Economic Justice
We demand dramatic investment in the programs and services our communities desperately need to survive and flourish.
Electric Rate Shock - Two Critical Actions to Take NOW!
Republican leaders and utility companies are spreading lies about the cause of skyrocketing energy bills - and throwing clean energy under the bus.
Here are the facts: In 2017, mostly Republican lawmakers caved to pressure from Dominion and voted to give it a sweetheart deal on power generated by the Millstone nuclear plant.
More recently, two PURA commissioners voted to recoup associated costs in just 10 months instead of 3 years.
Your voice is needed! Please take both of the following actions now!
Here are the facts: In 2017, mostly Republican lawmakers caved to pressure from Dominion and voted to give it a sweetheart deal on power generated by the Millstone nuclear plant.
More recently, two PURA commissioners voted to recoup associated costs in just 10 months instead of 3 years.
Your voice is needed! Please take both of the following actions now!
- Tell PURA Commissioners Betkoski and Caron to reverse their decision to recoup costs over a 10 month period and adopt Chairperson Marissa Gillett's recommendation that costs be spread out over three years. Let Commissioners Betkoski and Caron know we are sick and tired of energy corporations driving up our costs. Click here to send your message.
- Tell Your Legislators to Support Efficiency to Lower Energy Costs and start addressing the real issues driving up electric bills. Send your message to your legislators and Republican leadership today!
Getting Our Fair Share from the American Rescue Plan 2024
Thanks to all who joined us for the January 31st meeting re: the American Rescue Plan (ARP) and accessing our share of those available funds.
Most of us know that the ARP, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act have allocated unprecedented funds for state and local governments and nonprofits to carry out critical work that is so often underfunded - or not supported at all.
What many of us don't know is that billions of dollars are still available. In addition to grants, these funds include "direct pay," providing reimbursement for clean energy projects that meet criteria.
There is still $1.77 BILLION left for Connecticut - $31 million in Hartford alone. Community work deserves support, let's make it count!
At our January 31st meeting, well attended by nearly 100 community leaders in person and by Zoom, we took a deep dive into remaining funds, and started to share ideas and information about how best to organize and use these resources in Connecticut.
We all discussed how these laws contain unprecedented opportunities to fund the work we all care about, and for projects that emphasize equity and community voice.
Please be sure to join the CCAG email list and send a message to Liz Dupont-Diehl to express your interest in future meetings and next steps.
As promised, here are some resources gathered at the meeting to move us forward:
Huge shoutout and thanks to Kai Thompson and Ann Pratt of Peoples Action who joined us and lent their expertise on how to access federal infrastructure dollars.
Final shout out to Swift Factory in Hartford. CCAG highly recommends that folks check out this space for meetings and their website for all they do. They are a true community space.
Most of us know that the ARP, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act have allocated unprecedented funds for state and local governments and nonprofits to carry out critical work that is so often underfunded - or not supported at all.
What many of us don't know is that billions of dollars are still available. In addition to grants, these funds include "direct pay," providing reimbursement for clean energy projects that meet criteria.
There is still $1.77 BILLION left for Connecticut - $31 million in Hartford alone. Community work deserves support, let's make it count!
At our January 31st meeting, well attended by nearly 100 community leaders in person and by Zoom, we took a deep dive into remaining funds, and started to share ideas and information about how best to organize and use these resources in Connecticut.
We all discussed how these laws contain unprecedented opportunities to fund the work we all care about, and for projects that emphasize equity and community voice.
Please be sure to join the CCAG email list and send a message to Liz Dupont-Diehl to express your interest in future meetings and next steps.
As promised, here are some resources gathered at the meeting to move us forward:
- The presentation with links is here.
- There was also a good deal of interest in Direct Pay. People's Action's prior presentation on that topic is here.
Huge shoutout and thanks to Kai Thompson and Ann Pratt of Peoples Action who joined us and lent their expertise on how to access federal infrastructure dollars.
Final shout out to Swift Factory in Hartford. CCAG highly recommends that folks check out this space for meetings and their website for all they do. They are a true community space.
2023
June 6th, 2023 Revival for a Moral Budget!
As our lawmakers enter the last three days of session, we've got to keep up the pressure for a moral budget!
11am: Revival For a Moral Budget (Emanuel Lutheran Church at 311 Capitol Ave, then march to Capitol). As part of our ongoing series of strike support actions for long term care workers, we'll be meeting for a speaker program at 11am at Emanuel Lutheran Church, then marching together to the Capitol. Please turn out!
