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On Wednesday, the CT House of Representatives was called into a special session to address several pressing issues, including addressing the state's housing crisis, approving an emergency response fund to address federal funding cutbacks, safeguarding immigrants within the confines of a courthouse, children's behavioral health, and more. The House passed the bills on Wednesday, and the Senate took them up on Thursday.
Below, you'll find more information on two of the bills we passed on Wednesday. With approval by the Senate on Thursday, the bills now head to the governor's desk for signing.
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| Addressing Connecticut's Housing Crisis |
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As one of the House Deputy Speakers, I presided over the discussion of HB 8002 for most of the 7.5-hour debate in the chamber. I'm also happy to share with you that I helped broker the compromise, while still taking the necessary steps forward on affordable housing.
From retirees looking to downsize, to young professionals and families searching for affordable rentals, Connecticut residents at every stage of life share a common goal: finding a safe, stable, and affordable place to call home.
This week, during the special session, we took a historic step toward making that goal a reality. The House passed landmark legislation to expand Connecticut’s housing supply and ensure every community is part of the solution. The bill empowers towns to plan for responsible, data-driven growth, using insights from state, local, and regional partners to meet today's and tomorrow's housing needs. |
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Partnerships are at the heart of this effort. Developed in collaboration with municipal leaders, regional councils, colleagues on both sides of the aisle, and Governor Lamont, this legislation creates a collaborative and practical framework through local Housing Growth Plans. Together, we’re making it easier for communities to grow in ways that strengthen local economies, support schools, and keep Connecticut’s future bright.
Connecticut has already made major investments in new housing and rehabilitation projects, and this bill builds on that progress. It’s designed to ensure that everyone, no matter their age, income, or background, has the opportunity to live, work, and thrive in the communities they love.
The legislation also encourages the redevelopment of underused properties, from aging strip malls to vacant commercial spaces, and promotes transit-oriented development that connects residents to jobs, schools, and public transportation. By combining innovation with local control and targeted support, we’re strengthening the partnership between the state and municipalities to modernize infrastructure, improve zoning and land-use planning, and create vibrant, inclusive communities across Connecticut.
There’s still more work ahead, but An Act Concerning Housing Growth marks a major step forward in our shared effort to expand housing opportunities, support local economies, and ensure every Connecticut resident can find and afford a home in a community they’re proud to call their own. |
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| Approving an Emergency Reserve Fund |
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The legislature also addressed several important matters, including the need for temporary adjustments to the Budget Reserve Fund and the appropriation of funds to offset reductions in federal programs such as SNAP, WIC, and others that directly impact Connecticut residents. We also took up several additional priorities aimed at supporting essential state programs and maintaining fiscal stability. HB-8003 is the state's $500 million funding response to cutbacks in federal funding.
The funding, which was drawn from the state's rainy-day fund, will cover gaps in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as LIHEAP. Connecticut will not sit by idly as the federal government attacks middle and low-income families.
Connecticut is showing fiscal responsibility as we continue to pay down our debts, while protecting the most vulnerable among us. |
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