Connecticut Residents Will Be Eligible To Use This Free Tax Filing Option Beginning in Filing Year 2025
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen today announced that, beginning in the 2025 filing season, Connecticut will join IRS Direct File – a newly launched option to file federal tax returns online that is provided to users at no cost, empowering residents to file with ease and without having to pay the fees associated with for-profit tax software companies.
This free online tax filing option began as a pilot program in 12 states during the 2024 filing season, and during this time it enabled 140,000 taxpayers to claim more than $90 million in refunds, saving an estimated $5.6 million in filing costs. On the heels of this successful pilot run, the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) are making Direct File permanently available to all 50 states and the District of Columbia starting with the 2025 filing season.
The creation of Direct File was made possible by President Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, which provided enhanced resources for the IRS to improve customer service in-person, over the phone, and online to ensure taxpayers claim the benefits and deductions for which they are eligible.
“The Direct File tool will make it easier and more convenient for the average person to file their taxes, and it will help them save both time and money by avoiding the need to purchase for-profit tax filing software,” Governor Lamont said. “We’re grateful to the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Internal Revenue Service for making this resource a reality, and we appreciate that Connecticut residents will benefit from this service in the upcoming filing season.”
“Thanks to President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, more than 290,000 Connecticut taxpayers will be able to file their taxes online for free, directly with the IRS this coming Filing Season,” Secretary Yellen said. “Direct File will save Connecticut residents time and money and help ensure they receive the tax benefits they are owed. After a successful pilot this Filing Season, we are pleased to expand the program as a permanent offering and welcome Connecticut as the latest new state to offer this free option to taxpayers.”
“Direct File will make a big difference for our taxpayers,” Connecticut Department of Revenue Services Commissioner Mark Boughton said. “Connecticut residents have benefitted from filing their state income taxes online for free via our myconneCT system, and this is another way we’re making their lives a little easier on Tax Day. We’re thrilled to be able to offer this service to the state.”
Users who filed their taxes with Direct File during its pilot run reported a high degree of satisfaction and quick answers to their filing questions. In a GSA Touchpoints survey of more than 11,000 Direct File users, 90% of respondents ranked their experience with Direct File as “Excellent” or “Above Average.” A majority of survey respondents who filed taxes in the prior year reported having to pay to prepare their taxes last year.
U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal said, “For Connecticut taxpayers, filing income tax returns can be complicated and intimidating, leading them to turn to tax preparation services that too often charge hidden fees. Direct File will provide a safe, easy way to file your federal tax return. I am proud to have supported funding to make Direct File a reality for many taxpayers and will continue to support expanding the availability of Direct File to all Americans.”
U.S. Senator Chris Murphy said, “It’s not complicated – no one should have to pay a for-profit company to do something the government requires everyone to do: file their taxes. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, Direct File will allow thousands of people in Connecticut to file their taxes and claim their benefits for free without the headache of relying on expensive filing software. This is a game-changer for taxpayers across our state, and the Biden-Harris administration got it done.”
U.S. Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) said, “As a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, I have been working with my colleagues to ensure the IRS is fulfilling its mission by providing better customer service and cracking down on wealthy tax cheats who are not paying their fair share. Thanks to the funding we secured in the Inflation Reduction Act, we are seeing results. I am proud that Connecticut residents will now see another direct benefit, as we expand the Direct File program to Connecticut for next year’s tax season so they have an additional opportunity to file their taxes at no cost.”
U.S. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) said, “There is simply no good reason that American taxpayers are all but forced to use costly private services to be sure they are paying their taxes correctly. The government, at minimum, should be able to tell people what they owe. I am pleased that Connecticut will join the IRS Direct File program, providing taxpayers with a no-cost option to file each tax season instead of costly private services that add to their cost burden each year. I applaud Governor Lamont for working to ensure all Connecticut residents can file their taxes for free.”
U.S. Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) said, “The federal government should do everything possible to make tax season less of a headache. I am thrilled Connecticut taxpayers will have free access to the online IRS Direct File tool for the 2025 Filing Year. This program will offer a reliable, user-friendly alternative to file their taxes, resulting in savings – in time, frustration, and money – for families across our state.”
U.S. Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) said, “Adopting Direct File will help taxpayers securely file their taxes and access credits without excessive third-party fees. Once again, Governor Lamont is using federal funds to get the greatest benefit for Connecticut residents and put their hard earned money back in their pockets.”
Home Health and Access Agencies Can Begin Applying for the Grants on August 7, 2024
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced the impending launch of the In-Home Safety Grant Program, a new state grant program administered by the Connecticut Department of Social Services aimed at enhancing the safety and security of home health care workers in Connecticut.
Established by the enactment of Public Act 24-19 – which was approved by the Connecticut General Assembly during the 2024 regular legislative session and then signed into law by Governor Lamont – this program will provide grants to home health and access agencies to fund improved safety protocols and support services for their workers. This includes items such as emergency alert buttons, buddy escort systems, tracking devices, safety training, risk-scoring tools, safety consultants, and the establishment of dedicated phone lines for staff in the field to access immediate support.
“Ensuring the safety and well-being of both our home health care workers and the individuals they serve is a top priority for the state,” Governor Lamont said. “This grant program is a significant step towards providing the necessary tools and training to protect workers who provide an invaluable service to our state, especially for those who are most vulnerable. I look forward to a continued collaboration with our community partners to maximize the impact of these resources and increase the safety of home health care workers.”
