|
|||
|
NEWS (198)
On Wednesday, January 15 at 8:00 PM, the President will deliver a Farewell Address to the nation from the Oval Office
|
|
|
Among my key priorities for supporting veterans has been addressing the harmful toxic exposures that are too often associated with military service. Agent Orange, radiation, burn pits, and other hazards create devastating consequences for those exposed. When I signed the PACT Act into law in 2022, I enacted the most significant expansion of benefits and services for toxic-exposed veterans in more than thirty years. This law has been transformational and has enabled VA to serve more veterans, more quickly than ever before. And I’ve directed my Administration to accelerate all aspects of implementing the law, including using new PACT Act authorities to make sure that more conditions could be recognized as presumptive – lowering the burden of proof for veterans to receive disability benefits related to toxic illnesses, including cancer.
Today, I’m proud that VA is adding more cancers to the list of those presumed related to burn pit exposure. This includes bladder cancer, ureter cancer, other genitourinary cancers, acute and chronic leukemias, and multiple myeloma. Veterans with these conditions, as well as survivors of veterans who passed away due to these conditions, can immediately apply for benefits. I encourage them to do so.
These actions build upon other recent announcements to expand eligibility for GI Bill benefits, lower health care costs for veterans, and increase resources to help eliminate veteran homelessness – bringing Veteran homelessness to a record low in 2024. It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as Commander-in-Chief and to support and care for our service members, veterans, and their families.
###
President Biden announces nearly 24 million consumers have signed up for Affordable Care Act Marketplace coverage, nearly doubling enrollment during the last 4 years
President Biden and Vice President Harris believe that health care is a right, not a privilege. Since day one of their Administration, they have taken steps to ensure that every American has access to affordable, quality health care. And, as a result of these efforts, the Biden-Harris Administration is announcing that it has set another all-time record for ACA Marketplace enrollment, with nearly 24 million Americans signing up for coverage with one week left in the 2025 Open Enrollment Period. A total of 45 million Americans have coverage through the ACA – either the Marketplace or Medicaid expansion – and more people have health insurance today than ever in our nation’s history.
Statement from the President: “Today, we have once again set a record when it comes to ensuring access to affordable, quality health care: nearly 24 million Americans have signed up for Affordable Care Act coverage. That means that enrollment has nearly doubled since I took office. That’s no coincidence. When I took office, I made a promise to the American people that I would bring down the cost of health care and prescription drugs, make signing up for coverage easier, and strengthen the Affordable Care Act, Medicare, and Medicaid. I’m proud that my Administration delivered – even as Republican elected officials, who have been eager to put millions of Americans’ coverage at risk, stood in the way. I urge Congress to double down on the progress we have made and ensure Americans have access to quality, affordable health care by extending the ACA premium tax credit this year.”
Today’s announcement builds upon a remarkable record of success over the last four years. More Americans have health insurance than ever before, with the uninsured rate at record lows. In fact, in every year of the Biden-Harris Administration, we have set a new all-time record for ACA Marketplace enrollment.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/image.png?resize=444,320 444w" alt="" width="600" height="432" />
This record-breaking enrollment is no accident, and due to this Administration’s efforts to lower health care costs and make it easier to sign up for coverage. We also made health care more affordable for Americans purchasing their health insurance on the ACA Marketplace, saving consumers an average of $800 annually on their premiums. For example, this Administration made the largest ever investment in outreach and enrollment assistance, especially those in rural or underserved communities while at the same time eliminating bureaucratic red tape that makes it harder for people to enroll in coverage.
But all of these efforts to lower health care costs and expand coverage are now in danger. If Republicans in Congress take away the enhanced premium tax credits that make ACA coverage more affordable, premiums will skyrocket and people will lose coverage. For many families the results will be catastrophic:
- A single parent earing $50,00 per year could see their premiums increase by $1600 per year.
- A retired couple earning $85,000 per year could see their premiums increase by $18,000 per year.
- Experts estimate that 3 to 5 million people would become uninsured.
The Affordable Care Act Marketplaces are just one part of this Administration’s commitment to health care coverage. Today, Medicaid covers about 80 million people. Thanks to the President’s leadership, over one million Americans in four states now have Medicaid expansion coverage, driving total ACA-related enrollment to over 45 million. This Administration has also cut red tape to make applying for and renewing Medicaid coverage easier, and established new standards to ensure people have access to the care they need when they need it.
