Following their first public forum of the 2019 Legislative Session, State Representative Dorinda Borer (D-West Haven) was named leader to represent the Democratic members and State Representative Rosa Rebimbas (R- Naugatuck) was elected to lead the Republican members as joint co-chairs in the Bipartisan Women’s Caucus.

“I’m incredibly thrilled and proud to be representing the women leaders and this caucus which is not the largest and most influential caucus at the Capitol,” said Rep. Borer. “Women’s issues are all encompassing; they are not strictly issues that involve women. They involve men, children, and every aspect of our day to day lives. We had great successes during the last legislative session and I look forward to growing those accomplishments as we enter the 2019 legislative session. We are 61 women strong and I’m so delighted to watch this caucus flourish as one of the largest in the General Assembly.”

“I am honored to be co-chairing the Bipartisan Women’s Caucus once again,” Rep. Rebimbas said. “This incredible group of legislators is dedicated to advancing bills that will enhance the lives of women and their families across the state. Thank you to everyone who was able to join us today and I look forward to working with my colleagues on these issues during session and throughout the year.”

In Connecticut, women make up of 52 percent of the population and women owned businesses employee an estimated 95,000. The bipartisan caucus met early Tuesday to kick off the legislative session and stress the importance of women’s issues in our state. This session, the caucus will include 20 freshman legislators.

Rep. Borer will be stepping into a role previously held by State Representative Kim Rose (D-Milford). “Representative Rose helped navigate the women’s caucus during a difficult budget year, but stayed focused on driving important initiatives for everyone. I hope to build upon the influential work she began,” said Rep. Borer. “I look forward to continuing the bipartisan partnership with Rep. Rebimbas to accomplish our shared goals.”

“This is a monumental year for women in the legislature,” said Rep. Rose. “During the election cycle, we cheered on 132 women running for a seat in the General Assembly. Now, at our first meeting on the Bipartisan Women’s Caucus we are pleased to welcome our 20 new members. This is a very exciting time to be a part of the caucus and I’m thrilled that Rep. Borer has been chosen as my successor. It was a pleasure working with Rep. Rebimbas for the last 4 years. We made significant strides and formed a friendship”

In attendance at the meeting was Republican Leader Themis Klarides (R-Derby, Orange, Woodbridge), Majority Leader Matt Ritter (D-Hartford), CT NOW President Cindy Wolfe Boynton, Greenwich YMCA Chair and member of Governor Lamont’s Women’s Policy Committee Mary Lee Kiernan, Permeant Commission on the Status of Women in Connecticut member Tina Courpas, and Arvia Walker of Planned Parenthood of Southern New England.

During the last legislative session, the women’s caucus supported several bills ranging from healthcare benefits and access to pay equity. As they enter the 2019 legislative session, the Women’s Caucus will be reviewing and discussing about the proposed bills.

NAUGATUCK – State Rep. Rosa Rebimbas and State Senator George S. Logan will be volunteering to raise money for local residents in need by collecting for the Salvation Army at the Walmart, 1100 New Haven Road on Friday, Dec. 21 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

All proceeds collected during the bell ringing will be donated directly to the Salvation Army.

The legislators welcome all area residents to stop by the store and help make the fundraising event a success.

If you are unable to make it on December 21, you can donate on the Salvation Army’s website at www.salvationarmyusa.org, which also lists other ways to do good this holiday season; for example, by donating cars, clothing, household goods, airline miles, bonds and stocks, or volunteering for the community.

The Salvation Army responds to natural disasters such as wildfires and tornadoes, provides meals and toys to families in need, and conducts research and analyses regarding human needs around the country. They also provide adult rehabilitation, veteran services, elderly services, missing person searches, housing assistance, youth recreation, sponsorship, and support in the fight to end human trafficking.

For more information on the event, please contact Rep. Rebimbas at 800-842-1423 or Sen. Logan at 800-842-1421.

Rep. Rebimbas represents Naugatuck.

Sen. Logan represents Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Derby, Hamden, Naugatuck and Woodbridge.

HARTFORD – On Tuesday, State Representative Rosa C. Rebimbas (R-Naugatuck) was renamed Ranking Member of the joint Judiciary Committee by House Republican Leader Themis Klarides. Rep. Rebimbas will also maintain her leadership position as a House Republican Whip as well as her role on the Legislative Management Committee. Additionally, she will now serve on the Public Health Committee.