4:30pm: Time to Show Up! HUSKY 4 Immigrants (LOB, then march to Capitol). We have been hearing that the state legislature and the governor landed on an agreement on expansion up to age 15. This is unacceptable. We demand an additional 3 million dollars to at least cover up to age 18. We're gathering at the LOB at 4:30pm, then marching to the Capitol. Please turn out! Here's the signup link.
SB4 Lobby Day 5/17
Join us for a day of action then stay after for the grand finale at 6pm.
Senate Bill 4 is a comprehensive housing bill that increases protections for tenants, increases the availability of affordable housing, and makes a meaningful investment in improved efficiency and clean energy in communities that need it most.
Happening Wednesday, May 17 at the Legislative Office Building for a lobby day to urge lawmakers to pass Senate Bill 4. At this event, you'll hear about the bill from advocates and the lawmakers who are championing it. You'll learn how to talk to lawmakers about the bill, and then we'll talk to lawmakers!
RSVP today!
You can also click here to tell your lawmakers to support SB4!
After this action, join us for the grand finale at 6pm! Scroll down for details.
Senate Bill 4 is a comprehensive housing bill that increases protections for tenants, increases the availability of affordable housing, and makes a meaningful investment in improved efficiency and clean energy in communities that need it most.
Happening Wednesday, May 17 at the Legislative Office Building for a lobby day to urge lawmakers to pass Senate Bill 4. At this event, you'll hear about the bill from advocates and the lawmakers who are championing it. You'll learn how to talk to lawmakers about the bill, and then we'll talk to lawmakers!
RSVP today!
You can also click here to tell your lawmakers to support SB4!
After this action, join us for the grand finale at 6pm! Scroll down for details.
Rally for a Moral Budget 5/17
Join CCAG & Recovery For All as we demand a moral budget!¡Únase a Recovery For All mientras exigimos un presupuesto moral!
What: while the Governor and legislative leadership are negotiating the budget inside the Capitol, we will join Recovery For All to show up in force outside the Capitol and call on them to do the right thing. RSVP & find more info here.
Where: State Capitol, 210 Capitol Ave, Hartford, CT Capitolio estatal, 210 Capitol Ave, Hartford, CT
When: On May 17 at 6:00 PM,
Download parking & transportation info.
Low-income and Environmental Justice Communities. This is an historic opportunity to invest in clean energy, reduce bills, improve indoor health, and create job opportunities for our most vulnerable communities.
The Housing Committee will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. in Room 1A of the LOB and via Zoom. The deadline to register to testify/submit testimony is Monday, February 27th at 3:00 PM.
Individuals who wish to testify in-person or via Zoom must register using the On-line Testimony Registration Form. Please submit written testimony using the On-line Testimony Submission Form.
Need help? Find sample testimony & talking points on energy and efficiency solutions Here.
Skyrocketing energy prices are disproportionately harming Connecticut's most vulnerable communities, and this bill will help to reduce bills through energy efficiency and improved housing. You can make a difference! Please consider testifying in person, via zoom or submitting written testimony today!
The Housing Committee will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at 11:00 A.M. in Room 1A of the LOB and via Zoom. The deadline to register to testify/submit testimony is Monday, February 27th at 3:00 PM.
Individuals who wish to testify in-person or via Zoom must register using the On-line Testimony Registration Form. Please submit written testimony using the On-line Testimony Submission Form.
Need help? Find sample testimony & talking points on energy and efficiency solutions Here.
Skyrocketing energy prices are disproportionately harming Connecticut's most vulnerable communities, and this bill will help to reduce bills through energy efficiency and improved housing. You can make a difference! Please consider testifying in person, via zoom or submitting written testimony today!
Public Hearing 2/27
Can’t Stop / Won’t Stop But actually we are almost done with public hearing season — good work crew!
THIS COMING MONDAY the two Recovery For All revenue bills will have a public hearing! SB351 + HB5673
The Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee will hold a public hearing on Monday, February 27, 2023 at 9:00am in Room 2E of the LOB and via Zoom. You can also watch it on YouTube.
Connecticut leads in income inequality, leaving the poorest residents to deal with education gaps, health disparities, unattainable home ownership and other hardships. Years of austerity and disinvestment have worsened inequities and hampered economic growth. Vulnerable populations, who struggled to make ends meet before, are battling to survive. Yet the wealthy continue to profit from a booming stock market, adding billions to their portfolios.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. We’re the majority.
