Pregnant women must have access to the emergency medical care they are entitled to under federal law. However, last night, the Ninth Circuit blocked a federal judge’s order that protected women in need of emergency medical care from Idaho’s extreme and dangerous abortion ban. The Ninth Circuit’s decision puts women’s health at risk, threatening doctors with prosecution for providing emergency care.

The Biden-Harris Administration is deeply concerned by this decision. In Idaho and in states across the country, far too many women are suffering the devastating consequences of delayed care, which is threatening their health and lives. 

The President and I will never stop fighting for reproductive rights. Congress must pass a bill that restores the protections of Roe v. Wade into federal law.

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(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he is approving the release of $24.5 million in state grants for 60 small towns in Connecticut that will be used to complete a wide variety of infrastructure improvements, such as road safety reconstruction projects, sewer and drainage upgrades, sidewalk and pedestrian safety enhancements, recreational facility upgrades, and other kinds of capital improvement projects.

The grants are provided through the Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP), a state program managed by the Office of Policy and Management (OPM) that delivers grants to small towns for economic development, community conservation, and quality-of-life capital projects.

“Our small towns are an integral part of what makes Connecticut such a special place to live and work,” Governor Lamont said. “By working with them on these grants, the state can help get these vital projects completed so these towns can continue to grow, thrive, and attract businesses, while improving the quality of life for our residents.”

Towns seeking funding under this round of STEAP grants were required to submit applications to OPM by August 18, 2023. Those whose applications have been approved will soon receive official award notification and instructions from OPM.

Funding to support these grants was approved at a recent meeting of the State Bond Commission, a group that Governor Lamont leads as chairperson. In addition to the grants from the state, municipalities are also contributing funding to support the projects, bringing the total spent on the 60 projects to $46.7 million in state, local, and other funding sources.

The grants awarded in this round of STEAP grants include:

