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Dear Neighbor,
We had session this week to tidy up a few things. I will update you on that, as well as some important judicial legislation that is advancing. Please see below for more details.
Also, I've included an update from the recent Gold Star Bridge preconstruction meeting.
Tax season is here. Free services are available for assistance. Please scroll down for more details.
Got a text from Amazon? Don't give away any details. Check out a recent scam circulating below.
Lastly, we're a few days away, but the Groton Park Litter Clean-up is a pretty popular affair. It's happening on April 10th. Details are below. I hope you can join us!
- Around the 41st
- During Session This Week
- Advancing Judicial Legislation
- Gold Star Bridge Preconstruction Meeting
- Connecticut Foodshare Forum
- Workforce Pell Grants Implemented
- Free Tax Assistance Available
- Beware: Amazon Scam Alert
- Passport to CT Libraries
- Groton Park Litter Cleanup on April 10th
- Vets Resources & Updates
- Reminder: Sign up for Safe Boating Classes
- Community Events
Do not hesitate to contact me with any thoughts or concerns you may have at Aundre.Bumgardner@cga.ct.gov or 1-800-842-8267.
Have a great weekend. Remember, Daylight Saving Time begins. Don't forget to set your clock ahead one hour on Sunday, beginning at 2 a.m.
Sincerely,
Aundré Bumgardner
State Representative
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| As State Representative for Groton, it was a privilege to attend an annual briefing with General Dynamics Electric Boat—the primary builder of the U.S. Navy’s nuclear-powered submarines, including the Virginia-class fast-attack submarines and the next-generation Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines. |
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When I was first elected in 2015, we were coming out of a very different moment for the yard and its workforce.
Today, we’re seeing unprecedented growth—with plans to hire 8,000 workers this year and another 8,000 next year—alongside billions in investment transforming Groton and our entire region.
This work is mission-critical—not just for the United States, but for our allies. Through initiatives like AUKUS, the submarines built here in southeastern Connecticut will play a key role in strengthening allied deterrence and maintaining stability in critical regions like the Indo-Pacific.
What’s happening in Groton isn’t just economic growth—it’s a generational transformation of our workforce and a reaffirmation of our region’s central role in global security.
Proud to represent the submarine capital of the world—and focused on making sure our housing, infrastructure, and workforce pipelines are ready to meet this moment. |
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It was great to join the Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut at the Hilton Mystic for the State of Mystic– Town of Stonington, Town of Groton, CT, and City of Groton.
We heard updates from our local leaders—including Stonington First Selectman Bill Middleton, Town of Groton Town Manager John Burt, and City of Groton Mayor Jill Rusk—on where our local governments stand today and where we’re headed. Town of Groton Mayor Juliette Parker was also on hand.
I’m committed to continuing to work closely with our municipal CEOs across the district to move key projects and initiatives forward for our communities and Groton Utilities.
Grateful for the opportunity to connect with business and civic leaders and continue working together to support a strong, thriving region. |
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I was honored to join Mystic Aquarium recently at Charlestown Town Beach for the successful release of “Mochi,” a rehabilitated harp seal rescued earlier this year.
After weeks of care following his stranding in Massachusetts, it was incredible to witness his return to the ocean—a powerful reminder of both the impact of wildlife rehabilitation and the challenges our marine species face.
Grateful to the dedicated team and advocates working every day to protect our coastal ecosystems and the animals that depend on them. |
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| On Wednesday, the House was called into session. We voted on 15 executive nominations, voted on a contract between the State and CEUI, and confirmed 20 judicial nominations. The Senate came in on Thursday to do the same. |
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Protecting Connecticut Residents from Federal Overreach
This week, the Judiciary Committee voted to advance legislation that would expand restrictions on where Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents can operate in Connecticut. The bills would prohibit ICE from entering places of worship and hospitals, ensuring that our residents are not afraid to seek medical care or practice their faith.
