Kathy Kennedy

Kennedy Attends UI and SCG Trade Internship Graduation

TRUMBULL – State Representative Kathy Kennedy (R-Milford/Orange) attended the 2026 Trade Internship Program graduation ceremony hosted by United Illuminating (UI) and Southern Connecticut Gas (SCG) on Wednesday, August 19, at the United Illuminating Training Yard in Trumbull. The program provides local high school and community college students with hands-on experience and exposure to skilled trade careers in the electric and natural gas utility industries. Throughout the internship, students worked alongside experienced field employees, union leaders, and operations teams while gaining valuable insight into careers that offer rewarding alternatives to the traditional four-year college path. Kennedy has supported efforts to strengthen Connecticut’s workforce and expand opportunities for students to pursue careers outside the traditional four-year college route. This includes legislation aimed at improving access to workforce-development resources and strengthening Connecticut’s pipeline of skilled workers. Kennedy praised UI and SCG for investing in the next generation of Connecticut’s skilled workforce. “Connecticut needs more opportunities like this that connect young people with good-paying careers, and the skills employers need,” said Rep. Kennedy. “Not every student needs to follow the same path, and the skilled trades provide tremendous opportunities for a fulfilling career. We should continue making sure students know that a successful career can begin with hands-on training, an apprenticeship or a technical education.” Kennedy said programs like the UI and SCG Trade Internship are particularly valuable because they allow students to experience the trades firsthand before making decisions about their future. The graduation ceremony highlighted the students’ accomplishments and the skills, training and career awareness they gained through the program.

Statement from State Rep. Kathy Kennedy, Ranking Member of the Transportation Committee on Street Takeovers

Statement from State Rep. Kathy Kennedy, Ranking Member of the Transportation Committee on Street Takeovers "Let's call street takeovers what they are—they're not kids getting together to have fun. They're dangerous, illegal events that put innocent drivers, families, and even our first responders at risk. That's why I proudly supported Public Act 25-80 last year. The law increases penalties for those who organize, participate in, or even gather to watch these reckless events, while giving law enforcement additional tools to help stop them before someone gets seriously hurt. Police chiefs and local leaders across Connecticut supported this law because they see firsthand the danger these takeovers create. Our police officers want to do their jobs, but too often they're expected to deal with these situations while their hands are tied by policies that make it harder to act quickly. We should be giving them the support and authority they need to protect the public—not putting more obstacles in their way. I've always believed that public safety comes first. The overwhelming majority of people just want to get home safely, and they shouldn't have to worry about roads being shut down by reckless drivers who think they're above the law. We need to continue standing with law enforcement, hold those responsible accountable, and send a clear message that street takeovers have no place in Connecticut. Our roads belong to everyone and keeping them safe shouldn't be up for debate."

Kennedy Visits Tutor Time of Milford, Highlights Importance of Early Childhood Education

MILFORD — State Representative Kathy Kennedy (R-119) recently visited Tutor Time of Milford to meet with teachers, staff, and students and discuss the important role childcare providers play in supporting local families. During the visit, Rep. Kennedy toured the facility, learned more about the programs offered at Tutor Time, and spent time reading “Moo Hoo” to a Pre-K classroom. “Any day you get to sit down and read with these precious little kids it’s a good day,” said Rep. Kennedy. “I want to thank the wonderful teachers and staff at Tutor Time of Milford for welcoming me into their classroom and showing me firsthand the care, creativity, and dedication that goes into early childhood education.” Kennedy also met with representatives from Learning Care Group to discuss issues facing childcare providers, including access, affordability, workforce challenges, and the importance of ensuring families have quality childcare options. “As a mom, I understand how important it is for parents to have confidence that their children are learning, growing, and being cared for in a safe and nurturing environment,” Kennedy said. “Childcare providers are partners with our families, and it’s important that lawmakers listen directly to those doing this work every day.” “As we saw during the pandemic, childcare was an essential and necessary pillar in the three-legged stool for families and our state economy, which also includes parents and employers. Without a thriving childcare system, the stool collapses,” added Rep. Kennedy. Since being elected to state office, Rep. Kennedy has supported initiatives focused on strengthening educational opportunities for children, assisting families, and ensuring childcare providers have a voice in the policymaking process.

Kennedy Wraps Up 2026 Legislative Session with Community Conversations in Milford

MILFORD/ORANGE – State Representative Kathy Kennedy (R-119) spent the Thursday meeting with Milford and Orange residents during two community events aimed at discussing the session, answering questions, and hearing directly from constituents about the issues impacting their lives. Kennedy hosted a morning "Coffee and Conversation" at Duck Donuts before concluding the day with "Popsicles and Politics" at Gulf Beach, where residents stopped by to share their concerns and discuss legislation approved during the session. While the evening gathering was informal, Kennedy took time to walk the beach and speak with residents, relaxing along the shoreline and in the parking area. Conversations centered on public safety, housing, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), Milford's Historic District, and immigration enforcement. One resident shared her experience as the victim of both a home invasion and a purse theft, underscoring the concerns many participants expressed about crime and community safety. "I always appreciate the opportunity to hear directly from the people I represent," Kennedy said. "The legislative session may be over, but my work doesn't stop when we adjourn. These conversations help me better understand the challenges facing Milford and Orange families and allow me to explain how new laws passed this year may affect them." Throughout the discussions, Kennedy reviewed several of the new public acts approved during the 2026 legislative session, answered questions about state policies, and listened to feedback from residents about priorities they hope lawmakers will address in future sessions. "Constituents want practical solutions that make our communities safer, protect our neighborhoods, and preserve the character of Milford," Kennedy said. "Whether we're talking about crime, housing, or other state issues, I remain committed to bringing those concerns back to Hartford and advocating for common-sense policies on behalf of our community." Kennedy thanked everyone who attended the events and said she plans to continue hosting community conversations throughout the year to ensure residents have regular opportunities to share their ideas, ask questions, and stay informed about state government by following www.cga.ct.gov .

Rep. Kathy Kennedy Collects Student Artwork for America’s 250 Coloring Project

MILFORD – State Representative Kathy Kennedy recently visited Calf Pen Elementary School in Milford to collect student artwork for her America’s 250 Coloring Project, a special initiative celebrating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. During her visit, Kennedy stopped by Ms. Steinau’s kindergarten classroom to thank students for participating and to see their patriotic artwork firsthand. The project encourages young learners to explore their creativity while recognizing this historic milestone in our nation’s history. Representative Kennedy is displaying the student artwork in her legislative office, where the art will be showcased. “What a wonderful way for our youngest students to learn about America’s 250th birthday while expressing their amazing creativity,” Kennedy said. “I’m grateful to the students, teachers, and staff for making this project such a success, and I look forward to displaying their artwork in my office.” The America’s 250 Coloring Project is part of ongoing efforts to engage students in civic education and celebrate the nation’s 250 th Birthday in a fun and meaningful way.