Category: State News

(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont announced that his administration is releasing nearly $8.5 million additional aid to connect those experiencing homelessness with support services – including housing, food, and mental health services – ahead of the upcoming winter season. The goal of the funding is to ensure that pathways to the homeless service system and human points of contact remain available for those seeking assistance.

This includes:

$5 million from the Connecticut Department of Housing to support seasonal shelters and services throughout the homeless service system during the winter;

$2.5 million from the Connecticut Department of Housing to develop new hubs within each of the state’s seven regional Coordinated Access Networks that supports the hiring of more staff, ensuring flexible financial assistance is available, and technological upgrades can be supported;

$500,000 from the Connecticut Department of Housing for the United Way of Connecticut to increase staffing at 2-1-1; and

$475,000 from the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services for the United Way of Connecticut to support costs related to the complex needs of unsheltered individuals and families during periods of extreme cold weather.

The Connecticut Department of Housing is working with the seven regional Coordinated Access Networks on the development of these hubs, which will be able to accept walk-in appointments and receive direct referrals from 2-1-1 staff for those who indicate they are experiencing homelessness. The hubs will serve to provide support for repeat callers of 2-1-1, while helping to reduce overall call volume at the service.

Governor Lamont said, “Stable housing is critical for the development of a strong and safe community, and it is a moral imperative. Additionally, direct person-to-person contact is essential to adequately addressing the issue of homelessness. We have an obligation to ensure that everyone has access to a safe and stable place to call home.”

Connecticut Department of Housing Commissioner Seila Mosquera-Bruno said, “Working closely with the Coordinated Access Networks, the Department of Housing is following best practices by directly reaching out those in need where they are, working with individuals to build trust, and connecting them with housing and related wrap around services.”

Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services Commissioner Nancy Navarretta said, “Access to regional hubs offering in-person assistance to individuals and families experiencing homelessness will be a great help when addressing complex needs. Being able to connect quickly to safe shelter and housing as well as behavioral health services and social supports is imperative for maintaining healthy Connecticut communities.”

Cathy Zall, executive director of the New London Homeless Hospitality Center speaking on behalf of the Eastern Coordinated Access Network, said, “The State of Connecticut is a leader in offering innovative, effective, and compassionate ways to address the challenge of homelessness – beginning when our neighbors first find themselves facing homelessness. Under the leadership of the Department of Housing, Connecticut has established a coordinated ‘front door’ to link people experiencing homelessness quickly with available supports. United Way 2-1-1 has served as the first step in this process for many years. Beginning in November, this ‘front door’ will be become even more effective as the Department of Housing increases its investment in community-based sites, referred to as hubs, managed by the state’s Coordinated Access Networks. These community-based hubs will work closely with 2-1-1, the Department of Housing, local social service providers, emergency responders, health care providers and others to ensure that individuals and families experiencing homelessness know where to turn for the supports they need to get back on the path to permanent housing as quickly as possible.”

This press release was made possible by:

Anyone who is experiencing homelessness or is at imminent risk of homelessness is strongly encouraged to call 2-1-1 to get connected to available resources.

This press release was made possible by:

Paid for by Hwang4Senate2022, Treasurer Loretta Chory, Approved by Tony Hwang

These tumultuous economics (affordability & inflation) and divisive negative political environment demand collaborative, experienced and trusted leaders with proven abilities and accomplishments that can lead during these difficult and challenging times.

I, Tony Hwang, am committed to Solutions based on my EXPERIENCE, STABILITY, LEADERSHIP and to have earned your trust, support and “VOTE” on Election Day.

Keep it positive and strive to “Be Kind”. Hwang4Senate – www.TonyHwang.org

American Dream – Watch here:

https://b.link/Hwang-for-Senate

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has finalized and published its five-year Capital Plan, after receiving and incorporating public input in February 2022.

The report, covering fiscal years 2022–2026,outlines developments, guidance, and implementation efforts for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), passed and signed into law in November 2021. This historic federal investment and ongoing robust state-funded programs will move Connecticut forward in reducing transportation emissions and accelerating investments in a cleaner, more equitable and resilient transportation system.

