Kevin Ryan

Happy 4th of July! I hope you were able to spend time with friends, family, and neighbors over the weekend.

Mandatory reporters play a critical role in spotting the signs of elder abuse and ensuring that our older community members are safe.

Through a partnership between the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), financial institutions, and Community Economic Financial Institutions, HB 6467 aims to achieve inclusive economic growth by promoting additional financing options for businesses across the state, specifically for those which are small and minority-owned.

No one should be denied employment because of their age, yet studies have found that 60 percent of workers over 45 have experienced or seen age discrimination. SB 56 would strengthen protections against age discrimination by prohibiting employers from asking job applicants their age, date of birth, and graduation date.

Epinephrine cartridge injectors, such as EpiPens, are lifesaving tools for individuals with life-threatening allergies, however high prices keep these devices out of reach. EpiPens can cost up to $700, leading consumers to hang on to long-expired epinephrine injectors or forego them altogether.

The opioid epidemic has devastated our state. HB 5597 would help combat this epidemic by creating a task force to study the response protocols used by emergency responders and medical personnel following an opioid overdose death. It also requires the state Department of Public Health Commissioner to develop guidelines for the use of non-pharmaceutical methods of treating chronic pain and conduct community outreach to raise awareness. This bill could save lives and address the stigma of opioid use disorder.

One in four Americans have experienced online hate and harassment, but Connecticut’s statutes regarding stalking and harassment have not kept pace with technology. SB 989 will update Connecticut's laws to combat online harassment and protect those subject to it.

Many of the privileges we enjoy at home are denied to Connecticut's long-term care facility residents. Just passed by the House, SB 975 strengthens the nursing home patients' bill of rights so residents may treat their living space as their home, protecting their rights to privacy, health, and safety. Every resident deserves the safety and security of a home-like environment.