• Andover: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the Andover Recreation Facility Enhancements Phase II. This will be matched by $150,000 from the town.
• Barkhamsted: $384,246 in state funding is approved for the reconstruction of roads. This will be matched by $93,400 from the town.
• Beacon Falls: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the reconstruction of West Road. This will be matched by $1,987,000 from the town and $150,000 in additional funding.
• Bethany: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the renovation of the Department of Public Works Building and parking area. This will be matched by $103,715 from the town.
• Bolton: $500,000 in state funding is approved for upgrades to Herrick Park Field. This will be matched by $102,000 from the town.
• Bridgewater: $232,000 in state funding is approved for the replacement of the Burnham Library roof. This will be matched by $58,000 from the town.
• Brookfield: $489,000 in state funding is approved for town hall campus renovations. This will be matched by $100,000 from the town.
• Brooklyn: $250,000 in state funding is approved for reconstruction of Church Street. This will be matched by $20,000 from the town.
• Canton: $374,485 in state funding is approved for treatment plant capacity improvements. This will be matched by $93,620 from the town.
• Cheshire: $500,000 in state funding is approved for Cheshire Community Pool enhancements. This will be matched by $364,303 from the town.
• Clinton: $500,000 in state funding is approved for fire department radio replacements. This will be matched by $576,000 from the town.
• Colebrook: $418,479.50 in state funding is approved for roads and parking lot reconstruction. This will be matched by $104,619 from the town.
• Coventry: $315,000 in state funding is approved for improvements at Patriots Park. This will be matched by $30,000 in town funds and an additional $5,000 in other funding.
• East Granby: $500,000 in state funding is approved for upgrades at East Granby Farms Recreation Area. This will be matched by $360,000 in town funds.
• East Lyme: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the Plants Dam. This will be matched by $137,900 in town funds.
• Eastford: $156,616 in state funding is approved for the town parking lots and playground resurfacing and paving. This will be matched by $39,154 in town funds.
• Essex: $444,000 in state funding is approved for Ferry Street improvements. This will be matched by $111,000 in town funds.
• Farmington: $500,000 in state funding is approved to install sidewalks on Meadow Road. This will be matched by $534,832 in town funds.
• Glastonbury: $500,000 in state funding is approved to construct new parking areas to support up to 70 units of affordable housing on Nye Road. This will be matched by $295,700 in town funds.
• Goshen: $500,000 in state funding is approved for a new public works facility. This will be matched by $500,000 in town funds.
• Granby: $126,8000 in state funding is approved for senior center kitchen renovations. This will be matched by $9,680 in town funds and $30,000 in additional funding.
• Harwinton: $464,000 in state funding is approved for sewer collection system rehabilitation. This will be matched by $96,000 in town funds.
• Hebron: $474,000 in state funding is approved for the Hebron Green pedestrian connection and parking improvement. This will be matched by $80,000 in town funds.
• Litchfield: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the reconstruction of East Litchfield Road. This will be matched by $771,784 in town funds.
• Lyme: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the Lymes’ Senior Center renovations and expansion. This will be matched by $937,731 in town funds. Project is a regional shared service with the town of Old Lyme.
• Madison: $401,600 in state funding is approved for the town campus gym floor replacement. This will be matched by $100,400 in town funds.
• Marlborough: $262,000 in state funding is approved for the Blish Memorial Park Boat Ramp reconstruction and ADA improvements. This will be matched by $256,839 in town funds.
• Monroe: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the upgrades and expansion of the animal control facility. This will be matched by $384,083 in town funds.
• Morris: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the John Weik Bridge reconstruction. This will be matched by $200,000 in town funds.
• New Fairfield: $475,272 in state funding is approved for upgrades to the town green. This will be matched by $413,117 in town funds.
• Newington: $240,000 in state funding is approved for the Mill Pond Falls pedestrian bridge replacement. This will be matched by $60,000 in town funds.
• North Haven: $427,512 in state funding is approved for a new fire department apparatus garage. This will be matched by $106,879 in town funds.
• North Stonington: $380,922 in state funding is approved for town building and athletic field improvements. This will be matched by $95,231 in town funds.
• Old Lyme: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the Lymes’ Senior Center renovations and expansion. This will be matched by $2,813,193 in town funds. Project is a regional shared service with the town of Lyme.
• Old Saybrook: $500,000 in state funding is approved for fire department radio upgrades. This will be matched by $85,878 in town funds.
• Plainfield: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the construction of a community pavilion. This will be matched by $500,000 in town funds and $49,473 in additional funding.
• Plymouth: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the road improvements. This will be matched by $498,724 in town funds and $501,276 in additional funds.
• Portland: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the replacement of the High Street water main. This will be matched by $100,000 in town funds and $1,200,000 in additional funds.
• Ridgefield: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the replacement of the Mountain Road culvert. This will be matched by $266,100 in town funds.
• Roxbury: $250,000 in state funding is approved for the removal of two underground storage tanks and new tank installation. This will be matched by $50,000 in town funds.
• Salem: $198,560 in state funding is approved for town hall upgrades. This will be matched by $49,700 in town funds.
• Seymour: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the HVAC upgrades at the community center. This will be matched by $242,604 in town funds.
• Shelton: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the upgrades to sports fields. This will be matched by $523,100 in town funds.
• Sherman: $240,000 in state funding is approved for new recreational facilities. This will be matched by $48,000 in town funds.
• Somers: $152,729 in state funding is approved to replace the fire department roof. This will be matched by $38,182 in town funds.
• Southbury: $276,412 in state funding is approved for reconstruction and safety improvements at the transfer station. This will be matched by $70,000 in town funds.
• Southington: $500,000 in state funding is approved for athletic field reconstruction. This will be matched by $206,663 in town funds.
• Stafford: $209,274 in state funding is approved for the replacement and paving of the community center parking lot and lower parking area at the Kealy Complex. This will be matched by $10,000 in town funds and $21,228 in additional funding.
• Stonington: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the Mystic River Boathouse Park project. This will be matched by $2,200,000 in town funds and $753,889 in additional funding.
• Thompson: $500,000 in state funding is approved for Thompson schools track and athletic field reconstruction. This will be matched by $1,046,166 in town funding.
• Tolland: $332,000 in state funding is approved for upgrades at Heron Cove Park. This will be matched by $83,000 in town funds.
• Union: $400,000 in state funding is approved for the reconstruction of Webster Road. This will be matched by $70,850 in town funds.
• Voluntown: $424,000 in state funding is approved for the Gate Street Playground. This will be matched by $106,000 in town funds.
• Warren: $51,873 in state funding is approved to repair the Warren Public Library. This will be matched by $15,000 in town funds.
• Watertown: $500,000 in state funding is approved for renovations at the highway garage. This will be matched by $100,000 in town funds.
• Weston: $438,240 in state funding is approved for roof repairs and solar panel installation at the Department of Public Works garage. This will be matched by $109,560 in town funds.
• Westport: $500,000 in state funding is approved for sidewalks along Cross Highway. This will be matched by $411,000 in town funds.
• Wilton: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the police department storage facility. This will be matched by $150,838 in town funds.
• Winchester: $250,000 in state funding is approved for the renovation of the community resource center.
• Woodbridge: $500,000 in state funding is approved for the fire department training and storage facility. This will be matched by $180,000 in town funds and $160,000 in additional funds.

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development’s (DECD) Office of Manufacturing has been awarded a $2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to support the rapid deployment of smart manufacturing technologies into Connecticut’s supply chain. The goal of the initiative is to help small and medium-sized companies in the state reduce their carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and improve energy efficiency.

