Mark Anderson

Standing Up for Connecticut’s Veterans

HARTFORD / ROCKY HILL - As Ranking Member of the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Rep. Mark Anderson recently attended several recent events that focused on caring for Connecticut’s Veterans. These two key events were the Veterans Stand Down in Rocky Hill, which provided essential services, medical screenings, and meals, and a meeting of the Veterans with Disabilities Task Force at the State Capitol alongside VA Commissioner Ron Welch and retired Brigadier General Nieves to tackle the critical issue of veteran suicide prevention. Events like Stand Down are an important reminder that serving our veterans doesn’t end when they come home. They deserve access to the benefits, services, resources and support they have earned through their service to our country. Veterans commit suicide at a concerning rate of more than 17 each day, and each one is more than a number, they are a loved one. Rep. Anderson continues to listen, works to close gaps in care and ensure they receive the resources they have earned. If you or a veteran you know is struggling, please reach out for help. https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

Rep. Anderson Joins Republican Colleagues to Unveil Plan to Address Affordability

HARTFORD - Rep. Mark Anderson recently joined his Republican colleagues in Hartford for a press conference focused on making Connecticut more affordable. House and Senate Republicans are answering the calls from families and businesses who paying far too much for just about everything, and they presented their plan on how to address it at the state level. The Senators and Representatives are pushing for wide-ranging financial relief that they believe residents will benefit from, including: Eliminating the public benefits charge on electric bills Reducing the income tax Lowering health insurance premiums Eliminating the Highway Use Tax to lower costs of everyday products Providing relief at the gas pump by halting gas taxes for a year People work very hard for their money, and shouldn't have to watch more and more of it disappear into taxes, fees and rising costs, according to Anderson. It's time to make affordability a priority for Connecticut families, and Rep. Anderson pledged to keep fighting for that in Hartford.

Connecticut’s Revolution Exhibit Now Open to Public - No Charge for Admission

HARTFORD - If you’re looking for something interesting to do with the family, the Museum of Connecticut History in Hartford has an exhibit worth checking out that's a part of Connecticut’s 250th anniversary celebration. The Connecticut’s Revolution exhibit explores the people, ideas and experiences that shaped Connecticut during the American Revolution, and how our state helped shape the course of American history. Highlights include the “Goddard Broadside,” one of only nine copies of the Declaration of Independence printed by Mary Katharine Goddard Connecticut’s resolution of June 14, 1776 sanctioning the state’s Continental Congressional delegates to vote for independence A pocket watch that crossed the Delaware River with its owner and George Washington The museum is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with Family Saturdays once a month continuing through June 2027. Best of all, there's no charge for admission. It’s a great opportunity to learn a little Connecticut history, bring the kids, and see some of the documents and artifacts that tell the story of our state during one of the most important periods in American history. The Museum of Connecticut History is located inside the Connecticut State Library at 231 Capitol Avenue in Hartford.

Tax-Free Week Starts on Aug. 16

HARTFORD - With the start of school just around the corner, Rep. Mark Anderson is informing residents that Connecticut will once again offer a tax-free sales week on many items and this year the list of eligible items has expanded. From Sunday, August 16 through Saturday, August 22, you can shop for most clothing and shoes under $300 without paying state sales tax. It’s perfect for families stocking up on back-to-school clothing, or anyone who wants to add to their wardrobes. Backpacks and other items are now eligible for this week as well. Every bit of savings helps, and this is a great chance to keep more money in your pocket while supporting our local businesses! More details can be found here .

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 .