Seth Bronko

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 .

Rep. Seth Bronko Calls for Accountability Following Troubling CSCU Allegations and Resignation of Board of Regents Chair

HARTFORD – State Representative Seth Bronko , Ranking Member of the Higher Education Committee, issued the following statement regarding allegations involving the former chancellor of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) and resignation of Marty Guay as the chair of the Connecticut Board of Regents for Higher Education: “The allegations involving former CSCU Chancellor John Maduko are deeply disturbing and raise serious concerns about accountability and leadership within the CSCU system. Students, faculty, and staff deserve an environment built on professionalism, respect, and integrity, and that especially applies to its leadership, both current and future. Though Mr. Guay has resigned as well, combined with recent audit findings involving payroll errors, excessive administrative leave payments, and transparency concerns, these continual headlines paint a troubling picture of management within the system. Connecticut taxpayers deserve confidence that public institutions are being properly overseen and managed responsibly. Given the growing concerns surrounding CSCU, it may be appropriate for the legislature to consider an oversight hearing to review these issues more closely and determine what reforms may be necessary. I look forward to working with the chairs of the Higher Education Committee to ensure that these kinds of headlines cease and that CSCU starts to make headlines for the right reasons: graduating the skilled talent that Connecticut needs.”

Reps. Jensen and Bronko to Hold Mid-Session Legislative Discussion

State Representative Arnold Jensen 131st District: Naugatuck, Oxford & Southbury Press Contact: alexa.furniss@cga.ct.gov Reps. Jensen and Bronko to Hold Mid-Session Legislative Discussion NAUGATUCK– Rep. Arnold Jensen, R-131st, and Rep. Seth Bronko, R-70th, are inviting residents to join them on Tuesday, April 14, when they will host a Mid-Session Legislative Update at the offices of the Naugatuck Board of Education. The event, which is open to all members of the public, is focused on connecting with constituents, discussing local priorities, updates on bills, as well as any other state government-related topic. This update is open to all residents and will provide an opportunity to talk about state and local matters, or any other government-related topic that is on their mind. When: Tuesday, April 14 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Where: 497 Rubber Avenue, Naugatuck Rep. Jensen can be contacted at Arnold.Jensen@housegop.ct.gov or (800) 842-1423 with any questions or concerns related to state government. You can also follow his legislative activity by visiting his website or on Facebook by clicking here.

Rep. Bronko Joins Naugatuck Delegation in Breaking Ground on New Downtown Development

NAUGATUCK – Rep. Seth Bronko, R-Naugatuck , joined local leaders, community partners, and project developers to break ground on the Parcel B redevelopment, which is a major step forward in transforming a long-vacant lot into a vibrant, mixed-use development right in the heart of downtown Naugatuck. The development was funded in part by a remediation grant to convert a 7.75-acre city-owned property at 0 Maple Street, into a space for residential and commercial properties. "For my entire life living in Naugatuck, this lot has remained vacant," Rep. Bronko said . "Today, we see a reimagining a revitalization of our downtown as we build Naugatuck’s future. It's exciting to see these vital properties coming back to life." Combined with the development of a new train station just steps away, this project marks real progress in efforts to create a more connected, revitalized downtown that serves residents and businesses alike. The first phase of the project is expected to take about a year to complete.

State Funding Secured for New Accessible and Inclusive Playground in Honor of Charles 'Chip' Schofield

NAUGATUCK, CT – State Representative Seth Bronko (R-Naugatuck) announced today that he has successfully secured $300,000 in state funding to support the construction of a new inclusive and accessible playground in Naugatuck that will be named “Chip’s Place.” The project honors the memory of Charles “Chip” Schofield III, a respected retired Naugatuck Police detective, school resource officer, and dedicated community leader who passed away in April 2024. The new playground will bring to life a vision Chip long championed - creating a place where children of all abilities can play, connect, and grow together. “Chip was the kind of person who made a difference just by showing up - whether it was mentoring students, supporting families in need, or volunteering his time for so many good causes,” said Rep. Bronko. “He dreamed of a playground that would truly include everyone - kids with physical disabilities, sensory challenges, or autism - and now, thanks to this funding, that dream is becoming a reality. I'm honored to help make this project happen in his memory, and I think we’re all looking forward to the day we can officially break ground on this wonderful new playground.” Planning for the playground, Chip’s Place, is still in the early stages but should feature accessible play structures, a rubberized foundation for safety, and sensory-friendly equipment designed for children with autism and other sensory needs. Initial plans also include fencing, picnic tables, and shaded seating areas so that families can comfortably gather and watch their children play. The space will be designed to encourage interaction and inclusion - ensuring that all kids, regardless of ability, have the chance to explore, laugh, and play together in what are known as "boundless playgrounds." “Chip wanted to see something where all kids could play,” said Melissa Schofield, Chip’s wife. “Creating a place that welcomes children of every ability was something he cared deeply about. Knowing that this playground will bring joy to kids and families right here in the community he loved so much means the world to us. We’re grateful to Rep. Bronko, Parks Department Superintendent Sandra Lucas-Ribeiro and everyone who donated time and money to help bring this vision to life in his memory.” Mr. Schofield, a husband and father of three, served with the Naugatuck Police Department for 20 years, earning the respect of colleagues, students, and residents alike through his roles as a detective, D.A.R.E. officer, and advisor to the Police Explorers. After retiring in 2019, he continued to serve the community while working as a school security officer in Watertown. Now that state funding has been secured, the Naugatuck’s Parks & Recreation Department can begin the planning and design phase for Chip’s Place, working with inclusive playground experts to ensure the final design meets the highest standards for accessibility, safety, and fun. Rep. Bronko can be contacted at Seth.Bronko@housegop.ct.gov or (800) 842-1423 with any questions or concerns related to state government. You can also follow his legislative activity by visiting his website, www.cthousegop.com/Bronko or on Facebook here.