Updates from State Rep. Gary Turco from Oct. 23, 2025

October 23, 2025

Early voting has started and ends Sunday, Nov. 2.

Hours for both New Britain and Newington are daily (Sunday through Saturday) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., except on Tuesday, Oct. 28, and Thursday, Oct. 30, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Same-day registration will be available during early voting hours and on Election Day.

Newington has one early voting location:

Town Council Chambers, Town Hall, 200 Garfield St., West Entrance. If you are not registered, but want to vote during the Early Voting period, you may register in-person every day of early Voting at the early voting location.

New Britain has two early voting locations:

The New Britain Senior Center at 55 Pearl St.; and
Central CT State University, 1615 Stanley St., Memorial Hall (Student Lounge and Study Rooms).

Curbside Voting is also available if an elector is present at the polling place but is unable to gain access due to a permanent or temporary incapacity, the elector may request that the ballot be brought outside to him or her.

Absentee Ballots must be received by 8 p.m., before closing on Nov. 4, Election Day. Please mail your ballot early so it's received before polls close on Nov. 4.

Special Session Announced

The House of Representatives will be in special session on Wednesday, Nov. 12, at 10:30 a.m.

I will provide more details as they become available.

211 Resource Guide

With the uncertainty surrounding the federal government's shutdown, including its impact on SNAP benefits and Access Health premiums, the United Way of Connecticut’s 211 has published a new resource to help provide up-to-date information.

This resource, which can be found here, outlines the current status of federal programs and provides direct links to state and community resources for those affected.

I encourage you all to not only use the resource, but to share it with those you believe can use it.

FYI: 211 is not directly impacted by the federal government shutdown and continues to operate 24/7/365.

Generation Power Assistance

The Generation Power CT (GPCT) Emergency Energy Assistance Program provides a one-time grant of up to $500 to help eligible Connecticut households with electric, gas, or fuel expenses.

Increasing energy costs are a challenge for many in the state, but through this program, GPCT has helped to provide families across Connecticut with secure access to heat, power, and water.

All GPCT energy programs are available to income-eligible households making up to 75% SMI gross household income. Each income-eligible household that receives a GPCT Energy Assistance Award will receive up to $500 toward a future fuel delivery or toward a past-due utility bill.

For the best chance of approval, and to make full use of this once-per-12-months grant, GPCT strongly encourages households to apply for assistance when they are most in need. GPCT has three energy assistance cycles coming up, including Nov. 2-10.

The other dates:

January 2-10
March 2-10

To learn more about eligibility requirements and application materials, please click HERE.

'Sign Man' Shown at CCSU

I was honored to be invited to speak before the showing of "Sign Man" — an extraordinary independent film written, produced, and co-directed by Newington resident Michael T. Lombardi.

This movie shines a powerful light on the humanity of homelessness and reminds us that it could happen to any of us — most of us are just one tragedy, a job loss, an unforeseen expense away from being unhoused.

It was emotional, suspenseful, and had me on the brink of tears. Michael also made it a priority to include individuals with disabilities, reminding us that homelessness can affect anyone and that compassion and representation matter.

Here in Connecticut, homelessness is a growing crisis. On any given night, more than 3,400 people experience homelessness, including nearly 700 children. These are not just numbers — they are our neighbors, classmates, coworkers, and friends.

What makes this film even more special is that it was filmed entirely in Connecticut.

It was also wonderful to see so many Newington residents involved in this event. My friend Dr. Mitch Page, Majority Leader of the Town Council and part of CCSU’s Social Work Department, played a leading role in organizing the program. Also great to see Councilor Matt Plourd, Rev. Melanie Enfield, and Karen and Andy Serio in attendance.

Thank you, Michael, for using your art to tell this powerful story, and thank you to Family Promise of Central Connecticut and CCSU’s Department of Social Work for helping bring this important film to the stage.

I hope you get a chance to see "Sign Man," too!

Dental Services for Veterans

Connecticut Oral Health Initiative (COHI) has received a $25,000 grant to provide free dental services for veterans in need.

The program is open to veterans living in the Greater Hartford area, but there is flexibility as long as participants are willing to travel to Farmington.

Click here for more information and to register.

Free Medical Services

Hartford HealthCare is hosting an event providing free medical services for adults and children on Saturday, Nov. 8, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 40 Goodwin St., New Britain.

All are welcome, no insurance is needed.

More details below.

Trick-Or-Treat Safe Zone

The New Britain Downtown District will host its 12th annual Halloween Trick-or-Treat Safe Zone event from 5 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 31. Children and families can stop by over 30 locations Downtown to fill up their candy bags, while enjoying live entertainment, music, giveaways, and games.

Thousands attend the event, as Central Park is decorated for the occasion. Main Street from Columbus Boulevard to Chestnut Street will be closed to vehicles during the event.