“Prioritizing the safety of our caretakers took precedence this year,” Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said. “A disproportionate number of home health care workers are women and women of color who serve in our vulnerable communities every single day. It is important we provide safer environments and the training and skills necessary for them to do their jobs without personal risk.”
“By investing in these safety measures, we are not only protecting our dedicated health care workers, but also ensuring that our clients receive the highest quality care in the safest possible environment,” Social Services Commissioner Andrea Barton Reeves said.
Senate President Pro Tempore Martin Looney (D-New Haven) said, “Making life easier for the people who work tirelessly to support so many in our state is something sorely needed, which is why this program was part of Senate Bill 1 this year – our foremost priority as a caucus. Home care workers perform vital care for countless Connecticut residents, and they should be able to go to work without concerns over their safety. These workers enable many frail and elderly people to continue living in their own homes rather than in institutions and deserve our gratitude, support, and protection.”
State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor), co-chair of the legislature’s Public Health Committee, said, “Violence is unfortunately a growing problem for health workers, especially home care workers. After the deaths of multiple home care workers in late 2023 and early 2024 in Connecticut, including the murder of home care nurse Joyce Grayson, we need to do better by those who keep us safe. I’m glad this grant program will become a new resource helping the hardworking individuals who perform necessary, personal care for so many.”
State Representative Cristin McCarthy Vahey (D-Bridgeport Fairfield), co-chair of the legislature’s Public Health Committee said, “Our job is to help the helpers and protect home health care workers who are doing their jobs – helping others. Through new provisions including safety training and emergency alerts, our state is making critical progress in protecting both workers and patients alike. I thank Governor Lamont and all of our community partners for their support for this bill.”
State Senator Heather Somers (R-Groton), ranking member of the legislature’s Public Health Committee, said, “Home health care workers are the unsung heroes who provide essential care to our most vulnerable residents, often at great personal risk. They face numerous challenges, including the threat of violence, while performing their duties. We are proud to have passed legislation that will provide much-needed grants to home health and access agencies to fund enhanced safety protocols and support services, ensuring a safer working environment for these invaluable workers.”
State Representative Nicole Klarides-Ditria (R-Beacon Falls, Derby, Seymour), ranking member of the legislature’s Public Health Committee said, “I’m happy these grants are being made available to help provide the training and resources to create a safer working environment for our dedicated home healthcare workers. Protecting home healthcare workers was a priority this session and these funds and the increased and enhanced training and oversight will undoubtedly provide increased safety and peace of mind.”
State Representative Jane Garibay (D-Windsor, Windsor Locks), co-chair of the legislature’s Aging Committee, said, “This grant program will help to ensure that our home health care workers, so dedicated in their service to our elderly and other vulnerable populations, can now have the tools and resources they need to assure workplace safety and wellbeing. Our home health care workers deserve an environment free from violence or harassment. Prioritizing workplace safety was a primary goal of Speaker Ritter and the Aging Committee. It benefits our aging population, and I am proud to have been a part of supporting this effort.”
Home health and access agencies interested in applying for grants can begin submitting applications to the Connecticut Department of Social Services starting August 7, 2024. An online application form will be made available on that date at portal.ct.gov/dss/common-elements/home-and-community-based-services.
The application process is designed to ensure timely and efficient distribution of funds, allowing agencies to quickly implement these crucial safety measures. The first round of grants are anticipated to be released by the end of October.
The initial launch of this program is being financially supported by $6 million in funding allocated by the Connecticut General Assembly and Governor Lamont through funding the state received from the federal American Rescue Plan Act.
[Hartford, CT] – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chairman of the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) joined Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA), Ranking Member of the House Financial Services Committee, to announce introduction of the Protecting Consumers from Payment Scams Act, legislation to better protect consumers making online payments through digital payment platforms like Zelle.
As payment fraud skyrockets, the legislation would update the Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA) to clarify ambiguities and strengthen the law to better protect consumers harmed when they make payments. Specifically, it would protect consumers when they are defrauded into initiating a payment sent to a bad actor, when they lose funds through fraudulent bank wire transfers, and when their accounts are inexplicably frozen or closed.
“Zelle’s speed and convenience have made it a target for bad actors looking to trick unsuspecting consumers out of their hard-earned money,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Despite this growing threat, Zelle and the banks that own it have failed to implement adequate safeguards and reimbursement policies to make consumers whole when they fall victim to scams and fraud. Our measure takes bold action where Zelle’s efforts at self-regulation have fallen short, ensuring that instant payments do not automatically result in instant losses for consumers.”
“Right now, fraudsters are using every trick in the book to steal money from hard-working consumers through payment apps like Zelle, Venmo, or old-fashion bank wire transfers. That’s why it is absolutely critical that we move quickly to modernize our consumer protection laws to reflect the realities of today’s payment systems,” said Congresswoman Waters. “The ‘Protecting Consumers from Payment Scams Act’ will clarify critical provisions in law to give consumers the peace of mind to know they are protected if they are tricked into sending money to fraudsters. I want to commend Senator Blumenthal for his subcommittee’s work to shine a light on these payment scams and Senator Warren for her continued commitment on this issue, and I thank them for working with me to introduce this crucial piece of legislation to give American consumers the financial security they deserve.”
