Updates for State Rep. Gary Turco for June 6, 2025

June 6, 2025

The 2025 legislative session came to a close on June 4. We passed a lot of good legislation, and as often happens, some good legislation died in either the House or the Senate. Sometimes it takes a few sessions to pass legislation, and in the meantime, there's an opportunity to make it even better.

I share a few of the big bills below that passed, but if you're interested in other bills, you can find what passed and didn't pass HERE.

Tax relief for working families, investing in education and special education, transformative funding for childcare and early childhood education, and standing up for nonprofit service providers are the pillars of the next two-year state budget.

The 693-page document outlines the $55.8 billion being spent over the next 2 years. No budget is perfect, and this one is no exception. However, I believe this budget best represents the interests of our citizens.

This 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 includes, but is not limited to:

Historic Special Education Funding

$40 million for Excess Cost Grant in each of the 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
Additional grant programs and special ED funding efforts

Childcare Access Expansion

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

Support for Healthcare Nonprofits:

Access to better health care and nonproﬁt community providers
$150 million for group 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 who recognize and sustain the vital care workforce
Tax credit for employers who contribute to their employees' CHET accounts

Read the Budget

Energy Reform

The House and Senate took bold, bipartisan action to lower electric bills - passing a comprehensive energy reform bill with more than $780 million in savings for ratepayers.

Lower Bills

Paying Down COVID-era Electric Debt
Cutting Charges for Solar, EVs, and Fuel Cells
Smarter Energy Purchasing to Lock in Savings
Smoothing $1.2B Storm Costs to Avoid Rate Spikes

Smarter Grid

Require Cost-Saving Tech Reviews Before Costly Grid Projects
Improve Planning to Avoid Wasteful “Gold-Plated” Upgrades

Stronger Future for CT Families

Support Advanced Nuclear and Geothermal
Incentivize Grid Efficiency
Expand DEEP’s Clean Energy Planning Authority

By easing costs on consumers, modernizing the grid, and investing in clean energy, we are powering a more affordable, reliable, and accountable energy future for all.

Please see my video here for more on the bill.

Children First

Every Connecticut family deserves affordable, high-quality childcare. House Democrats passed transformative priority legislation this weekend to expand access, support educators, and invest in a stronger future for our children and the economy.

This legislation offers lasting solutions for families, educators, and the economy. With these smart and sustainable investments, Connecticut can lead the nation in affordable, high-quality childcare.

From the Newington Registrars

Monday, June 9, 2025 is the last day that an enrolled elector can transfer from one party to another and be eligible to vote in the Municipal Primary, Tuesday, September 9, 2025 of new party. (Sec 9-59)

For anyone interested in switch parties for the Municipal Primary, Tuesday, September 9, 2025, your enrollment takes effect 90 days after your form is approved. Note that during this 90 day waiting period, you are not a member of a party.

To change your party you can come into the registrar’s office or online at CT Voter On-Line Registration. This website can be used for new voter registrations and any changes to current registrations.

If using the CT Voter On-Line Registration system be sure to use a driver license. Using a social security number, your application will not be delivered electronically. The application has to be mailed, so it may not make the deadline.