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Free Tax Prep Assistance
A reminder that with the tax deadline approaching on Wednesday, April 15, now is the time to take action if you haven’t filed yet. There are several free resources available this year for anyone who needs to file state and federal taxes.
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program offers free tax help for low-to moderate-income (under $58,000) people who cannot prepare their own tax returns. Volunteers, sponsored by various organizations, receive training to help prepare basic tax returns in communities across the country. Visit Connecticut's 2-1-1 website and the Free Tax Help page for VITA assistance updates, or visit the IRS Site Locator.
AARP's Tax-Aide Program, a partnership between the AARP Foundation and the Internal Revenue Service, provides free tax counseling and preparation services to middle-and low-income taxpayers, with special attention to people age 60 and older. Many sites will e-file your federal and Connecticut returns at no cost to you. Visit the AARP Tax-Aide Site Locator to find a location near you.
The UConn Law School Tax Clinic is a pro bono (free) legal clinic that provides free legal help to low-income taxpayers with tax problems, either with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS). Lisa Perkins, Clinical Professor & Director, and law students will work on your case. The Tax Clinic also works with attorneys in Connecticut who volunteer to help low-income taxpayers pro bono. The Tax Clinic is independent and separate from the IRS and DRS. It is important to note, that the UCONN tax clinic is only able to assist individual taxpayers with Connecticut income tax problems. Contact Lisa Perkins at lisa.perkins@uconn.edu or 860-570-5165
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Gold Star Bridge Alert
If you use the Gold Star Bridge, this is something to pay attention to. Recently, leaders from New London and Groton met with DOT officials to go over major traffic pattern changes that are coming as construction moves forward. This is part of a long-term plan to improve safety and strengthen the bridge.
Here’s what you need to expect:
- Greater Traffic patterns will change
- Lanes will shift
- Driving space will be tighter
- Barriers will be much closer to your vehicle
- Sudden slowdowns and delays are very likely
This is not a minor adjustment — this will be more change to how you drive across the bridge.
You cannot rely on autopilot through this change. Being alert and not distracted is more important.
We will continue sharing updates so you can stay informed.
We understand this may cause inconvenience, but this work is necessary to protect everyone who relies on this bridge every day.
I recommend you watch the short video so you know exactly what to expect, and to please share.
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| Click here to learn more about the project. |
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Improving Dental Care AccessI was glad to stand with fellow legislators, members of the Aging Committee, and the Connecticut Oral Health Initiative (COHI) during a press conference in support of HB 5303—bringing dental care directly to seniors and homebound residents by allowing dental hygienists to provide services in private residences.
This bill removes unnecessary barriers and ensures no one is left behind when it comes to basic oral health. Your voice matters.
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Time to Change ECS Funding
Connecticut has the resources—we’ve seen it in surpluses and growing revenues—so the question is no longer whether we can fix ECS, it’s whether we have the will to do it. For too long, we’ve leaned on property taxpayers while our education funding formula stayed frozen in time. That’s not sustainable, and it’s not fair to our students, our families, or our municipalities. I’m calling on my colleagues to act with urgency and purpose—no excuses, no more delays. Our communities deserve a funding system that reflects today’s realities, not yesterday’s numbers.
I stand fully committed to modernizing ECS, investing in our students, and making sure every child, no matter their zip code, has a fair shot to succeed.
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Women's History Month Highlights
During Women’s History Month, I want to continue to thank all women. The following are a powerful group of women suggested to highlight whose impact continues to shape our world:
- Carol Moseley Braun broke barriers as the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Senate, advancing policies that addressed inequality, civil rights, and expanded opportunity for underserved communities.
- Cathy Hughes built a media empire as the founder of Radio One, creating a platform that amplified Black voices, culture, and issues often overlooked in mainstream media.
- Marian Wright Edelman, a lifelong civil rights advocate who worked alongside leaders of the movement, founded the Children’s Defense Fund to fight for justice, equity, and the well-being of children—especially those in marginalized communities
- Selena Quintanilla became an enduring cultural icon, breaking barriers for Latinas in music and inspiring generations through her talent, representation, and pride in her heritage
- Dr. Ellen Ochoa made history as the first Hispanic woman in space, opening doors in science, technology, and representation for future generations.
- Dr. Antonia Novello served as the first woman and first Hispanic U.S. Surgeon General, using her leadership to address health disparities and advocate for underserved and minority communities.
- Gloria Estefan brought Latin music to the global stage, breaking cultural barriers while uplifting identity, diversity, and representation in the entertainment industry.
