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Veterans & Military Affairs Committee Bills
Last week, the Veterans & Military Affairs Committee advanced a series of important bills focused on strengthening support for our veterans, service members, and military families. The legislation addresses a wide range of issues, including protecting veterans from predatory benefits claim services, providing tax relief for military funeral honor guard members and disabled veterans, and ensuring municipalities are reimbursed for veteran-related property tax exemptions.
Other bills focus on expanding housing and food assistance for veterans in need, improving training for veterans’ service officers and municipal providers, supporting workforce pathways through Troops-to-Trades initiatives, and improving access to dental and health care services.
The committee also advanced measures to better coordinate veterans’ health care through an ombudsman program, support military families with early childhood services, and establish an emergency response account for the state’s military department. Together, these proposals reflect a continued commitment to honoring the sacrifices of those who served and ensuring veterans and their families have the support and resources they deserve.
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Aging Committee Bills
Some of the priorities I’m fighting for at the State Capitol support working families and those struggling across Connecticut. From expanding affordable housing and ensuring our schools receive ECS funding that keeps pace with inflation, to helping parents through the Child Care Tax Credit and protecting access to food through SNAP, the focus is on easing everyday pressures families face.
It also reflects a commitment to supporting our seniors and veterans while continuing to invest in safe neighborhoods and strong communities. These efforts are about building a Connecticut where opportunity, stability, and support are available to everyone.
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Priorities this Session
Some of the priorities I’m fighting for at the State Capitol support working families and those struggling across Connecticut. From expanding affordable housing and ensuring our schools receive ECS funding that keeps pace with inflation, to helping parents through the Child Care Tax Credit and protecting access to food through SNAP, the focus is on easing everyday pressures families face.
It also reflects a commitment to supporting our seniors and veterans while continuing to invest in safe neighborhoods and strong communities. These efforts are about building a Connecticut where opportunity, stability, and support are available to everyone.
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Congratulations to Sharonda Carlos
I'm proud to congratulate Sharonda Carlos on her appointment to lead the Connecticut Department of Correction.
I am happy and proud to see her step into this role. This is a historic moment as she becomes the first Black woman to lead the agency, and it reflects years of hard work, experience, and dedication to public service.
Leading a correctional system is one of the toughest responsibilities in government. It requires protecting public safety, supporting the men and women who work in our facilities every day, and ensuring the system operates with accountability and professionalism.
I also look forward to the legislature and the administration providing her with the tools, support, and funding needed to address the challenges that have not been addressed within the Department of Correction and to make the improvements and changes that are necessary.
I wish Commissioner Carlos success as she takes on this important responsibility and thank her for her continued service to the people of Connecticut.
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Women's History Month Highlights
Women’s History Month is a time to honor the countless women whose MADE OR CONTINUE TO SHOW courage, talent, and determination that shape our nation and our communities.
This graphic highlights just a few trailblazers—from leaders in law and civil rights to educators and advocates—who have broken barriers and helped move society forward. Their work reminds us that progress is built by those willing to stand up, speak out, and open doors for others. As we celebrate these remarkable women, we also recognize and thank the many women in our own communities whose leadership, strength, and contributions continue to make a difference every day.
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- Ketanji Brown Jackson made history as the first Black woman appointed to the United States Supreme Court. A highly respected jurist, she previously served as a federal public defender, district court judge, and appellate court judge. Her career reflects a deep commitment to fairness, equal justice under the law, and expanding representation within the nation’s highest court.
- Maya Angelou was a legendary poet, author, and civil rights activist whose powerful words helped shape American culture. Her groundbreaking autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings gave voice to struggles with racism, identity, and resilience. Beyond literature, she worked alongside civil rights leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, using her voice to inspire generations.
- Sonia Sotomayor became the first Latina justice on the United States Supreme Court in 2009. Growing up in a working-class neighborhood in the Bronx, she rose through determination and academic excellence to become a federal prosecutor, judge, and eventually a Supreme Court justice. She is known for her thoughtful opinions and her belief that the law should serve and protect all communities.
- Councilor Michele Scott is an Afro-Indigenous leader and Tribal Councilor of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation in Connecticut. She has been a strong advocate for healthcare equity, community well-being, and Indigenous representation in policymaking. Her leadership highlights the importance of uplifting Native voices and addressing disparities in health and opportunity.
- Jane Elliott is an educator and diversity trainer best known for creating the “Blue Eyes/Brown Eyes” exercise shortly after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The exercise demonstrated how discrimination and prejudice affect individuals and communities. Her work has challenged people around the world to confront bias and better understand the impact of racism.
- Tiffany Dena Loftin is a civil rights leader and youth advocate who has dedicated her career to empowering young people in the fight for racial and social justice. Through organizing, advocacy, and leadership development, she has helped mobilize a new generation committed to equity, civic engagement, and community change.