In addition to today’s record-breaking enrollment numbers, we are also releasing a report and a data chart pack detailing the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic progress to improve the health of millions of Americans– from making health care and prescription drugs more affordable, to tackling crises in mental health, maternal health, and more, and investing in public health infrastructure. Some highlights include:
- In its first year alone, President Biden’s Medicare Drug Price Negotiation program outperformed expectations, achieving negotiated prices that are 38 to 79 percent lower than U.S. list prices for the ten first round negotiated drugs. These prices are $6 billion per year lower than what Medicare pays today and, once in effect, will put $1.5 billion dollars back into the pockets of Medicare beneficiaries. Seniors with Medicare are protected by the new $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket costs, and insulin is capped at just $35 per month.
- The Administration ended the “family glitch,” making millions of family members finally eligible for affordable ACA Marketplace coverage with about one million people projected to either gain coverage or have lower premiums.
- The 988 lifeline, created under this Administration, has answered more than 11 million calls, chats, and texts and made it easier for individuals experiencing distress to access immediate care.
- Following the Administration’s efforts to reduce overdose deaths, recent data shows a 17% reduction in overdose deaths in the 12 months ending July 2024 compared to the prior year—the largest decline in U.S. history.
- After the release of a comprehensive strategy to improve maternal health, 46 states and DC extended Medicaid postpartum coverage from two to twelve months for hundreds of thousands of new mothers.
- Following the launch of a comprehensive national strategy to end the HIV epidemic by the end of the decade, rates of new HIV infections are also down.
Read the Biden-Harris Administration’s full report on progress made to lower health care costs and strengthen coverage for the American people.
###
Governor Ned Lamont today announced that due to an updated weather forecast indicating that the current stretch of frigid conditions Connecticut is experiencing will continue for at least another day, he is extending the duration of the state’s severe cold weather protocol to remain in effect until 12:00 p.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025.
The protocol, which went into effect on Monday, January 6, was originally set to expire on the afternoon of Thursday, January 9.
While activated, the protocol initiates a series of actions to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe cold, which could be life threatening if exposed to the elements for extended periods of time.
Shelters and warming centers are open throughout Connecticut. Anyone in need of a place to stay warm can be directed to nearby locations by calling 2-1-1 or viewing the list of available options that has been published online at 211ct.org. Transportation can be provided to a shelter or warming center if needed
HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that due to a weather forecast indicating that Connecticut will experience a period of particularly frigid conditions over the next several days, he is directing the state’s severe cold weather protocol to go into effect beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, January 6, 2025, and remaining in effect through 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, 2025.
High temperatures during this period are forecast to be in the mid to upper twenties, and overnight lows are expected to be in the single digits and teens. Winds are expected to be out of the northwest at 10 to 15 miles per hour with gusts potentially reaching 40 miles per hour.
Anyone in need of shelter is urged to call 2-1-1 to get connected to these services or visit 211ct.org to view a list of locations. Transportation can be provided if necessary.
“Over the next couple of days, cold temperatures combined with gusty winds will result in wind chill values remaining in the single digits and at times dropping below zero, particularly during the overnight hours,” Governor Lamont said. “Being outdoors for extended periods during these extreme conditions can be fatal, and we want to get the word out that shelters and warming centers are available across Connecticut. Anyone in need of a place to stay warm is strongly urged to call 2-1-1 or visit 211ct.org to locate available options.”
The purpose of the state’s severe cold weather protocol is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe cold, which could be life threatening if exposed to the elements for extended periods of time. While enacted, a system is set up for state agencies and municipalities to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to make sure that anyone in need can receive shelter from the outdoors, including transportation to shelters.
The following actions are implemented while the protocol is enacted:
- The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security uses its WebEOC communications network, which is an internet-based system that enables local, regional, and state emergency management officials and first responders to share up-to-date information about a variety of situations and conditions. The system is used to monitor capacity at shelters across the state, enabling 2-1-1 to act as a clearinghouse to assist in finding shelter space for those who need it. Local officials, working through WebEOC, can alert 2-1-1 and the state when they open temporary shelters or warming centers.
- The Connecticut Department of Social Services, Connecticut Department of Housing, and Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services coordinate with 2-1-1 and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, along with community-based providers, to provide transportation for people seeking shelter.
For emergency management news and resources, visit the state’s CTPrepares website at ct.gov/ctprepares.
HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that pursuant to federal law, he is directing U.S. and state flags in Connecticut lowered to half-staff effective immediately until sunset on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, in honor of the life and legacy of President Jimmy Carter, who passed away this afternoon in Plains, Georgia.
U.S. Code (4 U.S.C. § 7m) requires the U.S. flag to be flown at half-staff for a period of 30 days following the death of a president or former president. Accordingly, since no flag should fly higher than the U.S. flag, all other flags, including state, municipal, corporate, or otherwise, should also be lowered during this same duration of time.
Flags will be at half-staff on the Connecticut State Capitol building and all other state-operated buildings, grounds, and facilities statewide. Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, and any other private entities and government subdivisions are encouraged to lower their flags for this same duration of time.
To read statements that were issued earlier today from Governor Lamont and Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz regarding the passing of President Carter, click here.
President Biden named nineteen recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the Nation’s highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors.
President Biden believes great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else. These nineteen individuals are great leaders who have made America and the world a better place. They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world.
The awards will be presented at the White House on January 4, 2025. The following individuals will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom:
José Andrés
José Andrés is a renowned Spanish-American culinary innovator who popularized tapas in the United States. His World Central Kitchen provides large-scale relief to communities affected by natural disasters and conflict around the world.
Bono
Bono is the frontman for legendary rock band U2 and a pioneering activist against AIDS and poverty. He brought together politicians from opposing parties to create the United States PEPFAR AIDS program, and is co-founder of campaigning organizations ONE and (RED).
Ashton Baldwin Carter (posthumous)
Ash Carter served as the 25th Secretary of Defense and devoted his career to making the nation safer for all. Throughout his career, he served under 11 Secretaries of Defense in both Democratic and Republican administrations.
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary Clinton made history many times over decades in public service, including as the first First Lady elected to the United States Senate. After serving as Secretary of State, she became the first woman nominated for president by a major United States political party.
Michael J. Fox
Michael J. Fox is an actor who has won five Emmy Awards, four Golden Globe Awards, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, and a Grammy Award. He is a world-renowned advocate for Parkinson’s disease research and development.
Tim Gill
Tim Gill is a visionary entrepreneur whose work has advanced LGBTQI rights and equality. After transforming the publishing industry through groundbreaking software, he leveraged his success to secure key victories in the fight for marriage equality and anti-discrimination protections.
Jane Goodall
Dr. Jane Goodall is a world-renowned ethologist and conservationist whose research transformed our understanding of primates and human evolution. She is a passionate advocate for empowering individuals and communities to protect and preserve the natural world.
Fannie Lou Hamer (posthumous)
Mrs. Fannie Lou Hamer transformed the struggle for racial justice in America. As a founder of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, she challenged the exclusion of Black voices in the political system and laid the groundwork for the 1965 Voting Rights Act.
Earvin “Magic” Johnson
Earvin “Magic” Johnson is a legendary retired basketball player who led the Los Angeles Lakers to five championships. Off the court, he is a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist who supports underserved communities through his Magic Johnson Foundation.
Robert Francis Kennedy (posthumous)
Robert Francis Kennedy is remembered as an Attorney General who fiercely combatted racial segregation, and as a United States Senator who sought to address poverty and inequality in the country. His legacy continues to inspire those committed to justice, equality, and public service.
Ralph Lauren
Ralph Lauren is a fashion designer who redefined the fashion industry with a lifestyle brand that embodies timeless elegance and American tradition. He has influenced culture, business, and philanthropy, notably in the fight against cancer and the preservation of the Star-Spangled Banner.
Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi is the most decorated player in the history of professional soccer. He supports healthcare and education programs for children around the world through the Leo Messi Foundation and serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
William Sanford Nye
Bill Nye has inspired and influenced generations of American students as “Bill Nye the Science Guy.” His dedication to science education continues through his work as CEO of the Planetary Society and as a vocal advocate for space exploration and environmental stewardship.
George W. Romney (posthumous)
George Romney was a businessman who served as the chairman and president of American Motors Corporation. A public servant, he later served as both the 43rd Governor of Michigan and the 3rd Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.
David M. Rubenstein
David Rubenstein is co-founder and co-chairman of The Carlyle Group, where he built one of the most successful global investment firms. He is renowned for his philanthropy and generous support for the restoration of historic landmarks and the country’s cultural institutions.
