Seth Bronko

New Laws for Oct. 1

Hartford - Several new state laws will go into effect on October 1 and may be important to you, your family or your business. Our priority remains protecting public safety, supporting our veterans, and keeping state government accountable to taxpayers. Key legislative updates include: Enhanced Road Safety & Fines: Starting October 1, drivers face tougher penalties for certain violations. Distracted driving is now expanded to drivers who watch videos on their phones, and drivers who violate storm travel bans face an increase of fines to $250, among other changes. E-Bike Guidelines ( P.A. 26-24 ): Establishes an exact 750-watt motor limit for e-bikes, restricts Class 2 bikes on natural-surface paths without local authorization, and excludes dirt bikes and ATVs from e-bike classifications. Expanded Dental Care for Veterans ( P.A. 26-35 ): Under the Hero Act, eligible veterans can receive up to $3,000 per year for dental care. Consumer Privacy Safeguards ( P.A. 26-64 ): Among other changes, it prohibits a streaming video service from transmitting to a consumer commercial advertising audio that is louder than the video it accompanies, consistent with FCC regulations; makes violations a CUTPA violation. All new laws can be viewed by clicking here .

Rep. Bronko Earns Perfect Voting Record for the 2026 Legislative Session

HARTFORD – State Representative Seth Bronko (R-Naugatuck) earned a 100% voting record for all roll call votes taken on the floor of the House of Representatives during the 2026 legislative session. The House Clerk’s Office recently released data showing that Rep. Bronko had cast a total of 316 votes during the session, giving him a perfect record. "Every vote is an opportunity to stand up for the people of the 70th District, whether it's fighting for lower taxes, more affordable energy, safer communities, or greater government accountability," Rep. Bronko said. "You can't do that if you're not in the chamber, and even if it means many late nights at the Capitol, it’s worth it. I'm honored to have been present for every vote this session and remain committed to working hard for Naugatuck every single day." 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 by clicking here .

Tax-Free Week Starts on Aug. 16

HARTFORD - With the start of school just around the corner, Rep. Seth Bronko 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 .

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.”