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Dear Neighbor,
Today's newsletter focuses on our special session work on Wednesday, followed by the Senate on Thursday. I am so pleased with what we did, from addressing our housing crisis to strengthening our commitment to children's behavioral health care and more.
Please have a look below at the work we accomplished this week.
This week's newsletter topics include:
- Around the 41st District
- Addressing CT's Housing Crisis
- $500 Million Emergency Response Fund
- Wins for Children's Behavioral Health Care
- Preventing ICE Overreach at Courthouses
- UConn Health Center Joint Venture Initiative
- Early Start CT Expands
- CT Department of Transportation News
- Veterans Resources & Updates
- 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,
Sincerely,
Aundré Bumgardner
State Representative
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I know we're a few days out, but Veterans Day is always special to me. It's the day we honor all who have served our country with courage, sacrifice, and love of country—and the families who stand beside them each day.
I’m especially thinking of my grandfather, Commander (CDR) Dr. Benjamin Quiles, who served proudly in both the U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Navy. A Vietnam veteran, he continued his service as a pediatrician at Naval Submarine Base New London, caring for the children of service members right here in our community.
From earning his education in Puerto Rico to serving overseas in Rota, Spain, and later at the U.S. Naval Academy, my grandfather dedicated his life to healing and service. His example of humility, compassion, and commitment continues to guide me every day—as a husband, son, brother, and public servant.
To all our veterans: thank you for your courage and sacrifice. Your service strengthens the very fabric of our nation. |
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What a wonderful morning at the Ocean Community YMCA’s Annual Leadership Recognition Breakfast! It was inspiring to see so many community members gather at the historic Ocean House in Watch Hill to celebrate leadership, service, and community impact.
A special shout-out to John Paul Morales, honored today for his leadership in youth development—not only through his professional work, but through the time, mentorship, and service he gives back to young people and families in our community.
The Ocean Community YMCA remains a cornerstone for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility across our region—events like this show just how deeply its mission is woven into the fabric of our communities. |
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| From retirees looking to downsize, to young professionals and families searching for affordable rentals, Connecticut residents at every stage of life share a common goal: finding a safe, stable, and affordable place to call home. |
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House Bill 8002: An Act Concerning Housing Growth empowers towns to plan for responsible, data-driven growth using insights from state, local, and regional partners to meet the housing needs of today and tomorrow.
Developed in partnership with municipal leaders, regional councils, colleagues on both sides of the aisle, and Governor Lamont, this legislation creates a collaborative and practical framework through local Housing Growth Plans.
The bill also encourages the redevelopment of underused properties, from aging strip malls to vacant commercial spaces, and promotes transit-oriented development that connects residents to jobs, schools, and public transportation.
By combining innovation with local control and targeted support, we’re strengthening the partnership between the state and municipalities to modernize infrastructure, improve zoning and land-use planning, and create vibrant, inclusive communities across Connecticut.
There’s still more work ahead, but this bill marks a major step forward in our shared effort to expand housing opportunities, support local economies, and ensure every Connecticut resident can find and afford a home in a community they’re proud to call their own. |
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House Bill 8003: An Act Concerning Temporary Adjustments to the Budget Reserve Fund and Appropriating Funds to Address Reductions in Federal Funding represents the state’s $500 million response to recent federal funding cutbacks.
This funding will fill critical gaps in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Connecticut will not stand by while the federal government undermines support for middle- and low-income families.
It’s important to note that now that the government shutdown has ended, if Connecticut’s $500 million budget reserve fund is not used by July 1, 2026, any remaining funds will automatically be transferred to help pay down the state’s unfunded pension debt. |
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| HB8004, a comprehensive bill that passed in both chambers, builds on Democrats’ commitment to children’s behavioral health care. |
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Highlights include:
- Statewide study to assess the demand for children’s behavioral health services and improve data collection
- New grant program to support care coordination and resource navigation for kids and families
- Insurance companies must now cover autism treatments — including applied behavior analysis and cognitive behavioral therapy — up to age 26
- Adding substance abuse treatment providers for children to the Transforming Children’s Behavioral Health Policy and Planning Committee (TCB)
Together, these measures represent a stronger, more coordinated system of care for Connecticut’s children.