CTDOT invites the public to attend a virtual public information session on Wednesday, November 16, at 7:00 p.m. for a presentation of the current five-year Capital Plan, and to provide input and feedback on the future Capital Plan for fiscal years 2023-2027. Register and submit questions for the session here. Individuals can also provide public comments here. The session will also be recorded and posted at ct.gov/ctdotvpimarchive.

Explore the new Interactive Map with Active Project Information, and access the Capital Plan Project List here.

“The federal infrastructure law is here in Connecticut at a critical yet exciting time,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Joe Giulietti. “Despite ongoing pandemic challenges, the CTDOT is forging ahead to accelerate much-needed repairs to our infrastructure while increasing safety and accessibility for all users of our interconnected transportation systems in the state. In five years, Connecticut’s upgraded transportation infrastructure will be safer, more resilient, and better connected across communities.”

The IIJA provides Connecticut with approximately $5.38 billion in federal transportation funding over five years—an increase of $1.6 billion over the previous federal transportation funding authorization. High levels of inflation, labor shortages, and supply chain disruptions will pose challenges in effectively delivering projects in a timely manner.

Connecticut expects to receive approximately $4.1 billion over five years in federal formula funding for highways and bridges and $1.3 billion for public transit. The federal infrastructure law created several new formula programs, such as the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program to deploy electric vehicle (EV) fast charging stations along the interstate network.

Through the new federal Bridge Investment Program, funding to repair or replace municipally owned bridges will be covered 100 percent for all phases, from design to construction. Municipalities remain involved in the process in partnership with CTDOT, realizing accelerated project timelines to bring bridges back to states of good repair more quickly. 

Safety improvements and initiatives for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists remain a top priority for CTDOT. Wrong-way driving occurrences on Connecticut’s highways have significantly increased, often with tragic consequences. CTDOT received $20 million in state bond funding to address this dangerous trend by installing wrong-way detection systems at ten pilot locations throughout the state.

CTDOT is also planning over 1,300 pedestrian and traffic signal upgrades, anticipating approximately $38 million for projects to reduce fatal and serious injury crashes through Highway Safety Improvement Program funds.

Additional new formula funding programs are Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-saving Transportation (PROTECT); and Carbon Reduction. CTDOT is taking a phased approach for the short-term (FY22-FY23) while planning for the longer term (FY24-26) as additional guidance from federal partners is released.

The infrastructure law makes more than $100 billion in competitive federal transportation grants available for Connecticut to pursue. New grant opportunities available to Connecticut include Safe Streets and Roads for All, Reconnecting Communities, Rural Surface Transportation, and culvert repair and replacement (see a complete list of discretionary grant programs here: Capital Plan on page 5).

CTDOT is focused on several Planning and Environmental Linkages (PEL) studies—a process approach that considers environmental, community, and economic goals in the very early planning phase of a transportation program or project. CTDOT PEL studies currently underway include the Greater Hartford Mobility Study, New Mix Waterbury, I-95 Stamford, and I-95 Eastern Connecticut from Branford to Rhode Island. The public is encouraged to follow the studies’ progress and participate in upcoming public information sessions.

The infrastructure law supports ongoing rail initiatives and the expansion of many others, such as Time for CT, to increase train speeds and improve travel times on the passenger rail system. Time for CT focuses on expanding the Hartford Line service with new stations in Windsor Locks and Enfield, purchasing and implementing all-electric rail cars throughout the state, and modernizing the Waterbury Branch Line by installing high-level platforms at each station.

The Bus Capital Program provides funding for vehicle purchases. It facilitates upgrade improvements and infrastructure to support fixed routes and paratransit services operated by transit districts in urban and rural areas around the state.

The final Capital Plan is planned to be released in January 2023.

This press release is made possible by:

Connecticut residents can work one-on-one with enrollment specialists to help them

shop, compare and enroll in quality health insurance

HARTFORD, Conn. (Nov. 3, 2022) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced it will host six enrollment fairs in November to help Connecticut residents shop, compare, and enroll or renew their health coverage during the current Open Enrollment period. Enrollment fairs offer free, in-person help from enrollment specialists and will take place in Fairfield, Hartford, New Haven, New London, Norwalk and Waterbury. Open Enrollment began Nov. 1, 2022 and runs through Jan. 15, 2023. Connecticut residents must enroll on or before Dec. 15, 2022 for coverage starting January 1, 2023. Those who enroll between Dec. 16, 2022 and Jan. 15, 2023 will have coverage starting Feb. 1, 2023.

