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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.

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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.