Dear Friend,
We are excited to announce that our 2024 Election Resources are LIVE!
 
Scorecard: CLICK HERE TO VIEW
Endorsements: CLICK HERE TO VIEW

The 2024 elections are crucial for Connecticut’s environmental future, and CTLCV has created resources to help you make informed decisions. Our 2024 Endorsements and Environmental Scorecard work together to help identify candidates who will champion environmental protection.

Why These Candidates? Each of our 68 endorsed candidates brings unique perspectives and district-specific priorities, but all have consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing environmental policies. The CTLCV conducts thorough research on each candidate, which includes a mandatory survey on key environmental issues. All submitted surveys are available on our website, allowing voters to review each candidate’s priorities. 

How Lawmakers Voted: Along with our endorsements, we’ve released the 2024 Environmental Scorecard, a detailed look at how your lawmakers voted on key environmental bills from the past session. 

Thank you for standing with us to protect our environment.

Happy first day of early voting from the CTLCV team! Today marks an exciting opportunity for you to make your voice heard ahead of Election Day. Early voting allows you to cast your ballot at your convenience. 
Don’t forget, there’s another important voting rights referendum on the ballot this year that could enhance voter access. Let’s make sure every voice counts--get out there and vote!

ENGAGE
NOTE: THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED. 
Caring for Creation: The Case for Environmental Justice
Friday, October 25
11:30 am - 1:00 PM
North United Methodist Church
Hartford, Connecticut

This event will explore the connections between environmental issues—like toxic pollution and extreme weather—and community challenges such as illness, homelessness, and food insecurity. 
 
See more details and our full list of CTLCV & partner events on our website!

ACT
Taking action around the election can range from meaningful conversations with friends, family, and neighbors to more involved activities like door knocking.

ACLU of Connecticut Rise PAC will be door knocking in West Hartford a few times this week to raise awareness around absentee voting. They are looking for help to knock on doors in West Hartford on Tuesday, October 22, Thursday, October 24, and Saturday, October 26. Reach out today if you are interested in helping out!

As always, we encourage you to "ACT" by sharing this weekly email with a friend! 

DISCOVER
Here's what we're reading this week! 

Young people in CT are worried about climate change. Will it influence how they vote?
Learn more about the issues that environmentally minded young people are voting on in this election.
Read It Here

What Harris or Trump will mean for offshore wind in the Northeast
Check out this article that highlights the perspectives of construction workers in the offshore wind industry.  They share their views on how the upcoming presidential election could shape the future of renewable energy and their job security.
Read It Here

 You're Invited!
Join us for the 2024 Environmental Achievement Awards on November 23rd at The Red Barn at Mitchell College in New London! Celebrate our outstanding awardees with an evening of dinner, drinks, live music, and great company. Don’t miss this chance to honor environmental excellence!
REGISTER TODAY

REFLECT
​This week the CTLCV staff is reflecting on the importance of Down Ballot Voting.
It’s essential to vote for more than just the president--local elections, like those for town councils and state representatives, directly affect your community’s daily life. These smaller races might not make headlines, but they shape important issues like education, parks, and public safety. Make your voice heard at every level by voting down the ballot!
Check what's on your ballot ahead of time on the Sec. of State's website.

ENGAGE
Sustainability Expo
Saturday, October 19th, 2024,
12:00pm - 4:00 PM
Swift Factory, 10 Love Ln
Hartford, Connecticut

This expo aims to raise awareness about the importance of eco-friendly practices and provide attendees with valuable insights on incorporating sustainable solutions into their daily lives.
 
See more details and our full list of CTLCV & partner events on our website!

​ACT
Do you know about the general question on the ballot this year?
We encourage you to learn more about this opportunity to expand voting access in CT.
By voting "YES", CT voters will support increased access to absentee voting, making it easier for everyone to participate in elections.
Learn more here on the Sec. of State's website.
An additional action: Feel free to share this email with a friend to spread the word!

​DISCOVER
Here's what we're reading this week! 

CT looks to ramp up resilience measures in the face of climate change
Read about Connecticut's efforts to enhance resilience measures in response to climate change challenges. The article highlights strategies aimed at protecting communities and ecosystems while addressing the impacts of extreme weather events. 
Read It Here
​
 
​You're Invited!
​Join us for the 2024 Environmental Achievement Awards on November 23rd at The Red Barn at Mitchell College in New London! Celebrate our outstanding awardees with an evening of dinner, drinks, live music, and great company. Don’t miss this chance to honor environmental excellence!