- Shannon Watts mobilized a nationwide movement as the founder of Moms Demand Action, advocating for safer communities and working to address violence and injustice that disproportionately impact communities of color.
These women represent strength, leadership, and a commitment to justice, equality, and creating lasting change for future generations.
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Welcoming Our Newest Officer and Officer Candidate
The New London Police Department is proud to introduce our newest member, Police Officer Candidate Addison Hickey, who was sworn in on March 20, 2026, at City Hall and will begin his training on March 23. He will start with the New London Police Department before continuing on to the Connecticut Police Academy in Meriden, where he will complete approximately 30 weeks and 1,345 hours of intensive training to become a certified police officer in the State of Connecticut. This process will prepare him for field training and ultimately assignment to patrol, serving the residents of our community.
We also want to congratulate Officer Max Tapia on graduating from the Connecticut Police Academy, Session 388. After completing 28 weeks of rigorous training, Officer Tapia will now begin over 400 hours of field training alongside experienced Field Training Officers as he transitions into full-time service. Upon completion, he will be assigned to the patrol division, where he will play a direct role in keeping our neighborhoods safe.
Please join us in welcoming Officer Candidate Hickey and congratulating Officer Tapia as they take these important steps in their careers. We wish them both continued success as they commit themselves to serving and protecting the New London community.
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Energy Consumption/Conservation
During a recent Energy and Technology Committee meeting, an energy expert testified about how we can keep our oil and gas costs in check.
While there isn't much that can be done concerning the current cost of commodities, residents can control consumption through conservation, according to the expert.
That incudes the following:
- Drive your vehicle the speed it's built to be driven. That means driving the speed limit, which is a great way to conserve fuel.
- Inflate your vehicle's tires.
- Homeowners should call their fuel companies and schedule annual preventative furnace and boiler maintenance, including burner cleaning and efficiency testing.
You can click here to watch that testimony.
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Amazon Texting Scam
Have you received a suspicious text claiming to be from Amazon? You’re not alone, and it’s likely a scam.
The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection is warning residents about fraudulent messages that:
- Claim an order was “recalled”
- Urge you to click a link to confirm a refund
🚫 Do NOT click the link
📵 Block the number immediately
Image of the scam text
How to Spot the Scam
- Links that look unusual or misspelled
- URLs that do not include the official company name
- Messages creating urgency or asking for quick action
Stay Safe
If something doesn’t look right, trust your instincts. When in doubt, go directly to the company’s official website instead of clicking any links.
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Workforce Pell Grants
Governor Ned Lamont announced that the state will implement new federal Workforce Pell Grants through the Connecticut Office of Workforce Strategy (OWS), marking a major expansion of financial aid for short-term, career-focused training.
Enabled by H.R. 1 Workforce Pell expansion, the policy allows low-income students to use Pell Grants for programs lasting 8–15 weeks (150–599 hours). Previously, only programs at least 15 weeks and 600 hours qualified. This change is designed to open faster, more flexible pathways into high-demand fields, especially for working adults and non-traditional learners.
OWS will coordinate a broad statewide effort involving agencies and institutions such as the Connecticut Office of Higher Education, Connecticut Department of Labor, Connecticut State Colleges and Universities, and the University of Connecticut, along with workforce boards and credentialing bodies. The goal is to align training programs directly with employer needs and regional labor shortages.
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To qualify for Workforce Pell funding, programs must meet strict performance and quality standards:
- Align with high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industries
- Lead to a recognized, stackable postsecondary credential
- Achieve at least a 70% completion rate and 70% job placement rate
- Result in wages above the state median for high school graduates
- Be in operation for at least one year
The initiative is intended to strengthen Connecticut’s talent pipeline while making education more accessible and outcomes-driven. Workforce Pell Grants are scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026.
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Olive Branch Prom Shop is Now Open
Prom season is right around the corner. Every high school student should have an opportunity to attend if they so choose - the cost should not be a hurdle.
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is holding an Olive Branch "Prom Shop". Any high school student that is receiving or has received DCF support is eligible for a free grown or suit. The shops have a variety of options to ensure that students look sharp on their special night.
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To help these students in need, DCF is collecting gently used prom gowns, men's suits and tuxes, fancy shoes, and accessories, such as ties, jewelry, and purses. Please see the list of drop off locations below.
Please reach out to Jacqueline Ford (Jacqueline.Ford@ct.gov) if you have any questions. |
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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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