HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!

𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐘 𝐁𝐈𝐑𝐓𝐇𝐃𝐀𝐘 𝐀𝐌𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐂𝐀! Wishing everyone a Healthy, Happy, and 𝗦𝗔𝗙𝗘 INDEPENDENCE DAY! #USA #USA #USA

Celebrating Rich Farm Ice Cream in Middlefield!

Having a Field Day with our Local Radio Clubs

Record Journal: "Think Possible"

Scenes from the Gaylord Gauntlet #GreatStuff

Honoring Wallingford's Nightingale Awardee

Congratulations to Wallingford's own Cauley Comerford!

THE GAYLORD GAUNTLET!!! THIS SATURDAY!!!

Helping Make the BEST Fried Dough at the Holy Trinity Bazaar

Always a great time, filled with laughs, camaraderie and community spirit, as well as yummy food, I was happy to be able to volunteer again this year at the fried dough booth. #GreatStuff

Remembering the Fallen on Memorial Day

THANK YOU to Students of Pond Hill Elementary School!

Literacy is incredibly important to me, and each year during Read Across America events, I enjoy reading to students from several local schools.

Last week, I received an incredible package of thank you letters from students at Pond Hill Elementary School. I very much appreciate each child taking the time to compose their thoughts, and draft such FANTASTIC letters!

THANK YOU!

Hands-On Learning with the Wallingford Fire Department

 

THANK YOU to both the Wallingford Fire Department and N. Farms Volunteer Fire Department for always keeping us safe, and for giving me a chance to experience just one small part of the hard work they do, and this was just training!

 

Deputy Chief Shaw, Asst. Chief Getman, N. Farms Vol. Chief Wall, Capt. Rowe, firefighters Flis and Carroll and the entire group took the time to explain everything, answer questions, and provide insight into their profession. More pics and info at the link. #FirstResponders #GreatStuff

More info and pics here:https://www.cthousegop.com/fishbein/hands-on-learning-with-the-wallingford-fire-department/

My Co-Sponsored Legislation Creating A "Fallen Officer Fund" Becomes Law!

Last week, while we recognized the selfless men and women of law enforcement during National Police Week, the governor signed an important public safety priority for the Connecticut House Republicans into law.

Public Act 24-27, establishes a fallen officers fund to provide crucial financial support to families of fallen police officers. This fund will ensure that members who were covered by insurance of a fallen officer will continue to have health insurance covered for up to five years, and $100,000 will be provided to the surviving family members.

Let us never forget why we honor the brave police officers who are there for us around the clock.

Record Journal: "Nomination Thanks"

From the Record Journal Newspaper - 5/18/2024

Sine Die - 5/8/2024

Today is the final day of the 2024 legislative session. Mere hours left before we finish our work up to the tonight's Constitutionally provided midnight deadline to adjourn.

𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗞 𝗬𝗢𝗨 to the residents of Wallingford and Middlefield. Your contributions on proposed legislation make an impact, and help shape which bills get passed, and in what form.

As always, I will oppose poorly crafted legislation that negatively impacts our district and our state, and continue to fight for more transparency, less onerous regulations on the businesses that keep our state economy moving, safer streets, and lower taxes for you and your family.

To watch the final hours of the House 2024 session, please go to www.ct-n.com

Protecting Victims of Domestic Violence from Coerced Debt

I can sincerely say that today, with this legislation, Connecticut is leading the entire nation on this concept, and keeps us on the vanguard of having the strongest possible protections for victims of domestic violence.

Legislature's Dress Down Day (Fundraiser for Operation Elf)

Today was "dress down day" at the Capitol, the annual fundraising day where many legislators and staff leave their suits and ties at home and dress more casually.

Of course, it's a fundraiser so those of us who chose to dress down contributed to charity, this year the legislature was raising funds for Operation Elf.

As a lifelong Rangers fan I had to show my support for the team as they're about to take on the Carolina Hurricanes on their march in the Stanley Cup playoffs!

Don't worry, 'Canes and former Whaler fans, I changed back to a sportcoat after a few bills passed the House.

House Democrats Vote Against Protecting Children From Pot Smoke In Cars

Last night, during the House debate, I ran an amendment that would have ALLOWED police officers to stop drivers who are smoking pot WITH CHILDREN IN THE CAR. Believe it or not, presently they cannot.

I, for one, believe that it is significantly harmful for children to be "force exposed" to marijuana smoke. Apparently the Majority Party has no problem with this, as they defeated the item.

Whether you call it cannabis, marijuana, pot, or weed, in my opinion, it does NOT belong on our roads, ESPECIALLY when children are involved.

You can read the amendment here: https://www.cga.ct.gov/.../H/pdf/2024HB-05500-R00HC-AMD.pdf

House Democrats Vote to Prevent Police From Stopping Cars Operated By Pot Smokers

Today, during debate, I offered several amendments to make our roadways safer, including one that would ALLOW police to pull over drivers they believe are smoking cannabis.

Believe it or not, state law actually PREVENTS police from stopping drivers they ACTUALLY SEE smoking weed. It makes NO sense - to me at least. Apparently the Majority Party believes it does though, as they defeated the proposition.

Whether you call it cannabis, marijuana, pot, or weed, in my opinion, it does NOT belong on our roads.

You can read the amendment here: https://www.cga.ct.gov/.../H/pdf/2024HB-05500-R00HB-AMD.pdf

Reading Across the 90th District!

