Kadeem Roberts

Dear Neighbor,

The 2025 legislative session concluded on Wednesday. My colleagues and I crafted and passed several great pieces of legislation, but I am most proud of Senate Bill 1542, AN ACT CONCERNING THE USE OF HANDCUFFS ON YOUNG CHILDREN. 

This bill raises the age for the arrest of a child under certain circumstances, from ten to twelve years in 2026, and from twelve to fourteen years in 2028. It also restricts the use of handcuffs on children under fourteen years of age.

My colleagues on both sides of the aisle worked diligently for 6 months to make this bill a reality. It was moving to see SB 1542 not only pass in both chambers but pass with resounding, bipartisan support. The true winners are the children of Connecticut – I am proud to have played a role in crafting legislation that will protect the young people in our state. The bill will now travel to the governor's desk for his signature. 

On Monday, the House passed a two-year state budget. 

Our budget reflects shared values, marked by historic investments in children through expanded funding for special education and childcare. It strengthens support for working families and ensures that the essential work of nonprofits is both valued and financially supported. These organizations are on the frontlines every day, serving our most vulnerable neighbors. This budget affirms and reinforces their vital role in building a stronger, more inclusive community for all.

This budget stands up for:

HISTORIC NEW FUNDING FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION

• $40 million for Excess Cost Grant in each of next two years
• $30 million for Special Education Expansion and Development (SEED) grant program
• $20 million in bonding to expand and upgrade special education facilities
• $10 million in bonding for capital development
• $10 million for Governor's Incentive District Grant
• Hold harmless funding for Education Cost Sharing, so no school district sees a cut

CHILDCARE

• Investible trust to provide sustainable funding for new childcare programs
• Funding for direct healthcare of our children through DSS Medicaid

NONPROFIT PROVIDERS

• Access to better health care and nonprofit community providers
• $150 million for groups homes and nursing homes
• More than $60 million in Medicaid rate increases, which will benefit nonprofit providers 

TAX RELIEF FOR WORKING FAMILIES

• Targeted, meaningful relief and long-term support for working families
• Refundable tax credit of $250 through the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) framework
• $500 refundable tax credit for home daycare owners that recognizes and sustains the vital care workforce
• Tax credit for employers who contribute to their employees' CHET accounts

This is a budget that works for the people — one that safeguards essential services, uplifts communities, and lays the foundation for a future where every resident is supported and protected.