As we approach the end of the session, we continue to pass dozens of bills every day, working tirelessly during long days and late nights at the Capitol. Our perseverance inspires us to keep pushing forward until the very end.
We passed a number of great bills last week! See the list below:
HB 5261 - Protects children’s health by creating a working group on the effects of energy drinks on children
Veterans put their lives on the line for our country and the House of Representatives unanimously passed a bill that would support veterans who have been disabled during service. This is a small way to say “thank you for your service."
HB 5491 establishes a property tax exemption for veterans who have a service-connected permanent and total disability rating as determined by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. The exemption will be used for a home that is a primary residence, but if a qualified veteran does not own a home, the exemption will apply to a single motor vehicle that they own.
In CT, we have 1,209 veterans who are totally and permanently disabled as a result of their service.
These brave men and women have spent their lives fighting to protect our freedoms. It is our turn to support them when they come home with disabilities to ensure they live with dignity and without fear of losing their home.
The bill will now go to the Senate for consideration.
5005 Paid Sick Leave
No one should have to choose between missing an important family event, going in to work sick and exposing others or taking a mental health day when needed. It's why we passed HB 5005 to allow for the accrual of paid leave, up to 40 hours each year, for those working at least 120 days annually. Businesses that already offer paid time off are exempt.
There has been a cultural change in the workplace since the pandemic where we don't want our coworkers showing up to work sick. This legislation promotes better public health outcomes while allowing workers to care for themselves or a sick loved one without adding financial strain.
And we listened to businesses, the measure will be phased in for employers with 25 employees or more in 2025, 11 or more in 2026 and 1 or more in 2027. Again, businesses that are already offering at least 40 hours of paid time off each year are exempt from this law.
The bill now goes to the Senate for its consideration.
Recap: Rally for Nonprofit Funding and Advocacy Day and Advocates for the Homeless Tour
This week, I joined nonprofit service providers at the Rally for Nonprofit Funding and Advocacy Day at the State Capitol. I firmly believe that these nonprofits provide essential services to our communities and need sustainable funding. Investing in the pressing needs of our communities and valuing the workers who provide care to our most vulnerable residents is crucial.
In addition, I had the pleasure of giving a tour of the House Chamber to Pacific House. This incredible organization provides emergency shelter and affordable housing for the homeless population in Stamford. Welcoming our guests was an honor, as they are true heroes, responsible for rehabilitating many homeless individuals back into society each year. It was a humbling experience to witness these nonprofits' incredible work.
News Alert
Featured Article: "Letter: Supporting veterans with permanent disabilities"
Last month, I wrote an op-ed on the CTPost about a cause close to my heart. As a lifelong resident of Stamford and a former soldier, I have personally witnessed how the state government can either support or let down our veteran population. Many soldiers leave their service with permanent disabilities, which can present significant financial obstacles when combined with the high cost of living in our state. That's why I am a advocate for House Bill 5491, which aims to establish a property tax exemption for veterans who have a service-connected permanent and total disability rating.
This bill will provide much-needed relief to veterans who are struggling to afford to live in Connecticut, particularly the elderly who are on fixed incomes. By erasing property taxes for disabled veterans, we can help reduce their financial burdens and ensure that they can age comfortably in place. Although this policy will come at a cost, the wording of the legislation ensures that the cost of this policy will only average approximately 0.02% of our municipal tax bases per town.
As a legislator, I am fortunate to have the opportunity to influence our laws and spark change.
Stamford's Memorial Day Parade will take place on Sunday, May 19th. This is a cherished tradition in our community and I would love for you to join us in honoring the brave men and women who have served our country.
The parade will start at 12:00 PM followed by a ceremony in Veterans Memorial Park at 1:00 PM. Please note that in the event of inclement weather, the parade will be rescheduled to Sunday, June 2nd.
If you have any issues, concerns, or feedback, I would love to hear from you! Please feel free to email me directly or contact my office at (860) 240-8585.
