Rep. Aundré Bumgardner

Maddy summaryHB 6040 establishes two new commissions: the State Historical Commission (to develop a process for adding statues and creating historical placards explaining existing statues) and the State Commission on Capitol Preservation and Restoration (to implement that process and oversee Capitol preservation). The Historical Commission must submit its plan for statues and placards by February 1, 2026, to the Preservation Commission and the Joint Committee on Legislative Management. The Preservation Commission will then carry out statue additions and Capitol restoration efforts while following artistic standards that respect the building's historical character. Both commissions must meet quarterly, report annually to the Joint Committee, and work to enhance the Capitol's safety and historical integrity.

Maddy summaryHB 7238 establishes a working group to study whether Connecticut should create a state registry for short-term rental properties (like Airbnb or Vrbo listings). The group will examine key details such as what data owners must provide, potential fees or penalties, public access rules, safety standards, and whether municipalities could impose local taxes. It directly affects short-term rental hosts, local governments, and state agencies, but does not create a registry itself. The group must submit a report by January 1, 2026, after which the legislature may decide whether to move forward with a registry. This is a study-only bill with no immediate regulatory changes or costs.

Maddy summarySB 1218 creates a state-funded program providing free swimming lessons to children under 17 who qualify for SNAP or WIC programs in designated census areas. The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection will administer the summer program, potentially partnering with nonprofit organizations to deliver lessons. Funding will come from state appropriations, grants, or private donations, with no cost to eligible participants. The program takes effect on July 1, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 714 requires the Department of Transportation to restore Shore Line East rail service to its pre-pandemic level by July 1, 2025. This directly affects commuters who rely on this rail line, reversing service cuts implemented during the 2020 COVID-19 and civil emergency. The bill mandates the department to return to the same service frequency and coverage that existed before March 2020, without specifying new operational details.

Maddy summaryHB 6273 creates the Farmers' Crop Loss Reimbursement Grant Program within Connecticut's Department of Agriculture. It provides financial reimbursement to farmers who suffer crop losses due to significant acute weather events (like severe storms or floods). The program is funded through $10 million in state bonds, with the Department of Agriculture establishing eligibility rules, application processes, and reimbursement limits. Farmers must apply within 60 days of submitting requests, and the program takes effect July 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 5388 modifies Connecticut's hunting and fishing regulations to recognize tribal rights on reservation lands. It removes the requirement for Native American tribal members to obtain licenses for hunting, fishing, or trapping on their tribe's reservation, subject to state environmental regulations and seasonal limits. The bill also creates a free, annual deer permit for tribal members on reservations larger than 10 acres, valid only November 1-December 31 for use with specific weapons. Additionally, it establishes a ceremonial permit allowing one annual animal take on state lands for cultural purposes without fee, limited to species otherwise legally harvestable.

Maddy summaryHB 5422 reestablishes a permanent Legislative Program Review and Investigations Committee to examine state agency programs and conduct investigations. The committee, composed of 12 members (6 from each chamber appointed by leadership), will review the effectiveness of state programs, investigate matters referred by the legislature or committee, and request information from state departments and agencies. It must issue annual reports to the legislature and can recommend policy changes based on its findings. This bill directly affects state departments (which must provide requested information) and the legislature (which receives committee recommendations for potential legislation). The committee’s work aims to improve government efficiency and accountability through structured program reviews and investigations.

Maddy summaryHB 6229 bans polystyrene foodware (like foam containers) and most single-use plastic items (including straws, stirrers, and food accessories) for food vendors, government agencies, schools, and businesses starting July 1, 2027. Exceptions include biodegradable straws provided upon request (especially for people with disabilities) and specific packaging uses like pre-sealed food or meat storage. The bill also requires state/municipal buildings and schools to install reusable water bottle filling stations when replacing drinking fountains, effective January 2027. A task force will study sustainable alternatives and report by February 2026, but the law itself focuses on direct restrictions and infrastructure changes.

Maddy summaryHB 6937 expands Medicaid coverage to include diapers deemed medically necessary for children under age three. It requires a physician, physician assistant, or advanced practice nurse to certify that diapers are needed to prevent or treat severe skin infections, urinary tract issues, or conditions like developmental delays that cause frequent soiling. The state must amend its Medicaid plan by July 2025 and report by September 2026 on the number of qualifying children, annual costs (estimated at $20 million+), and potential savings from preventing related health issues. This directly affects Medicaid-eligible children under three with qualifying medical conditions, not general diaper coverage.

Maddy summaryHB 7208 requires municipalities to hold a voter referendum before selling municipal departments, agencies, or assets or privatizing services previously provided by city employees. It mandates that if a municipality authorizes such a sale or privatization after July 1, 2025, a petition signed by at least 5% of voters can trigger a vote at the next regular election. If voters approve by majority, the deal proceeds; if rejected, the municipality cannot pursue that specific sale or privatization for five years. This directly affects local governments and residents, ensuring public input on major financial or service changes.