AGP Executive Report

Disabled Veterans Push: Drew Davis and Brad Kraut will livestream a 600-mile ride from Boston to Washington, D.C. from June 7-14, with the route running through Connecticut and raising money for disabled veterans via the Limitless Foundation. Privacy & Pricing: New York lawmakers passed the One Fair Price Act, joining Maryland and Connecticut in banning “surveillance pricing” that sets different prices based on personal data, while still allowing discounts for defined groups and loyalty programs. Connecticut Courts & Title IX: Quinnipiac women’s rugby players filed a federal class-action lawsuit seeking to restore varsity status after the program was cut to club level, alleging Title IX violations and unequal treatment. Antitrust Watch: State attorneys general are preparing a legal challenge to the Paramount Skydance–Warner Bros. Discovery merger, with Connecticut listed among potential plaintiffs. Public Safety & Local Governance: Norwich is disputing Taftville Fire Company claims after an eviction notice, saying it offered a cooperative shared-station arrangement while the volunteer department says it was put out of service. Cybersecurity: A Connecticut health-club chain faces a proposed class action after a ransomware attack exposed members’ and employees’ sensitive data, including Social Security numbers.

DEEP Leadership Change: Gov. Ned Lamont says Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Katie Dykes will step down in July, with DEEP Deputy Commissioner Emma Cimino serving as interim head. Privacy & Policing: Connecticut lawmakers propose guardrails to limit sharing of license plate camera data as states face mounting scrutiny over automated surveillance. Health Care Costs: AG William Tong blasts double-digit rate hike requests from Anthem, ConnectiCare, and UnitedHealthcare, saying insurers are using “fuzzy math” and must justify every assumption. Higher Ed + Civil Rights: Quinnipiac women’s rugby players sue in federal court to block the move from varsity to club status, alleging Title IX discrimination. Antitrust Watch: Connecticut is among states weighing a legal challenge to the Paramount-Skydance/Warner Bros. Discovery merger. Housing Equity: A new study finds CT housing vouchers often steer recipients into racially segregated neighborhoods. Social Security Alarm: Reports and a whistleblower claim allege SSA tried to assign fake death dates to millions; SSA denies it. Crypto Crime Linked to CT: DOJ says a bitcoin-linked kidnapping and carjacking case tied to Danbury, Connecticut, involved efforts to reach stolen cryptocurrency.

Offshore Wind Legal Fight: Seven Northeastern states, including Connecticut, sued the Trump administration over a nearly $1 billion refund to TotalEnergies after the company abandoned offshore wind leases—arguing the deal breaks federal law and misuses a justice department fund. Food Aid in Congress: The House narrowly passed a GOP-led spending bill that would cut WIC food assistance for millions of women and children, setting up a high-stakes fight over nutrition funding. Cancer Care Access: Connecticut enacted a law requiring insurance coverage for provider-delivered scalp cooling therapy starting Jan. 1, 2027, joining New York, Louisiana, Maryland, and West Virginia. Workplace Privacy/Surveillance: Connecticut’s new AI and social media safety rules keep expanding, while a separate law now allows camera-based security monitoring in employee break rooms and kiosks starting Oct. 1, 2026. AI in Courts: A Connecticut climate case against Shell is becoming a test for whether AI prompts used by expert witnesses must be disclosed in discovery. Traffic Safety: Woodbury approved red light cameras at the Diverging Diamond intersection at Woodbury Commons. Social Security Warning: A new analysis says Social Security could trigger an automatic benefit cut around 2032, with Connecticut among states facing some of the largest average reductions.

Education Funding Overhaul: Connecticut’s new 23-member Blue-Ribbon Commission held its first meeting to rethink the state’s public school funding formula, with recommendations due next January and a focus on equity plus easing local tax burdens. School Safety Enforcement: Gov. Ned Lamont signed a law making repeat illegal school-bus passings a top-tier offense, with mandatory six-month license suspensions for third (or later) violations starting Oct. 1. Charity Scrutiny in New Britain: Connecticut AG William Tong and the Department of Consumer Protection opened an investigation into the Mayor’s Trophy Charitable Fund, subpoenaing former Mayor Erin Stewart and seeking records tied to how charitable money was handled. Immigration Policy Shift: USCIS issued a memo tightening when people can adjust status inside the U.S., pushing more applicants toward consular processing abroad. Consumer Protection: The state’s Department of Consumer Protection warned homeowners to research home-improvement requirements before demolition or major work begins. Public Health/Workforce: AARP and caregiving advocates highlighted the growing need for paid caregiving leave as more adults juggle work and family care. Energy Prices: Hartford County diesel hit a low of $4.84 per gallon in the week ending May 30, while statewide diesel averaged $5.73.