TESTIMONY GUIDE HERE [ English + Español ]
Anyone needing help should contact Norma Martinez-HoSang [email protected] (203-507-7120) or Constanza Segovia [email protected] (860-307-3359)
THIS COMING MONDAY the two Recovery For All revenue bills will have a public hearing! SB351 + HB5673
The Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee will hold a public hearing on Monday, February 27, 2023 at 9:00am in Room 2E of the LOB and via Zoom. You can also watch it on YouTube.
Connecticut leads in income inequality, leaving the poorest residents to deal with education gaps, health disparities, unattainable home ownership and other hardships. Years of austerity and disinvestment have worsened inequities and hampered economic growth. Vulnerable populations, who struggled to make ends meet before, are battling to survive. Yet the wealthy continue to profit from a booming stock market, adding billions to their portfolios.
But it doesn’t have to be that way. We’re the majority.
TESTIMONY GUIDE HERE [ English + Español ]
- Submit written testimony Choose the 2/27 hearing date from drop down, click “support”, and while holding ctrl click both Senate Bill 351 and House Bill 5673
- Register for live testimony deadline to register is Sunday 2/26 at 3pm
Anyone needing help should contact Norma Martinez-HoSang [email protected] (203-507-7120) or Constanza Segovia [email protected] (860-307-3359)
Economic Justice 2022
SUMMER CANVASS
This summer, CCRG is working with interns from the Center for Latino Progress on a Food Justice Canvass in Hartford.
Interns are doorkocking in Hartford to speak with residents about their food needs and available resources.
We will present our results at a community meeting in September.
Contact Angel Serrano for more information at [email protected].
Comment on PURA Low Income Electric Rate- Deadline to Submit 7/15/22
Send your comments before the July 15th deadline!
PURA has issued a Notice of Request for Written Comments on Docket No. 17-12-03RE11 PURA Investigation into Distribution System Planning of the Electric Distribution Companies - New Rate Design and Rates Review.
We need an equitable low-income discount rate of electricity as a critical part of a larger strategy to make energy more affordable for low-income, energy burdened households as Connecticut moves toward a cleaner and more efficient grid. Public comment is critical to accomplishing this. Find more information and send your comments here.
2022 CT Child Tax Rebate
The 2022 CT Child Tax Rebate, which was recently authorized by the Connecticut General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Ned Lamont is a one-time rebate that is intended to help Connecticut families with children.
To assist you in determining if you qualify for a child tax rebate, the Department of Revenue Services (“Department”) has developed this application, which will be available here through July 31, 2022.
To complete the application, you will need the following information:
The 2022 CT Child Tax Rebate, which was recently authorized by the Connecticut General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Ned Lamont is a one-time rebate that is intended to help Connecticut families with children.
To assist you in determining if you qualify for a child tax rebate, the Department of Revenue Services (“Department”) has developed this application, which will be available here through July 31, 2022.
To complete the application, you will need the following information:
- Your federal adjusted gross income from your 2021 federal income tax return;
- Your filing status from your 2021 federal income tax return; and
- The full name, date of birth, age as of December 31, 2021, social security number, and relationship to you of each child who was 18 years of age or younger (up to a maximum of three) you claimed as a dependent on your 2021 federal income tax return.
Coalitions
CCAG is a member of Recovery for All, a statewide coalition working for investment in the programs and services our communities need to survive and flourish.
To fund our future, we must repair Connecticut’s broken tax structure. Our proposals would provide immediate relief to struggling working families and generate billions of dollars in shared resources by requiring the wealthiest among us to contribute more to the common good of all.
Recent events:
Recovery for All had a press conference in April 2022 to highlight two new reports exposing the Yankee Institute as a right-wing think tank which has exerted a destructive influence over public policy here in Connecticut for far too long.
The reports were covered in CTNewsJunkie and CTInsider (which Hearst Media reprinted in local newspapers statewide). Separately, RFA is also mentioned in this Courant article about tax incidence analysis reports.
The only way we will make progress is by uniting hundreds of thousands of people across Connecticut and taking action together. Join our movement to win a Recovery For All by signing up for our mailing list, emailing your elected officials, and participating in our direct actions!
Useful Links:
R4ALL website
Facebook page
Twitter
To fund our future, we must repair Connecticut’s broken tax structure. Our proposals would provide immediate relief to struggling working families and generate billions of dollars in shared resources by requiring the wealthiest among us to contribute more to the common good of all.
Recent events:
Recovery for All had a press conference in April 2022 to highlight two new reports exposing the Yankee Institute as a right-wing think tank which has exerted a destructive influence over public policy here in Connecticut for far too long.
