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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Statement: CTLCV Supports a PURA Leader that Holds CT Utilities Accountable “The upcoming vote to confirm Marissa Gillett’s reappointment as Commissioner of the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) is critical to maintaining accountability and oversight in Connecticut’s energy policies. PURA exists to protect Connecticut ratepayers, hold utilities accountable, and advance the state’s environmental and public health goals. As stated on its website, PURA is committed to ensuring that “utilities provide safe, clean, reliable, and affordable utility service and infrastructure.” Gillett has effectively upheld these principles, making her the target of efforts by utility companies to discredit her leadership. Removing a commissioner focused on the state’s clean energy and environmental goals weakens PURA’s ability to fulfill its mission and puts corporate profits over public well-being. Under Gillett’s leadership, PURA has delivered real results. Energy efficiencyand renewable energy programs, funded by the Public Benefits Charge, have driven down emissions, reduced hospital stays and illnesses, and saved Connecticut between $218 and $494 million in public health costs (according to the CT Green Bank’s Annual Report). These programs help residents, schools, and businesses cut energy waste, lower bills, and build a more sustainable future. They are also critical for advancing environmental justice by ensuring that low-income and historically marginalized communities benefit from cleaner air, healthier homes, and lower energy costs. A confirmation vote against Marissa Gillett is a vote against ratepayers. If the utilities succeed in dismantling PURA’s ability to regulate effectively, they will be in charge of Connecticut’s environmental future. That means higher costs, fewer consumer protections, and policies that prioritize profit over people & planet. PURA is working as intended. The fact that utilities are fighting this system so aggressively is proof that it is working. Connecticut cannot afford to let the fox guard the henhouse. Our energy and climate future depends on maintaining strong, independent oversight, not caving to corporate pressure. We strongly support Marissa Gillett as a diligent and effective leader at the helm of PURA.” Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director ### The CT League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) is a nonpartisan statewide organization dedicated to protecting Connecticut's environment. CTLCV works to pass equitable and sustainable legislation that impacts our air, land, water, wildlife, and climate and holds all state legislators accountable with an annual Environmental Scorecard. Visit ctlcv.org for more information on CTLCV. PBC FACT SHEET The General Assembly’s Government Administration & Elections Committee will hold a Public Hearing on Friday, February 7th at 12 PM in Room 2B at the state Legislative Office building. Also available on YouTube Live.
Your testimony is needed for the proposed Environmental Rights Amendment. NOTE: There will be a testimony training TONIGHT, Feb 4th from 7-8 PM in preparation for this legislation. Register here. CTLCV SUPPORTS this bill on the AGENDA:
Register to Testify Submit Written Testimony Watch LIVE You must register to testify for the GAE Public Hearing NO LATER than 3 PM, Thursday, February 6th. Please submit written testimony using this On-line Testimony Submission Form. The speaker order will be posted on the day before the hearing on the CT General Assembly website at 6 PM. Any written testimony submitted before the meeting will be published in time for the hearing. Learn more about Testifying at Public Hearings on the CGA website. RESOURCES: Environmental Rights Amendment Talking Points Environmental Rights Briefing Paper Testimony Training for Environmental Rights Amendment on Feb 4, 7-8 PM The General Assembly’s Planning & Development and Energy & Technology Committees are holding public hearings on Monday (2/3) & Tuesday (2/4). Your testimony is needed for the bills outlined below.
