Category: State News

For the Full Schedule and To Enroll, Visit portal.ct.gov/sustainability

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the State of Connecticut, through a collaboration between several state agencies, UConn, and other partners, will host a series of in-person, online, and hybrid events from September 22 to 29, 2024, in recognition of its first ever Sustainability and Resiliency Week.

The initiative is designed to promote engagement, foster collaboration, and celebrate the progress and innovation being done in the state as the world faces increasingly complex environmental and social challenges. In recent years, Connecticut state government has been working to implement actions to make the state one of the most resilient in the country, such as taking steps to increase energy efficiency, reduce the state’s carbon footprint, reduce waste, and reduce the costs of government operations. The Sustainability and Resiliency Week events are being organized to encourage more collaboration among partners while also engaging the general public and external organizations in these efforts.

More than 20 events have been organized for the week, including ones related to climate resilience, nature-based solutions, water quality, transportation, energy initiatives, and more. Anyone interested in learning more about these initiatives is encouraged to participate. For the full event schedule and to enroll, visit portal.ct.gov/sustainability.

“Connecticut’s communities and natural resources are a source of great pride among Connecticut residents,” Governor Lamont said. “Protecting our resources and growing the Connecticut economy can be done together. The Sustainability and Resiliency Week events are an opportunity for residents, elected officials, educators, and advocates to come together to learn about efforts underway and identify solutions to mitigate the damaging effects of climate change and to manage our resources sustainably.”

“A top focus of the Lamont administration is facilitating sustainability and resiliency across the state, from transportation to agriculture, from public health to our electrical grid, from rural to urban communities as our natural resources are challenged by a changing climate and legacy infrastructure,” Dr. Joanna Wozniak-Brown, climate and infrastructure policy development coordinator at the Connecticut Office of Policy and Management, said. “This week will be an opportunity to bring some of these issues into greater focus, celebrate the work currently underway, and foster key relationships that will not only make this work possible, but a success.”

“Sustainability and resiliency are at the center of everything we do as a state government,” Michelle Gilman, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Administrative Services, said. “Our department plays a critical role in these efforts on behalf of Connecticut state government – from constructing highly efficient and net-zero energy state buildings, to building out electric vehicle charging infrastructure and working toward an electrified fleet, to partnering with our sister agencies to improve the efficiency of our physical spaces. Sustainability and Resiliency Week is a great opportunity to highlight the ongoing work in this space across state government, and it is a testament to the vision of Governor Lamont and the leadership of those tasked with implementing his ambitious climate agenda.”

“Sustainability and Resiliency Week is an opportunity to highlight and enhance the public health infrastructure so that we can ensure drinking water is safe throughout our state and be better prepared for the effects of climate change,” Dr. Manisha Juthani, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Health, said. “The science shows that we are experiencing severe health impacts of human-caused climate change. The effects of climate change can lead to shifts in precipitation patterns, more frost-free days, and more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. These changes have resulted in health impacts from extreme weather and more exposure to infections like EEE, West Nile virus, and Lyme disease. We commend Governor Lamont for highlighting Sustainability and Resiliency Week and giving all Connecticut residents, especially those living in our most vulnerable communities, the opportunity to learn more about improving and maintaining their health for years to come.”

One of the highlights of the week’s events will be UConn’s second annual Sustainable Clean Energy Summit at its main campus in Storrs on Monday, September 23, which will feature a keynote address from U.S. Department of Energy Assistant Secretary for Energy Gene Rodrigues. UConn is working toward carbon neutrality on its campuses by 2030 with the goal of bring entirely carbon zero by 2040 and is serving as a living laboratory to develop and demonstrate new approaches to sustainability and energy resilience.

“Mitigating the effects of climate change, ensuring environmental equity, and providing energy security are among the greatest imperatives of our time,” UConn President Radenka Maric, an internationally recognized expert and researcher in clean energy, said. “At the same time, meeting those challenges also offers extraordinary opportunities for Connecticut to lead the nation and world in innovating and demonstrating solutions. We commend Governor Lamont and state leaders, both for designating the Sustainability and Resilience Week and for supporting UConn in the critical work underway here and elsewhere to address these issues.”

