October is right around the corner, and so is Halloween, but new laws will kick in first, on Wednesday. I've included a section on it in this week's newsletter.
The next mobile shower opportunity in West Haven will be on Monday, October 6th. Keep scrolling for more details.
Lastly, have you ever heard of Art Therapy? It's a non-verbal way to explore emotions, reduce stress, improve self-awareness, and more creatively. More details are below.
I hope you have a great weekend!
As always, if I can be of any help, please don't hesitate to contact my office at (860) 240-8585 or email me directly.
Legislating Black Women in the same space all at once is fire! I got to be with so many I am inspired by. I had an amazing time at the National Organization of Black Elected Legislative Women earlier this month.
We held powerful discussions on topics and legislation that will help improve the lives of Black Women across the country.
On Thursday, we engaged in a discussion at Tyler Perry Studios about creating impactful legislation, like tax credits and arts supports, that benefits the economy with meaningful impact.
Several measures passed during the 2025 legislative session will take effect on Wednesday, October 1, including an update to our motorcycle and e-bike laws that reflect our continued efforts to promote public safety and adapt to emerging technologies on our roads.
A new law raises the age requirement for motorcyclists to wear a helmet from 18 to 21 and increases the age limit for children to wear a helmet while riding bicycles, scooters, and skateboards from 16 to 18 years old.
New regulations are also being introduced for certain high-powered electric bikes. Riders of e-bikes without pedals and equipped with batteries over 750 watts (25-28 mph) will now need a valid driver’s license to operate them.
Additionally, e-bikes with batteries exceeding 3,500 watts (capable of speeds of 35 mph or higher) will require registration and insurance, similar to motorcycles.
Another measure prohibits the handcuffing of children under the age of 14, except in cases where there is a clear threat to public safety or when the child poses a risk of physical violence toward an officer.
This law is intended to mitigate the traumatic impact that the use of restraints can have on young children. All new laws effective on October 1st can be found HERE.
The free mobile shower program brings comfort, dignity, and a fresh start to those who need it the most. The next mobile opportunity is on Monday, October 6th. Please see the flyer below for more details.
Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and New York City officially announced the formation of the Northeast Public Health Collaborative, aimed at strengthening public health coordination, sharing expertise, and improving preparedness across state lines.
The Collaborative’s shared purpose is to work together in new ways – optimizing the use of shared resources, innovating and reimagining core services – to ensure trust in public health, respond to public health threats, advance community health, and strengthen confidence in vaccines and science-based medicine.
I am excited to share this wonderful opportunity for Connecticut high school seniors!
The Connecticut Automatic Admission Program (CAAP) guarantees automatic admission to students with strong academic records. This program waives the application fee, student essays, and recommendation letters for participating institutions. Seniors with a 3.0 weighted GPA or a 2.75 unweighted GPA can apply to 10 participating public and private colleges with a single free application. Participating colleges and universities include:
Central Connecticut State University
Eastern Connecticut State University
Southern Connecticut State University
Western Connecticut State University
Albertus Magnus College
Goodwin University
Mitchell College
University of Bridgeport
University of Hartford
University of New Haven
For more information and application instructions, please click HERE.
This Hispanic Heritage Month, Connecticut proudly honors the legacy of the 65th Infantry Regiment — The Borinqueneers.
These brave Puerto Rican soldiers served our nation with courage and distinction. Our new commemorative license plate ensures their sacrifice is remembered on every road across our state.