Mark Anderson

New Laws as of July 1st, Including Support for Veterans and Earmark-Reform Legislation

HARTFORD - New laws are now in effect as of July 1, including several that were House Republican initiatives. These laws cover a range of topics, from the enactment of the state budget adjustments to “earmark” reforms and support for veterans. Expanding Tax Free Week Tax free week in Connecticut will now expand the scope of savings. The exempt sales price limit has been raised for clothing items and shoes from $100 to $300. Cleated footwear and backpacks under $300 will also now be included in tax-free week. Supporting Veterans Two bills benefiting veterans in our state are in effect. P.A. 26-35, known as the Veterans "HERO Act," will protect, enhance, and expand benefits for veterans and active-duty service members. It expands tuition waivers for veterans attending state universities and community colleges, creates protections against "claim sharks," and provides tax relief. P.A. 26-111 will require cities and towns to appoint a committee of veterans to maintain the graves of those who served in the armed forces. The Department of Veterans Affairs will also be required to provide an online form that individuals can fill out alerting them of a neglected veteran's grave. Increased Accountability for State Funds We created a law implementing stricter guidelines to ensure legislative funds are being spent for their intended purposes, and that nonprofits and community organizations that are receiving these funds are properly identified. A full list of legislation can be found at this link .

June Is Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month

June is Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease and the importance of maintaining brain health throughout life. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting memory, thinking, and behavior. While age is the greatest known risk factor, Alzheimer's is not a normal part of aging. Early recognition of symptoms can help individuals and families access support and care sooner. Supporting brain health can include regular physical activity, a nutritious diet, quality sleep, social engagement, and staying mentally active. These healthy habits may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and improve overall well-being. This month also honors the millions of caregivers who provide support to loved ones living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Their compassion and dedication make a meaningful difference every day. During Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, take time to learn about the disease, support those affected, and promote healthy habits that benefit brain health at every age. Resources: Connecticut's Guide for Navigating Dementia Care Alzheimer’s Association

Major Public Acts 2026

The Connecticut General Assembly’s Office of Legislative Research has released its 2026 “Major Public Acts” report. It is an annual overview highlighting the most significant legislation enacted during this year’s legislative session. The report organizes new laws by policy area and provides a helpful summary of the changes that may affect Connecticut residents, families, municipalities, and businesses. I encourage you to take a look, as many of these updates could have a direct impact on your daily life or work. Click here to access the full report.

Supporting Riparian Buffer Zones

HARTFORD - State Rep. Mark Anderson (R-Granby) participated in the off-session working group to study and propose recommendations that will help preserve Connecticut's riparian buffer areas. A riparian buffer is a strip of trees, shrubs, and grasses planted or maintained alongside a waterway (such as a river, stream, lake, or pond). It acts as a natural, vegetated protective zone between land and water, filtering pollutants, stabilizing banks, and providing wildlife habitat. Check out his comments on the floor in support of passing legislation, H.B. 5334 An Act Concerning Riparian Areas.

Anderson Announces School/Taxpayers Relief & Affordability Plan (STRAP)

Connecticut’s broken education funding formula has forced cities and towns to make up the difference, leaving property taxpayers to shoulder the burden. The House Republican School Taxpayer Relief and Affordability Plan (STRAP) would return $365 million to communities across the state. For the 62nd District, that means: Barkhamsted – $222,064 Granby – $809,503 Hartland – $159,272 New Hartford – $447,582 STRAP is built directly into the state budget, so towns can count on consistent funding year after year—no scrambling, no uncertainty. It provides meaningful, sustainable relief for local property taxpayers while lawmakers continue working to fix the flawed Education Cost Sharing formula for good. More Information Click here to access the STRAP tool and see allocations for each town. Click here for the Pathway to Affordability plan site.