“Americans are sick and tired of these scams. Banks and peer-to-peer payment services like Zelle need to be held accountable for the scammers that are operating on their platforms,” said Senator Warren. “I’m happy to join Senator Blumenthal and Ranking Member Waters in this effort to make sure Americans who are defrauded can be made whole again.”
Today, scammers are exploiting various payment systems such as mobile wallets, payment apps, and wire transfers to steal money from unsuspecting consumers. In 2023 alone, the Federal Trade Commission received 2.6 million fraud complaints, resulting in reported losses of $10 billion—a figure that experts believe significantly underrepresents the actual losses experienced by consumers since fraud is vastly underreported.
This year, the Senate Permanent Subcommittee of Investigations (PSI), led by Blumenthal, held hearings and issued a staff report detailing failures by Zelle and its three largest owner banks, JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo to reimburse consumers despite existing requirements to do so in many cases.
PSI’s investigation has found that Zelle’s three largest owner banks reimbursed victims who reported fraud only 38 percent of the time in 2023—a decline from 62 percent in 2019. In terms of dollar value, this translates to over $100 million worth of transactions disputed as fraud not reimbursed each year from 2021 through 2023.
PSI also found that, in 2020, JPMorgan reimbursed just three transactions out of 41,390 scam disputes that year, Wells Fargo did not reimburse any of the 25,061 scam disputes, and Bank of America did not track scam data as a separate dispute category until the second half of 2020. In 2023, the Three Banks reimbursed victims of scams only 12 percent of the time.
The Protecting Consumers from Payment Scams Act would:
Protect consumers when they are defrauded into sending a payment to a bad actor, and require relevant firms that facilitate these payments to share liability;
Clarify that consumers are protected when they use bank wire transfers and electronic transfers authorized by telephone call; and
Ensure that error resolution duties apply if the consumer’s account is frozen or closed, unless access has been denied due to a court order, law enforcement, or the consumer obtained the funds through unlawful or fraudulent means.
(Hartford, CT) – Attorney General William Tong today announced he has opened an investigation into EnergyBillCruncher.com regarding false claims on social media that “Government will cover the cost to install solar.”
In addition to falsely claiming that the “Government” will cover the cost of solar installation, the company inappropriately uses the Connecticut state seal and creates a false sense of urgency, claiming that homeowners must “do this before Friday.”
In an inquiry letter sent today, the Office of the Attorney General seeks information on the ownership of the EnergyBillCruncher website and social media accounts. The inquiry also seeks information regarding the number of inquiries received from Connecticut residents, information the company provided to Connecticut residents, and any Connecticut solar financing, install, sale or distribution companies that may have partnered with the company.
“Free solar does not exist, and the state does not endorse any solar company or any marketing materials making those kinds of false and misleading claims. Electric rates are sky high right now, and we’re all looking for ways to save. But never, ever feel pressured into a contract without checking the facts and crunching the numbers,” said Attorney General Tong.
Connecticut state government does not endorse any solar company or program. While some solar installations may have no up-front cost, and tax credits may be available, there is no such thing as a free solar system. Costs and benefits will vary for each homeowner, and consumers should always do their own research to analyze whether solar is a good investment.
This is the latest in a series of actions Attorney General Tong has taken regarding unfair solar panel sales tactics. Last month, Attorney General Tong sued SunRun Inc., SunRun Installation Services, Bright Planet Solar, Inc., Elevate Solar Solutions LLC and salespeople Dakota Grumet and Sierra Howes alleging deceptive, unfair and otherwise unlawful sales of solar panel systems, including locking consumers into long-term contracts without consent by various means, including impersonating consumers, and installing non-functional systems. In 2022, Attorney General Tong and the Department of Consumer Protection announced an investigation and enforcement action against Solar Wolf Energy over failures to complete, or even begin, promised work. Solar Wolf is currently blocked from doing business in Connecticut as a result of a court order and has since filed for bankruptcy. In 2023, Attorney General Tong sued Vision Solar following more than a dozen consumer complaints regarding predatory high-pressure sales tactics, misrepresentations about financing and tax credits, and unpermitted work that left homeowners saddled with nonfunctioning systems and unaffordable loans. Vision Solar has since filed for bankruptcy.
[WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and U.S. Representative Nanette Barragán (D-CA) today introduced the Compassionate Care Act,legislation to promote advance care planning and end-of-life care. Many Americans do not have plans in place in the event they experience severe illness. In order to help patients access the care they need and that is right for them, the Compassionate Care Act provides critical resources to educate patients and providers, develop core end-of-life quality measures, and expand access to advance care planning via telehealth.
“Our measure will empower Americans who are without plans for end-of-life care to be prepared in the event they experience severe illness,” said Blumenthal. “By promoting end-of-life care through public awareness, expanding telehealth services, and working with physicians, we can ensure that patients of all ages are able to access the care that is best for them.”
“We must ensure that every patient’s healthcare rights and wishes are respected by increased access to advance care planning (ACP),” said Barragán. “Few patients discuss ACP with their providers, and marginalized communities, including individuals with low incomes and non-English speakers, are even less likely to have the conversation. I am proud to introduce the Compassionate Care Act with Senator Blumenthal, as it will create clear guidelines, increase physician education and public awareness, and enhance ACP access for all.”
