Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Senator Tony Hwang (R) to represent the 28th Senate District of the CT General Assembly including the towns of Bethel, Easton, Fairfield, Newtown, and Weston. Voters have long relied on CTLCV's endorsements to identify candidates who will champion environmental protection. Sen. Hwang has been featured as an “Environmental Champion” by CTLCV for many years, consistently supporting climate measures and speaking out on the critical necessity for bipartisanship on environmental legislation. He was a strong supporter of House Bill 5004, the major climate legislation of the past session, and is an advocate for nature-based solutions to climate change, seeing it as critical to long-term sustainability.
Sen. Hwang serves as a ranking member of the Transportation committee and the Insurance & Real Estate Committee, as well as serving on the Finance, Revenue & Bonding Committee and the Planning & Development Committee.
His work on the Transportation Committee was instrumental in the bipartisan passage of legislation aimed at reducing Connecticut's carbon footprint and decreasing fossil fuel use. Public Act 23-135 was a major omnibus bill that initiated zero emission truck vouchers, established a tree and vegetation management program, as well as set accountability standards for the reduction of transportation-related carbon emissions. 

Notably, he is the only Republican Senator who has consistently supported major climate legislation, underscoring his essential role in advancing these measures.
Sen. Hwang’s top environmental priority for the 2025 legislative session is to tackle the critical challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss. His approach emphasizes practical, nature-based solutions that promote responsible stewardship of the lands, forests, wetlands, and waterways of the state. These actions not only support climate resilience but also safeguard the environment for future generations, ensuring a healthy and prosperous Connecticut.
“Senator Tony Hwang stands out as a dedicated advocate for environmental progress and bipartisan cooperation,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “His commitment to addressing climate change and biodiversity loss through nature-based solutions is essential for Connecticut’s environmental future.
​To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, all candidates must have completed a Survey on the Environment. Endorsements are issued based on a candidate’s responses, their votes on important bills, and their demonstrated leadership on specific issues. 
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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.

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Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Senator Julie Kushner (D) to represent the 24th Senate District including the towns of Danbury, New Fairfield, Ridgefield. Voters have long relied on CTLCV's endorsements to identify candidates who will champion environmental protection. Sen. Julie Kushner has earned consistently high marks on CTLCV’s annual Environmental Scorecard, voting solidly in favor of environmental bills. She earned a perfect score of 100% in the past session. 

Senator Julie Kushner remains a passionate advocate for the environment in the State Senate, co-sponsoring priority environmental legislation in 2024, including the rodenticides ban, major restrictions on neonicotinoids and PFAS, a geothermal energy pilot plan, a heat pump expansion plan, and being a strong Senate champion for House Bill 5004, the legislature’s largest climate package.

As the Chair of the Labor and Public Employees Committee and Vice Chair of the Children and Public Health Committees, Sen. Kushner understands the connections between the economy, public health and the environment. With this knowledge, she has promoted “green” jobs and worker standards in creating new solar energy projects in Connecticut. She is also a member of the Appropriations, Education and Executive and Legislative Nominations committees.

“Senator Julie Kushner is the ideal Senator for her district, seamlessly linking economic equity with environmental justice,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “

Kushner founded and co-chairs the School Indoor Air Quality Working Group, leading the state to allocate $56 million in grants to fund clean air measure in 50  public schools.  She has maintained her commitment to keeping Candlewood Lake and Lake Kenosia in her district free of invasive species, securing state funding for both lakes this past session.

​Looking ahead, Senator Kushner will continue to fight for the environment. She is committed to supporting environmental causes highlighted by her constituents and environmental organizations in her district. 

“Her progressive leadership is key to advancing legislation that supports workers and fosters good-paying jobs in clean energy and transportation infrastructure. We need her at the State Capitol to keep driving this critical work forward,” said Brown. 

To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, all candidates must have completed a Survey on the Environment. Endorsements are issued based on candidates’ responses, voting records in our Scorecard, and demonstrated leadership on specific issues. 
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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.

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Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Representative Kerry Wood to represent the 29th House District of the CT General Assembly including the towns of Rocky Hill and Wethersfield. Voters have long relied on CTLCV's endorsements to identify candidates who will champion environmental protection. Rep. Wood has consistently fought for climate initiatives and has received The League’s endorsement in the last three elections for her seat.  

