Today, the State Bonding Commission met for a virtual meeting to approve much-needed Coronavirus aid as well as dozens of other items that will have long term impacts on cities and towns across Connecticut.

This year's proposal would mark the first update to these state statutes in over two decades.

The New York Times reports municipalities in the U.S. have been held hostage by sophisticated criminals who have hacked computer systems, encrypted data and demanded millions of dollars in ransoms for freeing the systems. Interviewed by reporters, Rep. Steven Stafstrom says 2017 legislation he led to passage as a deterrent calls for up to three years in prison upon conviction.

As we grieve over more mass shootings and look for answers out of Washington, I’m proud that our state continues to set an example. Now, if only Congress and other states would start to follow our lead.

On the last day of session, the House passed a bill that would allow juveniles charged with car theft to seek services rather than face adult prosecution. “It’s to make sure those juveniles who are wrapped up in the system as a result of a car theft can get the services they need and an opportunity to right themselves,” Judiciary Committee House Chair Steve Stafstrom said.

Led by Rep. Steve Stafstrom, Judiciary Committee co-chair, the House passed a bill to Gov. Ned Lamont’s desk that requires law enforcement to change the way they publicly release information after use-of-force incidents and prohibits police officers from firing into fleeing vehicles.

In 2013 legislators approved the Trust Act, setting conditions for state and local law enforcement authorities for voluntarily cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials seeking to detain and deport undocumented immigrants. Since then we've discovered loopholes and other problems in the law and this year passed a bill striking an important balance.

One of Rep. Steven Stafstrom's highest priorities was to write sensible, gun-safety legislation to help the people of Bridgeport and other communities feel safer when they step outside of their homes. Stafstrom authored three bills. The House and Senate have passed all three by strong, bipartisan votes.