“Passing the Compassionate Care Actof 2024 will be a groundbreaking step towards modernizing end of life care by permanently allowing patients to access hospice care through telehealth, and equipping providers with the necessary tools for comprehensive end-of-life planning,” said Kim Callinan, President/CEO of Compassion & Choices, the nation’s largest and oldest end-of-life care advocacy organization. “We thank Senator Blumenthal for his leadership on this important issue and will work with him to secure congressional support to pass this compassionate and crucial legislation.”
“The Coalition to Transform Advanced Care is extremely grateful to Senator Blumenthal for reintroducing the Compassionate Care Act. The senator’s leadership directly improves the lives of individuals with serious illness,” said Jon Broyles, CEO of Coalition to Transform Advanced Care (C-TAC). “This legislation includes critical improvements in advance care planning (ACP) guidelines, and by making permanent telehealth provisions for hospice recertification and ACP at home and by audio only. This along with the much-needed provider and public education will help ensure that patients’ care preferences are understood, recorded, and followed, the foundation of patient-centered care that C-TAC promotes.”
Among other provisions, the Compassionate Care Act would:
Establish guidelines for advance care planning between health providers and patients;
Launch a National Public Awareness Campaign that would encourage patients and providers to make end-of-life plans;
Direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop education resources for providers to engage with patients, work with providers, state boards of medicine, and clinical associations to develop advance care education resources and solicit feedback from providers and develop quality measures;
Improve access to advance care planning by expanding telehealth options for providers and patients; and,
Facilitate a study on a national advanced care planning registry that would allow patients to transfer their advanced directives from state to state.
This legislation is supported by numerous organizations, including Compassion & Choices, C-TAC, National Partnership for Healthcare & Hospice Innovation (NPHI), National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO), National Patient Advocate Foundation (NPAF), American Heart Association, AMDA – The Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine, LeadingAge, LeadingAge Connecticut, American Academy of Home Care Medicine (AAHCM), Consumer Coalition for Quality Health Care, Connecticut Center for Patient Safety, Connecticut Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, and the National Association for Home Care &
45 Percent of Children Nationwide Lack Summer Learning Opportunities, Citing Cost As Biggest Barrier
WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, on Friday introduced the Summer for All Act, legislation to provide high-quality summer enrichment opportunities to kids and families who otherwise would not have access to these programs. The bill would establish two new grant programs to provide long-term, direct funding that would help community-based organizations provide free summer camp and other activities to underserved kids and support states in the planning and implementation of initiatives to address summer programming gaps in sustainable ways.
In 2021, Murphy secured a dedicated set-aside in the education funding in the American Rescue Plan for summer enrichment programs. With that funding, states across the country, including Connecticut, expanded camps for hundreds of thousands of kids and provided programs for families, like free admission to museums, for the past three summers. After this summer, that funding states have relied on will run out.
A new survey released by Gallup this week, which shows that an estimated 24 million children in the U.S. did not participate in any structured programming last summer, highlights the inequities in who can access summer learning. While most surveyed families with a household annual income of $100,000 or more report their child did participate in summer programs in 2023, only 38 percent of kids from families with less than $50,000 in annual income were able to attend summer camps or other summer enrichment activities. Gallup’s survey shows that cost is the greatest barrier for parents who want their child to engage in summer programming but had to forgo or limit their participation last summer, finding that 32 percent of all K-12 parents in the U.S. couldn’t send their child to a summer program because it was unaffordable.
“The summer months give kids a chance to reset and prepare for back-to-school, and a big part of that comes from camps and other summer programs where kids can spend time with their friends, have fun, and continue to learn. Unfortunately, a lot of kids don’t get those experiences because there aren’t enough slots or their family can’t afford it. Back in 2021, I led an effort to make sure the American Rescue Plan included funding to give more kids the opportunity for a fun summer after a really tough school year. Thanks to those federal dollars, Connecticut’s summer enrichment program has helped thousands of kids and families, but the money is running out. We shouldn’t abandon such a successful and important initiative, and that’s why I’m introducing this legislation to make summer funding a federal priority and ensure every kid has a fun summer – not just the kids whose families can afford it,” said Murphy.
The Summer for All Actwouldauthorize $4 billion over four years and $1 billion each fiscal year after to fund two new competitive grant programs managed by the Department of Health and Human Services to expand access to high-quality summer enrichment opportunities. The bill also authorizes the Secretary to reserve up to 5 percent of funds to conduct data collection and analysis to understand gaps in summer enrichment opportunities for youth and how to improve access to and the quality of summer programs overall.
Summer Enrichment Expansion Grant: Helps community-based organizations expand the programs they offer in the summer, with a priority for programs that:
Provide programming and transportation free of charge to low-income participants
Expand access to underserved and rural communities
Partner with local schools to identify and enroll at-risk students, including those who were chronically absent the previous school year
Integrate healthy nutrition as part of their programming, as well as incorporate activities that support the physical and mental health of participants
Provide safe, healthy, and supportive environments, and help participants develop relationship-building skills as well as their social and emotional skills
Summer Programming State Grant: Supports states in addressing gaps in summer programming in sustainable ways, along with providing innovative summer programming opportunities for kids and their families, with priority for states that:
Organize state-level teams, comprised of a diverse group of stakeholders, to determine the biggest gaps in summer enrichment programming within their state and develop a sustainable plan to leverage grant funding to address those gaps
Utilize funding for innovative programming that goes beyond providing expanded slots at established summer programs (i.e. making museums free for families throughout the summer)
Build partnerships between local schools, municipalities, and community-based organizations to maximize the impact of existing summer programs among at-risk students
This legislation is endorsed by After-School All-Stars (ASAS), American Alliance of Museums, American Camp Association, American Library Association, Breakthrough Collaborative, Cathleen Stone Island Outward Bound School, Coalition for Service Learning, Connecticut Network for Children and Youth, Every Hour Counts, Girls Inc., Girlstart, Horizons National, Maryland Out of School Time Network, MENTOR, National Afterschool Association, National Parents Union, National Recreation and Parks Association, National Summer Learning Association (NSLA), National Youth Leadership Council, Pennsylvania Statewide Afterschool Youth Development Network (PSAYDN), and Youth Service America.