Rep. Wood has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship through her active co-sponsorship of crucial legislation, including House Bill 5004, which tackles significant climate and sustainability challenges. Her support extends to efforts to limit PFAs, long-lasting chemicals with negative impacts on humans, animals and natural resources, in consumer products. She has also fought for bans on neonicotinoids and rodenticides to address their detrimental effects on pollinators and wildlife. 
As a member of the Commerce Committee, Finance, Revenue, and Bonding Committee, and Chair of the Insurance and Real Estate Committee, Rep. Wood brings a diverse range of expertise to her legislative work. While she effectively addresses state-wide causes, she is equally dedicated to supporting the local initiatives most important to her constituents. She has championed composting efforts, including securing a local grant for Rocky Hill to enhance composting practices. Additionally, Rep. Wood regularly hosts events to discuss climate change and other environmental issues with her constituents, ensuring their voices are heard and their concerns addressed.
Looking ahead, Rep. Wood will continue to leverage her proven leadership to advocate for these vital causes and emphasize the environmental issues most important to her constituents.
“Representative Kerry Wood’s proactive approach to environmental issues reflects her deep commitment to sustainability,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “Her work on climate action and pollution control is essential. We look forward to her continued leadership in advocating for strong environmental policies and community engagement.”
​To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, all candidates must have completed a Survey on the Environment. Endorsements are issued based on a candidate’s responses, their voting record in our Scorecard, and their demonstrated leadership on specific issues. 

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Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Representative Jonathan Steinberg (D) to represent the 136th House District of the CT General Assembly including the town of Westport. Voters have long relied on CTLCV's endorsements to identify candidates who will champion environmental protection. Rep. Steinberg has consistently earned the League’s highest accolades for tackling the most difficult and complicated issues with determination and the experience to get results. ​

Today, Rep. Steinberg remains a pivotal figure in environmental advocacy and a key leader in shaping Connecticut’s approach to clean energy and climate resilience. Steinberg is widely recognized for his unwavering commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and stabilizing the electric power grid. 
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Currently serving as Chair of the Energy and Technology Committee, Rep. Steinberg has been a driving force behind the expansion of solar energy in the state. His leadership role on this committee has been instrumental in advancing energy solutions to reduce emissions and promote energy efficiency. Rep. Steinberg’s efforts also include modernizing our transmission infrastructure and promoting energy storage to ensure a more reliable and resilient power grid.

For many years, Representative Steinberg has championed some of Connecticut’s most significant environmental wins. In his former role as Chair of the Public Health Committee, Steinberg led the effort to pass our first statewide water plan, helped to modernize our recycling laws (aka the “Bottle Bill”), and passed restrictions on toxic PFAS chemicals that contaminate our drinking water.
He later played a central role in improving indoor air quality in schools by securing funds to replace and upgrade school HVACs. He also worked tirelessly to pass the Climate Mitigation Act to help Connecticut supply 100% of its electricity from clean sources by 2040.  

As Co-Chair of the Bioscience Caucus, Rep. Steinberg is passionate about nature-based solutions—protecting and supporting our natural resources to address environmental challenges caused by climate change. He is also a strong advocate for policies to limit the use of neonicotinoids, harmful pesticide chemicals that are devastating wildlife and harmful to human health. 
"Representative Steinberg’s commitment to environmental protection and his advocacy for clean, safe, affordable energy is unparalleled," said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “Connecticut is a cleaner, healthier place to live because of his lifelong dedication to the environment.”
Looking ahead, Rep. Steinberg will continue to promote clean energy initiatives that reduce polluting gas emission and stabilize the state’s power grid. He is playing a vital role in driving progress at the state level and ensuring that Connecticut remains at the forefront of climate action.
"His tireless efforts as Chair of the Energy and Technology Committee to advance solar energy and waste management solutions highlights his crucial role in our shared mission to address climate change."

​To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, all candidates must have completed a Survey on the Environment. Endorsements are issued based on a candidate’s responses, their voting record in our Scorecard, and their demonstrated leadership on specific issues. 

Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Representative David Michel (D) to represent the 146th House District of the CT General Assembly in Stamford.

Representative Michel has consistently earned high scores on CTLCV’s Environmental
Scorecard, and he is one of a handful of state legislators who is recognized as an
“Environmental Champion” for his leadership on a variety of important bills during recent
legislative sessions.

This year, David Michel worked hard to pass legislation that reduces the toxic
chemicals known as “PFAS” (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl), banning them from
consumer products that can harm humans and wildlife.
He also co-sponsored and fought hard to see that major climate legislation was raised
in his chamber and passed the House as well as legislation supporting Connecticut’s
solar energy programs.

In 2023, David Michel was a leading champion on the effort to update and strengthen
Connecticut’s landmark Environmental Justice Law. His tireless advocacy will help
prevent polluting power plants, incinerators, and similar facilities from being
disproportionately sited in low-income or at-risk communities of color. He is an

important voice fighting for the underserved communities in Stamford’s Southend and
he is strongly committed to further improving the law to apply to existing facilities in
addition to new siting decisions.

For more than six years, Michel has been actively working to ensure that offshore wind
is being developed in an environmentally responsible way that would create the most
jobs and be the most affordable for ratepayers in the long term.

