Reps. Dubitsky, France and Sampson Speak to Laurel State Students
Just 13 hours after sine die was called to end the Special Session in Hartford, State Representatives Doug Dubitsky (R-Chaplin), Robert Sampson (R-Wolcott) and Mike France (R-Ledyard) found themselves yet again in front of a fully functional House Chamber. This time, however, their audience was a group of exceptional high school juniors from across Connecticut.
Reps. Dubitsky, France and Sampson attended a mock session held on June 30 by participants of the American Legion Auxiliary’s Laurel Girl’s State week-long program at Eastern Connecticut State University. Through this annual program, young women have the opportunity to gather and learn about policy creation and implementation.
The legislators, who addressed the students about state government, described the process of how a bill becomes a law and their specific role as a representative in the legislature. They answered questions about where their interest in politics arose, and the experience of seeing a bill they have worked on and are passionate about fail.
“Unfortunately, most of the bills we work on are ultimately killed,” Rep. Dubitsky said. “It’s part of the process. As I’m sure you will learn this week, you have to stay on your toes and react to things as they happen.”
“It has been quite an interesting session as a Freshman Legislator at the Capitol,” said Rep. France. “One of the most surprising things I learned working throughout the legislative process is the difference between political rhetoric that you read in the newspaper, and the collaboration seen between Democrats and Republicans at the working level. It was great to work with my fellow legislators across the aisle with some success on specific issues of concern to our municipalities and constituents.”
“I enjoyed meeting with these future leaders and I was impressed with their ideas,” Rep. Sampson said. “I’m sure this experience will help them in their future as they head off to college, the workforce or even political office.”
After their presentation, the legislators spoke to individuals about their progress and experience that week. The students were eager to share the bills they created and were working to promote, and asked the legislators for advice.
“You will certainly remember this experience for the rest of your lives,” Rep. Dubitsky said. “You have all done an amazing job here and you should be proud of what you have accomplished.”
Rep. France added, “I applaud you all for the hard work you’ve done in and for this program, and encourage you to get involved at the local, state or federal level to make a difference with issues of importance to you, whether that be running for elected office or as a strong advocate.”
France represents the 42nd district covering Ledyard, Preston and Montville.
Dubitsky represents the 40th district covering Canterbury, Chaplin, Franklin, Hampton, Lebanon, Lisbon, Norwich, Scotland and Sprague.
Sampson represents the 80th district covering Southington and Wolcott.