. With the passage of House Priority Bill 5003 and Senate Bill 1, transformative legislation is set to become reality by expanding access, supporting educators, and investing in a stronger future for our children and our economy. These smart, sustainable investments position Connecticut to lead the nation in delivering affordable, high-quality childcare and establishing universal Pre-K by 2032. |
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The bills:
Provide a Sustainable Investment
- Fund the Early Childhood Education Endowment to invest in childcare now and in the future
Lower Costs and Increase Access
- Childcare and Pre-K will be free for families in state-funded programs earning up to $100,000 and families making over $100,000 will pay no more than 7% of income
- Add 16,000 new childcare and Pre-K slots across the state
- Create an online portal to help families find and enroll in programs
Attract and Retain Early Childhood Educators
- Pay qualified educators on par with public school teachers
- Provide funding for health insurance coverage for educators
This legislation delivers lasting solutions for families, educators, and the economy. Together, these measures provide relief for families, bolster the recruitment and retention of childcare educators, and invest in the construction and renovation of early learning facilities. These bills represent a transformational step forward in Connecticut’s commitment to children and their future.
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Our veterans deserve more than just our gratitude, they deserve real, accessible support. With bipartisan support, the House of Representatives has passed the final portion of the CT Hero Act through House Bill 6438, a crucial step toward strengthening and expanding the services veterans rely on.
The CT Hero Act is our commitment to ensuring services for those who’ve served our country. By improving how Connecticut delivers veterans' service, this bill ensures every veteran can access the benefits and support they have earned. |
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Key provisions of this bill include:
- Making it easier for disabled veterans to qualify for state benefits: exempting veteran disability pay as an income requirement for certain state benefits
- Hiring more state employees to help connect veterans to their benefits: hiring veteran service officers to this Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs to assist veterans in qualifying for the VA disability claims.
- Guaranteeing free college tuition for disabled veterans: preventing higher ed institutions from charging fees
- Making it easier for veterans to qualify for free legal service: exempting veteran disability pay from an income requirement when determining access to public defenders.
- Making it easier for veterans and veteran-owned businesses to qualify for loans through D.E.C.D.
- Directing the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs to study: claim sharks and the municipal veterans representative program.
This measure reaffirms Connecticut’s commitment to honoring our veterans and standing with those who have served.
It now advances to the Senate and, if passed, will head to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law. Let’s ensure that every Connecticut veteran receives the care, support, and recognition they so rightfully deserve. Our veterans have earned nothing less.
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| For a look at bills passed in the House during the 2025 legislative session so far, please click on the image below. |
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Temporary Signalization on Route 215 in Groton
A temporary signal will be implemented on Route 215 in Groton. This signal is scheduled to be energized on Monday, June 9, 2025, and be de-energized in November 2025. Project No. 0058-0338 consists of replacing the culvert headwalls and relining the existing culvert pipe under Route 215 at Anderson Marsh and Beebe Cove.
CTDOT Project No. 0058-0338 was awarded to Richards Corporation at a cost of $2,355,862.00 on October 23, 2024, and is scheduled to be completed November 22, 2025. This project is administered by the Bureau of Engineering and Construction, Office of Construction, District 2 in Norwich.
LANE CLOSURE/DETOUR INFO
There will be continuous single-lane closure on Route 215 from June 9 to November 2025. Traffic control signing, temporary pavement markings, and the temporary signal will guide motorists through the work zone in an alternating one-way manner.
Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area.
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Culvert Replacement on Route 215 in Groton
A culvert replacement at Anderson Marsh and Beebe Cove will be performed on Route 215 in Groton. Minor construction and utility work have already commenced.
This project is scheduled to typically occur on Mondays through Fridays with anticipated completion on November 22, 2025.
The project will address the deterioration of the existing headwalls and the separation of the culvert sections spanning Anderson Marsh and Beebe Cove on Route 215 in Groton, Connecticut. The project is scheduled to be completed on November 22, 2025.
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| This project is to be completed on Friday, August 22, 2026. At applicable locations, pedestrian control features, such as countdown pedestrian indications, accessible pushbuttons, and sidewalk ramps, will be upgraded to improve accessibility and pedestrian safety. |
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As the State Representative for Groton, Mystic, and Stonington, home to a strong military community and the U.S. Naval Submarine Base, I am committed to ensuring Veterans, active-duty service members, and military families have access to the latest updates, resources, and opportunities.
Below are important events, legislative updates, and benefit programs that may be of interest to our district’s Veterans. |
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Upcoming Events for VeteransWreaths Across America – Start Sponsoring Now!Every year, we strive to place a wreath on all requested graves at the Connecticut Veterans Cemetery and Col. Gates Cemetery. You can sponsor early to help us reach our goal. Sponsor Here2025 Municipal Veteran Representative Training – June 13, 2025A vital event for all Municipal VetReps who assist Veterans in accessing services.
Legislative & Policy Updates
2025 Connecticut General Assembly Session Opened January 8Veterans can track bills related to military benefits, tax relief, and more using the General Assembly’s Bill Tracking Tool: Track Bills HereHow to Get a Copy of Your DD 214
- Your DD 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) is critical for accessing VA benefits. Here’s how to obtain a copy:
- Check with your Town Clerk – Many Veterans file their DD 214 with their local town clerk.
- Contact CT Veterans Affairs – They have an archive of 130,000 DD 214s. Email oaa.dva@ct.gov for assistance.
- Submit a Request to the National Archives – The fastest way is online: Request Here
- If Needed for Burial or Military Honors – Funeral directors have priority retrieval access.
Applying for a Discharge UpgradeVeterans with less than honorable discharges due to PTSD, TBI, Military Sexual Trauma (MST), or sexual orientation (Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell) may be eligible for an upgrade. Learn more and apply online: Discharge Upgrade InstructionsMunicipal Veterans Representative ProgramEach town must appoint a Veterans Representative to help Veterans access services. Find your local VetRep here: Locate Your Rep2025 Veterans Benefits Guide Available for DownloadThe latest edition of the VA’s "Veterans Benefits for Veterans, Dependents, Survivors, and Caregivers" is now available: Download Here
Stay Connected & Get Involved
I encourage all Veterans, military families, and community members to stay informed and engaged. You can sign up for the Connecticut DVA Newsletter to receive future updates: Subscribe Here.For those looking to connect with fellow Veterans, share stories, and access important resources, consider attending a Veterans Coffeehouse near you. These gatherings provide a welcoming space for Veterans to socialize and receive information about benefits and services:
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- Groton – 2nd & 4th Friday of the month, 9 AM – 11 AM
- Groton Public Library – 52 Newtown Road
- Mystic – 1st & 3rd Thursday of the month, 9 AM – 11 AM
- Mystic Congregational Church – 43 East Main Street
- Pawcatuck – 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month, 9 AM – 11 AM
- Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center – 27 Chase Street
For more locations and information, contact:
Gina King, Director, Senior Volunteer Services
gking@tvcca.org | 860-425-6617
If you have any issues, concerns, or ideas related to Veteran services, military families, or legislative priorities, please feel free to reach out to my office. Your service and sacrifices deserve to be honored with the best support possible.
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