“David Michel is one of the most energetic environmental legislators at the Capitol,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “He can always be counted on to tackle the tough issues and do what is in the best interest of the public he serves. We need more lawmakers like David Michel at the Capitol to balance out the special interests who prioritize profit over people.”

Looking forward to 2025, CTLCV is confident that Representative Michel will work diligently on behalf of his constituents and strongly endorses his re-election to the Connecticut General Assembly on November 5.

​To be considered for CTLCV’s endorsement, all candidates must have completed a
survey on the environment. Endorsements are issued based on a candidate’s
responses, their voting record in our Scorecard and their demonstrated leadership on
specific issues.

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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.

Hartford, CT – Today, the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) endorsed Representative Bobby Gibson (D) to represent the 15th House District of the CT General Assembly including the towns of Bloomfield and West Hartford. 

Gibson has earned a 100% rating on CTLCV’s Environmental Scorecard for many years. In addition to his numerous awards, he has been recognized as an “Environmental Champion” by CTLCV for his leadership on a variety of important bills during recent legislative sessions. 
As Deputy Speaker of the House, Representative Gibson’s votes in favor of all climate and environmental bills this year are indicative of his commitment to bettering his community and the state at large. Climate is one of Gibson’s many legislative priorities along with quality school education, fair living conditions for all Connecticut citizens, and strong Environmental Justice laws. 

As a leading force on the state’s Black and Puerto Rican Caucus (BPRC), Representative Gibson worked with his colleagues to ensure that climate legislation was successfully passed the by House chamber.

"Deputy Speaker Bobby Gibson has worked diligently to advance major improvements in education for Connecticut students,” said Rep. Geraldo Reyes. “We worked together as a chair and co-chair of the BPRC to advance many social issues. I'm extremely excited to continue to see his advancement and political potential. He has the experience to take this whole process to another level.” 

Gibson has made every effort to elevate climate, clean air, and water for the 15th district and for Connecticut, showing his unwavering commitment to protect the environment for future generations. 

Gibson promoted House Bill 5004, the Connecticut Climate Protection Act. This major climate initiative called for modernizing the state’s Global Warming Solutions Act, incentivizing businesses to become more sustainable, and included nature-based solutions to mitigating climate change. As an award-winning teacher and coach, he is passionate about educating youth. Gibson understands the needs of his district and puts a clean and healthy environment at the forefront of his agenda. 

Gibson serves as Co-Chair of the Conservation and Development Sub Committee for the Appropriations Committee. He is also a member of the Education Committee and Vice Chair of the General Law Committee. 

“Looking forward to 2025, we are confident that Representative Gibson will continue fighting for clean air, water, open space, and climate action because he understands these are health and equity concerns,” said Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director. “CTLCV strongly endorses his candidacy.” 
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To receive CTLCV’s endorsement, all candidates must have completed a survey. Endorsements are issued based on a candidate’s responses, their voting record in our Scorecard and their demonstrated leadership on specific issues. 
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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.

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​We are taken aback by the total failure of our state’s top elected leaders to take
action on climate. During the regular session, the Republicans were openly
hostile to climate legislation, and the Democrats said they supported climate
action, but could not get anything accomplished. And now they have failed again
at the chance to pass legislation in the June Special Session.

Meanwhile, the impacts of climate change rage on.

The first section of the climate legislation that passed the House, but not the
Senate, declared a climate crisis in our state. Anyone who disagrees with that
should just look at their thermometer as we experience the hottest days on
record. This time last year, our skies were orange from out-of-control wildfires in
Canada, and the flooding disaster of last summer destroyed Connecticut farms,
crops, and livelihoods.

Refusing to act on climate while calling a special session for multiple items
that are clearly not emergencies is to ignore the damage being done to our
economy, our health, and our environment. 

Our state legislators must make progress every year to keep up with escalating
impacts of climate change. It is embarrassing that we are falling so far behind
our own goals to reduce our Greenhouse Gas emissions that are causing this
mess. Refusing to address climate in the special session is a huge missed
opportunity. We are deeply disappointed in the Governor and the legislative
leaders for their casual dismissal of climate as somehow less important
than all other items they packed into their agreed upon agenda.

Our top elected officials say they want to pass climate legislation but have kicked
the can down the road for the second year in a row. What will they tell voters?
Youth in particular are already discouraged by the lack of action on climate, a top
issue they care about, and they may simply not vote.

Recent polling by Yale shows that a large majority of citizens want our state
leaders to stand up and take steps to address climate change. The sooner we
start acting on climate, the sooner we can make a difference for ourselves and
future generations.

