On June 5th, 2025, State Representative Joseph Gresko (D – Stratford) and State Representative Kaitlyn Shake (D – Stratford) voted in favor of the newly passed biennial state budget, which includes a significant investment of $86.6 million in funding for Stratford in Fiscal Years 2026 and 2027. The budget delivers for children, working families, seniors, and nonprofits among others. After an incredibly busy, and active week at the Capitol, there are many bills to learn more about. You can review the full list here.
In a joint statement, Rep. Shake and Rep. Gresko shared, “We are proud to support a state budget that delivers for Stratford. This funding represents a strong commitment to the most vulnerable residents and support for essential services.” Some of the highlights of the budget they referenced, include:
- $60 million for special education, including an additional $968,000 for Stratford Public Schools over the next two fiscal years through the new Special Education Expansion and Development (SEED) initiative and other funding streams to ease the burden on our school districts and support every student’s success.
- A $250 refundable tax rebate for families through the Earned Income Tax Credit, putting real money back in the pockets of working people.
- Medicaid rate increases totaling $60.5 million over two years, finally giving our providers and community health centers a raise after years of underfunding.
- Continued investment in children’s mental health, mobile psychiatric crisis response, and school-based support programs.
Their joint statement goes on to say, “We’re grateful to work together and alongside community stakeholders to bring critical funding and relief for Stratford. This budget reflects our shared priorities and continues advocacy for equitable investments in our town’s future.” The funds allocated to Stratford will undoubtedly provide reprieve for those who need it most, all $86.6 million of it.