Participating Connecticut state agencies in Sustainability and Resiliency Week events include:

Office of Governor Ned Lamont
Office of Policy and Management
Department of Administrative Services
Department of Economic and Community Development
Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection
Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
Department of Public Health
Department of Transportation
Public Utilities Regulatory Authority
University of Connecticut

Anyone interested in participating in any of the events are strongly encouraged to enroll as soon as possible.

Scammers are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI) to replicate the voices of grandchildren in order to trick grandparents into handing over large sums of money. These scams, known as “grandma scams,” have become more sophisticated and convincing with the help of AI technology.

In a recent incident reported by ABC News, an 89-year-old woman named Shirley was targeted by scammers who used AI to create a voice that sounded exactly like her grandson’s. The scammers told Shirley that her grandson had been involved in a car accident and needed money to avoid being arrested. Shirley believed the scam and handed over $9,000 in cash.

Experts warn that these types of scams are becoming more common and difficult to detect. Scammers can easily obtain a few seconds of someone’s voice from social media and use AI to create a realistic-sounding voice that can be used in a phone call or other communication.

To protect themselves from these scams, experts recommend that people have a password or passphrase that only they and their grandchildren know. If a grandparent receives a call from someone claiming to be their grandchild and asking for money, they should ask for the password. If the caller cannot provide the password, it is likely a scam.

It is also important to have regular conversations with grandchildren and keep up-to-date on their lives. This will make it easier to detect any inconsistencies in the scammer’s story.

If you or someone you know has been the victim of a scam, it is important to report it to the police. You can also report scams to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

2024 Labor Day Weekend Traffic Statistics – 08/31/2024
The following are preliminary Labor Day Weekend traffic statistics.
These are reflective of the time period beginning at midnight Friday, August 30th, 2024 and ending at 11:59 p.m., on Saturday, August 31st, 2024.
The Connecticut State Police had a total of 2,842 calls for service.
Speeding Violations – 316 Seatbelt Violations – 7
Hazardous Moving Violations (Following too Closely, Failure to Move Over, etc.) – 211
DUI Arrests – 12 Motor Vehicle Accidents – 192 With Injury – 13 Fatalities – 1 (Windsor) Serious Injury – 1 (Cromwell)
Motorist Assists (Disabled Vehicles, Debris in Roadway, etc.) – 214

International Overdose Awareness Day Is an Annual Event Commemorated on August 31

(HARTFORD, CT) – In advance of International Overdose Awareness Day, which is commemorated annually on August 31, Governor Ned Lamont, members of Connecticut’s Congressional delegation, the state’s constitutional officers, and state agency commissioners are reaffirming their commitment to combat the overdose crisis that has devastated communities across the state and nation and are bringing attention to addiction and recovery resources that are available in Connecticut.

International Overdose Awareness Day is a global campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died, and acknowledge the grief of the family and friends left behind.

Connecticut has dedicated many resources toward combatting this crisis in an effort to prevent, discourage, and destigmatize opioid addition. Notably, in 2019 the state – through the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services – launched its LiveLOUD campaign, which includes a series of social media, radio, transit, and billboard advertisements directed to those who are actively using fentanyl, heroin, or prescription opioids, as well as their families and communities.

By visiting www.LiveLOUD.org, people struggling with opioid use disorder and their friends and family can learn about this complex issue, get connected to support and treatment options, and learn how to become a LiveLOUD partner to help spread awareness.

Additionally, anyone seeking treatment for addiction can visit www.ctaddictionservices.com or call 1-800-563-4086 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) to get connected to nearby services throughout Connecticut.

Governor Lamont said, “Addiction is an illness that should be treated just as any other public health emergency, and we must be able to discuss it openly and without fear of judgement. This illness can impact anyone from any neighborhood, any socioeconomic background, any race and nationality, any education level, and any age. We need to send the message that this disorder can no longer hide in the shadows and be treated like something that shouldn’t be discussed. Resources are available for those seeking treatment, as well as for the families and loved ones who want to provide support for those in need. Discussing this issue openly and honestly is what can save lives and prevent addiction altogether.”

Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said, “We are committed to combatting the impacts of the overdose epidemic in Connecticut. On International Overdose Awareness Day, we stand in unity and remembrance to honor those who have lost their lives to overdose and addiction. A person living with a substance use disorder may feel alone, forgotten, and helpless – and likewise, a loved one trying to recover from losing someone to their battle with addiction may feel alone, forgotten, and helpless in their grief. But you are not alone, we have not forgotten you, and help is available.”

Attorney General William Tong said, “Today, on International Overdose Awareness Day, I am thinking of the thousands of Connecticut families who have lost children, parents, and loved ones to opioid addiction, as well the people in our state who are still fighting to recover and free themselves from addiction. Connecticut has led efforts to take on the worst players in the addiction industry, securing more than $50 billion nationwide to combat the opioid epidemic, including $600 million for Connecticut alone. With the money to support treatment, prevention, and recovery services on its way to hard hit communities, the day is coming closer when we can finally get everyone the help they deserve and put an end to the pain and suffering caused by this epidemic.”

Comptroller Sean Scanlon said, “On Overdose Awareness Day, we honor the memories of those we’ve lost and recognize the countless lives touched by the devastation of addiction. This day is a solemn reminder of the work that still lies ahead. Each life lost is a tragedy, but together, through compassion and with action, we can build a healthier, more supportive Connecticut for all.”

U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal said, “Today we mourn the 1,340 lives lost to overdoses this year and honor them with action. Despite encouraging decreases in deaths this year, the substance use epidemic is an urgent crisis and we must continue working diligently to dismantle the destructive grip addiction has on our communities. I am proud to have secured $15 million in federal funding for prevention efforts in Connecticut and will keep fighting for federal resources to ensure no more families are torn apart by addiction and overdoses.”

U.S. Senator Chris Murphy said, “The opioid crisis has devastated far too many families in Connecticut and across the country. As we honor the lives we’ve lost, we must also recommit ourselves to helping those who are still struggling. I will continue to work with families and survivors to push for policies that combat overprescribing, stem the flow of fentanyl into our country, and save lives.”

Congressman John Larson (CT-01) said, “Families across Connecticut and the nation have felt the pain and suffering caused by the opioid epidemic. The Connecticut Congressional delegation has worked closely with the state to bring back federal funding to address this public health crisis and expand access to opioid use disorder treatment options. I will continue to work with our partners to connect families and individuals with the care and support they need as we combat this crisis.”

Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) said, “The epidemic of opioid addiction and overdose deaths is one of the most gut-wrenching, disheartening problems our nation faces, and our state is no exception. While overdose deaths in New London County fell by nearly 50% in 2023, I’m committed to bringing home ongoing federal resources to help our communities overcome this crisis. Thankfully, we have hard-working organizations on the ground who are partnering with first responders to prevent overdose deaths and connect people suffering from addiction to long term recovery treatment which, in the end, saves lives.”

Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) said, “Most Americans have a personal connection to the opioid crisis, with each life lost to an overdose leaving a permanent hole behind in their loved ones’ hearts. But, by increasing availability of treatment resources and combatting the stigma around drug abuse, we can make great strides to reduce the number of lives taken by addiction.”

Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services Commissioner Nancy Navarretta said, “Overdose Awareness Day is a time for reflection, support, and unity as we mourn those we have tragically lost. In Connecticut alone, 1,343 lives were lost to overdose last year, contributing to over 100,000 overdose deaths nationwide. However, it is encouraging to note that overdose deaths in our state are down by 8.3%, indicating progress in our collective efforts. Each time I meet families who have suffered a loss, their faces and stories stay with me, motivating me to work tirelessly to further reduce this heartbreaking number. Approximately 77% of these deaths involved synthetic opioids like fentanyl, highlighting the urgent need for increased awareness and prevention efforts. Every individual struggling with substance use disorder is someone’s loved one and deserves our unwavering support. Together, we can bring about meaningful change and ensure that Overdose Awareness Day serves as a powerful reminder of the value of every life.”

Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD, said, “International Overdose Awareness Day is a sobering time when we not only remember the lives that have been lost but we remember the family members and loved ones who have been impacted by an overdose death. One overdose death is one too many, and at the Department of Public Health, we employ different levels of primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention methods to address this problem. Leveling state and local partnerships, employing harm reduction strategies, relying on those with lived experience, and implementing interventions to try to prevent young people from starting to use substances in the first place make up a public health strategy that will help people make it through this crisis.”

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he has received notification from the White House indicating that his request for President Joe Biden to authorize a federal emergency declaration for Fairfield County, New Haven County, and Litchfield County in response to the extreme flooding from the historic rainfall that portions of the state received earlier this week has been approved.

The declaration means that state agencies can coordinate with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on the deployment of federal personnel and equipment to augment emergency recovery efforts already underway by the state and its municipal counterparts. This includes actions to protect lives and property, and restorative efforts that defend public safety.

Staff from several state agencies, including the Connecticut Department of Transportation, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, and the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, among others, have been on the ground since the initial impact of the storm to provide emergency services.

“This federal emergency declaration means that additional equipment and crews could be mobilized to Connecticut to support our many state and local crews who have been on the ground working to repair damaged roads, bridges, and dams, and also clean up waterways that have been contaminated by all kinds of hazardous items from the storm,” Governor Lamont said. “There is still much work to do to repair and reopen the roads and make sure those who live in the area remain safe, and we are committed to completing this task. I thank President Biden for taking these actions and providing Connecticut with these lifesaving resources.”

The Lamont administration is continuing to work with towns, businesses, and individuals to conduct detailed damage assessments and calculate whether the cost thresholds have been met that would enable the state to receive a major disaster declaration from the federal government, which could result in the release of federal funding to support the rebuilding and repairing of damage to eligible public and uninsured private property. Any such funding to support those efforts requires the approval of a separate declaration. The process of conducting these assessments typically takes several weeks to complete and is already underway.

Guidance Includes Recommendations on the Use of Smartphones by Students in K-12 Public Schools

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and Connecticut Education Commissioner Charlene M. Russell-Tucker are urging local school districts in Connecticut to consider implementing recommendations contained in a position statement and policy guidance document regarding the use of personal technology, such as smartphones and similar devices, in K-12 public schools that was adopted today by the Connecticut State Board of Education.

Created at the direction of Governor Lamont by the Connecticut State Department of Education, the document – titled Personal Technology Use in Connecticut Schools: Impact of Social Media and the Use of Cell Phones on Student Learning and Mental Health – provides school districts with guidance when drafting and implementing policies to promote a focused learning environment that restricts access to smartphones, other similar personal technology devices, and social media during the school day.

Commissioner Russell-Tucker presented a draft of the guidance to the Connecticut State Board of Education, and its members approved it today by a unanimous vote.

Governor Lamont said that the enactment of stronger policies on this issue are necessary because the increasing use of smartphones in schools has been causing serious distractions among students and having negative impacts on their education and mental health. He stressed that this guidance is intended to provide local school districts with a model framework, and it is up to each district to enact their own policies on this issue.

“All too often, our young people find themselves too distracted by their smartphones and disconnected from the reality of what is happening around them, including while in their classrooms, and it’s having negative impacts on their learning and mental well-being.” Governor Lamont said. “It is crucial that we adopt stronger policies to address this issue head-on. The state’s guidance provides a clear framework, but it is up to each school district to shape their own policies that meet the needs of their students and communities. I appreciate Commissioner Russell-Tucker and her staff, as well as the members of the Connecticut State Board of Education, for their work to research and develop this important guidance.”

“The State Board of Education’s action underscores our department’s dedication to ensuring classroom environments that are conducive to learning,” Commissioner Russell-Tucker said. “By removing the distraction caused by smartphone use during the school day and fostering a healthy balance with the positive use of technology, we create schools and classrooms that maximize peer-to-peer and student-to-educator interaction, develop social skills in interpersonal communication, and positively impact academic growth and success, all while supporting student mental health.”

The guidance includes an emphasis on creating engaging spaces for learning to mitigate the negative impact that smartphones have on student learning, and considerations for specific policies and practices in elementary, middle, and high school based on developmental readiness and maturity.