MONDAY Planning & Development Committee Public Hearing: Monday, February 3rd at 10:30 AM in Room 2B at the state Legislative Office building. Also available on YouTube Live. CTLCV SUPPORTS these 3 bills on the AGENDA:
Register to Testify Submit Written Testimony Watch LIVE You must register to testify for the P&D Public Hearing no LATER than 3 PM, Sunday, February 2nd. Please submit written testimony using this On-line Testimony Submission Form. The speaker order will be posted on the day before the hearing on the CT General Assembly website at 6 PM. Any written testimony submitted before the meeting will be published in time for the hearing. Learn more about Testifying at Public Hearings on the CGA website. TUESDAY Energy & Technology Committee Public Hearing: Tuesday, February 4th at 10:30 AM in Room 1D at the state Legislative Office building. Also available on YouTube Live. CTLCV SUPPORTS these 2 bills on the AGENDA:
Register to Testify Submit Written Testimony Watch LIVE You must register to testify for the E&T Public Hearing no LATER than 3 PM, Thursday, Jan. 30th. Please submit written testimony using this On-line Testimony Submission Form. The speaker order will be posted on the day before the hearing on the CT General Assembly website after the 3pm deadline has passed. Any written testimony submitted before the meeting will be published in time for the hearing. Learn more about Testifying at Public Hearings on the CGA website. Contact our office at (860) 236-5442 to let us know if you need more information. Don't forget, we post all of our watched bills to our website on our Watchlist page on our website. Thank you for your advocacy! - Lori Brown, Executive Director The General Assembly’s Environment Committee is holding a public hearing this Friday, January 31st at 10:00 AM in Room 2C at the state Legislative Office building. You can also watch it on YouTube Live.
This hearing covers multiple bills & topics and the Committee needs to hear from YOU. Please testify either in person (via zoom) or in writing (or both) IN SUPPORT of: These six bills being heard on the AGENDA:
Register to Testify Submit Written Testimony Watch LIVE You must register to testify no LATER than 3 PM, Thursday, Jan. 30th. Please submit written testimony using this On-line Testimony Submission Form. The speaker order will be posted on the day before the hearing on the CT General Assembly website after the 3pm deadline has passed. Any written testimony submitted before the meeting will be published in time for the hearing. Learn more about Testifying at Public Hearings on the CGA website. More information on these bills: H.B. 5012 AN ACT PROHIBITING THE PRACTICE OF SHARK FINNING. Purpose: To prohibit the practice of shark finning. H.B. 5013 AN ACT ADDING CERTAIN PLANTS TO THE INVASIVE PLANTS LIST. Purpose: To prohibit the sale, use and distribution of certain invasive plants in the state. H.B. 5017 AN ACT CONCERNING PARTICIPATION IN THE TIRE STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM BY TIRE RETAILERS. Purpose: To require tire retailers to participate in the tire stewardship program. S.B. 63 AN ACT CONCERNING THE MITIGATION OF EFFECTS ON WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES FROM FUTURE OFFSHORE WIND PROJECTS. Purpose: To require the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to adopt regulations regarding the mitigation of future offshore wind project proposals on wildlife and fisheries. S.B. 80 AN ACT CONCERNING THE BURNING OF MEDICAL WASTE. Purpose: To prohibit the burning of medical waste by facilities that do not meet EPA standards for the burning of such waste. S.B. 1154 (RAISED) AN ACT CONCERNING THE SALE OF CERTAIN LIGHTER-THAN-AIR BALLOONS. Purpose: To prohibit the sale of certain lighter-than-air balloons. Contact our office at (860)236-5442 to let us know if you need more information. Thank you for your advocacy! - Lori Brown, Executive Director Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut Coalition for Climate Action (CCCA) released its priorities for the 2025 Connecticut legislative session. The Coalition, a broad-based and growing group of 52 health care providers, scientists, environmental organizations, religious groups, and others representing more than 300,000 members, was formed two years ago to address the climate crisis and environmental health burdens facing Connecticut.