In addition, Rep. Rebimbas will continue to serve as Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Women’s Caucus, the Waterbury Line Caucus, and as a member of the School Safety Working Group.

“I am excited to continue my work on Judiciary and Legislative Management, and I look forward to starting a new role as a member of the Public Health Committee,” Rep. Rebimbas said, following the announcement of her positions at the Capitol. “I thank Republican Leader Klarides for appointing me to these leadership positions as we prepare for what will certainly be an eventful 2019 session. I enjoy bringing my passion for law into the committee room where we consider several important bills each year as well as critical judicial appointments. We have a challenging five months ahead, but I am committed to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to improve the state of affairs in Connecticut.”

The Judiciary Committee handles all matters relating to courts, judicial procedures, civil, criminal and corporate law, and probate courts, among other legal matters. Additionally, the committee oversees all judicial nominations, and all matters relating to the Judicial Department, the Department of Correction and the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities.

The Legislative Management Committee oversees the operations, personnel, committee work and business affairs of the General Assembly.

The Public Health Committee oversees the Department of Public Health, the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, the Department of Developmental Services, the Office of Health Care Access, and all other matters relating to health, including emergency medical services, all licensing boards within the Department of Public Health, nursing homes, pure food and drugs, and controlled substances, including the treatment of substance abuse.

The General Assembly will convene on January 9^th, 2019 for a five-month session that will end at midnight on June 5^th. In the odd years, the legislature must vote on a biennial state budget, which must pass before they adjourn.

HARTFORD – State Representative Rosa C. Rebimbas (R-Naugatuck) and Sen. George Logan (R- Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Derby, Hamden, Naugatuck and Woodbridge) were recognized as Co-Legislators of the Year by the Associated Builders and Contractors of Connecticut at their annual Excellence in Construction awards dinner on Thursday, October 25th at the Aqua Turf.

Chris Fryxell, President of CT ABC, said the two lawmakers were recognized due in part to their work in Hartford to advance the cause of commercial building. Rep. Rebimbas and Sen. Logan are supportive of legislation to improve the state’s economic climate, and help streamline regulations that unnecessarily drive up costs and inhibit the ability of contractors to perform work.

“The construction industry was hit particularly hard by the Great Recession and has faced challenges in the years since,” Rep. Rebimbas said. “Connecticut’s fiscal situation is deteriorating and its economy is stagnant, which in turn has hurt our builders and contractors. We must make this state a better option for businesses and residents so our construction industry and commercial real estate market can fully recover as well. I am thankful for this recognition from the Associated Builders and Contractors of Connecticut, and I want them to know they can always count on my support.”

“It is time to rebuild Connecticut!” Sen. Logan said. “That’s CT ABC’s slogan and it’s worth repeating. CT ABC represents 21,000 members in commercial and industrial construction. 21,000 members who support pro-growth policies. 21,000 members who love this state and want to improve the quality of life for everyone. 21,000 who are supporting future generations through apprenticeships. I view my role as a support role. How can I, as a lawmaker, help CT ABC grow and thrive? How can I, as a lawmaker, help cut through obstacles to growth and needless red tape? It is an honor to serve.  We are all in this together. We support each other. And as long as I am in public service, I will never stop being a strong advocate for Connecticut’s construction industry. I am humbled and honored to receive this award along with my good friend and colleague, Rep. Rebimbas.”

HARTFORD – State Representative Rosa C. Rebimbas (R-Naugatuck) was recognized by the Children’s Law Center of Connecticut at their annual meeting on October 16^th and was presented with their Superhero Award. The recognition was for Rep. Rebimbas’ continued advocacy on behalf of Connecticut’s children and the organization. The Children’s Law Center is also celebrating their 25^th anniversary this year.

“One of the most rewarding parts of my job both in law and in public service is the opportunity to help children and families in need,” Rep. Rebimbas said. “There are thousands of minors throughout the state caught in the middle of domestic disputes, unable to defend and advocate for themselves. I am very grateful for this recognition, but I accept the award knowing that our work on behalf of Connecticut’s most vulnerable is ongoing. As long as I continue serving as state representative, I will fight for legislation in support of this great cause and will fight equally hard to stop legislation undermining these efforts.”

The Children’s Law Center of Connecticut provides legal resources and services to children and families in crisis. There is no cost to low-income families.  The organization represents cases of abuse, neglect, and family conflict such as divorces and custody battles. Their services include legal representation in court, mediation, a law line, legislative advocacy and training for professionals.