Specific recommendations include appropriate roles and responsibilities for:

Local and regional boards of education and administrators in policy development;

School leaders and educators in ensuring consistent policy implementation and support for strengthening students’ interpersonal skills;

Families and students in supporting and complying with the district policy and supporting students’ maintaining a healthy balance with technology; and

Higher education institutions and the Connecticut State Department of Education in preparing and supporting educators, school leaders, administrators, and local and regional boards of education.

“The guidance adopted by the Connecticut State Board of Education takes a critical step toward creating learning environments that foster both academic excellence and well-being,” Erin Benham, acting chair of the Connecticut State Board of Education, said. “Technology, when used purposefully, can enhance learning and connection, but we must also protect our students from the potential negative impacts of excessive and unrestricted use. This policy can help schools strike that balance, supporting students in a way that prepares them for success in learning and in life.”

Patrice McCarthy, executive director and general counsel of the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education (CABE), said, “CABE has appreciated the opportunity to collaborate with the Connecticut State Department of Education in developing this policy guidance. We look forward to supporting school boards as they address this important issue through local policy development.”

“Teachers are increasingly competing with cell phones for attention from their students and are seeing more students experiencing mental health crises triggered by their interaction with social media.” Kate Dias, president of the Connecticut Education Association said. “We welcome the Connecticut State Department of Education’s initial guidance and look forward to working with our local districts to create strong, clear, and enforceable policies that minimize the use of cell phones and meet the needs of educators, students, and parents.”

“The Connecticut Association of Schools’ member principals strive to foster an engaging learning environment for all students,” Glenn Lungarini, executive director of the Connecticut Association of Schools and the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference, said. “Adopting the Connecticut State Department of Education guidance on personal technology use supports school-based efforts to enhance learning experiences through appropriate technology use while countering technology’s potential distractions and negative impacts on students.”

In response to devastating storms that brought unprecedented rainfall to Western Connecticut, state and federal officials are mobilizing to address the significant damage and support impacted communities. State Senator Tony Hwang and Governor Ned Lamont are at the forefront of efforts to secure federal assistance to rebuild infrastructure and protect public safety.

Over the weekend, towns such as Oxford, Newtown, and Middlebury experienced severe flooding, receiving between 9 and 16 inches of rain. The storms led to two fatalities and widespread destruction of roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure. In a joint press conference, Senator Hwang, Governor Lamont, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, and other key officials updated the public on the response efforts and the ongoing push for federal emergency support.

Governor Lamont has formally requested a federal emergency declaration for Fairfield, New Haven, and Litchfield counties. This declaration would trigger immediate resources, including support from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Environmental Protection Agency, to repair damaged bridges, roads, and clean up hazardous materials that were swept into waterways. The declaration is a crucial step toward restoring public safety and ensuring that necessary repairs proceed swiftly.

Senator Hwang has been actively assessing the damage in Newtown, coordinating with local and state officials to expedite the allocation of emergency funds. Key travel routes like Routes 25, 6, and 34 have been severely impacted, with the disruptions affecting daily commutes and local businesses. The recovery plan includes prioritizing these major roadways to minimize long-term economic and logistical challenges.

In addition to addressing immediate needs, leaders are advocating for enhanced storm resilience measures in at-risk communities. Proposed initiatives include flood-resistant infrastructure and environmental solutions that could mitigate future damage from increasingly frequent severe weather events. The collaborative efforts of state and federal agencies aim not only to manage the current crisis but also to build stronger, more resilient communities moving forward.

Residents and local governments are urged to document any storm-related damages to ensure inclusion in the federal relief efforts currently underway.

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he has declared a state of emergency in response to the significant flooding that is impacting portions of Connecticut due to the historically severe rainfall that began yesterday afternoon and has caused extensive structural damage to roadways.

“The sudden and severe flooding has caused significant damage to infrastructure in the western portion of the state, resulting in evacuations, rescues, and more than two dozen road closures that we anticipate will need to be closed for an extended period,” Governor Lamont said. “This emergency declaration may help expedite some of the resources needed for us to respond to this situation, and in particular can help prioritize potential federal resources such as equipment and work crews that can assist state and local crews with repairing infrastructure damage. I strongly encourage anyone in the western area of the state to stay alert for updates before traveling and do not attempt to drive through any flooded roads.”

