Capitol Update 1.8.2021
Posted on January 11, 2021
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
This Wednesday the General Assembly officially began the 2021 regular legislative session that will run until June 9th. The “long session” is used to establish a state budget and introduce bills of a general nature.
Most of this year’s session will be conducted remotely, as you may have already heard. This means that committee hearings, floor votes, and even office hours will be mostly conducted through Zoom, with lawmakers observing social distancing. While the Capitol Complex will remain closed to the public, there are many new opportunities to participate in the process and make sure your voice is heard.
Non-Partisan Major Issues Report
Every year, as the legislative session begins, the non-partisan Office of Legislative Research (OLR) publishes a report on the major issues that could be taken up by the legislature. OLR provides brief descriptions on several topics, including but not limited to: issues impacting seniors, the state budget, education funding, business programs and regulation, public utilities, and much more.
New Laws
January 1st often marks the start of many new laws. Last year because of the pandemic response fewer bills were passed with special sessions held during the summer months. This January new laws coming into effect include a price cap on insulin and diabetes related medical supplies, and updated regulations governing our public utilities.
Business Recovery Grant Program
The Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) announced a $35 million Business Recovery Grant Program, with the first checks to be mailed out in January. The program is aimed at small and midsized business – especially restaurants, bars, retail & entertainment establishments – with grant amounts between $10,000 and $30,000. Applications were not required, the DECD and the Department of Revenue Service expect to serve a pool of 1,500 to 2,000 eligible businesses across the state. The state continues to maintain a one-stop website for business needs: business.ct.gov.
Eversource “Kill-A-Watt” Kits Available for Connecticut Residents
Connecticut residents in Eversource service territory can check out a “Kill-A-Watt” kit from their local library. The kit includes a “Kill-A-Watt” meter and information to help homeowners and renters understand the three different types of electric use: plug, lighting, and mechanical.
With the help of a Kill-A-Watt meter and the Eversource educational booklet included in the kit, residents can measure and record the amount of electricity they’re consuming. The booklet also provides tips to help homeowners and renters reduce their energy use and electric costs.
“Kill-A-Watt” kits are available at:
- Colchester – Cragin Memorial Library
- East Haddam – East Haddam Free Public Library
- East Hampton – East Hampton Public Library
Eversource, a sponsor of Energize Connecticut, offers a host of ways to help you manage your energy consumption. For additional information on ways to save energy, visit Eversource.com or call 877-WISE-USE (877-947-3873).