Connecticut Budget & Food Assistance: Gov. Ned Lamont announced $300 grocery gift cards for about 25,000 residents who lost federal SNAP benefits, with distribution through community action agencies and an expected rollout by August. New Britain Accountability: A new Crumbie Law Group report says former Mayor Erin Stewart improperly sought a roughly $151,000 severance package and also bypassed rules on tuition reimbursement and pension-related benefits, prompting renewed scrutiny by state and federal authorities. Immigration Enforcement in CT: “ICE out of CT” protesters rallied outside the Hartford federal courthouse, saying they’ve seen increased ICE activity and more vehicles tied to operations in recent weeks. Privacy & Federal Policy: Connecticut’s AG Jay Jones joined a coalition opposing the SECURE Data Act, arguing it would weaken state privacy protections. State Tech & Privacy: Connecticut lawmakers advanced guardrails aimed at limiting how license plate camera data can be shared, as privacy advocates push back on surveillance. National Politics With CT Stakes: A new analysis warns Social Security could cut benefits by about $500 a month on average by 2032, with Connecticut projected to face the largest average hit. Courtroom & Federal Oversight: Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche said the Justice Department will not move forward with a $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund, after a judge paused it and lawmakers attacked it over oversight concerns.

Apple Closures: Apple confirmed permanent closing dates for three stores, including Apple Trumbull in Connecticut, shutting doors June 20 (with employees able to transfer to nearby locations). AI in the Courts: A Connecticut judge told attorneys and clerks that generative AI can’t be used for legal research, and warned lawyers to be careful with what the tools produce. National Guard Leadership: Major Gen. Francis J. Evon Jr. was reappointed for another four-year term as Connecticut’s Adjutant General. Public Safety Law: Sen. Jeff Gordon advanced a new Connecticut law that will suspend licenses for drivers who repeatedly fail to stop for school buses. Charity Probe: Connecticut AG William Tong and Consumer Protection Commissioner Bryan Cafferelli opened an investigation into former New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart’s handling of the Mayor’s Trophy Charitable Fund. SNAP Relief: Gov. Ned Lamont ordered $300 grocery gift cards for about 25,000 residents who lost federal nutrition assistance. Social Security Warning: A new analysis says Social Security could cut benefits by about $500 a month on average if lawmakers don’t act before trust fund reserves run out in 2032, with Connecticut among the hardest hit. Gun Policy Fight: A report highlights that Connecticut is among states that have moved to ban Glocks, joining a growing patchwork of handgun restrictions.

Online Safety & AI: Gov. Ned Lamont signed Connecticut’s Protecting Connecticut Residents from AI-related harm Act, setting rules for AI chatbots, minors on social media, and disclosure when AI is used in employment decisions, while funding AI literacy for small businesses and nonprofits. Privacy Fight in Congress: A GOP-backed Secure Data Act would override state privacy laws in at least 22 states, but EPIC plans to tell lawmakers it’s “worse than no federal data privacy law at all,” arguing key opt-out limits don’t cover common tracking identifiers. Offshore Wind Lawsuits: New York AG Letitia James sued the Trump administration over a TotalEnergies deal to end offshore wind projects, and Connecticut joined a multi-state challenge alleging a “sham” pay-not-to-play scheme that harms jobs and climate goals. DOJ Retreat on “Anti-Weaponization” Fund: Acting AG Todd Blanche told lawmakers the $1.8 billion fund will not move forward, while also keeping an IRS tax-probe immunity provision tied to the broader settlement. CT Accountability: Hartford auditors flagged serious concerns about oversight of a $6 million federal USDA grant tied to the city’s Office of Sustainability. Crypto Crime: A “Godfather” crypto figure pleaded guilty in a case tied to a $245 million Bitcoin heist and a kidnapping plot. Local Politics: A CT GOP candidate faced bipartisan backlash over an anti-Pride Month/anti-LGBTQ+ social media post.

Offshore Wind Legal Fight: New York AG Letitia James is leading a lawsuit joined by Connecticut and six other states to block the Trump administration’s March deal paying TotalEnergies about $1 billion to cancel offshore wind leases off New York and North Carolina, with states arguing the buyout skipped required procedures and threatens jobs, power supply, and climate goals. AI at Work in Connecticut: Connecticut’s Online Safety Act updates take effect Oct. 1, 2026, requiring employers to disclose when automated tools materially influence hiring and other employment decisions, expanding coverage and tightening rules around sensitive data. DHS Court-Order Standoff: Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin faced sharp questioning from Sen. Chris Murphy and other Democrats, refusing to clearly commit to following court orders, arguing courts are “politicized.” Justice Dept. Retreats: Acting AG Todd Blanche told House lawmakers the DOJ is scrapping the $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund after backlash and court pauses. Local Government: Fairfield activated 24/7 speed cameras in six school zones, with escalating fines for repeat violations. Connecticut Politics & Policy: The CT-Puerto Rico Trade Commission held its first meeting, setting subcommittees and adding energy assistance and efficiency as a focus area.