George Soros
George Soros is an investor, philanthropist, and founder of the Open Society Foundations. Through his network of foundations, partners and projects in more than 120 countries, Soros has focused on global initiatives that strengthen democracy, human rights, education, and social justice.
George Stevens, Jr.
George Stevens, Jr. is an award-winning writer, director, author, and playwright. His career has been dedicated to preserving and celebrating the best of American film and the performing arts, including by founding the American Film Institute and creating the Kennedy Center Honors.
Denzel Washington
Denzel Washington is an actor, director, and producer who has won two Academy Awards, a Tony Award, two Golden Globes, and the 2016 Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award. He has also served as National Spokesman for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America for over 25 years.
Anna Wintour
Anna Wintour is a renowned fashion icon who has led Vogue as editor-in-chief since 1988. A champion for philanthropic causes, she is also the leading architect behind the annual Met Gala fundraiser and chief content officer of Condé Nast.
###
Treasurer Russell Releases Annual Report Highlighting Investment Returns, Taxpayer Savings, and Other Agency Accomplishments
Hartford, CT – Connecticut Treasurer Erick Russell has released the Office of the Treasurer’s Annual Report, providing updates on the work of the agency during the past fiscal year including several noteworthy achievements and improvements.
"In Fiscal Year 2024, the Treasurer’s Office made significant investments on behalf of Connecticut taxpayers, grew the pension funds for retired teachers and state and municipal workers, reunited residents with millions of dollars in lost or abandoned property, and helped thousands of families save for college,” said Treasurer Russell. “This report details the important work done by the dedicated staff at the agency, and its impact on residents of our state now and for generations to come. I’m exceptionally proud of our role in shaping Connecticut’s future, and grateful to work with colleagues so dedicated to public service and professional excellence.”
The filing of the Annual Report is required by state law and includes details from each division within the Office of the Treasurer as well as programs and funds maintained by the agency from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024.
Highlights of the report include strong investment returns in the state’s pension funds. The full portfolio of funds and trusts administered by the office, including those for retired state workers and teachers, saw returns of 11.5%, adding approximately $7.5 billion in plan assets during the fiscal year. Reforms put in place in recent years to reallocate plan assets, mitigate risk, lower fees, and recruit and retain investment talent all contributed to the positive performance.
Connecticut’s first-in-the-nation CT Baby Bonds program completed its first year by welcoming over 16,000 enrolled children and investing $3,200 on their behalf. The financing solution that provided the seed money for an estimated 12 years of participants was recognized by The Bond Buyer as its “Innovative Financing Deal of the Year.” To spread awareness and encourage engagement, an ambassador program was launched in collaboration with community organizations across the state. The Internal Revenue Service granted charitable status to the Trust holding investments for the program, allowing for future partnerships with philanthropic donors to fund additional outreach, research, and wraparound services for participants and their families.
Other highlights include:
- Bond sales totaling over $2.2 billion were held to fund critical investments across the state, including the construction of schools and transportation infrastructure. Refunding of existing bonds saved taxpayers $61.6 million.
- $82 million in unclaimed property was returned to 44,065 rightful owners. Several improvements were made to streamline the return of funds and protect against fraud. While many small dollar claims are now automated, web site users can also see the exact amount available to claim in most cases and often complete the process without any paperwork. A new web address, CTBigList.gov, was established to enhance user trust and confidence.
- The Short-Term Investment Fund, which holds and invests cash for state and municipal governments, generated $37 million in additional interest earnings for accountholders beyond its investment benchmark.
- Over 200 municipal finance and investment professionals joined the Public Finance Outlook Conference in New Haven to learn about programs in the Treasurer’s Office impacting local governments and hear updates about the state and national economies.
- The Connecticut Higher Education Trust (CHET) added 17,384 new accounts, helping families save for future education expenses. Treasurer Russell serves as Trustee of CHET.
Each year, the Annual Report of the Office of the Treasurer is submitted to the Governor. An archive dating back to 2000 can be found on the agency’s website: portal.ct.gov/OTT.
Presidential watch party
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the Connecticut Commission on Community Service, also known as Serve Connecticut, is now accepting applications for mini-grants to support youth-led service initiatives in Connecticut.