“Connecticut is a leader in advanced manufacturing, and this grant reflects the confidence in our federal government for us to continue taking this lead,” Governor Lamont said. “Working to reduce CO2 emissions and improve energy efficiency meets two important goals of our administration – meeting our targets to combat the impacts of climate change and lowering the cost of doing business for Connecticut manufacturers.”

“Connecticut is home to a thriving advanced manufacturing industry that is especially critical to our national security,” Senator Richard Blumenthal said. “These federal funds will supply Connecticut manufacturers with energy-efficient technology to reduce carbon emissions and help tackle the climate crisis. I am proud to have fought for these funds alongside the Connecticut delegation, and I will continue to push for clean energy solutions for our state’s manufacturing sector.”

“Connecticut manufacturing is the backbone our state’s economy, and these companies play a major role in helping us reach our climate goals,” Senator Chris Murphy said. “This $2 million federal grant is going to help smaller manufacturers across the state begin implementing innovative technology to lower their carbon emissions and help them become more energy efficient. I’ll continue pushing for more federal government investments in the future of Connecticut manufacturing.”

“Federal funding we secured in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will bolster Connecticut’s manufacturing sector and support both public and private efforts to lower energy costs and reduce emissions,” Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) said. “Since President Biden took office, we’ve seen record job growth, including thousands of new, good-paying manufacturing jobs here in Connecticut. The State Manufacturing Leadership Program will bring new jobs to the state and expand our presence as a hub for clean energy manufacturing and innovation.”

“Connecticut is one of America’s great manufacturing hubs – thanks in part to federal investments like this $2 million award and the outstanding workforce training programs that have prepared workers to take on new jobs in clean energy manufacturing, infrastructure development, defense manufacturing, and more,” Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) said. “In fact, this week, Connecticut was rated one of the top ten states for defense spending, highlighting the large role the defense industry and manufacturing plays in our state. I look forward to seeing how this new investment will help Connecticut’s manufacturing industry continue to lead the way and improve energy efficiency across the sector.”

“This investment from the U.S. Department of Energy will increase Connecticut’s competitiveness on a global stage, creating good-paying American jobs, and accelerating our clean energy economy,” Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) said. “This funding will allow us to be on the cutting edge of nationwide efforts to promote clean, affordable, and reliable energy strategies. By deploying these energy efficiency technologies, we can begin building upon and supporting our states robust manufacturing sector. I am proud that Connecticut is able to play a part in meeting the nation's long term clean energy and climate goals.”

“I’m glad to see manufacturing companies in Connecticut awarded the funds they need to invest in innovative technologies that will reduce costs, improve efficiency, and cut harmful emissions,” Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) said. “Federal investments like these allow our manufacturing sector to continue to lead and flourish, providing good jobs and contributing to a cleaner energy future.”

“Investing in lowering carbon dioxide emissions and improving energy efficiency produces jobs, fights climate change, and strengthens our advanced manufacturing industry in Connecticut,” Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) said. “Enhancing our supply chain with high-quality manufacturing technologies increases production and grows skilled workers across our state.”

The DECD’s Office of Manufacturing is partnering with the University of Connecticut, the Center for Advanced Technology, Inc., and CONNSTEP to launch the two-year pilot program that this grant is supporting. DECD will be matching the grant with $654,648 in funding.

“Connecticut’s manufacturing supply chain is known around the world for its skilled workforce, innovation, and productivity, but we know we can’t rest on our laurels,” Paul Lavoie, Connecticut’s chief manufacturing officer, said. “Strategically planning for and investing in our manufacturing future is critical to our long-term economic success, and this award will help build capacity and resilience throughout our manufacturing ecosystem.”

For more information about the state’s efforts to support and strengthen Connecticut’s manufacturing sector, visit the Office of Manufacturing’s website at manufacturing.ct.gov.

Governor Lamont: Flags Lowered Nationwide in Honor of U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that pursuant to U.S. Flag Code and in accordance with a proclamation from President Joe Biden directing flags to be lowered throughout the country as a mark of solemn respect for the memory of U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein, U.S. and state flags in Connecticut should be lowered to half-staff effective immediately and remain lowered until sunset on the date of interment, which has not yet been determined.

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. The Office of the Governor will send out a notification when flags should be returned to full staff.

“Senator Feinstein has made a legendary mark in Congress and her passing is a substantial loss for our country,” Governor Lamont said. “In particular, I am incredibly appreciative of her commitment toward enacting commonsense policies on gun violence prevention, as well as her trailblazing work on equal rights. My condolences are with Senator Feinstein’s family and her colleagues in Congress. I am deeply grateful for her service to the United States and the legacy she leaves.”

