Bolinsky Testifies in Support of Greater Public Health Provisions

HARTFORD – State Representative Mitch Bolinsky (R-Newtown) testified today in support of two separate provisions that will improve public health for all residents of Connecticut. Bolinsky gave compelling testimony on a bill that seeks to expand eligibility to donate blood and another bill that officially licenses art therapists. The genesis of both legislative proposals came directly from constituent requests.

According to Rep. Bolinsky, his advocacy for the blood donor bill began in late 2017 when a Newtown High School senior, Harrison Eppers, and his friend, Rory Edwards, contacted him. Both of these young men have since graduated Newtown High School but submitted captivating testimony. In their place, Michael Enaye has stepped-up to coordinate blood drives at Newtown High School. He too, submitted testimony.

Harry’s mother, Shelley, was being treated for Multiple Myeloma, a rare blood cancer. Blood transfusions are needed to help fight this form of cancer and one way to assure a reliable supply of life-saving is to hold blood drives. Harry and Rory held one in Newtown and the drive was a success, but they learned it could have had twice the impact if not for a shortcoming in state law. Unlike most other states, Connecticut currently does not allow individuals under the age of 17 to be blood donors.

Rep. Bolinsky stated, “We brought the blood donor bill all the way through the process last session, but ran out of time to get it signed into law. The majority of the country allows 16 year olds to donate blood, with written consent from a parent. The current blood shortage we have endangers fragile lives and contributes to the ever-rising cost of healthcare by adding costly logistical complications, as well as creating supply and demand cost escalation. The expansion of blood donor participation will save lives.”

Another way in which Rep. Bolinsky helps to improve lives is to create an official licensure mechanism for practicing art therapists.

In his written testimony, Rep. Bolinsky explained the process of becoming a licensed art therapist. Art therapists are credentialed by The American Art Therapy Association, which requires practitioners to complete an approved and accredited Art Therapy Master’s program, as well as to complete requirements of ethics training and standards of practice. However, the State of Connecticut has yet to officially recognize the practice of art therapy, and does not currently provide licenses to practice.

Rep. Bolinsky said, “Trauma victims, the elderly and individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities can benefit greatly from art therapy. It’s a complimentary therapeutic discipline. Art Therapists often work closely with other behavioral health professionals to reach patients. This unique form or therapy establishes a straight path from the subconscious to the paper, there is no language to dilute the truth. Creative arts and movement can open the soul to healing.”

Both bills will be revisited by the Public Health Committee in the coming weeks. The next step will be a committee vote on each bill, then, consideration by the entire House of Representatives and Senate.

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