The center has chosen to recognize Rep. Rebimbas because of her support for pro-child legislation, and her defense of the organization and its mission.

HARTFORD – State Representative Rosa C. Rebimbas (R-Naugatuck) received the AARP 2017 Capitol Caregiver Award on August 7^th, 2018 for her advocacy for caregivers across Connecticut. Rep. Rebimbas was also an honoree in 2015.

The award is given to legislators who have advocated on behalf of caregivers, understand the obstacles faced by professionals and family members, and those who have provided them with the support they need. Legislative efforts aim to increase usage of telehealth services, provide more training opportunities for family members, advocate for better family leave policies, and protect and expand access to in-home care, among other initiatives.

“Caring for a loved one who is ill can present major challenges for family members,” Rep. Rebimbas said. “It can be both a financial burden, as well as an emotional one, and I want to make sure the legislature is lending its full support to these selfless individuals.”

Rep. Rebimbas was selected because of her passion for helping those caring for elderly family members and for her cosponsoring of Senate Bill 976, An Act Concerning Conservator Accountability, which eventually became Public Act 17-7 after passing both chambers unanimously. This legislation provides court appointed caregivers with the power to manage a loved one’s healthcare and financial affairs, while subjecting such accounts to random audits to increase transparency and protect the patient.

“Tax-Free Week” is right around the corner! Each year Connecticut residents receive a much-needed break from the hefty sales tax we pay for consumer goods.

From Sunday, August 19, through Saturday, August 25, shoppers will have the opportunity to purchase select items under $100, TAX-FREE. With the start of school just around the corner, this is a great opportunity for some back-to-school shopping for the kids while saving money for families.

Tax-Free Week was first enacted in 2000, and applies to most clothing and footwear purchases intended for everyday use, including items put on layaway.

Goods not covered under the program include, but are not limited to:

• Clothing or footwear specifically designed for athletic activities – football cleats, specialty boots for fishing, hiking, skiing and other activities, as well as wet suits, helmets and headbands, etc.
• Accessories – jewelry, handbags, luggage, umbrellas, wallets and watches, etc.

The Connecticut sales tax rate is currently 6.35%, which can add up quickly when buying multiple items.

Please consult with your local retailer, or contact the Department of Revenue Services for a full list of qualifying and non-qualifying items.

As always, Rep. Rebimbas can be reached at 1-800-842-1423 or Rosa.Rebimbas@housegop.ct.gov if you have any questions regarding state government.

NAUGATUCK –State Representatives Rosa C. Rebimbas (R-Naugatuck), Dave Labriola (R–Oxford, Naugatuck, Southbury) and State Senators Joan Hartley (R-Waterbury, Middlebury, Naugatuck) and George Logan (R- Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Derby, Hamden, Naugatuck and Woodbridge) will present a General Assembly Citation to Emidio C. Cerasale on Tuesday, August 7^th, 2018 in recognition of his work and advocacy on behalf of grandparents’ rights. Mayor Hess will also present Emidio with the Borough of Naugatuck Citation. Emidio’s granddaughter will perform “God Bless America.”

“It is a true honor to present this citation to Emidio on behalf of everyone who supports grandparent rights,” Rep. Rebimbas said. “Through his tireless efforts, he has brought much needed public attention to this issue. I’d like to thank the Naugatuck Arts Commissions, the Naugatuck Delegation and the mayor’s office for making this event possible.”

“As a grandparent myself, I understand how critical this issue is for grandparents who are denied visitation,” said Rep. Labriola. “I commend Emidio’s advocacy on behalf of grandparents’ rights.”

“This recognition of Grandparents Advocate of America, led by President and Founder Emidio Cerasale, is of vital importance to supporting and promoting family in the lives of our children,” Sen. Hartley said.

“Emidio is a tremendous advocate for improving the quality of life for grandparents across Connecticut,” Sen. Logan said. “He is a true leader and role model, and his enthusiasm and positive energy are inspiring. We are proud to honor this selfless Naugatuck resident, and we hope he continues to inspire people throughout our state.”

Emidio is the founder of Grandparents Advocate of America, an organization which supports the preservation of the complete family. The group proposes legislation and works on behalf of grandparents nationwide to promote family unity and visitation rights. Emidio is a past director of Grandparents Rights Association of CT, which operates under the umbrella of the national organization Grandparents Rights Association of the USA.

The event, which will be held on the Naugatuck Town Green, is open to the public and will begin promptly at 6:45 p.m. on August 7^th, 2018. In the event of inclement weather, an alternate location will be announced in advance.