United States Code Title 4, Chapter 1, Section 7(m) directs flags to be lowered to half-staff upon the passing of a sitting member of Congress.

Connecticut Parent Leadership Summit (CTPLS), which is an annual event designed by parents, for parents and parent-leader allies from across the state.

 Connecticut Department of Transportation

Announces CTpass Program to Support Workforce Development Applications Now Available

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced that eligible organizations can now submit applications to participate in the CTpass program. CTpass offers 31-day bus passes to eligible organizations at a 10% discount per pass for CTtransit and CTfastrak bus services throughout the state, including Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, New Britain, Bristol, Waterbury, Meriden, and Wallingford service areas.

The CTpass program was developed to support workforce development and increase access to Connecticut’s bus transportation system. The Governor’s Workforce Council Legislation developed the CTpass program idea, which was passed through state legislation in 2022.

“Public transportation plays a vital role in expanding Connecticut’s economy by breaking down barriers to employment and connecting more people to opportunities throughout the state,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Bureau Chief of Public Transportation Benjamin Limmer. “CTpass will make a big difference in supporting Connecticut’s existing and future workforce. I encourage eligible organizations to apply and contact us with any questions. Our staff is here to help.”

Eligible organizations in Connecticut who can apply to participate in the CTpass program include: 

• Organizations that provide a training program listed on the State of Connecticut Labor Department’s Eligible Training Provider List
• An apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship program sponsor
• A provider of an alternate route to certification program that the State Board of Education has approved
• An institution of higher education
• A private occupational school
• A private employer
• A state or municipal agency
• A public of nonprofit social service provider in Connecticut

Any organization that meets the criteria may apply. Upon the application submission, CTDOT will review the application and contact the organization for the next steps. The application period does not close.

For more information on the CTpass program and how to submit the initial application, visit ct.gov/dot/CTpass.

Organizations that want additional information or have questions about the CTpass program and application process are encouraged to email DOT.CTpass@ct.gov.

Click the link below

Connecticut new laws take effect October 1st 2023

Governor Lamont Says Tourism in Connecticut Experiencing Surge, Announces Upgrades To Welcome Centers

Renovations to Welcome Centers in Danbury and Darien Now Complete; Similar Upgrades Coming Soon to Greenwich, North Stonington, West Willington, and Westbrook

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that as the summer season nears its end and autumn approaches, the tourism industry in Connecticut has been experiencing a surge in visitation.

Through June, independent research data from Tourism Economics shows that visitation to the state has risen by 3% year over year. Through July, national benchmarking STR data shows that the Connecticut lodging industry has seen a 10% increase in revenues over the last year. Additionally, the state’s official tourism website CTvisit.com has logged an impressive 7.3 million site visits since January – up 44% over the previous year. Already the fifth most visited state tourism site in the nation, this increase in traffic positions CTvisit.com for a record-breaking year and bodes well for continued momentum for the state’s many tourism-related businesses.

“This spike in both current visits — and interest in future visits — reflects Connecticut’s growing appeal,” Governor Lamont said. “This fall, we encourage our residents and our visitors to explore Connecticut’s amazing attractions and enjoy all the ways you can take in our incredible fall foliage.”

“In addition to our breathtaking fall colors, there are so many reasons to enjoy Connecticut,” Anthony Anthony, chief marketing officer for the Connecticut Office of Tourism, said. “It’s a great time to get out for a UConn football game and see why USA Today recently named UConn the best college for sports fans. It’s also an ideal time to experience our ever-popular fall fairs and music festivals, our worldclass museums and theaters, our perfect pizza, and local oysters, and so much more.”

Connecticut boasts the longest foliage season among its New England counterparts, offering visitors an extended opportunity to savor the bright colored landscapes. This year, forecasters are anticipating that the views may be even more vivid.

“With such ample rain this summer, the trees are less stressed this year, which can result in more vivid colors,” Katie Dykes, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, said. “Typically, the vibrancy of our fall colors do depend on seasonally cool nights in September and early October. Given that the temperatures soared at the beginning of this month, the colors may be a little later than normal, but they still should be particularly vibrant.”

In time for this expected surge of visitors, Governor Lamont also announced the recent completion of a successful pilot program between the Connecticut Office of Tourism and the Connecticut Department of Transportation that has revitalized the state’s Welcome Centers in Danbury and Darien. Upgrades include installation of touch screen kiosks connecting visitors with things to do, see, and eat; 50” LED television screens showing the Connecticut’s tourism reel; and the state’s new CT Visit tourism branding that was launched in June 2022. Four more Welcome Centers across the state – Greenwich, North Stonington, West Willington, and Westbrook – will see similar upgrades over the coming year prior to next summer’s peak tourism season.

