Kurt Vail

📽️ Behind the Vail: Stafford Motor Speedway 2026 Spring Sizzler

The season is officially underway at Stafford Motor Speedway! I recently attended the 2026 Spring Sizzler, where we had a blast interviewing drivers, spectators, and race fans while bringing you a first-hand look at one of the biggest racing events of the year. Join us as we go Behind the Vail at Stafford Motor Speedway! Check out the full episode by clicking below.

Honoring a Legacy of Service: Celebrating the Retirements of Two Distinguished Connecticut State Marshals

It was a privilege to join colleagues and state leaders in recognizing the remarkable careers of two dedicated Connecticut State Marshals at a recent citation ceremony held in the Senate Chamber. The event, graciously hosted by State Senators Gordon and Martin, highlighted decades of public service, professionalism, and commitment to the people of Connecticut. We proudly celebrate the retirements of Sharon Uhlman and Julianne Ingham, whose contributions have left a lasting impact on the communities they served. Sharon Uhlman, of Tolland County, will retire this June after approximately 37 years of distinguished service. Over the course of her career, she held several key roles, including Chief Deputy Sheriff, State Marshal, and member of the State Marshal’s Advisory Board. Her leadership and dedication have helped shape the standards and practices of the profession. Julianne Ingham, of Litchfield County, concludes an equally impressive career spanning 34 years. Her steadfast commitment and service have earned her the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of the communities she served. Both women exemplify the highest ideals of public service. Their careers reflect not only longevity, but also a deep sense of duty and integrity that has strengthened Connecticut’s justice system. We extend our sincere thanks to Sharon and Julianne for their many years of service to the State of Connecticut. As they begin this next chapter, we wish them all the best in their well-earned retirements.

Vail Announces School/Taxpayers Relief & Affordability Plan (STRAP)

Connecticut’s broken education funding formula has forced cities and towns to make up the difference, leaving property taxpayers to shoulder the burden. The House Republican School Taxpayer Relief and Affordability Plan (STRAP) would return $365 million to communities across the state. For the 52nd District, that means: Somers – $845,998 Stafford – $1,419,474 Union – $31,466 Thomaston – $741,657 STRAP is built directly into the state budget, so towns can count on consistent funding year after year—no scrambling, no uncertainty. It provides meaningful, sustainable relief for local property taxpayers while lawmakers continue working to fix the flawed Education Cost Sharing formula for good. Click here to access the STRAP tool and see allocations for each town. For more information on the Pathway to Affordability, click here .

Vail Supports Greater Oversight of Government Spending

HARTFORD – The House of Representatives addressed concerns over wasteful government spending by taking up H.B. 5309, An Act Requiring Transparency and Additional Oversight of the Distribution of Certain Legislative-Directed Funds . State Rep. Kurt Vail (R-52) voted in support of the bill. “Politically connected organizations have benefited from questionable spending allocations in prior state budgets. This is a common-sense measure that addresses the perception of corruption and makes the process more transparent for taxpayers,” said Vail. Vail noted that all funds in the state budget are derived from taxpayers. Without clear guidelines on how certain funds are allocated, it creates a concerning environment in which decisions can be influenced by backdoor deals and cronyism. The bill follows increased scrutiny of state funding to nonprofits, including a Hartford organization flagged for financial mismanagement after receiving millions in taxpayer dollars. The issue intensified concerns raised during the 2025 budget debate. After passing unanimously in the House, the bill now heads to the Senate for further consideration.

Rep. Vail Outlines Shortsighted Long-Term Care Insurance Changes

In Human Services, I raised concerns about efforts to fix Connecticut’s fragmented long-term care insurance market. While this bill adds important consumer protections, many apply mainly to new policies. Those who already planned ahead and purchased coverage may not benefit—and could instead face higher costs as insurers adjust. We should be clear: this risks shifting the burden, not solving the problem. The industry must do better for both current and future policyholders.