Maryam Khan

Thursday, June 19 is Juneteenth. Juneteenth celebrates the end of slavery in our country. For many years, this important holiday was primarily celebrated in the South, but was unknown to others from the rest of the country. However, thanks to great advocacy work, it is now rightfully observed throughout the country, including Connecticut. In 2022, the Connecticut General Assembly voted to make Juneteenth a state holiday.

The legislative session officially concluded last Wednesday, and we got a lot done for the people of Connecticut. I can't wait to tell you about some of the amazing bills we passed, starting with our two-year budget.

For too long, Connecticut's special education model has faced fundamental flaws that prevented all students from receiving the proper education they deserve.

When I was tasked with chairing the Select Committee on Special Education this session, I knew we had a responsibility to deliver for our students.

With our recent passage of HB 5001: An Act Concerning the Quality and Delivery of Special Education Services in Connecticut, we are taking important steps to reform Connecticut's special education system.

I was so proud to advocate for this bill on the House floor and to lead its passage in the chamber.

The Select Committee on Special Education, of which I am the House Chair, will hold a public hearing next Monday, April 21 at 11am on our committee's priority bills, which will become the contents of the priority bills in the House and Senate.

These two bills address shortfalls in the special education system by enhancing oversight, funding, and support for students and teachers.

This public hearing is a great opportunity to have your voice heard and make a difference in the legislative process, and I hope you'll get involved!

Happy Friday!

Monday is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. On the third Monday of January, we take a moment to celebrate the legacy of a consequential figure in American history. Dr. King worked alongside other civil rights leaders, and they were able to successfully push the federal government to pass legislation that addressed the horrible sins of our past.

This Wednesday, I was proud to be sworn in for another term as State Representative at the Connecticut General Assembly. It was great to see my legislative colleagues again and begin planning how we are going to help the people of Connecticut this session.

From my family to yours, I want to take a moment to send my best wishes for the holiday season. May it bring you and your loved ones peace, happiness and time well spent together. Remember that no matter how we celebrate, we also share many blessings. So, in the spirit of the season, please spread the joy that makes this time of the year truly special.

I'm so excited to announce that I have been appointed House Chair of the newly-created Select Committee on Special Education!

The select committee will address the volatile and often unpredictable costs of local special education.