Governor Lamont and the state’s emergency management team have been leading unified command calls with state and municipal officials and other partners to lead coordinated response to the storm. The Connecticut Emergency Operations Center has been in enhanced monitoring mode since Sunday afternoon and will remain active throughout the duration of this weather event.

Municipal officials in the impacted areas are strongly advised to continue coordinating with their assigned regional coordinators from the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security on any requests for assistance.

For real-time travel updates on road closures, visit ctroads.org.

[Hartford, CT]– Today U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut) and Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) issued a statement following their visit to Ukraine.

The senators met with United States and Ukraine government officials today, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. 

“After our sixth visit to Kyiv, we are more hopeful than ever that the tide of war has turned against Putin and his cronies. Ukraine’s decision to go on the offensive in the Kursk region of Russia was bold and brilliant.  

“Bipartisan support for Ukraine is critical to American interests, and we will do whatever we can in 2024 to build on these successes and secure additional future military aid necessary to maintain the momentum.  

“We urge NATO to issue an invitation this year to Ukraine for membership, making real what has been described as inevitable. 

“President Zelensky was excited about and was committed to obtaining a strategic agreement with the U.S. regarding the more than a trillion dollars-worth of rare earth minerals owned by Ukraine and expressed a commitment to create a working group with the U.S. to make this happen.

“Expanding economic cooperation with Ukraine makes America stronger and accelerates Ukraine’s economic recovery. Ukraine is blessed with significant lithium, titanium, and other rare earth minerals that are needed by the American economy. An agreement with Ukraine in this area would make the U.S. less dependent on foreign adversaries for rare earth minerals.

“In addition, we will introduce the Stand With Ukraine Act, led by Senator Blumenthal, when the Senate reconvenes in September. This bipartisan piece of legislation will codify the bilateral security agreement reached by the Biden Administration and Zelensky’s government this past July. We believe this will send an important signal to the world and show that the United States continues to stand with Ukraine.

“After listening to President Zelensky, we urge the Biden Administration to lift restrictions on weapons provided by the United States so they can strike the Russian invaders more effectively. 

“Additionally, President Zelensky told us both that he would be looking to supplement his Air Force by establishing a program to enlist retired NATO F-16 fighter pilots. We support this effort. Ukraine is already fielding units of freedom fighters on the ground, and this volunteer force should be replicated in the air.

“Now is the time to form a strategic partnership with Ukraine that can have tremendous economic benefits to the United States and lead to stability in Europe. Ukraine has demonstrated it has a genuine desire to join the democratic family of nations. We must not abandon them in their hour of need. We should accelerate the gains that have been achieved through dogged determination and courage.”

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that Connecticut will hold its annual Sales Tax-Free Week from Sunday, August 18, to Saturday, August 24, 2024.

During this weeklong sales tax holiday, retail purchases of most clothing and footwear items priced under $100 are exempt from the Connecticut sales and use tax. The exemption during Sales Tax-Free Week applies to each eligible item costing under $100, regardless of how many of those items are sold to a customer on the same invoice.

“This year’s tax-free holiday lands a little earlier to give families a head start for the back-to-school season, which will be here before we know it,” Governor Lamont said. “As always, I encourage shoppers to take the time to stop by some of Connecticut’s local businesses and support our amazing small business community.”

“Sales Tax-Free Week is a great opportunity for Connecticut families to get back-to-school ready and save money at the same time,” Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said. “Parents and caregivers can save on needed clothing and everyday footwear items to help their kids kick off the school year with confidence. I hope our residents will take advantage of these savings and shop at their local small businesses, allowing those dollars to be reinvested in their communities.”

“Sales Tax-Free Week is a great way for Connecticut residents to save some cash,” Department of Revenue Services Commissioner Mark Boughton said. “In fact, many retailers also choose to offer additional discounts, resulting in even more savings. I encourage folks to go out there and support local businesses.”

For more details on Sales Tax-Free Week, including a list of individual items that are exempt or taxable, visit portal.ct.gov/DRS/Sales-Tax/Sales-Tax-Free-Week.