Dear Neighbors,

As we look ahead to the new beginnings of 2026, it’s a great time to reflect on the memories and milestones of the past year. As you gather with friends and family over the next few days, I wish you a very happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year. I also wanted to share a quick synopsis of several new laws that will take effect on January 1, 2026, along with a few additional updates from the Capitol and our district.

New Laws Effective January 1st

New laws in Connecticut typically take effect on July 1, October 1, or January 1. Below is a brief overview of some of the laws becoming effective on January 1. To view a complete list, you can click here.

• Housing Legislation (H.B. 8002): Passed as part of the November special session and addressed as an “emergency,” this sweeping housing bill makes several changes to zoning requirements, eliminates certain parking mandates, and shifts more decision-making authority to regional boards.
• Work Zone Driver Education Requirement (H.B. 7160): An increase in work zone traffic accidents has led to serious injuries and, tragically, fatalities. This new law requires drivers found at fault in work zone crashes, as well as new drivers seeking a license, to complete a work zone driving education course.
• Minimum Wage Increase: Connecticut’s minimum wage will increase from $16.35 to $16.94, continuing to rank among the highest in the nation. While this aims to support workers, it also places additional pressure on small businesses and service providers already facing rising operating costs.

$43 Million in Government Fraud Detected

The U.S. Department of Justice, in coordination with the Connecticut Attorney General’s Office, has issued orders to recover nearly $43 million in fraudulent funds. These cases involve Medicaid fraud, tax evasion, misuse of COVID stimulus money, and other schemes that defrauded Connecticut and U.S. taxpayers, based on a review of enforcement announcements made by both offices throughout 2025.

Read more by clicking here.

Office Hours (Last Chance for Sign-ups)

I invite residents of the 62nd District to meet with me ahead of the 2026 Legislative Session, which begins February 4th! Details below:

📅 Thursday, January 8th

In-Person Appointments

Time: 2:00–4:00 PM

Location: Granby Public Library

Address: 15 N Granby Rd, Granby, CT 06035

Remote Appointments (Zoom)

Time: 5:00–8:00 PM

A Zoom link will be emailed upon appointment confirmation.

I am also glad to meet at times or locations that may work better for you. Use the sign-up form below to schedule a 25-minute appointment (with possible extra time available if needed) for yourself or your group.

Sign-up link available here.

Please contact me if you need assistance with matters related to our state agencies and legislature. I would be happy to speak with you.

Kind regards, 

State Representative Mark Anderson

Proudly Serving Connecticut's 62nd General Assembly District