Connecticut residents who are interested in attending the events can book an appointment online. To book an appointment, visit AccessHealthCT.com/enrollment-events. Walk-in appointments are welcome.

The enrollment fairs will take place at the following locations and times:

• Hartford: Saturday, Nov. 5 at the West Indian Social Club of Hartford, located at 3340 Main Street, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Register here
• Waterbury: Wednesday, Nov. 9 at New Opportunities, Inc., located at 232 North Elm Street, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Register here
• New London: Thursday, Nov. 10at Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) of New London County located at 106 Truman Street, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Register here
• Fairfield: Saturday, Nov. 12 at Fairfield University Event Hall, located at 200 Bellarmine Road, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Register here
• New Haven: Sunday, Nov. 13 at James Hillhouse High School, located at 480 Sherman Parkway, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Register here
• Norwalk: Tuesday, Nov. 15 at West Rock Middle School, located at 81 West Rock Road, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Register here

“Open Enrollment is now underway, and we are hosting these enrollment fairs across the state so Connecticut residents can receive free, in-person help when and where it is convenient for them,” said Chief Executive Officer of Access Health CT, James Michel. “Our specialists make the process as easy as possible and are there to answer any questions.”

Connecticut residents can find free help and enroll online, in person or by phone.

For free online help, residents may visit AccessHealthCT.com. Live chat is available by clicking the “Live Chat” icon to connect with a customer service representative in real-time. Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.

There are several ways to get free in-person help in addition to attending enrollment fairs. Residents may work with acertified broker or enrollment specialist in their community. To find a certified broker or enrollment specialist, visit the Get Help webpage.

Residents may visit any of AHCT’s Navigator partner locations. Expert help from enrollment specialists is available at these locations year-round. To see a list of Navigator locations, visit the Enrollment Events webpage. Please contact the site in advance to make an appointment.

Connecticut residents can also visit one of AHCT’s Enrollment locations during the Open Enrollment period. For information about these locations, visit the Enrollment Events webpage.

Residents may also contact the call center at 1-855-805-4325, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on select Saturdays. Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call with a relay operator.

This press release was made possible by:

ATTORNEY GENERAL TONG FILES

National Anti-Robocall Litigation Task Force seeks answers

(Hartford, CT) — Attorney General William Tong today announced the national Anti-Robocall Litigation Task Force is asking a court to require two voice service providers to cooperate in multistate investigations over alleged involvement in illegal robocalls.

“Our Task Force has developed solid evidence that both Avid Telecom and One Eye LLC accepted and routed fraudulent robocalls, including government imposter scams, fake legal threats, and phony offers purporting to be from businesses like Amazon and Apple. These scammers are not above the law, and they cannot hide from our investigation. We are seeking a court order to enforce compliance with our investigation and to hold them accountable,” said Attorney General Tong.

The Anti-Robocall Litigation Task Force on August 2 issued 20 civil investigative demands seeking answers from 20 gateway providers and other entities allegedly responsible for a majority of foreign robocall traffic. Gateway providers that bring foreign traffic into the U.S. telephone network have a responsibility to ensure the traffic is legal, but these providers are not taking sufficient action to stop robocall traffic. Two of those targets were Michael Lansky LLC — doing business as Avid Telecom — and One Eye LLC. One Eye and Avid have stopped responding to the task force. The national task force today filed petitions in Indiana state court enforcing civil investigative demands (CIDs) against each entity, to compel them to answer interrogatories and produce documents, including all call data records that show the volume and content of the call traffic they are sending to consumers.

Fifty-one attorneys general participate in the national task force. Connecticut is among 16 states on the Executive Committee leading this task force.

“Robocalls are an intrusive and obnoxious menace, responsible for $29.8 billion in fraud last year alone. Our Anti-Robocall Litigation Task Force is actively working to shut down this telecom fraud highway and to bring these scammers to justice,” said Attorney General Tong.

The enforcement action against Avid Telecom details several instances in which the task force believes Avid Telecom knowingly accepted and routed illegal robocalls. Further, the task force believes Avid Telecom’s CEO, Michael Lansky, helped another telecom provider hide its suspect traffic.