These mini-grants are available to support the engagement of youths between the ages of 5 and 25 in meaningful, youth-led service or service-learning projects or programs benefitting the community during the grant term of January 1 to September 30, 2025. Eligible applicants include schools, out-of-school time programs (after school or summer), municipalities, agencies, and youth-serving organizations. Youth-led groups are welcome to apply with sponsorship of an eligible applicant.
“This is a great opportunity for youth voice and youth action to make a difference in our state through service,” Governor Lamont said. “Getting more of our youth to the table to take an active part in community problem-solving builds better communities.”
This funding opportunity is made available by a grant from the Allstate Foundation in partnership with America’s Service Commissions. Serve Connecticut is one of ten state and territorial service commissions that received a 2024 Empowering Youth-Led Service Grant to increase youth-led service opportunities in the state.
“Serve Connecticut is committed to encouraging youth to lead through service – to impact their communities and to empower their own growth,” Timothy D. Larson, commissioner of the Connecticut Office of Higher Education and a board member of the Service Connecticut, said. “We are grateful to the Allstate Foundation for providing this resource to our state’s youth.”
To qualify for a mini-grant, proposed youth-led service initiatives may be new or existing, must prioritize engaging youth that are underrepresented in youth service in Connecticut, and must actively engage youth in the development and implementation of the proposed service project or initiative. Mini-grant funding requests of up to $8,000 will be considered. Funding may be used to support youth-led service project development and implementation costs, and to remove barriers to youth participation in youth-led service projects and programs.
To apply, visit servect.org/youth-service-funding-opportunities. Applications must be submitted by December 2, 2024. Questions about the application process can be directed to Kate Scheuritzel, Serve Connecticut’s director of programs, via email at Kate.Scheuritzel@ct.gov.
Serve Connecticut is a program of the Connecticut Office of Higher Education. It administers AmeriCorps grants on behalf of the state and promotes service and volunteerism.
Hartford, CT – Connecticut Treasurer Erick Russell announced the results of a successful $936 million State of Connecticut General Obligation (GO) Bond offering on Wednesday. The bonds will fund a variety of capital improvements and grant programs across Connecticut including $440 million for school construction and grants to educational institutions.
“Bond sales help shape the future of our state and make key investments in what we value most,” said Treasurer Russell. “This sale will fund the construction of schools, support our education system, strengthen local infrastructure, and uplift programs benefitting residents across the state. Demand from investors generated orders far exceeding the bonds offered during this sale, demonstrating Connecticut’s sustained strength in the market.”
Of the $800 million in new money bonds, $240 million were offered as “Social Bonds” dedicated to school construction. An additional $136 million of bonds will refinance existing debt, saving taxpayers approximately $15 million over the coming decade.
About the Sale
The $800 million new money bond offering consisted of $560 million of 2024 Series F Tax-Exempt Bonds and $240 million 2024 Series G Tax-Exempt Social Bonds. In addition, $136 million of 2024 Series H Tax-Exempt bonds were sold to refund two series of outstanding callable General Obligation bonds.
Retail Order Period
Treasurer Russell gave retail investors priority on the bonds during a dedicated one-day retail-only order period on Tuesday, October 8. The state worked with a Connecticut marketing firm, Miranda Creative, to advertise the sale through print and digital media culminating in retail orders totaling $322 million, including $121 million from Connecticut investors.
Orders and Interest Cost
Despite volatility in the municipal bond market earlier in the week, the state attracted more than $2.9 billion in total orders from both retail and institutional investors, exceeding by nearly three times the amount of bonds being offered. The Social Bonds were particularly attractive to investors, securing $1.4 billion in total orders. This significant investor response is an indication of Connecticut’s growing strength in the market following multiple credit rating upgrades and positive outlooks in recent years and produced a 3.50% borrowing cost on the 20-year 2024 Series F and G Bonds and a 2.85% borrowing cost on the ten-year 2024 Series H Refunding Bonds. These lower borrowing costs make state investments in capital improvements and grant programs more cost-effective for taxpayers.