“While it’s encouraging that 30 million youth participated in fun and engaging summer opportunities, we must strive for more,” said Aaron Dworkin, CEO of the National Summer Learning Association. “Our mission is to bridge the gap, ensuring all low-income young people have access to high-quality summer programs in community centers, parks, camps, schools, and beyond. Senator Chris Murphy’s Summer for All Act is a pivotal step forward, championing children by removing barriers and transforming summer into a season of enrichment for every child.”
“We’ve known for more than a hundred years that summer learning at camp is a transformative experience that fosters character and social-emotional skills development, resulting in a stronger sense of self,” said Tom Rosenberg, president and CEO of the American Camp Association. “Summer learning is crucial for setting our kids up to thrive in the classroom and beyond. Today, we must work together to ensure all children have access to summer learning experiences. The Summer for All Act will greatly expand our ability to provide more kids with summer learning, laying the foundation for capable and confident future generations.”
“Horizons National, which advances educational equity by building long-term partnerships with students, families, communities, and schools to create experiences outside of school that inspire the joy of learning, is honored to endorse Senator Murphy’s Summer for All Act. It is heartbreaking to see the waiting lists for our programs every year and the Gallup data makes it clear that millions of parents are struggling to afford summer learning programs for their children. This legislation is a vital step to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive and grow during the crucial summer months,” said Lorna Smith, CEO of Horizons National.
“Ensuring all children have access to high-quality summer enrichment opportunities is essential for closing the equity gap and providing vital support to families who need it most. This legislation will empower schools, municipalities, and community-based organizations to offer enriching summer experiences, fostering growth and development for underserved kids across the country,” said Gina Warner, CEO of the National Afterschool Association.
“One of the biggest sources of inequity in U. S. education outcomes is the ‘opportunity gap’ between children who can experience enriching, engaging experiences during the summer, and those that are isolated, bored and disengaged. The Summer for All Act will provide essential funding so that children can make friends, have fun, and continue learning all summer long in a safe and supportive setting. Thank you Senator Murphy for leading the way with this very important legislation,” said Michelle Doucette Cunningham, Executive Director of the Connecticut Network for Children and Youth.
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the State of Connecticut has joined the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Better Climate Challenge, becoming one of more than 50 organizations across the United States that are stepping up to the challenge and driving real-world action toward a low-carbon future. In joining the challenge, the state is committing to reduce portfolio-wide greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% within ten years and work with DOE to share successful solutions and decarbonization strategies.
As Connecticut undertakes this challenge, DOE will support its efforts with technical assistance, peer-to-peer learning opportunities, and a platform for the organization to demonstrate its commitment to being part of the solution to climate change.
To reach its emissions goal, Connecticut is conducting a decarbonization study required by Governor Lamont’s Executive Order No. 21-3 to plan for the retrofit of existing heating and cooling equipment. This will enable facilities to operate without carbon emitting fuels. In addition, the state is developing an electric vehicle (EV) fleet rollout to build out EV infrastructure on state properties for the transition of state fleet gas powered vehicles to electric vehicles, while working to install solar on state properties.
“Connecticut is already well on its way to meeting the goals outlined in the Better Climate Challenge,” Governor Lamont said. “Our efforts to decarbonize our state buildings and electrify our vehicle fleet are important steps toward a more sustainable future. By joining the challenge, we are sending a strong signal that our administration will continue to do everything in our power to reduce our carbon footprint and save money for taxpayers.”
“Better Climate Challenge partners like Connecticut are committing to decarbonize across their portfolio of buildings, plants, and fleets and share effective strategies to transition our economy to clean energy,” U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm said. “Their leadership and innovation are crucial in our collective fight against climate change while strengthening the U.S. economy.”
“The Connecticut Department of Administrative Services is at the center of the state’s decarbonization efforts, but this work requires real cross-agency collaboration,” Connecticut Department of Administrative Services (DAS) Commissioner Michelle Gilman said. “Working with our GreenerGov CT partners – especially DEEP and OPM – we can make a real impact on behalf of residents. The state’s participation in the Better Climate Challenge is an important step toward the realization of our ambitious climate goals.”
“Government has a responsibility to protect our environmental resources and our economy,” Connecticut Office of Policy and Management (OPM) Secretary Jeffrey Beckham said. “Joining the Better Climate Challenge, in support of our Executive Order No. 21-3 goals, helps us achieve both. Working across state government we can reduce our carbon footprint and operating costs, saving taxpayers money in the short and long term. If we do not act today to mitigate the impacts of climate change, our children and grandchildren pay the rising costs.”