The enforcement action against One Eye details how an individual named Prince Anand closed another voice service provider, PZ Telecommunication LLC, and became the apparent CEO of One Eye. This transition occurred after the Federal Communications Commission sent PZ Telecom a cease-and-desist letter.

According to the National Consumer Law Center and Electronic Privacy Information Center, more than 33 million scam robocalls are made to Americans every day. These scam calls include fraudsters posing as the Social Security Administration, Amazon and employers offering work opportunities.

Fraudsters stole an estimated $29.8 billion through scam calls in 2021. The task force is focused on shutting down the gateways that profit off this illegal scam traffic.

Attorney General Tong offers the following tips to avoid scams and unwanted calls:

•             Be wary of callers who specifically ask you to pay by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency. For example, the Internal Revenue Service does not accept iTunes gift cards.

•             Look out for prerecorded calls from imposters posing as government agencies. Typically, the Social Security Administration does not make phone calls to individuals.

•             If you suspect fraudulent activity, immediately hang up and do not provide any personal information.

This press release was made possible by:

“ChooseEV” features educational information and resources including a public charger locator and savings calculator

BERLIN, Conn. (November 2, 2022) – As the demand for information about electric vehicles grows, Eversource, in collaboration with United Illuminating (UI), has unveiled “ChooseEV,” a new, online educational tool that features information and technical assistance. The platform, which will be available on Eversource.com and uinet.com, offers customers a variety of ways to learn more about EVs and help them make decisions when comparing vehicles and charging options.

“This new resource is a great way to provide customers with critical information they’re looking for about electric vehicles,” said Eversource Electric Vehicle Expert Enoch Lenge. “We’re proud to invest in digital tools designed to educate, inform, and make it easy for people to discover the right EV solutions for them, especially at a time when electric vehicles are playing an increasing role in helping to build our clean energy future.”

ChooseEV features advice on how customers can save both money and energy; select the right EV as well as the following information:

EV Incentives and Offers

Gasoline/Electric Savings Calculator

EV & Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Reviewer

Level 2 Charger Review Tool

EV Public Charger Finder

In January, both Eversource and UI worked with the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) to unveil a statewide electric vehicle charging station installation program, designed to bolster the infrastructure required for meeting the state’s EV goals by 2025.

This press release was made possible by:

Eversource Releases New Electric Vehicle Charging Online Resource

“ChooseEV” features educational information and resources including a public charger locator and savings calculator

BERLIN, Conn. (November 2, 2022) – As the demand for information about electric vehicles grows, Eversource, in collaboration with United Illuminating (UI), has unveiled “ChooseEV,” a new, online educational tool that features information and technical assistance. The platform, which will be available on Eversource.com and uinet.com, offers customers a variety of ways to learn more about EVs and help them make decisions when comparing vehicles and charging options.

“This new resource is a great way to provide customers with critical information they’re looking for about electric vehicles,” said Eversource Electric Vehicle Expert Enoch Lenge. “We’re proud to invest in digital tools designed to educate, inform, and make it easy for people to discover the right EV solutions for them, especially at a time when electric vehicles are playing an increasing role in helping to build our clean energy future.”

ChooseEV features advice on how customers can save both money and energy; select the right EV as well as the following information:

EV Incentives and Offers

Gasoline/Electric Savings Calculator

EV & Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Reviewer

Level 2 Charger Review Tool

EV Public Charger Finder

In January, both Eversource and UI worked with the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) to unveil a statewide electric vehicle charging station installation program, designed to bolster the infrastructure required for meeting the state’s EV goals by 2025.

This press release was made possible by:

Today, the Connecticut Congressional delegation announced that Connecticut will receive $86.4 million in funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to help families pay for home heating costs this winter.

The $4.5 billion funding, of which Connecticut will receive $86.4 million, is administered through the Administration for Children and Families at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and comes at a time when Connecticut families are bracing for rising home heating costs ahead of winter. The funding will also help families make cost-effective home energy repairs to lower their heating and cooling bills.

“Connecticut families should never have to choose between putting food on the table or heating their homes. This $86.4 million will be a lifeline for thousands of families in Connecticut and I thank HHS for releasing this critical funding to keep families safe and warm during the cold winter months,” Senator Richard Blumenthal said.

