Weekly Update-State Representative Kaitlyn Shake

Proudly Serving Stratford’s 120th District

It was an eventful week at the Capitol as committees are wrapping up meetings and hearings. My colleagues and I are working hard on legislation we hope to get passed this session and having crucial conversations about issues impacting residents around the state. Below, you can read more about what I was up to this week, and further down, you’ll find resources and local updates I hope are helpful to you and your family.

On Tuesday 03/18, I was honored to stand alongside many of my colleagues as well as, the Connecticut Congressional delegation, Governor Lamont, Lt. Governor Bysiewicz, and many other state leaders at the Rally to Save Medicaid and Social Security. Did you know 1.2 million residents across Connecticut rely on Medicaid and the services provided by the program? Reducing Medicaid funded programs would have major impacts on the lives of many in our state. I was proud to attend this rally with leaders from across the state and hundreds of Connecticut residents advocating to save these vital public service programs.

This week, an executive order was signed to dismantle the Department of Education. Here in Connecticut, I will continue to advocate for our public school systems and their commitment to the future of our children across the State. Governor Ned Lamont released a statement following the executive order, which you can read below.

This week in all my committee meetings we JF’d bills that we discussed so far this session, which means they passed out of our committee and will work their way through the legislative processes. Many of these bills passed out of our committees to hopefully be voted on by the legislature later this session. One bill that was voted out of the Public Safety and Security committee this week was S.B. 1318, which concerns the firefighter cancer relief account.

We know our firefighters risk their lives in more ways than one, every single day. They run into burning buildings, save our loved ones, and dedicate themselves to keeping our communities safe. But their sacrifices don’t end when the flames are out. Firefighters face an increased risk of cancer due to prolonged exposure to toxic chemicals in the line of duty. S.B. 1318 will help fund cancer relief for the heroes who protect us.

Below you can watch me discuss S.B. 1318.Fire fighters Cancer Relief Program to expand coverage to conditions of cancer affecting skin, and additional protections for warehouse workers. Click on the YouTube address below:

I am also proud to share that the Labor and Public Employees Committee voted on H.B. 6953 during their meeting on Thursday, March 20th. This bill would require municipalities to provide a pension to police officers and firefighters. The committee voted to study this issue to ensure we give everyone a seat at the table. After dedicating their lives to protect and serve our communities, police officers and firefighters should be able to retire without having to worry about paying their bills. I want to thank the Stratford Police Officers and Firefighters for their continued advocacy and support on this cause.

NATIONAL AGRICULTURE WEEK

Honoring the heart and soul of Connecticut—our farmers. Your dedication fuels not just our state’s economy, but the spirit of resilience, sustainability, and community. 🚜💚

 Here are some fantastic local resources and programs to help you connect with our agricultural community:

 🌽 Farmers Markets – Find fresh, locally grown produce near you. (shorturl.at/cgG8P)

 🥕 Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) – Directly support local farms by subscribing to a CSA. (shorturl.at/LnYOR)

🍎 CT Grown Trail – Explore farms, wineries, and more across Connecticut. (shorturl.at/Nfmev)

 🧀 Connecticut Farm Bureau – A voice for Connecticut agriculture. (cfba.org)

 🍯 Buy CT Grown – Discover and buy local products from Connecticut farms.  (buyctgrown.com)

Let’s continue to strengthen our local food systems and support the hardworking individuals who make it all possible! #AgDay #CTAg #CTGrown #NoFarmsNoFood

Public Hearings Updates

Don’t forget – you only need to register if you wish to provide testimony. If you want to observe the hearings, you can tune in and watch them live on the committee’s YouTube channel.

Register to testify and learn more about this week’s schedule, including the bills that will be heard, in this week’s CGA Bulletin.

Public Hearings Information and Sign Up

Local Stratford Updates

Congratulations to the Stratford Bunnell Boys Basketball team on their back to back Division III State Championship win!

Next Monday 03/31, the Town of Stratford will be holding a public meeting about the Tidal Flat Project along the former Stratford Army Engine Site. The meeting will take place at The Baldwin Center at 5:30 p.m.

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced that a pavement preservation program will begin on Route 7 and 15 in Norwalk, Trumbull, Stratford, and Milford. This project is scheduled to begin Friday, March 21 and be completed on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. Lane and ramp closures and detour information is below.

Motorists should be aware that modifications or extensions to this schedule may become necessary due to weather delays or other unforeseen conditions. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving through the work zone.

State Representative Kaitlyn Shake

Legislative Office Building, Room 4024

860-240-8585, 1-800-842-8267

Kaitlyn.Shake@cga.ct.gov