Legislative Update for Sept. 19, 2025

September 19, 2025



 

 

Each day, we are feeling the weight of issues that affect not only our households, but also the sense of security and trust we share as a community. The rising costs of groceries, healthcare, essentials, and everyday services are straining family budgets, leaving many wondering how they will make ends meet. Economic uncertainty has only deepened these struggles, creating anxiety about the future, and making it harder to plan ahead.
 
At the same time, we have to talk about the fact that we are living in an era when concerns about government overreach and censorship are growing. We should all be concerned by recent news, and asking important questions about freedom of speech, open dialogue, and access to reliable, truthful information — values that are at the very heart of our democracy.
 
We also cannot ignore the disturbing rise in threats and acts of political violence. The fear and unease that come with these events strike at something deeply personal: the belief that our neighborhoods, our schools, and our public spaces should be safe places where everyone can feel protected and respected. In fact, during the virtual Town Hall we held earlier this week, the Ridgefield delegation and I were asked more questions about gun violence — particularly relating to the safety of children in schools — than any other topic.
 
I appreciate all the emails and phone calls from you all, and I want you to know that I hear your concerns, and I share them with you. My commitment remains to stand with you, to help strengthen our community and state, and to continue working for policies that provide both stability and safety for all in these uncertain times. I do believe that if we continue to support one another, stay engaged in honest conversation, and protect the spirit of community that has always defined us, we can move forward —even through these difficult days — toward a stronger and safer future.
 
It is my understanding that we will be holding a Special Session in October. I am hopeful that we will be addressing some of our shared concerns and will keep you posted as I know more.

Additionally, the Public Health Committee is hosting a press conference and informational forum regarding Vaccine Information and Access on Sept. 24 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in Room 1D of the LOB. The press conference starts at 11:30 a.m. and the informational forum will begin at 12:30 p.m. I will be in attendance, and will share with you what we learn at the hearing.
 

Hearing and Events Information

Please click here (the Connecticut General Assembly website) for information about upcoming hearings and other events at the State Capitol.
 

Virtual Legislative Discussion

Below is a link to the virtual legislative discussion held by the Ridgefield state delegation on Sept. 15.

The forum was well attended and there were a number of really great questions sent to us concerning the environment, gun safety, housing, and the current "temperature" in politics. 
 
 

Northeast Public Health Collaborative

A coalition of Northeastern states (including Connecticut) and New York City have launched the Northeast Public Health Collaborative, an initiative aimed at enhancing public health efforts across the region.

The voluntary partnership (composed of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York State, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and New York City) brings together public health agencies and leaders to share expertise, improve coordination, and strengthen preparedness.

Formed earlier this year, the Collaborative's primary goal is to advance community health by optimizing resources, innovating public health services, and boosting trust in science-based medicine and vaccines. The group is committed to providing evidence-based information to protect public health and ensure equitable access to vaccines, medications, and healthcare services.

The first in-person meeting of the Collaborative took place in Rhode Island in August, where members discussed key areas for collaboration, including public health emergency preparedness, infectious disease response, and vaccine purchasing strategies.

The group has already begun forming working groups to address pressing issues such as staffing shortages in public health and interjurisdictional coordination for emergency responses.

In its early efforts, the Collaborative has developed guidance for health-care workers on safety precautions during the respiratory virus season and has been actively involved in public health planning for the upcoming FIFA World Cup events. The initiative represents a concerted effort to create a more unified, science-driven approach to public health challenges in the Northeast.
 

Planting Reminder

A reminder from the Ridgefield Conservation Commission: Autumn is the best time to plant perennial plants.

Not only are the temperatures winding down so the plants are not stressed by the typical summer heat and lack of rain, but many nurseries offer good discounts trying to get rid of their plant stocks before winter. If you want to go in this direction, please try to purchase as many native plants as you can as they will support our local insect and animal populations.

For information on these plants, check out the Commission's webpage.
 

Town Public Safety Building Project Updates

The town has ongoing information sessions for the Public Safety Facility Building Project.

Below are the dates and times:

  • Sept. 27 at the Ridgefield Library, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Oct. 4 at the Ridgefield Library, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Oct. 25 at the Ridgefield Library, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
 

Sincerely,

Aimee Berger-Girvalo
State Representative

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