The CT Dept. of Veterans Affairs will be hosting STAND DOWN 2023 on Friday, September 22, from 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., to provide access to a range of programs and services offered by state and federal agencies, Veterans organizations, and community-based non-profits at five regional sites across the State.

The regional sites include:

• Rocky Hill: CTDVA main campus 287 West Street.
• Bridgeport: University of Bridgeport, Wheeler Recreational Center, 400 University Ave.
• Bristol: Gregory CCD Center,…
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“Let me win.

If I cannot win,

Let me be brave in the attempt.”

Sounds like an election day prayer, doesn’t it?

It’s not. It’s the Special Olympics Athlete oath, one I know well. It was one of the first things I moved into my legislative office, and a mantra more folks should embody.

I had the chance to rappel 30 plus stories down Mohegan Sun to raise money for a great cause. Well outside my comfort zone, but it was an organization I have been involved with even longer than my tenure in public service.…

Beginning Sunday, August 20, and concluding on Saturday, August 26, clothing items and footwear sold in Connecticut (under $100 per item) will be exempt from the state’s sales tax. This tax holiday was established by the Connecticut General Assembly and will be celebrated for the 23^rd time this year.

This is a good time to revamp your wardrobe or take your students back to school shopping. The exemption also applies to sales completed on-line.

For additional information on Connecticut Tax Free week,…

The Office of Legislative Research (OLR) has published several “Acts Affecting” reports. These reports provide an overview of major topics that the legislature addressed during the 2023 session. Some of these topics include taxes, transportation, and business & jobs.

The entire collection of reports can be viewed by clicking here. A selection of the reports can be found below.

Acts Affecting Taxes

• Personal income tax rate cuts (pg. 5)
• Retirement Income Tax Exemption ‘Cliff’ (pg. 5)
• Freeze on diesel…
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Unemployment claim fraud is on the rise – an alarming trend that can be detrimental to one’s identity integrity. The CT Dept. of Labor has several resources available, for both employers and employees, to protect identity and limit instances of fraud. There are also resources to use in the event you believe that you, or your company, may be a victim of fraud.

You can learn more about CTDOL’s Integrity Unit by clicking here.

If you believe you are a victim of a fraudulent claim, you can access the…

The Office of Legislative Research, with assistance of the Office of Fiscal Analysis, have compiled the annual Major Public Acts report. This report provides summaries of the major pieces of legislation that were approved by the legislature in 2023. The report covers many topics, including:

• Budget and tax information
• Enhanced financial protections for seniors
• New social media policies for minors
• Anti-theft measures to reduce catalytic converter thefts
• Job programs for those with intellectual and…
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HARTFORD – The House of Representatives approved a $51 billion, two-year state budget on Tuesday. State Rep. Christie Carpino (R-Cromwell) voted in favor of the budget bill that delivers historic levels of tax relief and stays within the legislature’s spending guardrails.

“When we began our initial budget talks, both parties agreed to adhere to our spending and borrowing caps. This framework helped set parameters which ended in a bipartisan agreement. I commend my colleagues on both sides of the…

Hartford – State Representatives Michelle Cook (D-Torrington) and Christie Carpino (R-Cromwell) are celebrating the passage of legislation that addresses step therapy.

Step therapy occurs when insurance companies require patients to use a cheaper, generic medication before they’ll pay for the medication deemed most appropriate, which may be more expensive. However, this practice can potentially be harmful to individuals who are suffering from illnesses and conditions that need immediate treatment.…

CROMWELL, CT – State Senator Matt Lesser (D-Middletown), State Representative Christie Carpino (R-Cromwell) and local school leaders welcome news that the state Department of Administrative Services has increased the state reimbursement rate for the Cromwell Middle School construction project from 39.64% to 49.64% which could save the Town of Cromwell as much as $7 million dollars.

Last June, Cromwell voters approved constructing a replacement for the current school based on estimates of $58.6 million.…