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Juneteenth marks June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. This historic day celebrates freedom while honoring the resilience, strength, and countless contributions of African Americans throughout our nation's history. It also serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing pursuit of equality, justice, and opportunity for all.
As we reflect on the significance of Juneteenth, we honor those who endured the injustices of slavery, recognize the achievements and contributions of Black Americans, and recommit ourselves to building stronger, more inclusive communities. By learning from our history and embracing the values of freedom and equality, we can continue working toward a future that lives up to our nation's highest ideals.
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Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Post-Session Legislative Forum this week in West Hartford. It was a pleasure to connect with residents, reflect on the recently concluded legislative session, and discuss the issues that matter most to our community.
I am grateful for the thoughtful questions, concerns, and ideas shared throughout the evening. Open dialogue with constituents is essential to effective representation, and these conversations provide valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities facing our communities.
Your feedback helps shape my work at the Capitol and informs the priorities we pursue in the months ahead. Thank you for taking the time to engage in the process and make your voices heard. I look forward to continuing these conversations and working together to address the needs of our community.
If you missed attending the the forum in person, watch it here: https://whci.online/.../west-hartford-post-session.../
Also, get a recap of the session’s major new laws here: https://www.cga.ct.gov/olr/MajorActs.asp
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I'm proud to be part of a bipartisan coalition of state lawmakers opposing a massive electric rate hike request from Eversource that would place an even greater burden on Connecticut families and businesses.
I signed onto a letter, urging the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) to reject:
- Eversource’s proposed 11% rate hike – approximately $503 million
While asking customers to pay more, Eversource reported:
- $1.69 billion in profits last year
- 23% increase in shareholder returns
- Approximately $15 million in compensation for its CEO, a nearly 20% raise
Utilities argue their proposed rate increases are necessary to cover rising operating costs, infrastructure improvements, and regulatory requirements. However, ratepayers should not be forced to shoulder the costs of every corporate decision.
We are calling on PURA to apply the highest level of scrutiny to every element of these proposed rate increases and reject every cent that is not amply justified.
We urge PURA to hold public hearings in accessible locations throughout Aquarion’s and Eversource’s service territories so residents have a meaningful opportunity to weigh in on proposals that could significantly impact their household budgets.
PURA will review and determine whether to approve, modify, or reject the proposed increases.
Public utilities provide essential services that every family depends on. They should serve the public interest, not simply maximize returns for shareholders.
I will continue to help lead the fight to protect consumers from unjustified increases and hold utility companies accountable.
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The Connecticut Department of Social Services (DSS) wants residents to be aware of new work requirements affecting some recipients of SNAP benefits and upcoming changes to HUSKY Health, eligibility rules.
The good news: most people will not lose their benefits. However, it is important to review the new requirements and determine whether they apply to your situation.
SNAP Work Requirement Changes that began in November 2025, some SNAP recipients must meet one of the following work rules:
- Work at least 80 hours per month or earn at least $217.60 per week
- Participate in a job training or work program, such as SNAP Employment & Training, for at least 80 hours per month
- Complete at least 80 hours per month of community service or volunteer work
- Combine work, training, and/or volunteer activities totaling 80 hours per month
Click here to use the SNAP Work Rules Pre-Screener and find out whether these requirements apply to you.
Upcoming HUSKY Health (HUSKY D) Changes
Starting January 1, 2027, some HUSKY D recipients may be subject to new work requirements. To meet the rules, individuals must fulfill at least one of the following:
Click here to answer a few questions to learn if the new proposed rules apply to you.
These rules do not start until 2027 and may change before then. This tool provides answers based on the current status of the rules.
Connecticut's Community Action Agencies (CAAs) offer free, in-person assistance with SNAP and HUSKY Health benefits, click here to find your local CAA office.
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| STATE AND LOCAL RESOURCES |
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Free yoga in the parks is back this summer!
June 17 - August 26
Eisenhower Park (33 Sheep Hill Drive), Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m.
June 21 - August 30
Beachland Park (847 South Quaker Lane), Sundays at 9:00 a.m.
Click here to sign up.
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Come out for an empowering celebration of love, community, and PRIDE on Sunday, June 21 from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Churchill Park.
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On Saturday, June 27 at 12:00 p.m. at West Hartford Town Hall Be Loud Be Proud at the West Hartford Pride Festival.
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On Saturday, June 27, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Hartford Public Library (500 Main Street, Hartford), join in on a powerful intergenerational conversation celebrating the legacy, leadership, resilience, and achievements of Black and Brown women throughout American history.
As part of the America 250 commemoration, this engaging panel discussion will spotlight stories that have too often been overlooked in the national narrative, stories of perseverance, advocacy, cultural influence, innovation, and community leadership. Participants will explore the profound ways Black and Brown women have shaped our nation’s history, strengthened our communities, and driven social progress across generations.
All are welcome to attend this inspiring and meaningful conversation.
Click here for more information and to register.
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