Updates from State Rep. Gary Turco for July 17, 2026

July 17, 2026



 

 

Serving as your State Representative has always come with a responsibility I take seriously: showing up and doing the job you elected me to do. That's why I'm proud to officially confirm that I have once again maintained a 100% voting record, never missing a recorded vote on the House Floor or in Committee throughout my eight years representing the 27th District.

Over the years, I've cast thousands of votes. Many were straightforward, while others required weighing competing priorities and making difficult choices. Not every bill was perfect. In many cases, legislation evolved through amendments and negotiations, and sometimes new information changed the direction of a proposal. That's simply part of the legislative process.

One thing, however, has never changed: my commitment to being present for every vote. I made a promise early in my service that I would never avoid a difficult decision by missing a vote or leaving the chamber. You elected me to represent you, and that means being there to cast a vote—especially when the decisions are challenging.

While reasonable people may disagree with some of the positions I've taken, it's worth noting that more than 80% of the votes cast in the legislature are bipartisan, with broad support from members of both parties.

Thank you for the privilege of representing the 27th District. I remain committed to being your tireless advocate in Hartford.

 

Making the Grade

Speaking of voting, I am proud that I received an A from the Connecticut Education Association for my legislative record this past session.

I've always believed that investing in our students, supporting our educators, and strengthening our public schools is one of the smartest investments we can make. I'm grateful to the CEA for this recognition, and I'll continue working to ensure every child in Connecticut has access to a high-quality public education and every educator has the support they deserve.
 

Pizza and Policy

Thank you to everyone who joined me and Rep. Kate Farrar for Pizza and Policy last weekend!

We had a great discussion about Connecticut's new laws, the state budget, and other important issues affecting our community. I'm looking forward to more discussions in the near future!
 

Life. Be in It. Extravaganza

The 44th annual Life. Be in It. Extravaganza continues through Saturday (don't miss the fireworks)!

Individual ride tickets may be purchased, or purchase a ride wristband and enjoy unlimited rides that day.

Tickets can be purchased at the carnival ticket booth.

Single-day ticket prices for unlimited rides are as follows:

Friday, July 17: $25 (5 to 10 p.m.)
Saturday, July 18: $30 (10 a.m. to 9 p.m.)
 

Chalk Art Festival

Head over to the New Britain Museum of American Art

 on Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., for a free admission Access for All Community Day, featuring live performances, art activities, and local vendors alongside sidewalk chalk displays.

 

Absentee Ballot Voting for All

All eligible voters in Connecticut now have the option of casting a vote via absentee ballot.

The governor signed Public Act 26-42 into law, removing outdated restrictions that previously limited absentee ballots to voters who could not appear in person on Election Day for a narrow set of reasons. The change takes effect immediately.
Public Act 26-42 does more than provide more opportunities to cast a ballot. It establishes rules on how federal law enforcement can patrol a polling place or other sensitive election sites without permission from state election officials or a court order. It also bans the use of masks unless they’re worn for medical or religious reasons.

To vote by absentee ballot, eligible registered voters must complete an absentee ballot application and submit it to their town clerk. Applications can also be submitted online through the Office of the Secretary of the State’s secure portal.

Learn more and apply for an absentee ballot here.
 

As always, if I can be of assistance to you and your family, please don't hesitate to reach out to me at 860-240-8585 or email me at Gary.Turco@cga.ct.gov. Don't forget to "LIKE" my Facebook page for news and legislative updates!

Sincerely,

Gary Turco
State Representative

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