Iran Talks and War: Secretary of State Marco Rubio told senators Iran has agreed to negotiate parts of its nuclear program, even as Tehran says it’s ending peace talks and fully closing the Strait of Hormuz—setting up fresh scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers. Connecticut Courts and Law: AG William Tong led a coalition urging the Federal Judicial Center to reverse its removal of climate science guidance from a judicial manual, arguing the change was driven by partisan pressure. Offshore Wind Fight: Tong joined other states in suing the U.S. Department of the Interior to block a TotalEnergies settlement that cancels offshore wind leases in exchange for taxpayer-funded payouts and oil-and-gas commitments. Public Health: Health officials warn of rising tick risk this June, with Connecticut among the states flagged for higher Lyme concerns. Connecticut Politics: Lamont faces growing calls to replace SNAP losses with state aid as federal rule changes cut Connecticut enrollment. Local Justice: A New Haven jury convicted Albert Eaddy in the 2019 killing of Troy Clark and the wounding of a police captain. Economy/Workplace: A New Haven residency requirement waiver system was approved for city officials, allowing case-by-case exemptions.

Court Watch: A federal appeals court ruled Trump’s policy to expel transgender troops violates equal protection, with the panel split on whether it also covers people seeking to enlist. Connecticut Budget & Oversight: Comptroller Sean Scanlon projected a $322.8 million FY26 General Fund surplus and highlighted major 2026 legislation impacts, including Connecticut’s online safety law. Cyber & Privacy: Charter Communications faces five Connecticut federal lawsuits over an alleged hack exposing more than 40 million records. AI & Work Rules: Connecticut’s new workplace AI requirements are being framed as a major shift for employers, including notice duties tied to AI-caused layoffs. Online Safety: State officials urged parents to watch for violent extremist networks that target minors online, including cases tied to sextortion and swatting. Local Governance: Westfield police canceled a planned stop by Trump-backed “Freedom Truck” after concerns about partisan ties undermining public trust. Education & Leadership: A letter argues Stamford’s board isn’t doing enough to close achievement gaps as a new superintendent takes over.

Retirement-Fund Fight: Connecticut Attorney General William Tong joined a 24-state coalition led by AG Kwame Raoul opposing a Trump administration proposal that would steer more 401(k) money into riskier alternatives like crypto and private credit, with the Labor Department estimating 4.5 million workers and retirees and $178 billion could be pulled into higher-risk funds each year. Maine Senate Drama: In Maine’s high-stakes Democratic Senate primary, candidate Graham Platner’s wife Amy Gertner called media coverage of alleged sexually explicit texts “shameful,” as the controversy continues to swirl ahead of the June vote. Connecticut Governance: Lawmakers passed a sweeping bill overhauling the Department of Children and Families, adding new oversight and supports amid scrutiny of recent child deaths and casework problems. Hartford Fire Displacement: A new report highlights how fires have displaced nearly 3,000 Hartford residents since 2020, renewing pressure on inspection and landlord accountability. Connecticut Politics & Campaigns: Connecticut Young Republicans launched a new legislative caucus and says it will commit five-figure funding to targeted House and Senate races. Sports Gambling Legal Battle: Courts continue wrestling with whether CFTC-regulated prediction markets are preempted from state sports-gambling rules, with Kalshi-related cases driving a patchwork of rulings. World Cup Watch (Tri-State): Anti-trafficking groups and police warn mega-event crowds could raise human-trafficking risks, with Connecticut officials preparing for spillover.

Maine Senate Shake-Up: Graham Platner’s Democratic bid to unseat Sen. Susan Collins took another hit as reports surfaced about sexually explicit texts with multiple women; Platner’s wife Amy Gertner backed him, calling the coverage “gossip” and “shameful,” while a former campaign staffer said the campaign assessed the messages as a potential election vulnerability. Medicaid Fraud Fix: A Connecticut policy push argues HUSKY Health needs a 21st-century tool to catch “ghost claims,” where providers bill for services that patients say never happened. Public Safety: Connecticut’s gun-storage reminder for Gun Storage Check Week stresses secure storage can prevent suicide by creating a critical pause during crises. Community & Pride: Pride Month kicks off across Connecticut with town events and public officials showing up for LGBTQ+ community visibility and support. State Investment in Infrastructure: East Hartford’s Rentschler Field received $9 million in State Bond Commission funding for field, scoreboard, lighting, and repairs. Food Safety at Markets: State officials urged cottage food businesses and shoppers to follow licensing, labeling, and food-safety rules as farmers markets ramp up. Online Safety Law Debate: Connecticut’s Kids Online Safety Act discussion continues, with lawmakers and advocates pushing for stronger protections for minors online.

