Jonathan Steinberg

Individuals and families who are on Medicaid or receive SNAP benefits need to be aware of changes coming to these important programs.

Last week we voted to extend a number of budgetary protections known as "fiscal guardrails," as well as approve funding for two important school programs.

Originally put in place in 2017, the "fiscal guardrails" have been critical to allowing us to cut taxes, invest in families and the economy, pay down debt, and save for the future.

Black History Month is a time to rejoice, reflect, and remember that Black history is American history.

Official recognition of Black History Month started with a proclamation from President Gerald Ford 47 years ago, to honor the many accomplishments and contributions Black Americans have made to American society.

The theme of this year's Black History Month, "Black Resistance," explores how African Americans have resisted historic and ongoing oppression, in all forms.

A new state program designed to help tenants avoid eviction due to overdue rent has begun.

The Eviction Prevention Fund will help struggling families facing rising rental costs, with $12.5 million from UniteCT and the Rent Bank funding the program.

Eligible households can receive up to $5,000 in assistance. Interested tenants must call UniteCT at 844-864-8328 to be screened for eligibility. Eligible applicants will then receive assistance to help complete their application.

As we continue to pursue more long-term solutions to reduce rising costs of energy, I wanted to make you aware of an upcoming outreach event to help residents access critical financial assistance from United Illuminating (UI) and Southern Connecticut Gas (SCG), through the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP), the Community Renewal Team (CRT) and Operation Fuel.

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is announced a scheduled closure that will affect Westport commuters.

Losing a loved one to suicide is devastating to families and communities. We all have a role to play to prevent these tragedies and intervening before it is too late.

One of the many consequences of the pandemic has been that many households have struggled to pay bills, particularly energy bills. Only laws forbidding most homeowners from being shutoff for non-payment have assured essential heating through the winter for many customers.