Amid one of the most constrained housing markets in the nation, families across our communities are finding it harder than ever to secure homes.
Rents are rising, available housing is scarce, and outdated policies are standing in the way of new construction.
This housing crisis impacts every facet of life-limiting economic opportunity, straining our education and healthcare systems, and affecting public safety.
House Democrats led the passage of legislation that aims to tackle these challenges head-on by increasing housing supply, streamlining regulations, protecting vulnerable residents, and empowering local communities with the tools they need to create lasting solutions.
Provisions in this measure provide funding to regional bodies to support towns in proactively planning for affordable housing. This is coupled with a robust $50 million annual grant program to assist public housing authorities in directly increasing the housing supply for our lowest-income residents.
Finally, for those who find themselves in the unfortunate situation of homelessness, this bill offers meaningful support by funding mobile shower and laundry services—meeting urgent hygiene needs while promoting public health and restoring a sense of dignity.
Additionally, we affirm the humanity and vulnerability of unhoused individuals by banning hostile architecture designed to exclude or punish them.
Addressing the issue of housing is a complex challenge with no simple solutions, but this bill represents a meaningful step forward in supporting those in need.
Two bills introduced by the Black Maternal and Infant Health Caucus of which I am the Chairwoman, HB7102 and 7214 passed the Senate this week and are now on the Governor’s desk! I'm grateful to everyone who helped push these bills forward.
For too long, Connecticut's special education model has faced fundamental flaws that prevented all students from receiving the proper education they deserve. With our recent passage of HB 5001: An Act Concerning the Quality and Delivery of Special Education Services in Connecticut, we are taking important steps to reform this system.
This bill, which passed 148-0 in the House on a bipartisan basis, makes historic investments in students with special education needs, delivers improved access to services, and provides cost controls and greater transparency.
Historic investment in our students, including $30 million for the Special Education Expansion and Development (SEED) grant program, which will help build capacity to serve students closer to home.
Prioritizing better access to services through enhanced development screenings, behavioral assessment and intervention plans, access to remedial classes in higher education, and involvement of parents and local school districts before a student is moved from their school.
Reining in costs by regulating third-party rate processes and developing new billing and licensing standards.
Increasing oversight through on-site compliance visits and detailed system-wide reporting to reduce unpredictability and improve accountability.
Children are our future, and it is our responsibility to provide them with a proper education. In a state with one of the best K-12 public school systems in the country, HB 5001 ensures that our special education program maintains the same level of quality.
The bill must now pass the Senate and be signed into law by the governor.
We’re cracking down on street takeovers and illegal ATV use. House Democrats voted to authorize steep fines, vehicle seizures, and automatic license suspensions.
• Extending the program to cover Personal Care Assistants (PCAs) who work as part of a state-funded program. • Changing the default contribution rate for new participants enrolling in the program, • Allowing the comptroller to provide an applicable retirement saving vehicle for participants who receive a federal Saver’s Match contribution. • Creating a notice requirement and financial penalty for noncompliant employers.
These changes are in place to ensure that PCAs can access the program, save for retirement, and also make various overall improvements to the program's efficacy.
I brought my grandson Kyrie to the Capitol this week and it was such a joy watching him take it all in, chatting with legislators, making new friends (including some very friendly goats), and soaking up the energy of the building.
It’s always a special day when we can mix learning, laughter, and love. I am truly grateful for moments like these! Please click on the video below for another one.
The Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity & Opportunity (CWCSEO) invites you to attend PRIDE Day at the Capitol next Wednesday, June 4, 2025. It will include a day of reflection, resilience, and recognition dedicated to advancing equity, uplifting LGBTQ+ voices, and promoting mental wellness.
“Beyond Celebration: Centering Equity, Wellness & Voice,” will take place at the Legislative Office Building and in the north lobby of the Capitol.
Moderated by Melvette Hill, Executive Director of CWCSEO, this engaging discussion will explore the growing mental health challenges facing LGBTQ+ youth and young adults, including the impacts of stigma, isolation, and limited access to affirming care. Featuring the voices of youth, young adults, and advocates, the panel will highlight the urgent need for inclusive support and community-driven healing.
Panelists Include:
Taylor Tucker, Health Equity Solutions
Juan Fonseca, LGBTQ+ Advocate
Brett Bordonaro, LGBTQ+ Advocate
Genesis Jones, Student & LGBTQ+ Advocate
Spoken Word Performances: Be moved by the powerful voices of Larry Roeming and Aalexÿz Jiménez, who will share original pieces centered on identity, empowerment, and healing through community.
Resource Fair: 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM North Lobby, State Capitol
Meet with local and statewide organizations offering essential resources, support services, and advocacy tools for Connecticut’s LGBTQ+ community and allies. Join us in fostering equity, honoring pride, and amplifying voices. Register by scanning the QR Code on the attached flyer. For additional information, please contact Denise Drummond at denise.drummond@cga.ct.gov.