​For more information: 860-214-0345, [email protected], www.ctlcv.org

​Hartford, CT – Climate advocates are urgently calling for climate action this year. While the regular legislative session is over, there have been recent reports that both the governor and legislative leaders could be supportive of a special session.  
Climate action is urgent, and a special session could be a crucial step towards meeting Connecticut’s climate goals. During the regular session, the House overwhelmingly passed the Connecticut Climate Protection Act, but the Senate failed to call a vote before time ran out on May 8. This was despite DEEP’s report the previous week that Connecticut’s greenhouse gas emissions are on the rise. Residents are already feeling the impacts of climate change along Connecticut’s coasts, and we can’t afford another year of inaction. 

As we head into what is predicted to be an “extraordinary” season for hurricanes and tropical storms, measures to reduce emissions and take long-term action to change the conditions that drive these storms should be a priority. Our region’s recent history demonstrates the very real costs of inaction, when residents, municipalities, and the State are left to clean up the damage wrought by climate change. And those costs are rising; a recent study indicates that the number of billion-dollar climate related disasters has risen steadily over the last few decades. As of 2024, the number of such events so far this decade is over 70 percent of those seen through the entire 2010s. 
It’s no surprise that data from Yale Program for Climate Change Communication shows that the majority of Connecticut voters want climate action now.  

“In the face of increasing climate impacts, our neighboring states have updated their climate laws by adopting more stringent targets, establishing greater accountability, and providing mechanisms for enforcing the law,” said Charles Rothenberger, climate and energy attorney with Save the Sound. “Connecticut’s law is showing its age and its time that it was updated to reflect the times. As other jurisdictions have already done, we must update our emissions goals and establish a framework of accountability, authority, and enforceability to ensure we move from aspiration to success.” 
It’s time for Connecticut lawmakers to side with residents and stand up to fossil fuel companies, so advocates are urging Governor Lamont to call a special session to act on climate.  

“As the impacts of climate change grow every year, so must Connecticut’s response. Inaction on climate is too costly and dangerous for Connecticut residents, businesses, and communities,” said Samantha Dynowski, State Director, Sierra Club Connecticut. “While the legislature failed in the regular session, Governor Lamont and legislative leaders can and must ensure our state makes progress on climate mitigation and resiliency in a Special Session.” 

Here’s what more members of the Connecticut Coalition for Climate Action had to say: 
“Our decision-makers need to do whatever it takes to address climate change and its impacts,” said Shannon Laun, Vice President of CLF Connecticut. “That’s why it’s their responsibility to hold this special session and pass the climate bill that was a top priority this past session. Connecticut’s government made a commitment to us that they would cut the dangerous carbon pollution overheating our planet. We’re all tired of delay – it’s time for lawmakers to own up to that commitment now.” 

“Meeting Connecticut’s climate goals requires active engagement from a wide range of stakeholders,” said Mark Scully, President of People’s Action for Clean Energy, “including the governor, the legislature, businesses and residents. In their recently ended legislative session, the state senate failed to do their part, leaving vital climate legislation on the table. It is time for the governor to call them back to finish the job by passing the Connecticut Climate Protection Act. The rest of us depend on you.”   
“Heat waves and extreme weather are already devastating parts of the United States and experts are warning of a record-breaking hurricane season as well. We know that severe weather impacts those who are poor or lack resources to escape it. Whether someone lives in a rural community dependent on a well, or in an urban community without access to cooling centers, our most vulnerable residents will suffer the most. We call on Governor Lamont to schedule a special session to address climate change.” said Teresa Eickel, Executive Director of the Interreligious Eco-Justice Network.  

“We’re facing predictions of a dangerous Atlantic hurricane season, record breaking ocean temperatures, dangerous heat for vulnerable citizens, and a real chance of climate-related forest fire smoke from Canada, and it appears that our Connecticut legislature and administration dawdle at taking climate seriously. How does it feel? Not good. To their credit, Governor Lamont and legislative leadership have suggested they may support a special session to pass the best climate bill we have before us this year – HB 5004. They need to do it if we are to have confidence that our government is looking out for the best interests of our citizens,” said Nathan Frohling, Director of External Affairs for The Nature Conservancy in CT.    

“We are outraged by the legislature’s inaction on climate,” said Lori Brown, Executive Director of the CT League of Conservation Voters. “That is why Governor Lamont must convene a special session and get our state elected leaders back to the Capitol to continue the work they say they support. The Governor must use his authority to ensure that climate is included in the call, and not wait another year as the impacts of climate change become increasingly severe.” 

The CT Coalition for Climate Action comprises environmental advocates, health experts, labor and municipal representatives, and others advocating for climate action in Connecticut. Formed in 2023, the Coalition’s central demand is that Connecticut keep its promise to cut climate pollution and protect our future. Members of the coalition’s steering committee are Save the Sound, American College of Physicians – CT Chapter, ConnPIRG, 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, Sierra Club CT, and the Nature Conservancy in CT. More information at www.climateactionct.org 

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