It was a pleasure to speak with Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz about Women's History Month on my radio show. Keep scrolling to hear more of our conversation about female leadership in Connecticut. On the show, we discussed our concerns about potential cuts to federal funding. I'll break down how slashing Medicaid could affect those who rely on those vital services and the state's finances as a whole.
You have an amazing opportunity to file your taxes for free! Please read below to find out who is eligible and how to schedule an appointment in Windham.
Here are the sections in today's email:
Let's Talk About It: Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz
Medicaid Funding Uncertainty
Climate Change Discussion at ECSU
Free Tax Filing Service
Let's Talk About It: Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz
Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz joined my radio show “Let's Talk About It” to talk about Women's History Month and to recognize the achievements of women in government. Lt. Gov. Bysiewicz is proud of our female legislators who are making a difference in Eastern Connecticut including me, Sen. Mae Flexer, Sen. Cathy Osten, and Sen. Martha Marx.
Lt. Gov. Bysiewicz and I shared our deep concerns over the Trump Administration’s policies highlighted by the federal budget proposal. It contains cuts to many important programs including Medicaid, which could lead to cuts to services, layoffs, and less access to healthcare in Connecticut.
Lt. Gov. Bysiewicz also discussed her passion for recognizing our armed forces and shared information on local events honoring our veterans. Please click on the video below to learn more about that and to listen to our entire conversation.
Lt. Gov. Bysiewicz promotes female leadership for Women's History Month.
Medicaid Funding Uncertainty
There is growing uncertainty and concern surrounding the Medicaid program at a time when states are facing rising healthcare costs. Dr. Mehmet Oz, the president’s nominee to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), only heightened concerns by failing to commit to opposing significant cuts to Medicaid during his Senate confirmation hearing last Friday.
In February, the U.S. House adopted a Republican-led budget plan that includes sweeping spending cuts, and many experts believe that a large portion of these cuts will come from Medicaid. Such a move would disproportionately affect millions of low-income and disabled individuals who depend on the program for their healthcare needs.
Dr. Oz, a former surgeon and TV personality, has previously advocated for the privatization of Medicare and has been a vocal supporter of Medicare Advantage plans, promoting them through his TV show, “The Dr. Oz Show.” A New York Times investigation found that Dr. Oz holds substantial stock in UnitedHealth, the largest sponsor of Medicare Advantage plans. This raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest in his leadership at CMS.
I will keep you informed of any developments as we all learn more on this important issue.
Climate Change Discussion at ECSU
I had the pleasure of joining an open and engaging discussion on climate change and conservation at my alma matter, Eastern Connecticut State University (ECSU). The conversation centered around Andrew Krivak’s novel “The Bear,” which follows a girl and her father, the last two humans, navigating a desolate Earth in the mountains of New England.
Students shared their key takeaways from the book and asked insightful questions about local climate solutions. I encouraged them to think creatively about incorporating sustainable practices into their daily lives on campus. One idea, which I’m working on with university administrators, is to expand organic waste recycling programs on campus.
I’m also pleased to see ECSU leading the way in sustainability, with initiatives like the geothermal energy system in the campus’ largest dorm and the installation of two fuel cells. Both of these upgrades have significantly reduced carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions. Let’s keep the momentum going and continue building a greener future!
Free Tax Filing Service
I urge you to take advantage of a free service to file your tax returns! If your household income is less than $68,000 per year, you are eligible for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.
To schedule your FREE tax filing appointment, please CLICK HERE or call 211. When prompted, press 3, then 6, to speak with a call specialist who will assist you in booking your appointment.
Your appointment will be held at Windham Heights Learning Center at 70 Boston Post Road in North Windham or many other locations such as Putnam Public Library.Don’t miss out on this opportunity to save money when filing your taxes!
Thank you to the United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut, in collaboration with The Village for Families & Children and Human Resource Agency Inc. for teaming up to help individuals in our area.