The reports were covered in CTNewsJunkie and CTInsider (which Hearst Media reprinted in local newspapers statewide). Separately, RFA is also mentioned in this Courant article about tax incidence analysis reports.
The only way we will make progress is by uniting hundreds of thousands of people across Connecticut and taking action together. Join our movement to win a Recovery For All by signing up for our mailing list, emailing your elected officials, and participating in our direct actions!
Useful Links:
R4ALL website
Facebook page
Systemic Racism of Major Investment Firms
|
|
Despite the woke-washing of major investment managers in 2020, BlackRock, Vanguard, Fidelity Investments, and State Street continued to use their outsized shareholder power to uphold systemic racism in the 2021 shareholder season.
As a follow up to the Equity in the Boardroom report, Majority Action and SEIU have just released a new video featuring Rahna Epting, MoveOn; Dorian Warren, Community Change; and Rashad Robinson, Color Of Change to shed light on how these asset managers failed to live up to their own statements & used money from our communities to block accountability. Watch & share. |
Economic Relief
Congress has finally passed much needed relief packages, including direct payments to most Americans, additional loans under the Paycheck Protection Program, vaccine distribution and a child tax credit for parents.
Meanwhile, income inequality, and the continued concentration of wealth for the 1% continues to explode at alarming rates, both nationally and within Connecticut. Since the pandemic began, the collective wealth of 17 Connecticut billionaires has jumped $2.1 billion, the same as our entire operating budget, while ordinary workers have faced economic insecurity, job losses, reduction of hours and loss of much needed benefits.
While State and local government services predict a continuation of deep cuts and austerity measures, working people wonder how they will pay bills, feed their families and keep a roof over their heads. Meanwhile, Governor Lamont and some legislative leaders have thrown cold water on common sense proposals for expanded health care coverage, increased resources for schools, investment in affordable housing and bold proposals for investing in job creation and climate resiliency projects. These dynamics are articulated eloquently in a recent CT Mirror Op-Ed authored by Courtney Bourns, member of the Fair Share CT coalition.
Here is what we know, now more than ever: this pandemic has shown us that we pull through by pulling together, no matter what we look like or where we live. Communities from across Connecticut are determined to help each other and leave no one behind.
In 2021 and beyond, CCAG looks forward to joining with members, faith, labor and community allies to ensure that every resident - no matter their race, gender or zip code - can enjoy the basic qualities of life that our wealthier neighbors take for granted: a living wage, affordable health care, high quality education, and saving a little for a rainy day.
Key priorities of the People’s Recovery include:
Meanwhile, income inequality, and the continued concentration of wealth for the 1% continues to explode at alarming rates, both nationally and within Connecticut. Since the pandemic began, the collective wealth of 17 Connecticut billionaires has jumped $2.1 billion, the same as our entire operating budget, while ordinary workers have faced economic insecurity, job losses, reduction of hours and loss of much needed benefits.
While State and local government services predict a continuation of deep cuts and austerity measures, working people wonder how they will pay bills, feed their families and keep a roof over their heads. Meanwhile, Governor Lamont and some legislative leaders have thrown cold water on common sense proposals for expanded health care coverage, increased resources for schools, investment in affordable housing and bold proposals for investing in job creation and climate resiliency projects. These dynamics are articulated eloquently in a recent CT Mirror Op-Ed authored by Courtney Bourns, member of the Fair Share CT coalition.
Here is what we know, now more than ever: this pandemic has shown us that we pull through by pulling together, no matter what we look like or where we live. Communities from across Connecticut are determined to help each other and leave no one behind.
In 2021 and beyond, CCAG looks forward to joining with members, faith, labor and community allies to ensure that every resident - no matter their race, gender or zip code - can enjoy the basic qualities of life that our wealthier neighbors take for granted: a living wage, affordable health care, high quality education, and saving a little for a rainy day.
Key priorities of the People’s Recovery include:
- Financial support and training opportunities for working people in Connecticut who have lost jobs or have been economically harmed by the pandemic.
- Increased funding for public services, good jobs, health care, affordable housing, education, small businesses, and infrastructure. No more cuts and forced austerity.
- Compelling billionaires and wealthy corporations contribute their fair share to the financial health of our state.
- Attention to racial and gender equity in all recovery programs and policies. Recovery is an opportunity to right historic and systemic wrongs that have persistently left these groups behind.
CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL
Connecticut Citizen Action Group, 30 Arbor Street Ste 107, Hartford, CT 06106
(860) 233-2181 - [email protected]t
(860) 233-2181 - [email protected]t