“We appreciate the ongoing partnership with the Office of Tourism in revamping the Welcome Centers, where visitors often form their first impression of Connecticut,” Laoise King, deputy commissioner for the Connecticut Department of Transportation, said. “With so many must-visit Connecticut destinations, we look forward to working with Governor Lamont and our state agency partners to expand these upgrades to additional entry points to ensure that no matter how someone travels, they are aware of all that Connecticut offers.”

One popular activity that draws travel to and across Connecticut is hiking. Recent research from Why This Place named Connecticut the best state in America for hiking, with an impressive 1,455 hiking trails per 1,000 square miles.

Just in time for fall foliage, earlier this week the state launched CTParks.com, a cutting-edge website showcasing Connecticut State Parks that was designed to integrate with CTvisit.com. The inspiring and useful site makes it easier for residents and visitors to discover the beauty of our parks and recreational areas and all the activities that each park offers.

“What makes this video-rich website a great experience for users is that it allows visitors to find exactly what park is right for them based on their interests or location,” Commissioner Dykes said. “As we approach the much-anticipated fall foliage season, this resource becomes invaluable for planning an unforgettable autumn adventure. The difficult part will be deciding which park to enjoy first! Fall is a beautiful time to hike, so one great option for hikers and families to consider is DEEP’s Sky’s the Limit Hiking Challenge.”

“As the leaves begin to turn, there’s no better time for travelers and state residents to explore Connecticut, especially the scenic trails,” Alexandra Daum, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, said. “Through DECD’s partnership with DEEP on the launch of this new website, visitors can plan a perfect day trip or vacation by picking the right state park and finding places to stay, restaurants to eat at, and other great things to do in surrounding towns and cities. By encouraging longer stays, we can grow our already robust tourism industry that brought $17 billion into Connecticut in 2022.”

Governor Lamont Announces Bond Commission Set To Approve $25 Million for New Voting Machines

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the Connecticut State Bond Commission will vote at its upcoming meeting to approve an allocation of $25 million that will be used to purchase new ballot-counting tabulators for use in elections and primaries statewide. The equipment will replace Connecticut’s existing voting machines, which are used at every polling place in the state to tabulate the choices that voters make on their paper ballots.

The governor, who serves as chair of the commission and sets its meeting agendas, said that he is recommending the members to approve the funding because the existing machines, which were first put into use in 2006, are beginning to show signs of aging and should be replaced for the continued functioning of accurate and timely election results. The allocation is being placed on the agenda for approval at the commission’s October 6, 2023, meeting.

“The machines we use to record votes are the backbone of our election system, and it is essential that we provide election officials with the equipment they need to tabulate results with accuracy and timeliness,” Governor Lamont said. “Although our existing machines continue to function, they are more than 17 years old and election officials tell us that they are starting to show their age. Implementing a statewide replacement of all these machines now will ensure that election workers continue to have the tools they need to conduct an Election Day that runs smooth and free of any glitches that could potentially be caused by outdated technology.”

Following the commission’s approval of the funding, it is anticipated that the Office of the Secretary of the State will solicit proposals from manufacturers to supply the state with the equipment. Once purchased, the state will provide the equipment to every municipality and the existing equipment will be retired. The state is funding the entirety of the cost to purchase the equipment. It is estimated that the allocation will enable the state to purchase several thousand traditional tabulators and dozens of high-speed tabulators used to tally absentee ballots.

This will be the first time the state is implementing a statewide replacement of all its voting machines since it eliminated the use of lever machines 17 years ago and made a switch to machines that read paper ballots as part of a nationwide requirement enacted by Congress in 2002 for states to have voting systems that keep a paper record of every vote cast in case an election is audited or recounted. Because lever voting machines cannot produce a paper ballot, they were retired from use.

The October 6, 2023, meeting of the State Bond Commission will be held at 10:30 a.m. in Room 1E of the Legislative Office Building in Hartford. Additionally, video of the meeting will stream live online at ct-n.com.

Twitter: @GovNedLamont

Facebook: Office of Governor Ned Lamont

The nation’s premier convening of college and university executive leadership, faculty, students, and supporters, the Annual National HBCU Week Conference is back, September 24-28, 2023, at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City at Reagan National Airport.

2023 National HBCU Week Conference

U.S. Senate unanimously passed a bipartisan resolution to officially recognize DSP Recognition Week

Cardin, Collins Lead Senate Recognition of Direct Support Professionals Week

Frontline health care professionals honored for their service and dedication

WASHINGTON – The Senate has unanimously approved a resolution from U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) recognizing this week as Direct Support Professionals Week. Their resolution (S. Res. 337) designates September 10-16 as a time to honor frontline health care workers for their dedication and work enhancing the lives of individuals with chronic illness, seniors and those living with a disability.