Online Safety & Kids: Connecticut’s AG is scrutinizing Roblox over child-safety concerns, while national debate over the Kids Online Safety Act keeps parents and lawmakers focused on location sharing and predator access. Health Care Costs: A new report highlights how Connecticut patients are getting hit with major medical-debt bills and lawsuits after insurer disputes, underscoring the risk of “surprise” charges. Medicaid Work Requirements: States are pushing back on Medicaid work requirements as budgets tighten, warning the policy could force cuts to other essentials like health care and education. Connecticut Politics & Campaigns: “Power & Politics” spotlights the legislative session’s business impact, a growing challenge in CT’s 3rd District race, and the Roblox investigation. Transportation & Privacy: The speed-camera fight continues, with Connecticut officials weighing privacy, enforcement, and public-hearing requirements. Energy & Housing: CT keeps momentum on solar incentives and plug-in solar policy, while housing approvals and local zoning changes remain in the spotlight. Business & Regulation: Connecticut’s workplace AI rules and broader employment AI compliance are drawing attention as new obligations roll in.

Housing & Local Control: New Canaan’s Planning and Zoning Commission gave final approval to a controversial 102-unit, four-and-a-half-story complex at Weed and Elm—after a court order tied to the state’s 8-30g affordable-housing rules—setting up a fresh fight over how much say towns really have. State Budget & Borrowing Clash: Gov. Ned Lamont and GOP challenger Ryan Fazio traded barbs over borrowing as the Bond Commission backed $652 million in investments, from childcare and housing to public safety and EVs. Energy Policy: Connecticut lawmakers moved to extend home and community solar incentives through 2035, with batteries emerging as the big winners under the updated program. Utilities & Rates: Connecticut regulators ended “unilateral” decisions amid utility suits, while state leaders continued pushing back against Eversource rate hikes. Workplace & AI Compliance: Connecticut’s omnibus workplace changes and new employment AI rules are landing on employers now, with new obligations for pay, accommodations, and AI decision-making. Public Safety Tech: Fairfield is set to start issuing fines for its speed camera program next week, as lawmakers and officials renew pressure over license-plate camera rules and data sharing. Education & Childcare: The Bond Commission also approved $16.5 million for childcare capital improvements and a One Entry Portal to streamline access. Legal & Courts: A judge temporarily blocked Trump’s $1.8B “anti-weaponization” fund, while Connecticut’s broader court docket continues to shape policy fights. Sports: The Los Angeles Sparks, led by Erica Wheeler and Nneka Ogwumike, head to Hartford to face the Connecticut Sun.

Online Safety Act: Gov. Ned Lamont signed Connecticut’s Online Safety Act, a broad AI and platform rules package with key provisions starting Oct. 1, 2026, plus staggered duties for AI companions and covered platforms. Gun Policy: Lamont also signed a law banning Glock-style firearms with a cruciform trigger bar, setting up immediate legal fights. Utilities & Affordability: State leaders are blasting Eversource after it proposed average residential rate hikes of about 13% (up to $25/month), with Lamont promising credits instead of a surcharge. Housing Compliance: Old Lyme is moving to amend zoning to meet the new state “middle housing” mandate that limits local review and pushes small multifamily/mixed-use approvals. Prediction Markets: The CFTC is escalating its court fight over state authority, suing Minnesota and targeting Connecticut and other states’ efforts to regulate event-contract prediction markets. Courts & Federal Funds: A federal judge temporarily blocked Trump’s $1.8B “anti-weaponization” fund from being set up or disbursed while litigation proceeds. Local Budgets: Granby’s budget passed on the third referendum vote, after education and BOE concerns fueled earlier defeats.

Privacy & Data Brokers: Gov. Ned Lamont signed SB4 to ban the sale of precise geolocation data in Connecticut, joining a small set of states cracking down on location tracking and also tightening rules around “surveillance pricing” and facial recognition. Courts & Federal Power: A Virginia federal judge temporarily blocked Trump’s $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund, pausing any transfers or payouts while a lawsuit challenges the program. Connecticut Politics: State Sen. Bob Duff says Connecticut should tax any Jan. 6-linked payouts from the blocked fund at 100%, arguing no one should profit from the Capitol riot. Election Rights: Native voting rights groups warn that a recent Supreme Court Voting Rights Act ruling is already triggering redistricting moves that could further restrict Native access ahead of 2026. AI at Work: Connecticut’s new employment AI transparency law (SB 5) is set to reshape how employers disclose and defend automated hiring decisions. Prediction Markets: The CFTC moved to intervene in Rhode Island’s prediction-market fight, arguing federal authority should control the space. Local Governance: Fairfield lawmakers are debating whether to pause a speed camera program after projected violations during the rollout period sparked backlash. Economic Development: Unilever announced a $300M global innovation center in downtown New Haven, aiming to replace its Trumbull R&D site by spring 2029.