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I proudly voted to safeguard immigrants within courthouses and promote fair, transparent access to their data, which was a part of the comprehensive bill, HB8004, and includes the following provisions:
- Parameters for detaining, arresting, or taking a person into custody on courthouse grounds based on a civil offense;
- General prohibitions on people enforcing state or federal laws on state courthouse grounds from wearing a mask or facial coverings, unless medically necessary and approved by court personnel; and
- Restrictions on state and local government agencies from disclosing personal information to federal authorities, except as required by state or federal law, judicial warrant, or court order.
Of note: The protections were included as part of an expansive bill that also addressed children's mental health and the creation of a funding mechanism for a firefighters' cancer relief fund.
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We also voted to approve $390 million in bonding over five years to support capital investments at Waterbury Hospital, as well as Bristol Hospital and Day Kimball Hospital in Putnam, which the state is also in talks to acquire.
With the approval of HB 8001: An Act Concerning the University of Connecticut Health Center Joint Venture Initiative, we voted to preserve access to healthcare at Waterbury Hospital, voting in favor of a $13 million agreement that enables UConn Health to acquire the facility.
This acquisition is structured as a public-private partnership. Under this model, Waterbury Hospital will join the UConn Health network while remaining privately operated.
This approach ensures the hospital remains open, protects existing jobs, and strengthens the future of regional health care for those in the community who rely on it.
Through this partnership with UConn Health, we are securing long-term stability for Waterbury Hospital and expanding access to high-quality care for families who deserve it close to home.
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Thanks to the Early Childhood Education Endowment, an initiative that was passed by the General Assembly in the 2025 legislative session, the expansion of the Early Start CT program in 2026 marks an important step forward in meeting the growing demand for high-quality early childhood care and education across Connecticut.
Beginning in January 2026, up to 1,000 new spaces will be added to the state’s Early Start CT program, expanding access to affordable early learning opportunities for more families. In addition, the state will increase provider payments by up to 8% to help offset operational costs and support higher staff compensation.
The endowment supports the governor’s initiative to implement the largest expansion of early childhood education services in Connecticut’s history.
This program and the tremendous benefits it will bring to children, families, and communities across the state are exciting! |
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Temporary Signalization on Route 215 in Groton
A temporary signal was implemented on Route 215 in Groton on Monday, June 9th. It will be de-energized in November 2025. Project No. 0058-0338 consists of replacing the culvert headwalls and relining the existing culvert pipe under Route 215 at Anderson Marsh and Beebe Cove.
LANE CLOSURE/DETOUR INFO
There will be continuous single-lane closure on Route 215 from June 9 to November 2025. Traffic control signing, temporary pavement markings, and the temporary signal will guide motorists through the work zone in an alternating one-way manner.
Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area.
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Culvert Replacement on Route 215 in Groton
A culvert replacement at Anderson Marsh and Beebe Cove will be performed on Route 215 in Groton. Minor construction and utility work have already commenced.
This project is scheduled to typically occur on Mondays through Fridays with anticipated completion on November 22, 2025.
The project will address the deterioration of the existing headwalls and the separation of the culvert sections spanning Anderson Marsh and Beebe Cove on Route 215 in Groton, Connecticut. The project is scheduled to be completed on November 22, 2025.
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| This project is to be completed on Friday, August 22, 2026. At applicable locations, pedestrian control features, such as countdown pedestrian indications, accessible pushbuttons, and sidewalk ramps, will be upgraded to improve accessibility and pedestrian safety. |
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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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Upcoming Events for VeteransWreaths Across America – Start Sponsoring Now!Every year, we strive to place a wreath on all requested graves at the Connecticut Veterans Cemetery and Col. Gates Cemetery. You can sponsor early to help us reach our goal. Sponsor HereLegislative & Policy Updates
2025 Connecticut General Assembly Session Opened January 8Veterans can track bills related to military benefits, tax relief, and more using the General Assembly’s Bill Tracking Tool: Track Bills HereHow 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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- Groton – 2nd & 4th Friday of the month, 9 AM – 11 AM
- Groton Public Library – 52 Newtown Road
- Mystic – 1st & 3rd Thursday of the month, 9 AM – 11 AM
- Mystic Congregational Church – 43 East Main Street
- Pawcatuck – 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month, 9 AM – 11 AM
- Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center – 27 Chase Street
For more locations and information, contact:
Gina King, Director, Senior Volunteer Services
gking@tvcca.org | 860-425-6617
If you have any issues, concerns, or ideas related to Veteran services, military families, or legislative priorities, please feel free to reach out to my office. Your service and sacrifices deserve to be honored with the best support possible.
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