"This week, we honor direct support professionals, the frontline health care workers who are on the job around the clock to make daily life more manageable for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, chronic illnesses and seniors. They bring dignity back to people's lives and make a difference 365 days a year," said Senator Cardin. "We value your service and dedication all year, but this week, is a special time to recognize the challenges you face as you help patients. Building on your example, we will continue to invest in home- and community-based services and building up the home care workforce with appropriate income and support they deserve."

"Every day, direct support professionals work hard to provide those in need with critical support that leads to more independent living and a better quality of life," said Senator Collins. "Our bipartisan resolution ensures that these professionals receive the recognition they deserve. I thank all direct support professionals for making such an incredible difference in the lives of so many seniors and those living with a disability."

In addition to Senators Cardin and Collins, the resolution marking Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week is cosponsored by Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.).

The full resolution follows and can be downloaded at this link.

Title: Designating the week beginning September 10, 2023, as "National Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week".

Whereas direct care workers, including direct support professionals, personal assistants, personal attendants, in-home support workers, and paraprofessionals, are key to providing publicly funded, long-term support and services for millions of individuals with disabilities;

Whereas direct support professionals provide essential services that ensure that all individuals with disabilities are-

(1) included as a valued part of the communities in which those individuals live;

(2) supported at home, at work, and in the communities of the United States; and

(3) empowered to live with the dignity that all people of the United States deserve;

Whereas, by fostering connections between individuals with disabilities and their families, friends, and communities, direct support professionals ensure that individuals with disabilities thrive, thereby avoiding more costly institutional care;

Whereas direct support professionals build close, respectful, and trusting relationships with individuals with disabilities and provide a broad range of personalized support to those individuals, including-

(1) helping individuals make person-centered choices;

(2) assisting with personal care, meal preparation, medication management, and other aspects of daily living;

(3) assisting individuals in accessing the community and securing competitive, integrated employment;

(4) providing transportation to school, work, religious, and recreational activities;

(5) helping with general daily affairs, such as assisting with financial matters, medical appointments, and personal interests; and

(6) assisting individuals in the transition from isolated or congregate settings or services to living in the communities of their choice;

Whereas there is a critical and increasing shortage of direct support professionals throughout the United States, a crisis that was exacerbated by the COVID–19 pandemic, bringing uncertainty and risk to individuals with disabilities;

Whereas direct support professionals do not have their own Standard Occupational Classification for the purposes of Federal data collection, which includes data produced by the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the Department of Labor;

Whereas the direct care workforce, including direct support professionals, is expected to grow more than any other occupation in the United States;

Whereas many direct support professionals-

(1) are the primary financial providers for their families;

(2) are hardworking, taxpaying citizens who provide a critical service in the United States; and

(3) continue to earn low wages, receive inadequate benefits, and have limited opportunities for advancement, resulting in high turnover and vacancy rates that adversely affect the quality of support, safety, and health of individuals with disabilities; and

Whereas the Supreme Court of the United States, in Olmstead v. L.C., 527 U.S. 581 (1999)-

(1) recognized the importance of the deinstitutionalization of, and community-based services for, individuals with disabilities; and

(2) held that, under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S. 12101 et seq.), a State must provide person-centered, community-based service options to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate-

(1) designates the week beginning September 10, 2023, as "National Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week";

(2) recognizes the dedication and vital role of direct support professionals in enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities;

(3) appreciates the contribution of direct support professionals in supporting individuals with disabilities in the United States and the families of those individuals;

(4) commends direct support professionals for being integral to the provision of long-term support and services for individuals with disabilities;

(5) encourages the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the Department of Labor to collect data that is specific to direct support professionals; and

(6) finds that the successful implementation of public policies affecting individuals with disabilities in the United States can depend on the dedication of direct support professionals.

Check out the trailer for OUTLAW JOHNNY BLACK, an upcoming Western action-comedy movie from the team that made Black Dynamite. OUTLAW JOHNNY BLACK stars Michael Jai White, Anika Noni Rose, Erica Ash, Byron Minns, Kym Whitley, Kevin Chapman (CODA), and more. Hell bent on avenging the death of his father, Johnny Black vows to gun down Brett Clayton and becomes a wanted man in the process while posing as a preacher in a small mining town that's been taken over by a notorious Land Baron. OUTLAW JOHNNY BLACK, directed by Michael Jai White, opens in theaters on September 15, 2023. Check out the trailer for OUTLAW JOHNNY BLACK, an upcoming Western action-comedy movie from the team that made Black Dynamite. OUTLAW JOHNNY BLACK stars Michael Jai White, Anika Noni Rose, Erica Ash, Byron Minns, Kym Whitley, Kevin Chapman (CODA), and more. Hell bent on avenging the death of his father, Johnny Black vows to gun down Brett Clayton and becomes a wanted man in the process while posing as a preacher in a small mining town that's been taken over by a notorious Land Baron. OUTLAW JOHNNY BLACK, directed by Michael Jai White, opens in theaters on September .