Connecticut is already one of the safest states for immigrants in the country, and we do not need the federal government's heavy-handed enforcement tactics to keep our communities safe. Attorney General William Tong has voiced his support for these measures, noting that immigrants and their families have a right to be protected from violence and intimidation.
Earlier this month, the Committee also held a public hearing on several bills aimed at increasing state oversight of federal law enforcement officers, including SB 91 and SB 397, which would expand the definition of "peace officer" under state law to cover all federal law enforcement agents — not just those dealing with narcotics. Connecticut Inspector General Eliot Prescott testified that the state has a broad sovereign interest in ensuring that all officers, including federal agents, comply with Connecticut law. While these proposals continue to be refined, the Committee is committed to ensuring Connecticut has the tools it needs to hold everyone accountable under the law.
Bipartisan Compromise on License Plate Reader Privacy
In a significant bipartisan achievement, the Judiciary Committee approved a compromise bill that would prevent license plate reader data from being shared with federal immigration authorities. This legislation was the product of a broad collaboration among lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, the ACLU of Connecticut, the state Judicial Branch, and the Department of Transportation.
Under the bill, license plate data retention would be limited to 30 days, and after 7 days, police would be required to obtain a judicial warrant to access the information. The legislation strikes a careful balance: it preserves the ability of law enforcement to use this technology to solve crimes and protect our communities, while ensuring that residents' civil liberties are not compromised and that the data is not misused for immigration enforcement, reproductive health care investigations, or other purposes unrelated to public safety.
As Senator John Kissel, the ranking Republican on the Committee, noted, the warrant requirement after seven days is a crucial safeguard against "open-season fishing expeditions".
The bill now heads to the House for a floor vote. Local law enforcement agencies are already updating their policies to align with these new standards.
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| Got kids? This is the place to be! |
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| A recent preconstruction meeting regarding the Gold Star Bridge took place earlier this month. Please click on the image to access a couple of informative videos. |
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| The state will implement new federal Workforce Pell Grants through the Connecticut Office of Workforce Strategy (OWS), marking a major expansion of financial aid for short-term, career-focused training. |
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Enabled by H.R. 1 Workforce Pell expansion, the policy allows low-income students to use Pell Grants for programs lasting 8–15 weeks (150–599 hours).
Previously, only programs of at least 15 weeks and 600 hours qualified. This change is designed to open faster, more flexible pathways into high-demand fields, especially for working adults and non-traditional learners.
OWS will coordinate a broad statewide effort involving agencies and institutions such as the Connecticut Office of Higher Education, Connecticut Department of Labor, Connecticut State Colleges and Universities, and the University of Connecticut, along with workforce boards and credentialing bodies. The goal is to align training programs directly with employer needs and regional labor shortages.
To qualify for Workforce Pell funding, programs must meet strict performance and quality standards:
- Align with high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand industries
- Lead to a recognized, stackable postsecondary credential
- Achieve at least a 70% completion rate and 70% job placement rate
- Result in wages above the state median for high school graduates
- Be in operation for at least one year
The initiative is intended to strengthen Connecticut’s talent pipeline while making education more accessible and outcomes-driven. Workforce Pell Grants are scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026.
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With the tax deadline approaching on April 15th, now is the time to take action if you haven’t filed yet. There are several free resources available this year for anyone who needs to file state and federal taxes.
The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program offers free tax help for low-to moderate-income (under $58,000) people who cannot prepare their own tax returns. Volunteers, sponsored by various organizations, receive training to help prepare basic tax returns in communities across the country. Visit Connecticut's 2-1-1 website and the Free Tax Help page for VITA assistance updates, or visit the IRS Site Locator.
AARP's Tax-Aide Program, a partnership between the AARP Foundation and the Internal Revenue Service, provides free tax counseling and preparation services to middle-and low-income taxpayers, with special attention to people age 60 and older. Many sites will e-file your federal and Connecticut returns at no cost to you. Visit the AARP Tax-Aide Site Locator to find a location near you.
