Cara Pavalock-D'Amato

State Representative Cara Pavalock-D'Amato votes NO on SB 397

(Hartford)- State Representative Cara Pavalock-D'Amato voted “NO” along with Republican colleagues on SB 397, an act concerning democracy and government accountability, raising concerns that the bill will have a negative impact on public safety. Individuals opposed have voiced that this bill protects illegal aliens over federal officers, by creating limits that make it harder for them to do their job successfully and safely. The bill prohibits law enforcement from wearing facial coverings and requires them to wear name badges, making it a class D misdemeanor for violations. It also exposes law enforcement to liability for arrests made in “protected areas” such as courthouses or hospitals, and removes immunity from federal officers in criminal prosecutions unless the federal officer’s actions are authorized by federal law and necessary to execute the officer’s official duties. Republicans argued on the floor that these provisions will risk the safety of ICE agents and their families while also creating barriers when performing their duties. “I myself have been through the immigration process [referring to her first husband who was a Venezuelan National], and I protect and support those who come to this country legally,” said State Rep. Cara Pavalock-Damato. “What I do not support is those who come to this country illegally and commit crimes. Our federal immigration officers protect our country and make it safer, and instead of protecting them back, the Democratic party has voted to place limitations on ICE and have made it more difficult for them to do their job.” “Ultimately it comes down to balance. We can be a nation that welcomes immigrants. We can also be a nation that enforces its laws. These are not contradictions—they are responsibilities,” said Rep. Pavalock-Damato. “Supporting ICE agents is about recognizing the necessity of their role in a lawful society because a nation that enforces its laws with fairness and integrity is not weaker, it is stronger.”

Rep. Pavalock-D'Amato Delivers Pet Blankets to Local Animal Shelter

On Friday, State Representative Cara Pavalock-D'Amato delivered a portion of the pet blankets she collected during the month of December to The Simon Foundation in Bloomfield. "I want to thank everyone who went out of their way to contribute toward this drive and helping animal shelters in our area," she said. The second portion of the blankets that were collected in December will be delivered in the upcoming month.

United Way Legislative Breakfast Highlights Legislative Priorities and Programs

I spent Tuesday morning with other lawmakers discussing programs offered by the United Way and hearing about some of their legislative priorities. One of the programs highlighted I found interesting was 860Rides. This program aims to help compensate in need young adults ages 16-29 with travel expenses for work, ensuring that they have reliable transportation to their jobs. While the United Way doesn't hand out the assistance directly, they do work alongside their partners to help individuals who have been referred to them. For more information visit their website below. https://unitedwayinc.org/our-work/wages/860rides/ In addition, for those who may not be aware, the United Way of West Central Connecticut that serves Bristol, Burlington, Plainville and Plymouth has merged with the United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut (Hartford-based) in mid-2025. If you have questions or concerns regarding VITA, you will need to call Hartford at (860) 971-4750.

Rep. Pavalock-D'Amato Helps Salvation Army Raise Money for Local Families

Thank you to everyone who stopped to say hello, wished me a Merry Christmas, or helped with the Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign by making a donation. The money raised during these events will go toward providing gifts for children, putting food on the dinner table, assisting with shelter, and other much needed support for local families in need. If you haven't had an opportunity to help and are able to, you can visit https://salarmy.us/bristolredkettle or Text BRISTOL to 31333.

Bristol Lawmakers to Meet for Monthly Coffee Hour

State Representative Cara Pavalock-D'Amato, State Representative Joe Hoxha, and State Senator Henri Martin will be at Rodd's on Friday, December 5th for their monthly coffee hour. If Bristol residents are interested in discussing housing, Connecticut's affordability, public safety, electricity costs, or anything else related to state government, they welcome you to join them.