Projects Funded
The 2024 Series F and 2024 Series G Social bonds will fund:
- $240.0 million for School Construction
- $200.0 million for Grants to Schools and Higher Education
- $112.6 million for Grants-in-Aid to Municipalities for Qualified Infrastructure Projects
- $ 68.9 million for Health Centers and Mental Health Facilities
- $ 58.4 million for Improvements to State-owned facilities
- $ 45.0 million for State Grants for Clean Water Projects
- $ 30.5 million for University of Connecticut Nursing Program Facility
- $ 15.1 million for Economic and Community Development
- $ 8.6 million for Connecticut Manufacturing Innovation Fund
- $ 6.5 million for Grants and Loans to Non-Profit Organizations
- $ 5.0 million for Crumbling Foundations Assistance Program
- $ 3.5 million for the Neighborhood Revitalization Investment Program
- $ 3.0 million for Connecticut Convention Center upgrades
- $ 2.9 million for Grants for Improvements to Ports, Harbors, and Marinas
Summary of GO Credit Ratings
Prior to the bond sale, all four credit rating agencies affirmed the State’s GO credit ratings. Moody’s Investors Service affirmed its “Aa3” rating, with a Positive Outlook; S&P Global Ratings affirmed its “AA-” rating, with a Stable Outlook; Fitch Ratings affirmed its “AA-” rating, with a Positive Outlook, and Kroll Bond Ratings affirmed its “AA+” rating with a Stable Outlook.
Siebert Williams Shank & Co., LLC led the bond underwriting syndicate that sold the bonds, which are scheduled to close on October 23, 2024.
More information on the State’s bonding program is available at www.buyctbonds.com.
I just wanted to drop a note to remind everyone that a 14-day period of in-person early voting for the 2024 general election begins today in Connecticut.
This is the first time in history that our state has made early voting available for a general election. Connecticut is the 47th state to enact a system of early voting. Seriously! Almost every other state in the country has already had early voting, and it's about time that we catch up.
Over the next 14 days, all eligible voters can cast their ballots in-person on the day of their choosing. This even includes Saturdays and Sundays.
Whether you vote early on the day of your choosing or on Election Day, I hope everyone exercises their right to vote.
Warm regards,
Ned
How Early Voting Works in Connecticut
LOCATION: Instead of going to your normal polling place like on Election Day, every municipality in the state has at least one designated location where all of that town's early voting is held. Most towns are choosing to do their early voting at their town hall, however it may vary, so all voters should double check their town's early voting location before they go.
For a list of every early voting location in the state, visit myvote.ct.gov and click the "Early Voting" link. Voters can also check the website of their town’s registrar of voters for location information.
I just wanted to drop a note to remind everyone that a 14-day period of in-person early voting for the 2024 general election begins today in Connecticut.
This is the first time in history that our state has made early voting available for a general election. Connecticut is the 47th state to enact a system of early voting. Seriously! Almost every other state in the country has already had early voting, and it's about time that we catch up.
Over the next 14 days, all eligible voters can cast their ballots in-person on the day of their choosing. This even includes Saturdays and Sundays.
Whether you vote early on the day of your choosing or on Election Day, I hope everyone exercises their right to vote.
Warm regards,
Ned
DATES AND HOURS: Early voting for the 2024 general election will take place at the following dates and times.
- Monday, October 21, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, October 22, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, October 23, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Thursday, October 24, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Friday, October 25, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Saturday, October 26, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Sunday, October 27, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Monday, October 28, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, October 29, 2024 – 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, October 30, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Thursday, October 31, 2024 – 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Friday, November 1, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Saturday, November 2, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Sunday, November 3, 2024 – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Election Day is Tuesday, November 5, 2024, and all voting on that day will take place at each town's normal polling places from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
For all questions related to voting in Connecticut, visit myvote.ct.gov.
Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the Connecticut National Guard is preparing to send additional resources to North Carolina in response to a request from that state for further assistance with Hurricane Helene disaster response.
The Connecticut National Guard’s Bravo Company, 2-104th Aviation, 1-169th Aviation Regiment will be sending one additional CH-47 Chinook helicopter, one UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter, and an aircrew of 16 soldiers to Salisbury, North Carolina, where they will assist with moving commodities to stranded communities in the state’s western region. The two helicopters and their aircrews are scheduled to depart from the Army Aviation Support Facility in Windsor Locks, Connecticut, on the morning of Friday, October 4, 2024, and they are expected to be deployed for approximately one week.
This planned deployment comes in addition to last week’s deployment to North Carolina of two other teams from Connecticut. Those teams include a five-soldier flight crew and one CH-47 Chinook helicopter from the Connecticut Army National Guard’s 1-169th Aviation Regiment, and an eight-member urban search and rescue team coordinated by the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. Both of those teams deployed on Friday, September 27, 2024.
