Updates from State Rep. Gary Turco for Aug. 8, 2025

August 8, 2025



 

 

This week, four employees at a car wash in New Britain were seized by ICE agents during a raid on the business.

I want to be clear. I am a longstanding, steadfast supporter of law enforcement. But tackling the issue of immigration in the U.S. has been a problem for decades. This kind of immigration enforcement against hard-working people who are trying to achieve the American Dream is antithetical to what this country is about.

We need real, responsible immigration policies from the federal level. What took place in New Britain, and what continues to take place all over the nation, isn't it. It's unwelcome in the 27th District and it's unwelcome in Connecticut.
 

Breaking Ground
at John Wallace Middle School

I, along with fellow legislators and local leaders, officially broke ground this week on the long-anticipated $11 million renovation project at John Wallace Middle School. A little over $8 million of the projected is funded by state bonding secured by the Newington legislative delegation.
 
Once completed, the upgraded facility will offer modernized learning environments, improved infrastructure, and enhanced accessibility and security.
 
This renovation is a vital project for our community, as it ensures our children, teachers and staff have a safe, modernized learning environment in which they can thrive. The funding secured was due to a terrific team effort by local leaders and families, which will alleviate the cost on local taxpayers.

It's been a true community effort and I'm looking forward to the project's completion.
 

Tax Free-Sales Week

Connecticut's annual Sales Tax-Free Week begins on Sunday, Aug. 17, and runs through Saturday, Aug. 23. It provides a chance to save money, whether it is taking the kids back-to-school shopping or treating yourself or your loved ones.
Highlights of Sales Tax-Free Week

  • Sales or purchases of certain items of clothing or footwear costing less than $100 per item are exempt from Connecticut's 6.35% sales tax.
  • Sales Tax-Free Week applies to purchases made in-store, online, mail-order, and over the phone.
  • This special exemption applies to purchases made from retailers located in Connecticut as well as from online retailers.

This is Connecticut's 26th Sales Tax Free Week.

A list of exempt and taxable items during Sales Tax-Free Week can be found here.

A list of FAQs can be found here.

'Act of Kindness' Day

From the town of Newington website:

The Newington Town Council is recognizing Saturday, Aug. 9, as “Act of Kindness Day” in honor of Regan Martin — a student whose vibrant spirit and passion for singing, acting, and uplifting others left a lasting mark on the community. Regan was more than a student; she was a light whose kindness inspired everyone around her.  To celebrate her legacy, all citizens are encouraged to take part by performing acts of kindness.  

Remember even the smallest gestures can make a big impact. Whether it's holding the door for someone, sharing a smile, or offering a helping hand, kindness has the power to brighten lives and build stronger communities. On this day, we celebrate compassion, empathy, and the simple acts that connect us all. Let’s take a moment to be intentional with our kindness—because one thoughtful action can ripple outward and inspire others to do the same.

Let this day serve as a powerful reminder of Regan’s enduring message: kindness is the greatest legacy of all.
 

As always, if I can be of assistance to you and your family, please don't hesitate to reach out to me at 860-240-8585 or email me at Gary.Turco@cga.ct.gov. Don't forget to "LIKE" my Facebook page for news and legislative updates!

Sincerely,

Gary Turco
State Representative

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