“The Connecticut Coalition for Climate Action (CCCA) is a powerful example of what can be achieved when diverse groups—healthcare providers, scientists, environmentalists, and communities—come together with a shared purpose. Representing over 300,000 residents, this coalition of over 50 groups is a testament to the strength of collaboration, driving forward solutions to improve both our environment and public health. By uniting behind a common goal, we are building a stronger, more sustainable future for all of Connecticut,” said Leah Lopez Schmalz, President, Save the Sound. The Coalition supports legislation this session that will contribute to safer, healthier communities throughout Connecticut. Coalition members will be working together to achieve three key goals this session:
The coalition has proposed a series of solutions that would help Connecticut achieve these goals. Read more about the Coalition’s proposals here. Here’s what members of the Coalition’s steering committee had to say: “Fires, floods, and heat waves are just some of the costly climate impacts Connecticut experienced in 2024. The sad and concerning reality is that this is just the beginning and Connecticut is not prepared,” said Samantha Dynowski, State Director, Sierra Club Connecticut. “The legislature must protect residents, communities and businesses with real solutions to this serious problem.” “Connecticut has effective programs in place to achieve safer, healthier communities by promoting energy efficiency, heat pumps, EVs, solar, storage and an Equitable Modern Grid. We know how to do this; we now need to focus on rapidly accelerating each of these programs. Doing so will put the state onto a path of lower, more stable energy costs,” said Mark Scully, President, People’s Action for Clean Energy. “Climate change and the health of our state’s residents, communities, and wildlife are inextricably connected. In 2024, it hit CT hard with historic floods, hail, heatwaves, and drought that damaged crops & homes and took lives. The CCCA’s member orgs are ready to defend our communities and demand that the legislature hold polluters accountable, build a clean & healthy economy for the future, and keep energy costs in check,” said Scott Redfern, Senior Manager of the Doherty Climate & Resilience Institute at Save the Sound. “Connecticut’s future depends on the actions we take today to protect our environment. With rising sea levels threatening coastal communities, stronger storms fueled by fossil fuel pollution, and more frequent extreme heat, we need the legislature to craft bold solutions that ensure clean air, resilient neighborhoods, and thriving ecosystems,” said Shannon Laun, Conservation Law Foundation Vice President for Connecticut. “The existential issue of this century – climate change –seriously threatens all we care about – from our children’s future to the basic welling-being of the natural world that we rely on for sustenance. Addressing climate change in CT is critical because we who live and work here will be affected by what happens and because CT can inspire other states to do the right thing as well. The 2025 Legislative Session is a key opportunity for our political leadership to stand up to the threats posed by climate change and take action. We’re proud that the CCCA will be contributing directly to that effort,” said Nathan Frohling, Director of External Affairs for The Nature Conservancy in CT. “Clean energy saves money, cleans our air and reduces the risks to our lives and property from dangerous climate events,” said Chris Phelps, Environment Connecticut State Director. “Energy efficient appliances like heat pump furnaces and air conditioners help families cut both winter heating and summer cooling bills. Clean electric vehicles emit no smog-forming tailpipe pollution. Renewable solar and wind energy power our economy without fueling climate change. Connecticut’s leaders should reduce energy bills, clean our air and fight climate change with serious and significant clean energy legislation in 2025.” “Investing in energy efficiency retrofitting is a win for everyone: families, businesses, and communities alike. These initiatives reduce costs, improve health outcomes, and strengthen our economy. This is the kind of forward-thinking action that can be implemented right now for the benefit of all Connecticut residents,” said Lori Brown, Executive Director of Connecticut League of Conservation Voters. The Coalition Steering Committee includes the American College of Physicians, CT Chapter, Conservation Law Foundation, CT Health Professionals for Climate Action, CT League of Conservation Voters, Environment Connecticut, Interreligious Eco-Justice Network, Mitchell Environmental Health Associates, People’s Action for Clean Energy, Save the Sound, Sierra Club Connecticut, The Nature Conservancy in Connecticut. More information about the Connecticut Coalition for Climate Action can be found at www.climateactionct.org. Hartford, CT – The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) announces its Annual Environmental Summit, taking place on January 7, 2025, at The Bushnell Theater in Hartford. This year’s event marks CTLCV’s 25th anniversary, celebrating a quarter-century of environmental advocacy and impact.
Being held on the day before the opening of the 2025 Connecticut State Legislative Session, the event will feature educational material on environmental legislative priorities for the session. Key topics will include pressing issues such as renewable energy development, affordable housing, and environmental protections, alongside foundational discussions on conservation legislation for water, wildlife, and other critical resources. The summit will feature a diverse lineup of subject-matter experts delivering content through keynote speeches, engaging presentations, panel discussions, and interactive breakout sessions. This year’s event will feature Chuck Nice, comedian, climate advocate, and co-host of the StarTalk podcast, who will bring his signature wit and passion to the stage as a keynote speaker. “The Environmental Summit is a unique opportunity for advocates, policymakers, and experts to come together, share ideas, and build the collaborative momentum needed to tackle Connecticut’s most pressing environmental challenges,” said Mike Urgo, CTLCV President. “With a critical legislative session ahead, this event is designed to energize and equip attendees with the tools and connections to drive meaningful action.” Those interested in attending can find more information & register here: https://www.conservationeducation.org/summit2025.html Today, President Biden announced a new national climate target aimed at reducing economy-wide net greenhouse gas emissions by 61-66 percent by 2035 compared to 2005 levels. This target underscores the nation’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The updated target, submitted to the United Nations Climate Change Secretariat as part of the Paris Agreement, highlights the critical role of federal, state, and local governments in building a clean energy economy that supports workers, consumers, and the environment.
