Mike Demicco

My colleagues and I have worked hard during the 2023 legislative session to pass important legislation that will bring about meaningful change in Connecticut. These laws will take effect on July 1st and include the following: 

• Early Voting
• Voting Rights Act
• Debt-Free Community College Eligibility Changes
• Baby Bonds
• Endometriosis Data and Biorepository Program
• Menstrual Products 

Continue reading for more details.

Early Voting

Effective July 1, voters will have 14 days of early voting for general elections, 7 days of early voting for most primaries, and 4 days of early voting for special elections and presidential preference primaries.  

Voting Rights Act

Our state has some of the most restrictive voting laws in the country. This new law prohibits intimidation, deception, or obstruction related to voting and allows aggrieved parties to seek remedies in court.

Debt-Free Community College Eligibility Changes

This law extends eligibility for the state’s debt-free community college program to returning students by removing requirements that a qualifying student must be a first-time enrollee at a community-technical college and awards must be applied during a student’s first 48 consecutive months, thus allowing returning students to receive the award if they meet all other eligibility requirements.
 

Baby Bonds

Under this initiative, $3,200 would be placed in a trust on behalf of each baby born into HUSKY, the state’s Medicaid program, starting July 1. Those investments will grow over time and recipients can access that money between the ages of 18-30, should they remain a Connecticut resident. 
 

Endometriosis Data and Biorepository Program

Endometriosis is an underdiagnosed condition. For those suffering from this condition, endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus, with nearby reproductive organs often affected. This law requires UConn Health Center to develop an endometriosis data and biorepository program to enable and promote research on early detection and ways to manage the condition in adolescents and adults.

Menstrual Products

Certain public agencies will start providing free menstrual products. This includes public colleges and universities, as well as homeless and domestic violence shelters that receive state aid.

You can click here to learn more about the laws taking effect on July 1st. Your calls, emails, and testimony at public hearings during this year's legislative session directly influenced these new laws. Thank you for your input and please continue expressing your views and making your voice heard during our legislative process.