The UConn Law School Tax Clinic is a pro bono (free) legal clinic that provides free legal help to low-income taxpayers with tax problems, either with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS). Lisa Perkins, Clinical Professor & Director, and law students will work on your case. The Tax Clinic also works with attorneys in Connecticut who volunteer to help low-income taxpayers pro bono.
The Tax Clinic is independent and separate from the IRS and DRS. It is important to note that the UCONN tax clinic is only able to assist individual taxpayers with Connecticut income tax problems. Contact Lisa Perkins at lisa.perkins@uconn.edu or 860-570-5165. |
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| A fake Amazon text says your order was recalled and prompts you to click a link to confirm your refund. |
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| Be wary of links that look unusual or do not include the name of the company. What should you do? Don't click the link, block the number, and only verify recalls on the Amazon app or official website. |
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The Passport to Connecticut Libraries program is back and will take place from April 1–30.
Starting April 1, visit your local library to pick up your official program passport along with a list of participating libraries across the state. Then the adventure begins, explore as many libraries as you can throughout April!
Visit at least five different participating libraries and collect stamps from those locations (only official participating libraries count; be sure to check your list). Then, once you’re done, be sure to return your completed passport by May 11 to be entered into a prize drawing. |
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Visit at least five different participating libraries and collect stamps from those locations (only official participating libraries count; be sure to check your list). Then, once you’re done, be sure to return your completed passport by May 11 to be entered into a prize drawing.
With nearly 200 public libraries in Connecticut—plus school, college, museum, and even church libraries—there’s an incredible variety to discover. Each library offers something unique, and this program is a fun way to experience all the amazing things libraries across the state have to offer.
So grab your passport and start exploring, your next favorite library might be just around the corner! |
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Join CTNERR as we partner with the Baker Cove Watershed Committee (BaCWaC), Eastern Connecticut Conservation District (ECCD), Mystic Aquarium, Town of Groton, and City of Groton to clean up various sites in Groton, CT. Neon vests, gloves, pickers, and bags will be provided.
All you need to do is sign up and show up! Questions or need accommodations? Email Larissa at Larissa.Graham@uconn.edu
To register, fill out the Google form HERE. |
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As the State Representative for Groton, Mystic, and Stonington, home to a strong military community and the U.S. Naval Submarine Base, I am committed to ensuring veterans, active-duty service members, and military families have access to the latest updates, resources, and opportunities.
Below are important events, legislative updates, and benefit programs that may be of interest to our district’s veterans. |
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How to Get a Copy of Your DD 214
- Your DD 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) is critical for accessing VA benefits. Here’s how to obtain a copy:
- Check with your Town Clerk – Many veterans file their DD 214 with their local town clerk.
- Contact CT Veterans Affairs – They have an archive of 130,000 DD 214s. Email oaa.dva@ct.gov for assistance.
- Submit a Request to the National Archives – The fastest way is online: Request Here
- If Needed for Burial or Military Honors – Funeral directors have priority retrieval access.
Applying for a Discharge UpgradeVeterans with less-than-honorable discharges due to PTSD, TBI, Military Sexual Trauma (MST), or sexual orientation (Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell) may be eligible for an upgrade. Learn more and apply online: Discharge Upgrade InstructionsMunicipal Veterans Representative ProgramEach town must appoint a Veterans Representative to help veterans access services. Find your local VetRep here: Locate Your Rep2025 Veterans Benefits Guide Available for DownloadThe latest edition of the VA’s "Veterans Benefits for Veterans, Dependents, Survivors, and Caregivers" is now available: Download Here
Stay Connected & Get Involved
I encourage all veterans, military families, and community members to stay informed and engaged. You can sign up for the Connecticut DVA Newsletter to receive future updates: Subscribe Here.For those looking to connect with fellow veterans, share stories, and access important resources, consider attending a veterans' Coffeehouse near you. These gatherings provide a welcoming space for veterans to socialize and receive information about benefits and services:
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