REGISTER TODAY

Dear Friend, 
​
We are excited to invite you to our annual Environmental Achievement Awards Dinner on November 23rd from 6-9 PM! This year, we will honor four exceptional leaders in the fight for environmental justice and sustainability. So grab your ticket while you can and join us for a memorable night, including dinner, drinks and live music!
Enjoy an inspiring evening of celebration, networking, and great music, all while recognizing those who have made an incredible impact on Connecticut’s environment.
This year, the event is being held at the charming Red Barn on Mitchell College's campus in New London, CT. 

REFLECT
Who doesn’t love a New England farm in the fall?
Last week, our Deputy Director Connor Yakaitis visited a different kind of farm—the offshore wind farm off of Block Island. Connor got an up-close look at the construction of the Revolution Wind project, which will deliver 704 MW of clean energy to both Connecticut and Rhode Island.

We’re thrilled to see this progress and remain committed to pushing Governor Lamont to keep the momentum going toward a clean energy future.

Hear from Connor about his experience in this video!
ENGAGE

Absentee Voting Educational Event
Tuesday, October 8th, 2024, 5:30 - 7:00 PM
Bridgeport Generation Now, 1119 Main St, Bridgeport, CT 06604

Join us tomorrow in Bridgeport for the “Your Voice, Your Vote" Action Hour with the CT Secretary of State! Hear about voting preparedness and the absentee voting question on this year’s ballot.

See more details and our full list of CTLCV & partner events on our website!
ACT
It’s National Voter Education Week! 
Are you registered to vote? Are you sure that your friends and family are registered to vote?
We’ve gathered a list of resources to guide you, organized by day to keep it simple. Check them out here on our website!
An additional action: Feel free to share this email with a friend to spread the word!
DISCOVER
Here's what we're reading this week! 

Urban Forestry Enables Environmental Justice in CT Communities
Read about how UConn's urban forestry initiative is promoting environmental justice in Connecticut communities, particularly among Hispanic and Latino populations. This program leverages research and community engagement to improve urban resilience and enhance the benefits of green spaces in areas disproportionately affected by environmental challenges. 

Read It Here


I-95 is an environmental injustice to Stamford’s South End
Gain a deeper understanding of I-95's impact on air quality in Stamford’s South End. This evidence-based opinion piece highlights how the highway disproportionately affects marginalized communities and emphasizes the need for better urban planning and policies.

Read It Here

Did you know that offshore wind energy could be a game changer for our economy?

As we navigate conversations around utility rates, it's essential to separate fact from fiction. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and we want to shed light on the significant economic advantages that offshore wind can bring to our communities.

Last month, Governor Lamont failed to act in a tri-state offshore wind project award with Massachusetts and Rhode Island, putting our clean energy progress at risk. 

What can you do?

We encourage you to familiarize yourself with the facts about this clean and renewable energy resource, and start conversations with your communities about the importance of this issue. Visit our Offshore Wind webpage to learn more! Additionally, we recently hosted a webinar featuring industry experts who shared in-depth, fact-based insights about offshore wind. You can watch the recording here.
Thank you for your continued advocacy!

-Lori Brown
​
 To help raise awareness, we placed an ad in the Greenwich Time highlighting the benefits of Offshore Wind. Check it out below & share with a friend! 

RELFECT
As we reflect on how to better connect with our members, we're excited to introduce our revamped "Weekly R.E.A.D." newsletter. Each week, we’ll share reflections, upcoming events, actions you can take, and informative articles to keep you engaged on Connecticut’s environmental issues.

Dear Friend,
There are several events happening this week that offer a chance to connect, learn, and make an impact.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Sierra Club CT and a broad coalition of justice and environmental organizations are hosting a Stop Project Maple Rally on Tuesday, September 24th at 1 pm, as we rally at the State Capitol 210 Capitol Ave, Hartford, CT 06106 to deliver a letter to Governor Lamont and Commissioner Dykes demanding that Project Maple be stopped. For more information on this event, click here. 
 
Sierra Club CT is hosting the “Connecticut Annual Fall Get Together”. Join Sierra Club  for the annual fall get together on Friday, September 27 from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Since 1972 our Chapter community of volunteers, staff and allies has been at the center of the environmental movement in Connecticut. Over food and drinks, we will reconnect and have some fun. To register for this event, click here. 
 