“With energy costs expected to rise sharply this winter, I’m proud to have worked with my colleagues to secure $86.4 million in LIHEAP funding for Connecticut. This money is a lifeline for thousands of low-income families and seniors on fixed incomes who rely on LIHEAP to stay safe and warm during the winter months, and it is critical these funds are distributed as quickly as possible,” Senator Chris Murphy said.

“No one should have to choose between buying groceries or keeping their homes warm — this is a matter of values, and I believe the government has a responsibility to ensure working families are cared for,” House Appropriations Chair Rosa DeLauro said. “Today’s U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announcement of $4.5 billion in LIHEAP assistance – meaning Connecticut will see an additional $21.4 million on top of its regular LIHEAP grant funding – will make the difference for so many vulnerable families, disabled individuals, and seniors across the state. As Chair of the House Appropriations Committee, I secured this increased funding for LIHEAP to alleviate the financial strain so many around the country feel as they work to pay their higher than usual heating bills during the winter. These resources will go a long way toward preserving the health and well-being of our state’s working families, as well as seniors and disabled individuals living on a fixed income.”

“This funding means more low- and middle-income Americans can heat their homes as temperatures drop this winter. I am proud to have worked with my colleagues in the Connecticut Delegation to advocate for this funding in Congress and that the Biden-Harris Administration is using it to ensure families can heat their homes. We will keep working to help families make ends meet and stay warm this winter,” Rep. John B. Larson said.

“With winter fast approaching and energy prices remaining high, many low-income households are facing potentially life-threatening utility shut-offs,” Rep. Jim Himes said. “This funding means that recipients throughout Connecticut will receive the support they need to pay their bills and keep their families safe and warm in the coming months.”

“LIHEAP is a lifeline for thousands of Connecticut families, especially as we continue to navigate the global energy crisis. This additional $86.4 million in LIHEAP funding will be vital in keeping our most vulnerable residents warm this winter. Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and our Congressional Delegation continues to advocate for strategic solutions to provide families with the resources they need,” Rep. Jahana Hayes said.

“LIHEAP has come in handy for lots of households in eastern Connecticut, and with colder weather just around the corner we needed to re-fuel it so that it’s there when people need it this winter,” Rep. Joe Courtney said. “Re-stocking the LIHEAP program was always going to be the fastest, most direct way to help people lower their energy costs this winter, and that’s why we pressed so hard for it starting earlier this fall. After helping to lead this effort in the House, and after pulling bipartisan support from across the country together for this approach, it’s great to see our work finally make it across the finish line and home to Connecticut. This is going to provide real, tangible support for people in our region this winter, and thanks to new program rules there are more households than ever that qualify. My office is ready to help anyone in eastern Connecticut who is interested in this support.”

“Here in Connecticut, we have many available services to protect vulnerable households from the cold each year, including safeguarding those who have fallen behind on their utility heating bills to avoid the risk of a shutoff,” Governor Lamont said. “The release of this supplemental federal funding will add to our existing home heating assistance efforts. I appreciate President Biden and our Congressional delegation for bringing this additional funding home to Connecticut this winter season.”

The $4.5 billion funding secured by Congress includes an additional $1 billion appropriated by Congress to address rising energy costs, as well as $100 million appropriated for 2023 from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

The additional $1 billion funding secured by Congress will provide even more home energy assistance to people in Connecticut.

Individuals interested in applying for energy assistance can visit energyhelp.us or call the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) hotline toll-free at:  1-866-674-6327.

This press release was made possible by:

$86.4 MILLION TO HELP FAMILIES WITH HOME HEATING COSTS

Today, the Connecticut Congressional delegation announced that Connecticut will receive $86.4 million in funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to help families pay for home heating costs this winter.

The $4.5 billion funding, of which Connecticut will receive $86.4 million, is administered through the Administration for Children and Families at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and comes at a time when Connecticut families are bracing for rising home heating costs ahead of winter. The funding will also help families make cost-effective home energy repairs to lower their heating and cooling bills.

“Connecticut families should never have to choose between putting food on the table or heating their homes. This $86.4 million will be a lifeline for thousands of families in Connecticut and I thank HHS for releasing this critical funding to keep families safe and warm during the cold winter months,” Senator Richard Blumenthal said.