The Outlaw Johnny Black

Long Wharf Plan & District Updates     Long Wharf Responsible Growth Plan

HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that beginning on January 1, 2024, Connecticut’s minimum wage will increase from the current rate of $15.00 per hour to $15.69 per hour as a result of the state’s first-ever economic indicator adjustment.

This newly enacted adjustment is required under a state law Governor Lamont signed in 2019 (Public Act 19-4), which implemented five incremental increases in the minimum wage between 2019 and 2023, followed by future adjustments that are tied to the percentage change in the federal employment cost index. Beginning on January 1, 2024, and occurring annually each January 1 thereafter, the state’s minimum wage will be adjusted according to the U.S. Department of Labor’s calculation of the employment cost index for the twelve-month period ending on June 30 of the preceding year. The law requires the commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Labor to review this percentage change and then announce any adjustments by October 15 of each year. The minimum wage adjustments become effective on the next January 1.

Connecticut Labor Commissioner Danté Bartolomeo reports that the employment cost index increased by 4.6% over the twelve-month period ending on June 30, 2023, accounting for a $0.69 increase to the state’s minimum wage that will become effective on January 1, 2024.

Governor Lamont said, “The minimum wage for many years remained stagnant, making existing pay disparities even worse and preventing hardworking families from obtaining financial security. That is why several years ago I signed a bill into law enacting several increases in the minimum wage and then ultimately attaching it to federal economic indicators so that as the economy grows the wages of low-income workers can grow with it. This is a fair, modest increase and the money earned will be spent right back into our own economy and support local businesses.”

Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said, “For too long, while the nation’s economy grew, the income of minimum wage workers stayed stagnant – worsening economic disparities. Connecticut took steps to address this problem with a fair, gradual increase for workers and brought the minimum wage to $15. Today, we mark another significant step in ensuring a fair, livable baseline of income for those who work as the state makes it’s first-ever economic indicator adjustment. We will continue to do everything we can to improve the quality of life for all the residents who call Connecticut their home.”

Commissioner Bartolomeo said, “This increase will benefit Connecticut’s 160,000 to 200,000 minimum wage workers and help offset some of the effects of national economic challenges, such as higher energy costs and interest rates. I commend Governor Lamont and the legislature for enacting this important wage reform.”

According to the Current Population Survey as calculated by the U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 60% of minimum wage earners in Connecticut are women.

Moving forward under this new law, Connecticut workers and employers may anticipate announcements by October 15 of each year declaring the change in the minimum wage that will become effective on January 1 of the approaching year

Treasurer Erick Russell Announces Strong Year-End Investment Performance,
$200 Million in New Commitments at September Investment Advisory Council Meeting

HARTFORD, Connecticut – On Wednesday, Connecticut State Treasurer Erick Russell announced that the state’s pension funds have outperformed investment benchmarks over the past fiscal year. 

The update, given during the September meeting of the Investment Advisory Council (IAC), shows the Teachers' Retirement Fund ("TERF") and the State Employees' Retirement Fund ("SERF") generated net investment results of 8.35% and 9.02% respectively for Fiscal Year 2023. Across the full portfolio of Connecticut Retirement Plans and Trust Funds (CRPTF), the positive investment performance added an estimated $1.1 billion in plan assets during Fiscal Year 2023.

“Reforms that have been put in place to strengthen our investment returns are starting to produce positive results,” said Treasurer Russell. “As long-term investors, single year returns are not how we measure success, but I’m confident that we will build on this work and continue towards our goal of being among the best performing public investors in the nation. Maximizing pension investments is important, not just for the retirement security of retired teachers, state and municipal workers, but for all state residents. Strong returns will free up resources for other budgetary priorities, including long-term investments in our communities, and complement the progress that’s been made to build reserves and stabilize state finances. I’m grateful to the IAC and the team in my office that have worked so hard to get to this position, and I look forward to continued success going forward.”

The investment performance comes after the Office of the Treasurer and IAC rewrote the Investment Policy Strategy in 2022 and made targeted changes to asset allocations and risk mitigation strategies. Legislation passed this past session will improve retention, recruitment and professional development opportunities within the agency, and expanded eligibility for members of the IAC. 