Sustainable Southbury is hosting an Energy and Green Expo on September 28th from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM at the Southbury Town Hall Green, 501 Main Street South, Southbury, CT 06488. The energy fair is an excellent way for people of all ages to learn how to become more energy-efficient, sustainable, and environmentally friendly. 

Missed our Utility Rates Action Hour? 
Be sure to check out the recording and share with a friend!

Last Friday, Massachusetts and Rhode Island announced their plans for the next round of Offshore Wind projects. In what was originally intended to be a tri-state bidding process, Connecticut was noticeably absent from making any announcement, putting the future of our Offshore Wind progress in jeopardy. 


We have heard that Governor Lamont is still considering whether to move forward with another offshore wind procurement. NOW is the time to tell him that we must continue to invest in offshore wind in order to meet our clean energy goals. We cannot pass up on this opportunity for clean energy we have worked so hard for. 
Please contact Governor Lamont's office by phone during business hours 9am - 6pm, and email at any time:

Governor Ned Lamont: Phone: (860) 566-4840, ext.1
                                     Email: [email protected]

"Governor Lamont, please take this opportunity to join with Massachusetts and Rhode Island and fulfill your promise to  secure offshore wind for our state. This will address the climate crisis, improve our economy, protect our health, and help stabilize our electric rates."

Please share this message with your friends and family. Thank you for your continued advocacy!

For additional background, please see the press statement below from the CT Coalition for Climate Action following Friday's announcement. Feel free to use it to help your message to Governor Lamont!

As part of our ongoing commitment to keeping you informed and engaged, we are happy to share the latest updates and upcoming events with you. 
UPCOMING VIRTUAL ACTION HOURCTLCV is hosting “Rumors vs Reality: Utility Rates” Action Hour on Thursday, September 19th, from 3:00 to 4:00 PM. This virtual event will provide clarity and evidence-based insights on utility costs. PURA Chairman Marissa Gillett, Tenaya Taylor, Executive Director of Non-profit Accountability Group, and Dr. Mark Mitchell, Steering Committee Member of Connecticut Health Professionals for Climate Action, will share valuable information on electricity bills, dispelling common misconceptions about rising utility rates. Take advantage of this chance to gain a clear understanding of the factors influencing your utility expenses. To register for this event, click here. 
In addition to this Action Hour, there are several events we would like to share. 
UPCOMING EVENTSSave the Sound is hosting a DEEP Environmental Justice Regulations virtual meeting on Sept. 10th from 5:30-6:30 PM. The meeting will cover what rulemaking is, DEEP’s role, the public’s role, and provide a background on environmental justice and cumulative impacts. DEEP will also explain the new Connecticut General Statute 22a-20a (Public Act 23-202) and outline next steps. To register for this event, click here. 
CTLCV is hosting “Your Vote, Your Voice” Absentee Voting Event September 12th from 5:30 - 7:00 PM at the Silas Bronson Library 267 Grand Street, Waterbury, CT 06702. Hear from Deputy Secretary of the State Jacqueline Kozin about voting logistics and what the Absentee Voting Referendum means for your community! Guest panelists include Coralys Santana (CT Project) and Wendy Tyson-Wood (NAACP Greater Waterbury). To register for this event, click here. 
EV Club of CT is hosting the Northeast Electric Vehicle Symposium on  September 15 from 12:00 - 4:00 PM and Monday September 16th from 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM at Hotel Marcel, 500 Sargent Drive New Haven, CT 06511. To register for this event, click here. 
Southern New England Chapter of the Soil and Water Conservation Society are hosting an Erosion & Sediment Control Field Day on September 18th At the Tolland County Agricultural Center 24 Hyde Avenue (Route 30) Vernon, CT 06066. To register for this event, click here.
New Haven Climate Movement is hosting a DeCARBONbonize the Oceans climate rally on September 20th on the New Haven Green 250 Temple St, New Haven, CT 06511. For more information on this event, click here.
Sierra Club CT and a broad coalition of justice and environmental organizations are hosting a Stop Project Maple Rally on Tuesday, September 24th at 1 pm, as we rally at the State Capitol 210 Capitol Ave, Hartford, CT 06106 to deliver a letter to Governor Lamont and Commissioner Dykes demanding that Project Maple be stopped. For more information on this event, click here. 
Sierra Club CT is hosting the “Connecticut Annual Fall Get Together”. Join Sierra Club  for the annual fall get together on Friday, September 27 from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Since 1972 our Chapter community of volunteers, staff and allies has been at the center of the environmental movement in Connecticut. Over food and drinks, we will reconnect and have some fun. To register for this event, click here.
If you have any questions or need more information about any of these events, please feel free to contact us at [email protected].