“This DOE partnership is a great example of the State of Connecticut continuing to lead by example,” Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Katie Dykes said. “DEEP has worked with our GreenerGov CT co-chairs to implement Governor Lamont’s very first executive order, related to the sustainability of state facilities. Every day, our interagency team of DEEP, DAS, and OPM works to implement robust and cutting-edge projects like DEEP’s recently opened Western District Headquarters, the first net-zero state executive branch building. Reducing emissions from our building sector, which contributes 13% to the state’s total emissions, is critically important to achieving our greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals in our effort to mitigate the climate crisis.”
In 2019, Governor Lamont issued Executive Order No. 1 to expand the state’s existing Lead By Example program, setting new goals for reducing the environmental footprint of state facilities. These targets include reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030, water consumption by 10% by 2030, and waste consumption by 25% by 2030 across all Executive Branch buildings, including higher education. It also allows buildings operated by the Judicial Branch and the Legislative Branch to participate in this initiative.
In 2021, Executive Order No. 21-3 was signed to implement interim targets to meet the 45% GHG emissions reduction goal.
Ahead of hearing with Zelle owner and major banks, Majority staff report unveils stunning lack of consumer protections
[WASHINGTON, DC] – Ahead of a hearing with Early Warning Services (EWS) CEO Cameron Fowler and major bank executives, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chair of the U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), released a majority staff report today detailing the Subcommittee’s findings thus far in its bipartisan inquiry into EWS and the three largest Zelle owner banks, JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo (the “Three Banks”).
“Zelle and the big banks who own it know that Zelle’s speed and convenience makes it a target,” said Blumenthal. “They are well aware that, every single day, some of their customers will be hurt. They know this and are willing to accept the risk as the cost of doing business—the cost for their customers, that is, not for themselves.”
Spanning nearly 15 months and thousands of pages of documents and data, the Subcommittee’s investigation has found that Zelle and the Three Banks are not doing enough to protect consumers from the growing risk of scams and fraud. A summary of key findings from PSI’s investigation is available below.
Consumers Are Not Always Reimbursed for Unauthorized Transactions as Required by Law
The Electronic Fund Transfer Act requires banks to reimburse customers when they lose funds through an unauthorized transaction, such as hacking or other unauthorized access to a customer’s account.
However, PSI’s investigation has found that Zelle’s three largest owner banks reimbursed victims who report this kind of fraud only 38 percent of the time in 2023—a decline from 62 percent in 2019. In terms of dollar value, this translates to over $100 million worth of transactions disputed as fraud not reimbursed each year from 2021 through 2023.
Consumers Are Rarely Reimbursed for Authorized Transactions
In the absence of legal requirements for banks to repay customers who are tricked into transferring funds to a bad actor, PSI’s investigation has found that consumers who fall victim to scams on Zelle are rarely reimbursed for their losses.
In 2020, JPMorgan reimbursed three transactions out of 41,390 scam disputes that year, Wells Fargo did not reimburse any of the 25,061 scam disputes, and Bank of America did not track scam data as a separate dispute category until the second half of 2020. In 2023, the Three Banks reimbursed victims of scams only 12 percent of the time.
Zelle Is Growing Rapidly Without Adequate Consumer Protections
Zelle is continuing to grow at a rapid pace, and banks are increasingly encouraging their customers to use Zelle for commercial purposes. Despite surging growth, Zelle has failed to offer sufficient protections for consumers that are comparable to other payment methods such as credit and debit cards. In June 2023, Zelle expanded its reimbursement policy, describing the expansion of reimbursement rules as “well above existing legal and regulatory requirements.” However, the policy covers only a small percentage of all scam disputes on the Zelle Network.
PSI found that the policy change resulted in $18.3 million in reimbursed scam claims in the six months following its implementation, amounting to approximately 15 to 20 percent of all scam disputes on the Zelle Network within that timeframe.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Awards $450 Million to the Multi-State New England Heat Pump Accelerator Coalition
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and the members of Connecticut’s Congressional delegation today announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is awarding a coalition of states known as the New England Heat Pump Accelerator Coalition – which includes Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island – with a $450 million grant through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program to accelerate adoption of affordable electric heat pumps throughout the region.
Cold-climate heat pumps are proven to substantially reduce emissions, provide significant health benefits, and deliver energy savings.
The coalition’s application was led by the State of Connecticut through the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). It is estimated that Connecticut’s allocation will be up to $100 million.
With this historic federal support, the coalition will leverage the power of a multi-state market to rapidly increase the adoption of cold-climate air-source heat pumps (ASHPs), heat pump water heaters (HPWHs), and ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) in single-family and multifamily residential buildings across the region. The coalition will also tackle barriers to affordable heat pump adoption and promote development of heat pump skill sets in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, and electrical workforce. The coalition’s intention is to center approximately half of the investment and benefits in historically overburdened and underserved communities, consistent with the EPA’s Justice40 initiative.
The coalition will partner with heat pump manufacturers, distributors, and installers to increase the availability of air-source and ground-source heat pumps while lowering equipment and installation costs for consumers. This partnership will include significant investment in workforce training, ensuring installers across the five states will have access to good-paying careers while delivering more efficient heating and cooling solutions for our residents. A portion of the funding will support strategies to ensure heat pump installations that work for all building types, such as mobile homes, multifamily buildings, and buildings with radiator (hydronic) heating systems common throughout the region. Through the unprecedented multi-state collaboration supported by this grant, the states will share information and best practices learned through this initiative to improve heat pump programs and building policies for decades to come.
