Henry Genga

As we approach the Fourth of July, I hope you'll join me in taking a moment to reflect on the true meaning of this important holiday. Independence Day is not just about fireworks and cookouts – its' about honoring the ideals of freedom, democracy, and the generations of Americans who have fought to protect them.

Hartford holds a special place in that history. During the Revolutionary War, our capital city served as a strategic inland meeting place for General George Washington and the Comte de Rochambeau of the French army. It was an alliance that proved crucial to coordinating the war effort and securing American Independence. Their collaboration reminds us that great things happen when people come together with a shared purpose.

In that spirit, I invite everyone to join in one of Connecticut's most vibrant celebrations at the 5th Annual Hartford Bonanza in Bushnell Park on Saturday, July 5 from 4:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M. The community celebration will feature live music, local artists, delicious food vendors, and dazzling fireworks to cap off the evening. It's a great way to honor our past, celebrate the present, and enjoy everything our community has to offer.

I wish you and your family a happy and safe Fourth of July. May it be filled with joy, reflection, and connection.

Last week, Governor Ned Lamont signed into law legislation (Public Act 25-61) modifying the state’s Fallen Officer Fund, which was created last year and provides survivor benefits to the families of fallen police officers, by expanding its availability to include the families of all first responders, including firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and paramedics, and correspondingly renames it the Fallen Hero Fund. This legislation went into effect on July 1.

The legislation also modifies state law to allow the surviving family members of firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics who were covered by that first responder’s health insurance at the time of their own death to remain on that coverage for up to five years, similar to existing state law concerning fallen police officers.

Established in May 2024 through legislation signed by Governor Lamont, the Fallen Officer Fund provides a lump sum, non-taxable payment of $100,000 to the surviving family members or beneficiaries of any Connecticut state or local police officer killed in the line of duty or who sustained injuries that are the cause of an officer’s death. That 2024 legislation also created a law allowing the surviving family members of police officers killed in the line of duty who were covered by that officer’s health insurance at the time of their own death to remain on that coverage for up to five years.

The Electric Discount Rate expanded from two to five discount tiers with the 10% tier being eliminated.  Customers in that tier have been moved to a new tier based on the new eligibility requirements.

Under the new structure, customers are eligible for a 5%, 15%, 20%, 40% or 50% discount off their monthly electric bills if they meet household income requirements or receive a public assistance benefit for at least one household member and have a financial hardship status on their electric account.

Customers struggling to pay their energy bill are encouraged to connect with Eversource to get assistance. To find the right options, visit eversource.com/billhelp or call 800-286-2828.

There is a plan for everyone, including:  

• State and Other Assistance Programs
• Protection from Service Shut-Off
• Financial Assistance Programs and Payment Plans
• Energy Efficiency