We are excited about these important discussions and can't wait to see you there!

-The CTLCV Team

Mark your calendars! We are thrilled to announce our upcoming annual Environmental Achievement Awards Ceremony Dinner, celebrating the outstanding contributions to environmental protection and sustainability in Connecticut.

 Date: November 23, 2024
Time: 6:00 - 9:00 PM
Location: The Red Barn at Mitchell College
629-A Montauk Ave, New London, CT 06320
Join us for an inspiring evening honoring those who have made significant strides in protecting and improving our environment here in Connecticut.

​CTLCV is proud to recognize the following honorees:
Environmental Public Service Award
Marissa Gillett, PURA Chairman 

Lifetime Achievement Award
Amy Blaymore Paterson, CLCC Executive Director

Environmental Legacy Award

Ulysses Hammond, Former CT Port Authority Interim Executive Director

Community Impact Award

John Harris, Mohegan Tribal Councilmember

We are excited to announce the first round of our 2024 election endorsements! As part of our ongoing mission to support candidates who prioritize climate action and environmental protection, we carefully evaluate and endorse leaders running in key district races across the state.
These endorsements reflect our commitment to electing leaders who will fight for a cleaner, greener Connecticut. We hope you'll join us in supporting these candidates at the polls.
To see if a candidate in your district has earned our endorsement, visit the 2024 Endorsements page on our website. We’ll continue releasing more endorsements in the coming weeks, so be sure to check back regularly for updates.

Thank you for standing with us to protect our environment.

We are disheartened by the misinformation surrounding Connecticut's skyrocketing electricity rates, particularly the blame being wrongly placed on low-wealth, environmental justice communities.
The reality is that 77% of the recent increase in the public benefits charge is due to the $600 million bailout for the Millstone Nuclear Power Plant.
To reduce the impact on ratepayers, PURA Chair Marissa Gillett recommended extending the utility's cost recovery period. However, Eversource insisted on a shorter repayment schedule, and the remaining two Commissioners sided with them, leading to ballooning bills during a heatwave.
What's the solution? We need to address the real issue: the unusual charges driven by utility losses from the Millstone contract and the COVID moratorium. PURA should revisit the recovery period and adopt Chair Gillet's proposal to reduce the customer impact.
We need legislators and Lamont to step up  with a solution that does not destroy funding for clean energy and efficiency programs.
Stay tuned for more updates and actions that you can take to help set the record straight!  

This week, we celebrate the second anniversary of the Biden-Harris administration’s Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)—the largest investment ever made in climate and clean energy! The President’s Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 makes the single largest investment in climate and energy in American history, enabling America to tackle the climate crisis, advance environmental justice, secure our position as a world leader in domestic clean energy manufacturing, and put the United States on a pathway to achieving a net-zero economy by 2050.

These investments are being deployed across states and are already making a significant impact:

Creating Jobs: More than 312,900 good-paying clean energy jobs have been created across 47 states and Puerto Rico, sparking a clean energy boom nationwide.

Saving Families Money: Last year alone, 3.4 million families saved $8.4 billion on clean energy and energy efficiency thanks to tax credits and rebates from the Biden-Harris affordable clean energy plan.

Investing in Environmental Justice: Through grant programs and the Justice40 Initiative, hundreds of billions of dollars are being invested in low-income communities and communities of color, advancing environmental justice and addressing decades of disinvestment.

Advancing Our Climate Goals: These investments are not only benefiting families but are also cutting emissions and accelerating our progress toward President Biden and Vice President Harris’s ambitious climate goals.

The IRA included $391 billion to support clean energy and address climate change, including $8.8 billion in rebates for home energy efficiency and electrification projects. Through these IRA provisions, Connecticut is eligible to receive $49,830,560 for the Home Efficiency Rebate program (HER) and $49,732,517 for the Home Electrification and Appliance program (HEAR), together referred to as the Home Energy Rebate Programs.
The last two years have brought incredible and historic progress on climate, thanks to the leadership of the Biden-Harris administration and their landmark Inflation Reduction Act. ​

-The CTLCV Team