New England states experienced multiple heat waves this summer, including last week when communities across the region broke temperature records, yet again. Access to efficient cooling equipment has never been more important to the health and safety of our communities. Across New England, a warming climate is driving more families to seek out air conditioning on these hot days and nights, in turn increasing demand on the electric grid and utility bills. In addition to providing reliable heating in the winter, heat pumps are also the most efficient cooling option in the summers and thanks to EPA funding, the Accelerator partnership will make versatile heat pump technology cheaper and more available, particularly to our most vulnerable residents.
In addition to the funding received through this successful multi-state heat pump coalition proposal, Connecticut has also been selected to receive funding from the EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program through two other grant applications. Connecticut will receive $54 million to invest in fueling infrastructure for zero emission freight trucks along the I-95 corridor as part of a multi-state coalition proposal that also includes New Jersey, Maryland, and Delaware. Additionally, the City of New Haven will receive $9.4 million to construct a networked geothermal heat pump system for New Haven Union Station and the planned adjacent mixed-income housing development, which will consist of more than 1,000 units of housing.
Governor Lamont said, “This funding means more residents in Connecticut – and more importantly, more low-income residents in our state – will be able to realize the benefits of truly clean, safe, healthy, and energy-efficient heating and cooling. This multi-state initiative will also enable more equitable participation in the green economy. Thank you to the Biden-Haris administration and the EPA for this Inflation Reduction Act opportunity, our Congressional delegation for their support and efforts to pass the underlying legislation, DEEP for taking the lead, and our partner states across the region for their collaboration.”
DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said, “We are thrilled that the EPA’s national competition recognized the region’s collaborative effort and vision to expand the benefits of proven heat pump technology across New England. Cold-climate heat pumps are several times more energy efficient than even the most efficient fossil fuel heating systems while also providing the health benefits of space cooling in warmer months. As our state experiences more frequent heat waves due to climate change, DEEP looks forward to accelerating the deployment of this versatile, clean heating and cooling technology while reducing costs and providing health benefits for our residents.”
U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal said, “This hugely impactful federal investment attests to Connecticut’s consistent commitment to fighting climate change – and our Congressional delegation’s continuing teamwork. As important as its historic magnitude – tens of millions of dollars – is its message of environmental justice and equity. It enlists and empowers forces of environmental activism in communities disregarded far too long. It will be truly transformative.”
U.S. Senator Chris Murphy said, “This grant from the Inflation Reduction Act is a massive win for Connecticut that will lower energy costs by helping more people install heat pumps. It’s the perfect example for why this legislation was so historic; it funds projects that create good-paying jobs, will cut costs for families, and help us achieve our climate goals. I’m proud to have advocated for this funding, and I look forward to seeing it make a big difference in our state.”
Congressman John Larson (CT-01), “Today’s announcement supports a clean energy future for Connecticut and our nation. The Connecticut delegation worked together to pass the Inflation Reduction Act to address climate change, bolster energy innovation, and lower costs for American families. This funding builds on this historic progress by upgrading critical energy infrastructure from heating and cooling technology to electric vehicle charging while creating good-paying jobs across New England.”
Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) said, “Major federal funding is coming to our region to reduce pollution thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, which is the largest climate investment in world history. I applaud Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and their partners for leading game-changing projects that will create more jobs, advance energy efficiency, and cut emissions.”
Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), “We must do all we can to reduce pollution and stave off the worst effects of climate change. That is why I am pleased that CT DEEP will receive grant funding to strengthen EV charging infrastructure and provide low-income communities with energy efficiency upgrades. Altogether, this will strengthen our resiliency against climate change and prevent its most disastrous effects.”
Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) said, “During my time in Congress, I have advocated for investments to reduce pollution, so our communities are healthier and part of the climate solution. Today’s grant announcement of $450 million in Climate Pollution Reduction Grant funding to Connecticut and surrounding partner states is a giant step forward in achieving a greener future. I am grateful to the EPA for funding these projects and to the Biden-Harris administration for prioritizing historic investment in climate action through the Inflation Reduction Act.”
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey said, “Through the Accelerator, we’ll be able to deliver affordable and cutting-edge heating and cooling technologies to families and businesses across New England. Our administration is proud of the bipartisan collaboration with our partner states that is delivering $450 million at this critical juncture in our response to climate change. We believe that climate change is our greatest threat and greatest opportunity – with the Climate Pollution Reduction Grant, this is an opportunity to lower costs, increase comfort, and drive down emissions.”
Massachusetts Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper said, “Getting heat pumps in homes across New England unlocks enormous benefits for our residents. For folks who have struggled to afford furnaces and air conditioning in the past, they’ll be able to more easily get a heat pump that heats and cools their homes efficiently as summers get hotter and winters become more extreme. I’m also proud to see our efforts to build relationships with our neighbor states result in such a significant award – the only award in New England and the second largest in the country.”
Hannah Pingree, director of the Maine Governor’s Office of Policy Innovation and the Future, and Dan Burgess, director of the Maine Governor’s Energy Office, said in a joint statement, “Maine has set an example for the nation on how efficient, climate-friendly technologies like heat pumps can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, create jobs and support new businesses, and save people money on their heating and cooling bills. This award from through the Inflation Reduction Act will ensure Maine can meet our ambitious target of 275,000 heat pumps installed by 2027, and we thank the U.S. EPA and our partner states for their support of this important initiative.”