“Connecticut is prepared to lead by example and deliver assistance to our neighbors during times of emergency,” Governor Lamont said. “The soldiers from the Connecticut National Guard have always been ready to respond to any crisis here in our state whenever the need arises, and I am very thankful that they have accepted this mission to help our friends in North Carolina. I look forward to their safe return.”
“I want to extend my deepest thanks to the soldiers of Bravo Company, 2-104th Aviation, 1-169th Aviation Regiment that have been assisting the residents and first responders of North Carolina over this past week for their incredible hard work and dedication with the disaster relief efforts,” Major General Francis Evon, the commander of the Connecticut National Guard, said. “Their courage and commitment in the face of adversity have made a true difference for those in need, and I couldn’t be more proud of what they have accomplished. As we send two more aircraft and additional soldiers to North Carolina for further assistance, I have full confidence that the Connecticut National Guard will continue to have a significant positive impact on the hurricane relief and recovery efforts. The selfless service of our Guardsmen is a testament to the strength and resilience of Connecticut’s Home Team. I thank each of them for their unwavering dedication to our mission and our nation.”
The unit is deploying under the authorization of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), a mutual aid system among states and territories for lifesaving resources during natural and man-made disasters. In Connecticut, EMAC is implemented by the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security on behalf of the governor.
The 1-169th Aviation Regiment’s mission is to mobilize and deploy to conduct Air Movement, Air Assault, MEDEVAC, Combat Support and Combat Service Support in support of Aviation operations throughout the designated area of responsibility. The unit is stationed in Windsor Locks at the Army Aviation Support Facility and most recently returned from a mission to Afghanistan in 2019-2020.
in anticipation of potential severe weather from Hurricane Helene, the City of Atlanta has taken proactive measures to help protect residents. We urge everyone to monitor local weather advisories and take precautions in case of flooding. Stay informed and prioritize your safety as this storm approaches.
Important Steps to Take:
- Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in loose items from balconies, patios, and outside areas.
- Prepare Emergency Supplies: Stock up on essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and first aid supplies.
- Stay Informed: Follow local news and weather alerts from the National Weather Service.
- Charge Devices: Ensure phones and other devices are fully charged in case of power outages.
- Follow Evacuation Orders: If authorities issue evacuation instructions, act immediately.
City of Atlanta Departmental Updates - 6:00 PM, Wednesday, September 25
Note: City offices are closed for in-person business on Thursday, September 26.
Watershed Management
- Proactively preparing since learning of Hurricane Helene’s potential impact.
- Emergency response teams are in place to address any issues.
- Monitoring water flow in known flooding hotspots.
- Conducting routine maintenance and concentrated cleaning of storm water drains to prevent blockages.
Parks & Recreation, Forestry Team
- Coordinating with Public Works (DPW), the Department of Transportation (ADOT), and Atlanta Fire Rescue for tree removal and storm debris management.
Public Works (DPW)
- Cleaning drainage systems ahead of expected heavy rainfall.
- Moved vehicles to higher ground.
- Implemented a 24/7 staffing plan to ensure continuous coverage throughout the emergency.
Atlanta Department of Transportation (ADOT)
- Cleared bridge and curb inlets in areas expected to flood.
- Chainsaw crews are on standby for downed tree removal.
- Barricades are strategically positioned for quick deployment.
E-911 Operations
- Activated severe weather action plan with operators ready to shelter in place if necessary.
- The Westin Hotel has offered accommodations for E-911 staff during the storm.
Atlanta Fire Rescue Department
- Prepared for swift water rescues and downed tree removal.
- Vehicles are fueled and ready to respond.
Atlanta Police Department (APD)
- Chief Schierbaum has deployed extra supplies to precincts.
- Shelter-in-place locations are being identified for essential staff.
- APD is ready to respond to any safety emergencies during the storm.
ATL311 and Remote Staff
- ATL311 will operate outside normal hours, from midnight to 7 AM on Thursday, providing 24-hour access to information.
- Remote staff provided with mifi devices in case of power loss.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
- Plans in place for potential flight cancellations and stranded passengers.
- Concessionaires are prepared to stay open to serve passengers, crews, and workers as needed.
Parks and Recreation Facilities
- All activities at Parks and Recreation facilities are canceled Thursday.
Emergency Alerts
- Residents can sign up for emergency alerts by texting NOTIFYATL to 2463
