Patricia Dillon

It has been a busy week filled with long and productive days. I made progress on proposals suggested by local officials.

Much news this week.

Small alcohol bottles, better known as nips are a hot topic issue in our community. in 2024, I supported a bill that would have allowed municipalities to ban nips. I have since changed my stance slightly and shared my thoughts with a reporter from the Yale Daily News.

The General Assembly got off to a strong start this week.

First, the Governor released his budget adjustments, which will be deliberated after our nonpartisan analysts provide information on details.

Tomorrow is the opening day of the 2026 legislative session. Here is the protocol of what will occur on the first day of session and beyond:

On Thursday, Governor Lamont submitted a supplemental plan to the bipartisan leaders of the Connecticut General Assembly to use funding from the recently created Emergency State Response Reserve in response to federal funding reductions and delays made by the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans to essential health and human services supports that the residents of Connecticut depend on for some of their most basic needs.

Governor Lamont has activated a Severe Cold Weather Protocol that will remain in effect through Wednesday, January 28. This protocol ensures shelters will be open and available.

As you prepare for the big snowstorm this weekend, I wanted to let you know about a special enrollment period for Access Health CT that will begin on February 1. This was made possible by the $500 million that was set aside by the General Assembly to protect Connecticut residents from federal cuts.