Updates from State Rep. Mike Demicco for May 16, 2025

May 16, 2025



 

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Dear Neighbor,

The session is picking up, as we are staying later most days and getting more legislation passed each day. You’ll see a lot of that work listed below in individual sections, but I am also including a section on all the bills passed this year for you to check out.
 
Also, it may not be substantive legislative work, but the House Democrats snapped a three-year losing streak to beat the Republicans in the annual CGA Kickball Classic. Most important, proceeds from the event went to CT Foodshare.
 
Finally, please check out the information on the statewide job fair for you or someone you know.
 

 

Fostering Civic Engagement in Our Children

This week, the House passed an education bill that honors civically engaged students, reforms crisis response drills, and much more.

HB 7009 establishes the Connecticut State Seal of Civics Education and Engagement, which recognizes graduating high school seniors for their exceptional achievement in civics.

This seal is for students who demonstrate civic engagement in school, through the completion of classes and assessments, and outside of the classroom by participating in community service, student government, and more.

At a time when civic engagement is alarmingly low in our country, this recognition will encourage students to learn more about the way our government works and the role they play in shaping society.

This seal also sends a powerful message that civics isn't just a class to pass; it's a way to make a difference and give back to your community.

Another key portion of the bill reforms school crisis response drills.

The tragic reality is that children need to be prepared in case of emergencies. But research has shown that some crisis response drills are ineffective and leave children with lasting anxiety.

HB 7009 establishes new standards for school crisis response drills to continue to protect and prepare students and staff while being sensitive to mental health needs.

While schools must be prepared for an emergency, organizers must ensure these drills are conducted effectively and responsibly.

Other aspects of HB 7009 include:

  • Limiting the use of smart devices in school
  • Addressing antisemitism in schools
  • Providing curriculum on Islamic and Arab Studies
  • Allowing districts to decide whether to allow children under the age of 5 to begin kindergarten early
  • Raising the standard for when a student in pre-K to grade 2 can get an out-of-school suspension
  • Requiring same-day notification of any use of restraint or seclusion of a student.

HB 7009 is an important bill that encourages civic engagement and protects our students' mental health, and I am proud to cast my vote in support.
 

Help for Homelessness

House Democrats voted to improve interagency communication and collaboration on homeless services by establishing an interagency council on homelessness.
 
This council will bring together representatives from state agencies, nonprofits, public housing authorities, and individuals with lived experience of homelessness to ensure that our state agencies are coordinating and developing long-term solutions.

We are always looking at ways to improve government efficiency and address homelessness head-on.
 

Protections for Sex Assault,
Domestic Abuse Survivors

House Democrats took action on Tuesday to strengthen protections for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault by guarding the physical addresses of shelters and group homes from public access and public discussion during agency meetings. 

Safeguarding these locations is a testament to our unwavering support for survivors
 

Bills Passed in the House So far

For a look at bills passed in the House during the 2025 legislative session so far, please click on the image below.
 

Farmington Memorial Day Parade

Farmington will host its annual Memorial Day Parade on Monday, May 26, in the Unionville section of town.

The parade will step off at 10 a.m., featuring local veterans, marching bands, civic organizations, and community groups as they make their way through the heart of Unionville. The event will conclude with a brief ceremony at the Alice Clover Pinney Memorial Park.

Veterans of all backgrounds are encouraged to participate in the parade. Those interested in participating are asked to contact Paul Krause (USMC) by phone at 910-376-5454 or email oifvet87@gmail.com.

In the event of inclement weather, updates will be provided on the town of Farmington website and social media platforms. 
 

AANHPI Heritage Month Highlight

Celebrating the Honorable Nina F. Elgo, a trailblazer in Connecticut's judiciary.

As the first Asian Pacific American appointed to both the Connecticut Superior Court and Appellate Court, Judge Elgo has paved the way for greater diversity and representation in the legal field.

Her dedication to justice and commitment to public service inspire us all. 
 

Statewide Job Fair

Sincerely,

Mike Demicco
State Representative

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