End-of-year Capitol report
December 15, 2017During the 2017 legislative session, we implemented structural reforms that will not only help Connecticut steady its financial footing, but will also help spur economic development and restore millions of dollars to municipalities, our schools and core state services. As vice chairman of the Judiciary Committee and a member of the Planning and Development Committee, we were also able to pass legislation that helps Bridgeport, improves our judicial system and protects some of our most vulnerable citizens. I am proud to share information about some of these new laws with you.
Stafstrom named 2017 Legislative Champion by Connecticut Alliance of YMCAs
November 28, 2017The Connecticut Alliance of YMCAs named state Rep. Steve Stafstrom as its 2017 Legislative Champion. Stafstrom was awarded for his commitment to the local community.
Legislature approves changes to Renters' Rebate Program and hospital tax
November 15, 2017Following the legislature’s approval of technical revisions to the bipartisan budget passed last month, older and disabled renters are slated to receive their state refund checks under the Connecticut Renters’ Rebate Program.
Quality child care for working families
November 8, 2017Connecticut families, currently on the wait-list, can start enrolling in the Care 4 Kids program, the state’s primary child care support program. Care 4 Kids helps low- to moderate-income families in Connecticut pay for child-care costs.
Bridgeport moves closer to becoming a national model for the reuse of waste heat
October 30, 2017Under the bipartisan $41.3 billion state budget passed Oct. 26, a pilot program will be established for the development and construction of a combined heat and power facility that will provide waste heat for a thermal heating loop in downtown Bridgeport.
Bipartisan budget overwhelmingly approved in Legislature
October 26, 2017After months of negotiations, Democrats and Republicans have overwhelmingly approved a bipartisan budget that steadies Connecticut's financial footing, spurs economic development, and restores millions of dollars to municipalities, our schools and core state services.
GOP fails to override governor's budget veto; now is the time for a bipartisan agreement
October 3, 2017After the state House of Representatives met Oct. 3 to consider overriding the veto of the GOP-backed budget, the Republicans refused to call the question for a vote. Now, it is time for us to work together and compromise with the governor and the Republicans to reach a bipartisan agreement on a final budget. To move Connecticut forward, we need to adopt a spending package that invests in our workforce, makes long-term structural changes, and provides municipalities with additional budget flexibility.
Republican budget would have devastating effects on Bridgeport and its economy
September 18, 2017The Republicans' two-year budget is unbalanced, relies on unrealistic savings, and contains devastating cuts to higher education. Their spending package would also inflict turmoil by slashing the vital services and programs that our most vulnerable residents rely on. I strongly opposed their spending proposal and voted "No" because I believe this budget is bad for Bridgeport and contradicts Connecticut's core values.