SB 1542 Signed into Law

July 18, 2025



 

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Dear Neighbor,

On Thursday, Governor Lamont hosted a ceremonial bill signing for SB 1542 at the Carver Center in Norwalk. SB 1542 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. Connecticut is the first state in the country to pass this type of legislation.

I have personal experience with being put in handcuffs at a young age. It was a traumatizing experience, and I wanted to ensure that young people in our state are protected from facing the same fate. I am grateful for everyone who helped make this bill a reality - this bill became law thanks to the support from my colleagues in the General Assembly, as well as juvenile justice advocates. SB 1542 is just the beginning - I am eager to build on this success during the 2026 legislative session and beyond. 

Click here to watch the press conference. 
 

Last week, I joined Mayor Rilling, State Reps. Dathan and Johnson, as well as other local officials for the groundbreaking of Meadow Gardens, an affordable housing project in South Norwalk. Once completed, Meadow Gardens will consist of 59 units: 15 one-bedrooms, 19 two-bedrooms, 18 three-bedrooms, and seven four-bedrooms, including seven ADA-accessible units. I am thrilled that Norwalk has continued to build a community that is accessible to all.

Click here to learn more about the project. 
 

Today is the last day that the Extreme Hot Weather Protocol will be in effect. Although the forecast predicts cooler temperatures in the immediate future, there is always a risk of unbearable heat returning.  If you are outside during the day, please take precautions to keep yourself safe  - drink plenty of water, avoid the sun when possible, and check on neighbors who may be vulnerable to high temperatures. See the graphic below for more tips on staying cool. 
 

ICYMI - The City of Norwalk holds an annual event to celebrate the anniversary of the American Disabilities Act, the historic civil rights law that protects the rights of people with disabilities. This year, the celebration will be held on Thursday, July 24th. Please the flyer below for more information. 
 

Since the state’s open space program began in 1998, more than 48,000 acres of publicly accessible land has been protected. It’s great to see this next round of funding, which will continue to improve quality of life in Connecticut and provide beautiful outdoor spaces for all of our residents to enjoy.

You can find the complete list of grants and projects here: https://shorturl.at/HCIW1.
 

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