“With energy costs expected to rise sharply this winter, I’m proud to have worked with my colleagues to secure $86.4 million in LIHEAP funding for Connecticut. This money is a lifeline for thousands of low-income families and seniors on fixed incomes who rely on LIHEAP to stay safe and warm during the winter months, and it is critical these funds are distributed as quickly as possible,” Senator Chris Murphy said.

“No one should have to choose between buying groceries or keeping their homes warm — this is a matter of values, and I believe the government has a responsibility to ensure working families are cared for,” House Appropriations Chair Rosa DeLauro said. “Today’s U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announcement of $4.5 billion in LIHEAP assistance – meaning Connecticut will see an additional $21.4 million on top of its regular LIHEAP grant funding – will make the difference for so many vulnerable families, disabled individuals, and seniors across the state. As Chair of the House Appropriations Committee, I secured this increased funding for LIHEAP to alleviate the financial strain so many around the country feel as they work to pay their higher than usual heating bills during the winter. These resources will go a long way toward preserving the health and well-being of our state’s working families, as well as seniors and disabled individuals living on a fixed income.”

“This funding means more low- and middle-income Americans can heat their homes as temperatures drop this winter. I am proud to have worked with my colleagues in the Connecticut Delegation to advocate for this funding in Congress and that the Biden-Harris Administration is using it to ensure families can heat their homes. We will keep working to help families make ends meet and stay warm this winter,” Rep. John B. Larson said.

“With winter fast approaching and energy prices remaining high, many low-income households are facing potentially life-threatening utility shut-offs,” Rep. Jim Himes said. “This funding means that recipients throughout Connecticut will receive the support they need to pay their bills and keep their families safe and warm in the coming months.”

“LIHEAP is a lifeline for thousands of Connecticut families, especially as we continue to navigate the global energy crisis. This additional $86.4 million in LIHEAP funding will be vital in keeping our most vulnerable residents warm this winter. Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and our Congressional Delegation continues to advocate for strategic solutions to provide families with the resources they need,” Rep. Jahana Hayes said.

“LIHEAP has come in handy for lots of households in eastern Connecticut, and with colder weather just around the corner we needed to re-fuel it so that it’s there when people need it this winter,” Rep. Joe Courtney said. “Re-stocking the LIHEAP program was always going to be the fastest, most direct way to help people lower their energy costs this winter, and that’s why we pressed so hard for it starting earlier this fall. After helping to lead this effort in the House, and after pulling bipartisan support from across the country together for this approach, it’s great to see our work finally make it across the finish line and home to Connecticut. This is going to provide real, tangible support for people in our region this winter, and thanks to new program rules there are more households than ever that qualify. My office is ready to help anyone in eastern Connecticut who is interested in this support.”

“Here in Connecticut, we have many available services to protect vulnerable households from the cold each year, including safeguarding those who have fallen behind on their utility heating bills to avoid the risk of a shutoff,” Governor Lamont said. “The release of this supplemental federal funding will add to our existing home heating assistance efforts. I appreciate President Biden and our Congressional delegation for bringing this additional funding home to Connecticut this winter season.”

The $4.5 billion funding secured by Congress includes an additional $1 billion appropriated by Congress to address rising energy costs, as well as $100 million appropriated for 2023 from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

The additional $1 billion funding secured by Congress will provide even more home energy assistance to people in Connecticut.

Individuals interested in applying for energy assistance can visit energyhelp.us or call the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) hotline toll-free at:  1-866-674-6327.

This press release was made possible by:

Connecticut residents can shop, compare and enroll in quality health insurance plans from

November 1, 2022 through January 15, 2023

HARTFORD, Conn. (Nov. 1, 2022) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced the 2023 Open Enrollment period will take place November 1, 2022 to January 15, 2023. Connecticut residents can shop, compare and enroll or renew their health insurance plans with coverage beginning in the 2023 plan year.

Customers must enroll on or before December 15, 2022 for coverage to begin on January 1, 2023. Customers who enroll between December 16, 2022 and January 15, 2023 will have coverage starting February 1, 2023. Free, expert help to enroll is available online, on the phone and in person at AHCT’s Navigator and enrollment locations and enrollment fairs across the state.

