Posted on July 26, 2021
The nonprofit RecycleCT is launching a new app (downloadable from the App Store and Google Play) that will allow users to type in an item to find out if it can be placed in the recycling bin or not. Often, entire truckloads of recycling may be rejected because they are mixed with non-recyclables, making it extremely difficult to sort at the facilities. This useful tool will help residents and municipalities determine what will be accepted, hence cutting down on waste. It will also save money towns…
Posted on July 26, 2021
Please join me for a legislative update town hall-style meeting THIS WEDNESDAY, July 28 at the Comstock Community Center at 180 School Road in Wilton from 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Pizza will be provided!
We will be discussing the recently concluded 2021 legislative session, as well as the special sessions on marijuana and the extension of Governor Lamont’s emergency powers. See below for more information on some of the major bills/legislation. I hope you can join us!
Regular & Special Session Recap
In…
Posted on July 15, 2021
HARTFORD – State Representative and Deputy House Republican Leader Tom O’Dea (R-New Canaan, Wilton) vocally opposed the governor’s most recent request to extend his emergency powers – his sixth request since the onset of the pandemic last March. Rep. O’Dea joined all Republicans and nine Democrats in voting no. The resolution, HR 202, passed in the House 73-56. The Senate passed an identical resolution, SR 52, which passed by a vote of 19-15.
“While I am appreciative of the governor’s leadership…
Posted on July 7, 2021
The 2021 is now behind us and I would like to get your feedback on some of the major bills that passed this year and hopefully answer some of your questions. Please join me for coffee and doughnuts this Saturday, July 10 in the New Canaan Town Hall Meeting Room from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Between the state budget, marijuana legalization, zoning legislation, and many other bills that will affect our towns, there will be much to discuss.
Of course, if you are unable to attend, you may always contact…
Posted on June 22, 2021
Governor Lamont has announced a comprehensive plan to invest in Connecticut’s aging rail system. This program, called “Time for CT”, aims to provide more direct service, including reduced travel time and increased train frequency, over the next several years. The plan also includes investment in infrastructure, safety enhancements, and a new rail fleet.
The governor is hopeful that this plan will lead to statewide economic growth and environmental sustainability.
CT’s rail system is one of the busiest…
Posted on June 3, 2021
HARTFORD – Deputy House Republican Leader Tom O’Dea (R-New Canaan, Wilton) cosponsored and applauded the unanimous passage of HB 6520¸ An Act Concerning the Provision of Temporary State Services to Victims of Domestic Violence.
Too often, victims do not come forward because they fear the financial repercussions from the loss of income upon leaving their spouse/partner. This bill makes that decision a little easier by providing that much-needed financial security and empowering victims of domestic…
Posted on May 21, 2021
Bills Passes CT House on Near-Party Line Vote
HARTFORD – State Representative Tom O’Dea (R-New Canaan, Wilton), Deputy House Republican Leader, voted with all Republican members and eight Democrats in opposing HB 6107, An Act Concerning the Reorganization of the Zoning Enabling Act and the Promotion of Municipal Compliance. The bill would establish state mandates for the construction of affordable housing and limit the authority of local planning and zoning (P&Z) boards in land use matters. The proposal,…
Posted on May 20, 2021
HARTORD—House Republican Leaders on Thursday issued the following statement in response to reports of a vehicle stolen in Manchester with a child inside:
“We started this legislative session with a clear message from Connecticut residents frustrated by the increasing threat of motor vehicle-related crimes committed by juveniles. They wanted the General Assembly to tackle this public safety crisis, yet here we are, with roughly three weeks left before the session’s end, and we’re no closer to being…
Posted on April 30, 2021
Earlier this year, Governor Lamont committed our state to the regional Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI). This initiative, although well-intended, would actually create an additional gas tax to be paid by Connecticut residents and businesses. Not only would TCI increase fuel costs for commuters, but it would also drive up prices for consumer goods. This regressive tax would, in fact, affect our low-income communities, which ironically is the same demographic this bill is intended to help.…
Posted on April 30, 2021
Yesterday, the state’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) ruled that Eversource committed serious violations in its response to, and lack of preparedness for, Tropical Storm Isaias. Poor communication with customers and other stakeholders was also a major issue as residents throughout New Canaan and Wilton awaited updates from their power company.
The storm left nearly one million Connecticut residents and businesses without power for several days last August amid the global pandemic and…