Rep. Rosa Rebimbas, Co-Chair of the Waterbury Line Caucus, along with fellow area legislators, sent the following letter to CT DOT Commissioner James Redeker regarding a recent report detailing the poor on-time performance of the Waterbury Line.

Dear Commissioner Redeker,

We are writing to you for information and an explanation regarding a recent report from the Connecticut Commuter Rail Council concerning the Waterbury Branch Line.

According to the June 2018 report the line had an On-Time Performance (OTP) percentage of 65.2 percent. This number is unacceptable. When compared to other branch lines Waterbury is approximately 20 percent lower in OTP compared to the New Canaan Line, Danbury Line and Shore Line East.

As you know OTP impacts ridership, when residents don’t feel like they can rely on rail they will take their car into work – again clogging up Connecticut roadways. This is clearly shown with an almost 2 percent decrease in ridership when compared to earlier months. This unacceptable performance prompted us to ask the questions below:

1. Why did the Waterbury Branch Line have such a low On-Time Performance last month?
2. What is your office doing to make sure these performance issues do not happen in the future?
3. What is your plan to make sure the Waterbury Branch Line is a success – specifically what is your plan to increase the ridership and reliability of the Waterbury Branch Line?

While we understand that ridership and OTP fluctuate, such a significant drop is disturbing. In a time where commuter rail is so vitally important to our economy, we must take immediate steps to ensure its success.

We look forward to your response regarding this matter.

Sincerely,

State Representative Rosa C. Rebimbas

House Republican Leader Themis Klarides

State Representative David Labriola

State Representative Nicole Klarides-Ditria

State Representative Stephanie Cummings

State Representative Jason Perillo

State Representative Ben McGorty

State Representative Tony D’Amelio

State Senator Joan Hartley

State Senator George Logan

State Senator Eric Berthel

State Senator Kevin C. Kelly

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Early this year, House Democratic leadership decided not to call votes on four toll proposals because they determined they did not have the support to advance the legislation. Republican opposition was largely to thank for killing the bills, and I was proud to be a part of that opposition.

Unfortunately, just yesterday, Governor Malloy signed an executive order demanding that the state make available a $10 million bond to study the implementation of electronic highway tolls in the State of Connecticut. For someone who has raised our taxes for years and has subjected the state to more reckless spending than we can afford, this comes as no surprise, but it is unacceptable nonetheless.

The state has conducted studies and has held hearings on the subject, but there is simply not enough support for tolls right now. The toll proposals presented to date have been vague. Some would require up to 80 tolling locations across the state, far more than the 14 locations we previously had before they were decommissioned. Additionally, it’s been estimated that 70 percent of the toll revenue collected will come from Connecticut residents rather than drivers passing through.

This state government is capable of funding critical transportation projects using existing revenue sources. We do not need to install tolls. They are nothing more than an additional tax on residents, commuters, and tourists. Our state’s economic situation is too fragile to even consider something that could drive more businesses and employers from Connecticut. Enough is enough.

The Bond Commission is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, July 25, 2018. I encourage you to contact the members and express your concerns before then. Their names and contact information can be found below:

• Bond Commission number 840-418-6246.
• Honorable Dannel P. Malloy, Governor and Chairman (Phone: 860-566-4840
• Honorable Benjamin Barnes, Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management (Phone: 860-418-6500)
• Honorable Denise L. Nappier, State Treasurer (Phone: 860-702-3010)
• Honorable Kevin P. Lembo, State Comptroller (Phone: 860-702-3301)
• Honorable George C. Jepsen, Attorney General (Phone: 860-808-5318)
• Honorable Melody A. Currey, Commissioner of the Department of Administrative Services (Phone: 860-713-5100)
• Honorable John W. Fonfara, Senator and Co-Chair Finance Revenue and Bonding Committee (Phone: 860-240-0043)
• Honorable Jason Rojas, Representative and Co-Chair Finance Revenue and Bonding Committee (Phone: 860-240-8585)
• Honorable L. Scott Frantz, Senator and Co-Chair Finance Revenue and Bonding Committee (Phone: 800-842-1421)
• Honorable Christopher Davis, Representative and Ranking Member Finance Revenue and Bonding (Phone: 860-240-8700)

As always, you may contact me with any questions at (800) 842-1423 or rosa.rebimbas@housegop.ct.gov.

Regards,

Rep. Rosa C. Rebimbas

70th Connecticut House District