AHCT is the only place Connecticut residents can qualify for financial help to lower healthcare coverage costs. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) extends the enhanced subsidies that make coverage more affordable by greatly reducing monthly payments (premiums) for many people who enroll through AHCT. It also provides financial help for those with somewhat higher incomes who can face high premiums but weren’t eligible for help in the past.

More people will be eligible for this financial help in plan year 2023. If an individual is covered by an employer-sponsored plan that does not provide affordable coverage for the rest of their family members, their spouse and dependents can enroll in a plan through AHCT and potentially be eligible for enhanced subsidies.

Some Connecticut residents may be eligible for free or low-cost coverage through the HUSKY Health Program (Medicaid/Children’s Health Insurance Program) and the Covered CT Program. The Covered CT Program was created by the State of Connecticut and provides no-cost health insurance coverage, dental coverage and Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) administered by the Connecticut Department of Social Services.

Signing up for dental insurance through AHCT is now easier than ever. The process is streamlined and more customer-friendly, allowing people to shop, compare and enroll in a dental insurance plan at the same time as a health insurance plan.

“This year marks our 10th anniversary at Access Health CT, and we remain committed to our mission to reduce the rate of the uninsured and eliminate health disparities in Connecticut,” said Chief Executive Officer of AHCT, James Michel. “Now is the time customers can enroll in a plan that works best for themselves and their families. We are here to walk them through the process step by step and ensure they receive all financial help they may be eligible to receive.”

Connecticut residents can find free help and enroll online, in person or by phone.

For free online help, residents may visit AccessHealthCT.com. Live chat is available by clicking the “Live Chat” icon to connect with a customer service representative in real-time. Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.

There are several ways to get free in-person help. Residents may work with acertified broker or enrollment specialist in their community. To find a certified broker or enrollment specialist, visit the Get Help webpage.

AHCT is hosting enrollment fairs throughout the state during the Open Enrollment period. To see a schedule and register, visit the Enrollment Events webpage.

In addition, residents may visit any of AHCT’s Navigator partner locations. Expert help from enrollment specialists is available at these locations year-round. To see a list of Navigator locations, visit the Enrollment Events webpage. Please contact the site in advance to make an appointment.

Connecticut residents can also visit one of AHCT’s Enrollment locations during the Open Enrollment period. For information about these locations, visit the Enrollment Events webpage.

Residents may also contact the call center at 1-855-805-4325, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and on select Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call with a relay operator.

ACCESS HEALTH CT 2023 OPEN ENROLLMENT PERIOD BEGINS NOVEMBER 1 

Connecticut residents can shop, compare and enroll in quality health insurance plans from

November 1, 2022 through January 15, 2023

HARTFORD, Conn. (Nov. 1, 2022) — Access Health CT (AHCT) today announced the 2023 Open Enrollment period will take place November 1, 2022 to January 15, 2023. Connecticut residents can shop, compare and enroll or renew their health insurance plans with coverage beginning in the 2023 plan year.

Customers must enroll on or before December 15, 2022 for coverage to begin on January 1, 2023. Customers who enroll between December 16, 2022 and January 15, 2023 will have coverage starting February 1, 2023. Free, expert help to enroll is available online, on the phone and in person at AHCT’s Navigator and enrollment locations and enrollment fairs across the state.

AHCT is the only place Connecticut residents can qualify for financial help to lower healthcare coverage costs. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) extends the enhanced subsidies that make coverage more affordable by greatly reducing monthly payments (premiums) for many people who enroll through AHCT. It also provides financial help for those with somewhat higher incomes who can face high premiums but weren’t eligible for help in the past.

More people will be eligible for this financial help in plan year 2023. If an individual is covered by an employer-sponsored plan that does not provide affordable coverage for the rest of their family members, their spouse and dependents can enroll in a plan through AHCT and potentially be eligible for enhanced subsidies.

Some Connecticut residents may be eligible for free or low-cost coverage through the HUSKY Health Program (Medicaid/Children’s Health Insurance Program) and the Covered CT Program. The Covered CT Program was created by the State of Connecticut and provides no-cost health insurance coverage, dental coverage and Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) administered by the Connecticut Department of Social Services.

