How Cuts to Medicaid Would Hurt Bridgeport

March 28, 2025


 
We're working diligently to pass bills affecting early childcare, special education, utility rates, and so much more. I'll keep you posted on any developments throughout the session.

This week we recognized Equal Pay Day, a reminder to address gender equality at work. I'll break down how our state is tackling that issue.

Medicaid, education funding, and many other federal programs are under threat, which would have a devastating impact on Bridgeport. I'll break down how these proposed cuts affect our children, seniors, and the entirety of our city.

Time is running out for your kids to find a summer job. Please keep scrolling to learn where they can apply for a gig at local businesses, government, and more.

Here are the sections in this week's email:

  • Rally for Medicaid
  • Equal Pay Day
  • Free Help To Cover Mortgage Payments
  • Summer Job Opportunities
 

Rally for Medicaid

Hundreds of people gathered at the State Capitol in a powerful show of unity, urging the federal government to reject proposed cuts to Medicaid, that would disproportionately hurt low-income children, families, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities. The rally was part of a nationwide day of action and brought together a broad coalition of voices including members of our federal delegation, state legislators, healthcare workers, advocates, Medicaid recipients and many other members of the community, all standing in solidarity to protect this vital program.

Passionate speakers underscored the irreplaceable role Medicaid plays in ensuring healthcare access to the American people. They shared personal stories and compelling data, highlighting that Medicaid provides critical health insurance to more than 70 million people including seniors, working families, and children enrolled in the HUSKY program.

Without Medicaid, millions could lose access to life-saving treatments, preventative care, and essential services that support health, well-being, and economic stability. Cuts to Medicaid would not only jeopardize individuals but place greater strain on hospital, healthcare providers, and the broader community. Medicaid is not just a safety net – it’s a lifeline for millions, and protecting it is a moral and economic duty.

The federal government’s proposed massive budget cuts would have far-reaching consequences beyond Medicaid. Our public schools stand to lose vital funding, jeopardizing the quality of education for countless children.

According to the Connecticut Voices for Children, an advocacy organization, Bridgeport could face the loss of millions in essential resources – funds that support everything from classroom instruction and special education services to mental health support and after-school programs.

Here are some of the potential takeaways:

  • $84 million loss to Bridgeport Public Schools
  • 88,000 Bridgeport residents lose healthcare through Medicaid
  • Nearly 45,000 Bridgeport residents lose SNAP benefits
Click here to learn more
 

Equal Pay Day

March 25 marked how far into the year women must work to earn what men earned in the previous year – an undeniable reminder of the persistent wage gap and the ongoing fight for gender equality in the workplace. Equal Pay Day highlights the systemic barriers that continue to disadvantage women, particularly women of color, who face even wider pay disparities.

In Connecticut, we are making significant strides to close this gap through legislation like the Pay Equity and Opportunity Act, which:

  • strengthens pay transparency
  • bans employers from asking about salary history
  • ensures that workers are paid fairly based on skills and expertise

There is still work to do. Pay inequity affects families, communities, and the overall economy. When women are paid fairly, households are stronger, children have better opportunities, and businesses benefit from a more motivated and diverse workforce.

Together, we are working toward a future where equal work means equal pay for everyone. We can build a Connecticut where no one is shortchanged simply because of their gender.
 

Free Help To Cover Mortgage Payments

Do you need help paying your mortgages or HOA fees? The Connecticut American Job Centers of Bridgeport will host a free resource fair on Wednesday, April 2 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Housing counselors will assist homeowners that may be unemployed or underemployed learn more about foreclosure prevention resources such as no-cost training, HUD housing counseling, financial assistance, and judicial housing mediation. CLICK HERE to register!
 

Summer Job Opportunities

The WorkPlace is excited to launch the 2025 Connecticut Summer Youth Employment Program through CareerHub, providing young adults ages 16-21 with valuable paid work experience. You can apply now through April 18 at 4 p.m.
 
Participants will gain essential workplace skills while getting paid through placements at local businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies. Job opportunities include roles such as office assistants, retail associates, and camp counselors. 

Applicants must:

  • Be at least age 14 and not older than 24 by July 1, 2025
  • Be a resident of Derby or any of the other 19 towns The WorkPlace serves
  • Be eligible to work in the United States
Apply now for summer jobs!