Capitol Update, December 1st

As a result of the public’s engagement, the governor has decided not to put forth his regulatory mandates that would have banned the sales of gas-powered cars and trucks by 2035. This is welcome news for Connecticut residents and businesses. However, he also indicated that this move is only a pause in his administration’s efforts to get his mandates passed. I will keep you updated on this issue, as it is bound to resurface at some point in the legislative session.

Public Comment on DEEP Study…

The Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is requesting public comment on a study its designing and will be conducting as part of a new law that was passed in the 2023 session. The law requires the department:

“to (1) evaluate the feasibility of deploying small modular reactors, advanced nuclear reactors, fusion energy facilities and other zero carbon resources that can improve affordability, fuel security, renewable integration, and winter reliability within the New England regional electric grid; (2) review the process for power purchase agreements procured pursuant to a state solicitation or pursuant to the state’s renewable energy programs and identify best practices to ensure reliability in associated energy markets, reasonably reduce costs to ratepayers and promote conservation; and (3) review the state’s gas supply system and evaluate whether current supply and capacity is adequate to meet the energy needs of residences and power plants in the state.”

Written comments may be filed electronically on DEEP’s website or submitted to “DEEP.EnergyBureau@ct.gov” with “PA 23-102 Study Written Comments” in the subject line no later than December 8, 2023 at 4:00 PM EST. All materials submitted by stakeholders in this proceeding will be posted on DEEP’s Energy Filings page under the proceeding title “Section 35 of Public Act 23-103 Study.” Any questions can be directed to DEEP.EnergyBureau@ct.gov.

Ann Antolini School Visit…

Fourth grade students from New Hartford’s Ann Antolini School visited the State Capitol on Tuesday, November 28th. I spoke with two separate tour groups, each engaging and interested to learn about our state government. We had a great discussion about the House chamber operations and how Connecticut’s laws are made.

Congratulations to First Selectman Don Stein…

Congratulations to First Selectman Don Stein of Barkhamsted upon his retirement after 16 years of selfless service to that town as First Selectman. Last night at the Parrot Delaney Tavern in New Hartford, a surprise retirement party was held. Along with Senator Lisa Seminara, I presented to him a citation from the General Assembly that recognized him for over 33 years of dedicated service to the Town of Barkhamsted, culminating with sixteen years as First Selectman. We wish Don, and his wife Linda, a long and happy retirement.

Please contact me if you need assistance with matters related to our state government or state agencies.

Kind regards,

State Representative Mark Anderson

Proudly Serving Connecticut’s 62nd General Assembly District