State Senator Jason Perillo (R-Shelton)
Represents Connecticut’s 21st District
(Stratford, Seymour, Shelton, and Monroe)
Dear friends,
This week at the Capitol has been very busy. We are in the part of the legislative process where bills are becoming law. Below you will see information about the bills I am supporting to help improve affordability in CT, local updates and events.
AT THE CAPITOL
Last night at the Capitol, I voted in favor of SB1560, a critical bill that will help reduce electricity rates for Connecticut residents. This legislation is an important step toward addressing our state’s sky-high energy costs—some of the highest in the nation. This bill aims to modernize Connecticut’s energy infrastructure, making it more efficient and affordable.
The bill is not a finished product and it will continue to change before the legislature adjourns in early June. I am advocating for a number of important changes in the bill that can further lower costs and build infrastructure.
I know how hard families are working to manage their bills, and I hear your concerns loud and clear. That’s why I’m committed to bringing real solutions to the table. By investing in modernizing our energy systems, expanding clean energy options, and creating tools to stabilize rates, we’re laying the foundation for a more affordable and sustainable energy future.
Last night, the finance committee voted on a bill (S.B.1246) that includes new taxes, additional government spending, and changes that could undermine Connecticut’s strong fiscal practices. Among my concerns are the off-budget spending and the breaking of our state’s budgetary guardrails. However, what concerns me most are the proposed tax increases.
This bill would raise taxes by approximately $600 million over the next two years, including the largest business tax hike in over a decade. Connecticut is already one of the highest-taxed states in the country—some studies rank us as the second highest. The last thing we need right now is another tax increase.
Instead of raising taxes on one group, we should be focusing on creating a more fair tax system. We want to encourage people to work, earn, and succeed in our state. If we’re going to increase taxes for some, we should be lowering them for others. The goal should not just be raising revenue but ensuring fairness in our tax system. Unfortunately, this bill does not prioritize fairness for our residents, for this reason, I voted no, and urged my colleagues, or those who prioritize fairness, to do the same.
LOCAL UPDATES
Due to voting on a budget that went into the night, our town hall has been postponed until Monday, May 5, from 7 – 8 p.m. Stratford Town Hall Council Chambers.
I am hosting a Town Hall with Sen. Ryan Fazio and Rep. Ben McGorty to highlight our state’s alarmingly high rates, among other important economic issues, and examine comprehensive proposals to reduce costs. This will also provide an opportunity for our constituents to ask questions about energy issues, costs, and our proposals to address them.
This event is free and open to the public, I hope to see you there!
In celebration of Earth Day this week, I had the privilege of planting trees on Academy Hill in Stratford. I was able to join so many amazing Stratford residents for this wonderful opportunity to be part of something that makes a real difference. I hope you all get a chance to enjoy the outdoors this week and appreciate the beauty of our incredible district
This week, I had the opportunity to tour the Stratford Army Engine Plant. I learned about its rich history here in Stratford and explored the facility, gaining a deeper understanding of its significance to the community. While it’s the end of an era, I’m excited about the potential for something new to take its place—something that truly benefits the people of Stratford. I’d love to hear your thoughts on what you’d like to see in this space.
Congratulations to Amy Romano for being sworn in as the new State Representative for the 113th District! I have full confidence that you will be a valuable addition to the House of Representatives and will proudly represent our hometown.
LOCAL EVENTS
Housatonic River Clean Up
WHEN: Saturday, May 3rd
TIME: 8 a.m.-2.p.m.
WHERE: Stratford – Birdseye Boat Ramp and Shelton: Sunnyside Boat Ramp
As we begin Autism Awareness Month, Stratford Fire Department and Stratford Professional Firefighters IAFF Local 998 are launching a fundraiser to benefit Linked – Autism Safety Project. Linked is a nonprofit that helps first responders better understand and communicate with those with autism through training and sensory kits that all of our apparatus carry.
The Stratford YMCA is hosting their annual Healthy Kids Day® on Saturday, April 26 10 a.m.-1.p.m. This free, open to the public, annual event features a variety of family-friendly activities to encourage healthy kids, healthy families and a healthy start to the summer season Come and celebrate with us! We’ll have activities and vendors including:
- A DJ
- Open Swim
- Snoopy Meet and Greet
- Fruit Trays
- STEM activities
- and more!
- WHEN: April 26
- TIME: 10am-1pm
- WHERE: Stratford YMCA, 3045 Main St, Stratford
YMCA will also be collecting food donations to Stuff a Bus.
DISTRICT NEWS
Congratulations to the Bunnell High School boys basketball team for successfully defending their CIAC Division III title this past Saturday at Mohegan Sun! Under the leadership of first-year head coach Jeremy Daniel, the team achieved a 70-61 victory over Fitch in the championship game. This impressive win not only solidifies the team’s status in high school basketball but also marks a significant milestone in their journey! Watch the game highlights below:
Summer Camp Registration for 2025 Stratford Recreation Summer Camps is open! Stratford Recreation offers a variety of fun and exciting activities, including sports, science, swimming, arts, and more!
As this legislative session continues, I look forward to hearing from you and being your voice in Hartford. You can always contact me with your concerns at Jason.Perillo@cga.ct.gov.
All my best,
Jason