Signing up for dental insurance through AHCT is now easier than ever. The process is streamlined and more customer-friendly, allowing people to shop, compare and enroll in a dental insurance plan at the same time as a health insurance plan.

“This year marks our 10th anniversary at Access Health CT, and we remain committed to our mission to reduce the rate of the uninsured and eliminate health disparities in Connecticut,” said Chief Executive Officer of AHCT, James Michel. “Now is the time customers can enroll in a plan that works best for themselves and their families. We are here to walk them through the process step by step and ensure they receive all financial help they may be eligible to receive.”

Connecticut residents can find free help and enroll online, in person or by phone.

For free online help, residents may visit AccessHealthCT.com. Live chat is available by clicking the “Live Chat” icon to connect with a customer service representative in real-time. Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.

There are several ways to get free in-person help. Residents may work with acertified broker or enrollment specialist in their community. To find a certified broker or enrollment specialist, visit the Get Help webpage.

AHCT is hosting enrollment fairs throughout the state during the Open Enrollment period. To see a schedule and register, visit the Enrollment Events webpage.

In addition, residents may visit any of AHCT’s Navigator partner locations. Expert help from enrollment specialists is available at these locations year-round. To see a list of Navigator locations, visit the Enrollment Events webpage. Please contact the site in advance to make an appointment.

Connecticut residents can also visit one of AHCT’s Enrollment locations during the Open Enrollment period. For information about these locations, visit the Enrollment Events webpage.

Residents may also contact the call center at 1-855-805-4325, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and on select Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Customers who are deaf or hearing impaired may use TTY at 1-855-789-2428 or call with a relay operator.

This press release was made possible by:

The Connecticut Insurance Department has consolidated all actuarial and data science functions to improve regulatory oversight and better protect consumers as the insurance industry’s usage of Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, and Machine Learning expands.

“As the insurance industry increasingly relies on rapid technological innovation within a complex data-driven environment, the regulators at the Connecticut Insurance Department (CID) will meet these challenges by restructuring and integrating all actuarial and data science functions within a single unit to better protect consumers,” said Andrew N. Mais, Commissioner, Connecticut Insurance Department. “Wanchin Chou, Assistant Deputy Commissioner and Chief Actuary will lead this division and direct all actuarial functions in addition to the Department’s recent advent of data science work.”

“This Department is the regulator of the insurance capital of the world, and we will continue to adapt our operations and recruit regulators with advanced skills to address changes in industry practices. Under Wanchin Chou’s leadership, we will follow the very best actuarial practices and provide world class professional services in insurance regulation,” said Mais.

“I am truly excited about this new organization. Our experienced actuaries and data scientists will bring advanced analytics expertise in Economic Capital Modeling (ECM), Predictive Modeling in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Catastrophe Modeling to enhance the needed actuarial services in our current regulatory environment,” said Wanchin Chou, Chief Actuary. “We will continue to actively collaborate with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) on numerous committees and participate in professional organizations for actuaries, such as the Casualty Actuarial Society, the Society of Actuaries and the American Academy of Actuaries.”

The Data Scientists within the Actuarial Division will assist the CID divisions in the digital transformation to help modernize insurance regulation and will also collaborate with the NAIC and other state insurance departments to develop modeling capabilities and provide needed studies of AI and ML models.

The Insurance Actuaries of the Actuarial division provide financial and analytical services with a mandate of solvency regulation and market regulation in support of the Commissioner.  In addition to actuarial analysis and financial exams, actuaries are responsible for reviewing rate and rule filings produced with the Property & Casualty and Life & Health divisions. 

Chou has more than30 years of insurance experience in the U.S. and internationally. Prior to his current position, he was Vice President and Chief Analytics Officer at Liberty International where he achieved profitable business growth in 20 countries as well as developing modeling capabilities. Chou’s actuarial expertise includes insurance pricing and products, reserving and financial reporting, reinsurance, data analytics and risk management. 

Chou received his B.S. in Nuclear Engineering from National Tsinghua University in Taiwan, and a master’s in actuarial science from Georgia State University. He is a Fellow of the Casualty Actuarial Society (CAS), a member of the American Academy of Actuaries (AAA) and is a Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), a Certified Specialist in Predictive Analytics (CSPA), and a Certified Catastrophe Risk Management Professional (CCRMP).

This press release was made possible by: