Rep. Jason Rojas

Maddy summaryThis resolution establishes the operating rules for the House of Representatives during the June 2024 special session, primarily by adopting the rules from the regular 2024 session with specific modifications. It allows bills to be considered and sent to the Senate immediately after electronic notice is given, streamlining the legislative process for urgent matters. The document also reorganizes the daily order of business and restricts which types of bills and resolutions can be introduced during this limited-time session.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the State Bond Commission to issue up to $100.1 million in state bonds to fund various construction, renovation, and improvement projects for state agencies. The funds are designated for specific initiatives, including repairs to the State Capitol, environmental cleanup at a former school, upgrades to department buildings, and the development of a secure residential treatment center. The legislation requires that requests for these funds be submitted by state officials and allows the bonds to mature over a period of up to twenty years. Additionally, the bill permits the use of federal, private, or other available money alongside state bond proceeds for these projects.

Maddy summaryHB 5523 directs federal American Rescue Plan funds to Connecticut state agencies for general government operations, human services, and education through the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. The bill allocates specific dollar amounts to various departments, including the Board of Regents for student retention and technology training, the Department of Developmental Services for caregiver support, and the Department of Economic and Community Development for grants to museums, aquariums, and community organizations. Additionally, the legislation provides funding for agricultural programs like farm-to-school initiatives and senior food vouchers, as well as operating support for public colleges and universities. These allocations aim to stabilize state programs and support local nonprofits and community venues during the specified biennium.

Maddy summaryThis bill creates a state-run registry to help connect seniors and their families with qualified home care providers while improving oversight of these workers. Starting in 2025, the registry will allow users to search for caregivers based on specific skills like language proficiency and certifications, and it will also assist providers with recruitment, training, and benefits. The legislation mandates that agencies hiring home companions require new employees to complete training on recognizing and responding to harassment, abuse, and discrimination by clients. Additionally, the bill directs a state council to develop plans for better recruiting, training, and wage standards for personal care attendants to ensure higher quality care.

Maddy summaryHB 5491 establishes a new property tax exemption for Connecticut veterans who have a service-connected permanent and total disability rating from the Department of Veterans Affairs. The bill allows these veterans to exempt their primary residence from taxation, or if they lack a home, one motor vehicle garaged in the state. To qualify, veterans must submit proof of their disability rating to their local town assessor, with retroactive refunds available for up to three years if they missed the initial filing deadline. Additionally, the act modifies an existing lower-level disability exemption, increasing the property value threshold for veterans with non-permanent-and-total disabilities and adjusting amounts based on age and disability severity.