Success in reaching this goal depends on bold leadership and decisive action at the state level, and Connecticut has a critical role to play. “Connecticut’s legislative representatives remain committed to delivering a healthier, more economically resilient future for our state. While past efforts have laid the groundwork, 2025 will be the year to take bold, decisive action with clean energy legislation that creates jobs, cuts pollution, and saves ratepayers money. Clean energy investments are the most efficient and affordable path to achieving these goals. We stand united with leaders in Connecticut and across the nation who are determined to take the necessary steps to secure a cleaner, healthier future for all.” Mike Urgo, CTLCV President CTLCV's national affiliate, the League of Conservation Voters, has released their latest annual Clean Energy For All: Clean Energy Success in the States report. Below is the excerpt highlighting Connecticut's achievements over the past year. To explore the full CEFA report, click here. ConnecticutConnecticut enacted legislation to encourage solar development, which included extending two statewide solar programs that were set to end in 2025, allowing municipalities to simplify approvals of solar canopies, and requiring school boards to assess the feasibility of installing solar on new buildings that they are seeking state funding to construct. Connecticut also committed to examining their solar taxes to ensure projects generate needed revenue for municipalities while remaining affordable. In support of solar and clean energy advancement, Connecticut LCV (CTLCV) held its largest-ever annual Environmental Summit this year, which connected 377 advocates and lawmakers, in-person and virtually, for sessions exploring clean energy and climate policy. CTLCV also co-hosted four lobby days with over 100 attendees, helped organize a climate march at the capitol with more than 200 attendees, and launched an “Action Hour” series that brought experts into seven virtual public forums to discuss climate solutions, including a testimony training with over 60 participants. CTLCV successfully prevented a fossil fuel-intensive series of bills that would have increased reliance on methane gas, undermined regulatory oversight of energy companies, and diminished the state’s clean energy program and Renewable Portfolio Standards. In addition, CTLCV joined local advocates and environmental justice partners to defeat a proposed trash incineration plant in an environmental justice community. CTLCV is active in the state offshore wind table and a member of the CVM-led New England for Offshore Wind coalition. In this role, the organization helps advocate for the development of the offshore wind industry in Connecticut, including working with labor allies and state agencies to renovate the port in New London to support offshore wind. Completed this year, the State Pier Terminal is now the only active East Coast offshore wind marshaling terminal with unobstructed ocean access and was critical to the construction of South Fork Wind, the nation’s first commercial-scale offshore wind project. "I’ve witnessed the challenges and what it takes to bring the offshore wind industry to America. Thanks to CTLCV and partners, we transformed the State Pier into a state-of-the-art offshore wind terminal, which played a key role in building America’s first utility scale offshore wind farm. We rely on strong advocates to ensure there is informed public, private, and government support for the realization of our state’s clean energy goals. CTLCV has been at the forefront as Connecticut’s leading voice in sustainability and the renewable energy transition."