"The volunteer members of the IAC are proud to serve and share responsibility for Connecticut's investment strategy and performance," said Ellen Shuman, Chair of the Investment Advisory Council. "Together, we have implemented several significant changes to rebalance assets, improve manager selection, mitigate risk, and position the CRPTF for sustained, long-term growth. While the results for FY23 are promising and evidence that we are heading in the right direction, our efforts are aimed at maximizing performance over multi-year intervals. It will be crucial to maintain our positive momentum and build on this encouraging progress."

For the longer-term period of 10-years, ending June 30, 2023, both the TERF and the SERF plans outperformed benchmarks, generating net investment results of 6.94% and 7.04%, respectively. 

Also in Wednesday’s meeting, Treasurer Russell announced two upcoming investment commitments totaling $200 million, based on input he received at July’s IAC meeting. Both investments are in the state’s private credit portfolio: $125 million to Bregal Sagemount Credit Opportunities Series 2023 and $75 million to Bregal Sagemount Direct Lending Series 2023.  

Potential investments in two categories were also reviewed at the meeting. Principal Investment Officer Denise Stake and Investment Officer Philip Conner presented Blue Owl Real Estate Fund VI, L.P., a Real Estate Fund opportunity. Principal Investment Officer Mark Evans and Investment Officer Carmen Melaragno presented Leeds Equity Partners VIII, LP, a Private Investment Fund opportunity.

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About the Office of the Treasurer 

The Office of the Treasurer is charged with safeguarding Connecticut’s financial resources through prudent cash and debt management, with the State Treasurer serving as principal fiduciary for six state pension and nine state trust funds. Additionally, the Office enhances the state’s fiscal stability through programs promoting financial literacy and college savings, and it leverages business partnerships to support the advancement of Connecticut’s social and policy priorities, including combating gun violence and protecting our environment. The Office of the Treasurer is led by State Treasurer Erick Russell, the only Black elected state treasurer in the country. To learn more, visit portal.ct.gov/ott. 

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FILE - Former President Donald Trump walks to speak with reporters before departure from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023, in Atlanta. A judge on Friday, Sept. 8, is expected to release the full report compiled by a special grand jury that helped an investigation by the Georgia prosecutor who ultimately indicted Trump and 18 others. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File

Lawyers Kenneth Chesebro and Sidney Powell are the two who have filed speedy trial demands. They also requested to be tried separately from each other, but McAfee denied that request. Chesebro is accused of working on the coordination and execution of a plan to have 16 Georgia Republicans sign a certificate declaring falsely that Trump won and declaring themselves the state’s “duly elected and qualified” electors. Powell is accused of participating in a breach of election equipment in rural Coffee County.

Most of the other defendants have filed motions to be tried alone or in smaller groups, but prosecutors noted that those defendants have not waived their rights to file their own speedy trial demands. The deadline for that is Nov. 5, and if such demands were filed it would trigger one or more trials starting within the two-month court term that begins Nov. 6, with the trial for Chesebro and Powell likely still underway. That could lead to multiple trials in the high-profile case happening simultaneously, creating security issues and “unavoidable burdens” on witnesses and victims, prosecutors argued.

Requiring defendants to waive their speedy trial right as a condition to separate their case “would prevent the logistical quagmire described above, the inevitable harm to victims and witnesses, and the risk of gamesmanship,” prosecutors wrote. Additionally, they argued, defendants who say they want to be tried separately because they won’t be ready by Oct. 23 should have to inform the court when they expect to be ready for trial.

Five of the defendants are seeking to move their cases to federal court, and lawyers for Trump have said he may do the same. McAfee expressed concern last week about proceeding to trial in the state court while those attempts are ongoing because the law that allows federal officials to move state charges to federal court in some cases says “a judgment of conviction shall not be entered” unless the case is first sent back to state court. But prosecutors noted that the law explicitly allows a case to continue to move forward in a state court while the question of moving a case to federal court is pending.

Federal Judge Steve Jones last week rejected the attempt by Trump White House chief of staff Mark Meadows to move his case to federal court and sent it back to state court, but Meadows is appealing that ruling. The four others who have already filed notice to move their cases have hearings before Jones scheduled for next week.

As we all know, providers and front-line staff are seeing a rise in the number of unsheltered community members. This alarming shift is reflected state- and nation-wide, highlighting the urgent need for collaborative efforts among state agencies, communities, and homeless services providers.

In acknowledgment of the incredible progress we have made as a state when we have worked collectively to address homelessness, the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness (CCEH) is proud to introduce a pivotal conversation on implementing an Interagency Council on Homelessness (ICH) in Connecticut through the CT CAN End Homelessness Initiative.

Join us for an Interagency Roundtable Discussion with the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH)

Tuesday, September 19th, from 11:30AM to 12:30PM