- Rachel Ricketts is a racial justice educator, author, and speaker who focuses on anti-racism, healing, and transformative dialogue. Through her writing and teaching, she encourages deeper reflection on systemic inequities while helping individuals and communities move toward meaningful change and collective healing.
- Joan Trumpauer Mulholland was a courageous civil rights activist who took part in some of the most dangerous protests of the 1960s. As a Freedom Rider and participant in numerous demonstrations, she stood alongside Black activists to challenge segregation across the South. Her bravery and commitment to justice remain a powerful example of allyship in action.
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- Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson: A pioneering physicist and the first Black woman to earn a doctorate from MIT. Her research helped lead to technologies such as caller ID and touch-tone dialing.
- Simone Biles: The most decorated gymnast in history with more than 30 Olympic and World Championship medals, inspiring the world with excellence and resilience.
- Dr. Joycelyn Elders: The first African American Surgeon General of the United States, known for advancing public health and advocating for children and families.
- Marilynn Malerba: Chief of the Mohegan Tribe and the first Native American to serve as Treasurer of the United States, representing historic leadership and Indigenous representation.
- Tamara Lanier: Descendant of Papa Renty whose fight to reclaim historic photographs of enslaved Africans helped preserve and honor Black history.
- Carole Anne-Marie Gist: Made history in 1990 as the first Black woman crowned Miss USA, breaking barriers and expanding representation.
- Mary Church Terrell: Civil rights leader, educator, and founding member of the NAACP who dedicated her life to equality for both women and African Americans.
- Elaine R. Jones: First woman to lead the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and a lifelong champion for civil rights, justice, and equal protection under the law.
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Upcoming Public Hearings
There are 10 public hearings scheduled next week - please see the graphic below for the schedule. Show up, stay informed, and have your voice heard!
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Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to recognize the strengths, talents, and contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities while also raising awareness about the challenges they may face.
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There are many ways to show support during Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. You can:
- Engage in meaningful conversations
- Share stories and experiences
- Amplify the voices of people with lived experience
- Help break down stereotypes and misconceptions
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You can also show your support by wearing orange, the official color of Development Disabilities Awareness Month, symbolizing energy and positivity.
Supporting local organizations, advocating for inclusive policies, and ensuring that schools and workplaces are welcoming to people of all abilities are also important steps. By working together, we can build a more inclusive society where everyone, regardless of ability, is valued, respected, and empowered.
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CT Bar Association Free Consultations
The Connecticut Bar Association (CBA) and Statewide Legal Services of CT, Inc. are once again offering an opportunity for individuals to register for a free, 30-minute virtual consultation with a Connecticut attorney to obtain legal advice and information in a variety of legal areas.
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The clinics will be held on April 21 and April 22 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pre-registration to participate is required -- sign up HERE by April 3.
There are no income or asset eligibility restrictions – the clinics are open to all Connecticut residents. In addition, the CBA will make every effort to find an interpreter for anyone who requests that service. |
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Civic Learning Week
March 9–13 is Civic Learning Week in the state of Connecticut. This nationwide initiative highlights the vital role of civic education and engagement in preserving and strengthening our constitutional democracy.
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| By focusing on deepening public understanding of democratic values, rights, and responsibilities, this effort aims to empower citizens with the knowledge and tools needed to actively participate in democratic processes. |
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| Through diverse educational programs, discussions, and events, Civic Learning Week fosters a collective commitment to upholding the principles of justice, equality, and freedom that are central to a thriving, inclusive society. Ultimately, it seeks to ensure the health and vitality of democracy for generations to come. |
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National Agriculture Week: March 16-20
Connecticut may be a small state, but its agricultural impact is significant. More than 5,000 farms operate across 372,000 acres, and the state’s agricultural industry contributes approximately $4 billion annually to Connecticut’s economy. In addition to food production, the industry supports a broad network of related activities, including processing, distribution, and agribusiness. Altogether, agriculture provides around 30,000 jobs statewide, making it an important source of employment and economic stability.
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Connecticut residents also benefit from year-round access to fresh, locally grown food. With more than 100 farmers’ markets operating across the state, consumers have many opportunities to connect directly with local farmers and producers. Choosing locally grown foods not only supports farmers and strengthens the state’s economy, but also promotes healthier communities by increasing access to fresh, nutritious products.
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Celebrate National Agriculture Week by supporting local farms. Click here to explore all things Connecticut Grown, from fresh local foods to farms and farmers’ markets across the state!
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If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact me at my Capitol office at 860-240-8512 or email me at Anthony.Nolan@cga.ct.gov. Don't forget to "Like" my official Facebook page and follow me on Twitter for news and legislative updates.
Sincerely,
Anthony Nolan
State Representative |
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