Legislative Update, America's 250th, and more

May 15, 2026



 

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Dear Neighbor,

Happy Friday! 

Session wrapped up last week on May 6th, and I’m proud to share that Public Act 26-12 has officially been signed into law, advancing workforce development and improving working conditions across our state.

I truly enjoyed working on this 75-section public act alongside my colleagues because it supports the people who keep our communities running every day — including first responders, veterans, nurses, teachers, and workers across many trades and professions — through meaningful investments in worker protections, public safety, and workforce development.

One important provision expands support for families of fallen volunteer firefighters. After the tragic loss of Plainville Firefighter Ray Moreau, it became clear there was a gap in the law. This legislation helps correct that by expanding the Fallen Hero Fund, allowing surviving spouses of fallen volunteer firefighters and state marshals to access the state employee health plan for up to five years. I was especially proud to have Chris Moreau join me for the bill signing as we signed legislation that will help support volunteer firefighter families in the future.

Thank you to Labor Committee Chairs Senator Julie Kushner and Representative Manny Sanchez, Vice Chair Representative Derrell Wilson, my co-chair of the Blue Collar Caucus Representative Kara Rochelle, and everyone who helped make this legislation possible.

 
Recognizing Evelyn Hawley

I also want to recognize an inspiring young member of our community, Evelyn Hawley, who was recently honored at the Capitol for her “Backflips for Backpacks” drive. Since she was just nine years old, Evelyn has helped collect hundreds of backpacks and thousands of school supplies for local students in need through her creativity, determination, and generosity.


I was proud to be joined by the rest of the Southington delegation in presenting Evelyn with a legislative citation on the House floor in recognition of her leadership, compassion, and commitment to helping others. She is a wonderful example of the kindness and community spirit that makes our community so special.

 
Special Guests at the Capitol

During the final week of session, I also had the pleasure of welcoming Plainville High School students Jack Wilder and Mason Martinez to the Capitol for a shadowing experience. It was especially meaningful to share the day with my son, Mason, and give both students a firsthand look at the legislative process. I was also proud to welcome my Yale intern, Ganado Diedhiou, whose hard work and dedication throughout session have been greatly appreciated.

 

In the rest of this week's eblast, you can read about universal school breakfast, America's 250th, and more. You can click the links below to navigate between sections.

 
Universal School Breakfast

Universal school breakfast is finally here in Connecticut, because no child should walk into a classroom with an empty stomach.

Kids can’t focus, compete, or succeed when they’re hungry. That’s why we got this done.
 
This wasn’t easy. It took pushing, fighting, and refusing to take no for an answer. But we delivered. For the kids. Every single one of them.
 
Celebrating America's 250th

Celebrations for CT250 are underway, Connecticut’s statewide initiative to commemorate, celebrate, and reflect on the 250th anniversary of American independence.

The program highlights Connecticut’s pivotal role in our nation’s founding and honors the state’s lasting contributions to the American story. Through community events, educational programs, cultural activities, and historical commemorations, CT250 invites residents of all ages to engage with our shared history and envision the future together.

Click here for a full calendar of CT250 events across the state.

 
Roadwork Corner

Moving forward, I will be including a "Roadwork Corner" section of the eblasts, which will include current and upcoming roadwork being done to stay aware of. Please make sure to check in weekly for the latest updates!

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced a milling and resurfacing project on Route 72 in Plainville and Bristol, from Route 372/Forestville Avenue to Blakeslee Street, will take place from May 13 through June 12, 2026. Milling work is scheduled for May 13–21, followed by resurfacing from May 26–June 12.

Motorists can expect nightly lane closures from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, with traffic control personnel guiding drivers through the work zone.

Drivers are urged to use caution and be aware that schedules may change due to weather or other conditions.

 
Community Events

 


The Plainville Rotary Annual Penny Sale is THIS SATURDAY

Join the Plainville Rotary Saturday, May 16 at Robertson Airport (62 Johnson Avenue, Plainville CT) for an exciting day of raffles, prizes, and community fun — all while supporting scholarships for local graduating seniors!

WHAT IS A PENNY SALE?
For just $1, you purchase a ticket that gives you 100 chances to win prizes during one of the raffle groups throughout the evening!

This year features TWO separate sales/raffles:
Group 1 and Group 2 

Each raffle includes 100 great prizes, plus additional special raffles throughout the event!

Drive-in style event:
Cars will be parked drive-in style and winning numbers will be announced over your car radio. If your number is called, wave the provided flag high so volunteers can quickly bring your prize to you!

Rotary volunteers wearing GOLD shirts will be walking around selling tickets before and during the event.

BONUS:
Be sure to save all Group 1 and Group 2 tickets for a chance to win the President’s Prize — the final drawing of the evening!

Bring your family and friends for a fun night supporting a great cause in our community. 

 
 

You can use the following links for access to town meeting schedules for the three towns in our district:

Plainville Town Meeting Schedule

Farmington Town Meeting Schedule

Southington Town Meeting Schedule

 

Sincerely,

Rebecca Martinez
State Representative

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