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee said, “This grant will help Rhode Island build on our successful Clean Heat RI program which is already helping to lower costs for residents and cut emissions across our state. Today’s announcement is a big climate win for Team Rhode Island and our partnering states. Together, we are proud to receive the only award in New England and the second largest in the nation. We thank the Biden-Harris administration, our congressional delegation, and all federal partners for continuing to invest in Rhode Island’s future.”
Rhode Island Acting Energy Commissioner Chris Kearns said, “This award will further ensure that all Rhode Islanders, regardless of their housing situation, can benefit from the energy savings and health improvements offered by air-source and ground-source pumps. This coalition has allowed the New England states to work together on energy initiatives and I am excited to continue this partnership to advance our states’ clean energy goals.”
EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash said, “No community should have to worry about a future of heat waves, flooding, and sea level rise; and every community should be able to seize the opportunities of a transition to a clean energy future. Today’s announcement underscores our commitment to addressing the climate crisis head-on through collaborative, community-driven solutions. The $450 million Climate Pollution Reduction Grant for the New England Heat Pump Accelerator will not only advance our region’s clean energy transition and create good jobs, but also deliver significant benefits to our communities by improving air quality, reducing energy costs, and fostering environmental justice. By working together, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island are setting a powerful example of regional cooperation and innovation in tackling climate change.”
Samantha Dynowski, state director of the Sierra Club of Connecticut, said, “We applaud the Lamont Administration for working cooperatively with our New England neighbors to win this federal grant. Because of this win, heat pumps will be accessible to more Connecticut residents, businesses, and communities. Heat pumps protect Connecticut residents from excessive heat while reducing pollution that worsens the climate crisis and dirties our air. As we collectively work to achieve our state-mandated climate goals, we must continue to expand greater access to heat pumps in buildings and homes statewide.”
The EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program is providing $4.6 billion in competitive grants to states, local governments, tribes, and territories to develop and implement ambitious plans for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful air pollution, with a particular focus on investing in low-income and disadvantaged communities. The EPA reportedly received more than $30 billion in applications for the program, making it one of the most popular program opportunities from the entire Inflation Reduction Act.
DEEP will now proceed to issue a request for proposals to coordinate engagement and implement the program across the region.
Cooling Centers Are Open and Can be Located by Calling 2-1-1 or Visiting 211ct.org
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that as another heat wave is expected to approach Connecticut in the coming days, he is directing Connecticut’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol to be activated effective at 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 14, 2024, and remaining in effect through 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 17, 2024.
The purpose of the protocol is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe hot weather conditions. While enacted, a system is set up for state agencies, municipalities, and other partners to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 to make sure that information regarding cooling centers is available statewide.
To find a cooling center in Connecticut, call 2-1-1 or view the list that is being published online at 211ct.org.
“We just had a heat wave over the first few days of this week, and while it remains hot outside today, it’s looking like another stretch of potentially even hotter weather will impact Connecticut this coming week, particularly from Sunday to Wednesday,” Governor Lamont said. “These high temperatures combined with high dew points can be very dangerous for certain populations. Our state, local, and nonprofit partners are coordinating on the necessary operations for cooling centers to open throughout Connecticut. Anyone who needs a cool place to get some relief can call 2-1-1 or visit 211ct.org to get directed their nearest cooling center. Additionally, 2-1-1 can connect anyone in need with the transportation necessary to get to a cooling center.”
The following actions are implemented while Connecticut’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol is enacted:
The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security uses its WebEOC communications network, which is an internet-based system that enables local, regional, and state emergency management officials and first responders to share up-to-date information about a variety of situations and conditions.
Municipalities and other partners submit information on the opening of cooling centers into the WebEOC, providing a real-time database on the availability of these locations statewide. United Way 2-1-1 uses the system to act as a clearinghouse to assist residents in locating a cooling center.
Regional coordinators from the Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security monitor WebEOC in order to respond to any requests from municipalities for state assistance.
The energy utility companies provide the state with regular updates regarding the impact of the weather conditions on their respective utilities throughout the duration of the protocol.
Although anyone can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others:
Infants and young children are sensitive to the effects of high temperatures and rely on others to regulate their environments and provide adequate liquids.
People 65 years of age or older may not compensate for heat stress efficiently and are less likely to sense and respond to change in temperature.
People who are overweight may be prone to heat sickness because of their tendency to retain more body heat.
People who overexert during work or exercise may become dehydrated and susceptible to heat sickness.
People who are physically ill, especially those with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation, may be affected by extreme heat.
Some prevention tips to stay safe in extreme heat include:
Keep your body temperature cool to avoid heat-related illness.
Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. If you must be outdoors, try to limit your outdoor activity to the morning and evening. Try to rest often in shady areas so that your body has a chance to cool off.
Find an air-conditioned shelter. (Call 2-1-1 for a list of cooling centers.) Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device.
Avoid direct sunlight.
Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
Take cool showers or baths.
Check on those most at-risk several times a day.
Pets that cannot be brought indoors should be provided ready access to water and shade to keep them cool.
Never leave pets inside of parked vehicles because temperatures can soar to life-threatening levels within minutes.
Everyone is also reminded to stay hydrated during periods extreme heat. Because bodies lose fluid through sweat, dehydration is common while experiencing very high temperatures. It is strongly encouraged to:
Drink more water than usual.
Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink more fluids.
Drink two to four cups of water every hour while working or exercising outside.
Avoid alcohol or liquids containing high amounts of sugar.