– Ulysses Hammond Interim Executive Director, Connecticut Port Authority CT League of Conservation Voters Announces 2024 Environmental Achievement Awards Honorees11/15/2024
New London, CT — The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Environmental Achievement Awards, celebrating four extraordinary leaders whose work has advanced environmental protection, sustainable development, and resource stewardship across Connecticut. This year’s honorees are Marissa Paslick Gillett, Ulysses Hammond, Tribal Councilor John Harris, and Amy Blaymore Paterson. Each honoree’s accomplishments reflect their commitment to creating a sustainable future for the state. Marissa Paslick Gillett, Chair of the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), is awarded the Environmental Public Service Award for her steadfast leadership in balancing the needs of consumers with Connecticut’s transition to clean energy. Since being appointed by Governor Lamont in 2019, Gillett has worked tirelessly to ensure that utility ratepayers are protected while also embracing steps toward reducing carbon emissions. Her careful oversight and commitment to regulatory transparency have helped steer Connecticut’s energy policies in the right direction. Ulysses Hammond is the recipient of this year’s Environmental Legacy Award for his leadership as Interim Executive Director of the Connecticut Port Authority. During his tenure, Hammond oversaw the successful transformation of the Port of New London into a state-of-the-art hub for assembling and staging wind turbines. His efforts to streamline operations and complete the state pier project have left a lasting impact on the region's clean energy future. Recently retired, Hammond’s vision and dedication continue to inspire progress in renewable energy development. Mohegan Tribal Councilor John Harris will receive the Community Impact Award for his dedication to advancing sustainability within the Mohegan Tribe. Mohegan has recently launched a comprehensive Environmental, Social, and Governance program, incorporating carbon neutral power generation, electric vehicle initiatives, and eco-friendly community programs. Councilor Harris has been a strong advocate for environmental responsibility, reflecting Mohegan’s commitment to creating a healthier environment for present and future generations. His efforts underscore the importance of sustainability across tribal and local communities in Connecticut. Amy Blaymore Paterson, Executive Director of the Connecticut Land Conservation Council (CLCC), is awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her admirable impact on land stewardship and conservation efforts statewide. Paterson has strengthened Connecticut’s land trust community, advocated tirelessly for natural resource protection, and expanded conservation efforts through strategic partnerships. Her leadership has fortified CLCC’s mission to protect Connecticut’s landscapes for future generations, safeguarding the state’s natural resources from overdevelopment. These honorees exemplify the spirit of environmental stewardship and serve as models for others committed to a sustainable future in Connecticut. For tickets and additional event information, please visit CTLCV’s website here. ### The CT League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) is a non-partisan, statewide organization dedicated to protecting Connecticut’s environment. CTLCV works to pass equitable and sustainable legislation that impacts our air, land, water, wildlife, and climate and holds all state legislators accountable with an annual Environmental Scorecard. Visit ctlcv.org for more information on CTLCV.  Hartford, CT - The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) is pleased to announce a promotion and a new hiring: Connor Yakaitis has been promoted to Deputy Director, and Gracie Pope joins as the new Communications Manager. These personnel updates reflect CTLCV’s dedication to strengthening its advocacy for a sustainable future in Connecticut.
Connor Yakaitis, who previously served as CTLCV’s Development Coordinator and then Development Director for the past five years, will step into the role of Deputy Director, advancing CTLCV’s strategic goals and overseeing major legislative initiatives. Known for his leadership on coastal priorities, including offshore wind, Connor has been instrumental in expanding CTLCV’s influence across Connecticut. In his new role, he’ll continue championing these vital issues and take on new initiatives to drive environmental progress statewide.
“Connor’s ability to form meaningful relationships and his dedication to sustainability and coastal resilience make him a critical asset to our team,” said Lori Brown, Executive Director of CTLCV. “We look forward to his continued impact as he leads efforts to further our advocacy.” Additionally, Gracie Pope joins as Communications Manager, where she will lead CTLCV’s communications strategy. With a background in technical writing and public relations, Gracie is adept at conveying complex topics clearly and concisely. Passionate about environmental advocacy, she looks forward to raising awareness and fostering meaningful discussions around CTLCV’s work in Connecticut. “We’re excited to welcome Gracie to the team,” said Mike Urgo, President of CTLCV. “Her focus on creating engaging, relatable content brings a fresh perspective that will help us connect more meaningfully with supporters of all ages.” ### The CT League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) is a non-partisan, statewide organization dedicated to protecting Connecticut’s environment. CTLCV works to pass equitable and sustainable legislation that impacts our air, land, water, wildlife, and climate and holds all state legislators accountable with an annual Environmental Scorecard. Visit ctlcv.org for more information on CTLCV. |
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