I maintained tradition and continued to promote literacy, by visiting three schools in the district to take part in Read Across America Day events, visiting Amy Mackay’s 5th grade class at Middlefield Memorial School, Elly Fitzpatrick’s 3rd grade class at Mary Fritz Elementary School and Francesca Hart’s 5th grade class at Pond Hill Elementary School in Wallingford! Pics and more info HERE.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors, Support Local Food Pantries

Last week, I was fortunate to partner with volunteers from State Farm Insurance to help inspect, sort and package donated food items at Connecticut Foodshare’s Wallingford headquarters on Research Parkway. Working together, we were able to process and package more than 100 boxes of food that will be distributed locally and statewide to people in need. Pics and more info HERE.

Winning Another Democracy Cup!

I joined Wallingford Mayor Vincent Cervoni, Registrars of Voters Joan Parisi and Tom Wolfer, Town Clerk Kristen Panzo, Board of Education member Caroline Raynis, and interested residents and town hall employees gathered in the Town Council Chambers as Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas presented a 2023 Municipal Democracy Cup to the Town of Wallingford. Pics and more info HERE.

Record Journal: "Seeking Another Term"

Helping CT Foodshare Feed Our Neighbors

Wallingford Boys and Girls Club Unveils New Exergame Fitness System!

2024 Major Issues Report Available Now

 

The state’s non-partisan Office of Legislative Research (OLR) has issued its annual report on important issues the General Assembly may face during the 2024 legislative session that begins February 7th. Please know that there is no requirement that all upcoming proposals appear in this document.

Click here to see this report.

Kudos to a LOCAL HERO!

Earlier today, State Senator Paul Cicarella, Wallingford Town Council Chair Joe Marrone and Vice Chair Christina Tatta, Board of Education member Caroline Raynis, and I presented an official state citation to Wallingford Postal Carrier Michael Waite for his heroic actions to alert residents of an apartment complex of a late-December fire in the building.

Putting aside concern for his own safety and reacting by instinct, Mr. Waite, a Meriden resident, quickly assessed the danger and went door to door of the Terrace Garden Apartment Complex to make sure everyone knew of the fire and would get out safely. Thanks to his actions, no one was harmed and only property was damaged.

Wallingford's Post Office already did a good job, but this is above and beyond. Well done and thank you!

Recognizing National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

THE CBIA Recognizes My 100% Pro-Business Voting Record

Today, I was recognized by Connecticut’s largest business organization recognized with a perfect voting score on key bills impacting Connecticut’s economic growth and business climate during the 2023 legislative session.

The Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA) ranked all state lawmakers based on their support for the business community’s positions on 10 important policies. The bills all affect job creation, small business growth and economic stability in Connecticut.

The scorecard was calculated using select pieces of legislation and may reflect votes from committee, the House, or both. The bills assessed in the report are:

• SB 938 – An Act Concerning (AAC) Unemployment Benefits for Striking Workers
• SB 1020 – An Act Establishing a First-Time Homebuyer’s Savings Account and a Related Tax Deduction
• SB 1091 – AAC Certain Business Reporting Requirements
• SB 1145 – AAC Establishment of Sector Specific Subtargets for Greenhouse Gas Emissions
• SB 1178 – An Act Expanding Connecticut Paid Sick Days
• SB 1179 – An Act Amending Connecticut Paid Family Medical Leave
• HB 6273 – AAC Disclosure of Salary Ranges on Public and Internal Job Postings
• HB 6558 – AAC Property Tax Abatement for Certain First-Time Home Buyers
• HB 6585 – AAC A Study to Promote Workforce Development Using the Global Entrepreneur in Residence Program as a Model
• HB 6710 – AAC Association Health Plans and Establishing a Task Force to Study Stop-Loss Insurance

The complete CBIA legislative scorecard can be viewed here: https://www.cbia.com/issues-policies/2023-ct-house-voting-records/

For more information on the Connecticut Business and Industry Association, the largest most representative business organization in the state, please visit www.cbia.com.

Candidate Forum - October 7, 2022 – Connecticut’s High Cost of Living

Candidate Forum - October 7, 2022 – How to address Connecticut’s High Cost of Living

At a recent Candidate Forum, the moderator asked, "How would you work to reduce the high cost of living [in Connecticut], if elected?” Here is a short video of my answer.

https://youtu.be/JlopEw1VQYU

Candidate Forum - October 7, 2022 – What Should Be The Top Priority of the 2023 General Assembly?

On Friday, October 7, 2022, various local Chamber(s) of Commerce held a Candidate Forum in North Haven, during which it was asked: "What do you think should be the top priority of the 2023 General Assembly?” Here is video of my answer:

https://youtu.be/j9Bjl_d7OFY

Candidate Forum - October 7, 2022 – "How should we attract new businesses to our state?"

On Friday, October 7, 2022, various local Chamber(s) of Commerce held a Candidate Forum in North Haven, during which it was asked: "Attracting and retaining companies, right here in the state of Connecticut is key to ensure that the state remains competitive. If elected, how would you ensure that we continue to attract new business to come to Connecticut?" Here is video of my answer:

https://youtu.be/iQOfbmZAhKE

Candidate Forum - 10/7/2022 - "How would you prioritize retaining Connecticut residents in the state?”

Recently various local Chamber(s) of Commerce held a Candidate Forum during which the moderator asked: “During the pandemic, Connecticut attracted 50,000 new residents from New York. Retaining Connecticut residents is essential to business in so many ways: it enhances the local economy, enhances the workforce, and ensures that Connecticut remains competitive with other states. So how would you prioritize retaining Connecticut residents in the state?”

Here is a link to the video of my answer: https://youtu.be/YPKRB7spBWY

CT Police Chiefs Association sends letter of thanks for my legislative efforts in support of police

A heartfelt THANK YOU to the CONNECTICUT POLICE CHIEFS ASSOCIATION for recognizing my efforts on behalf of our men and women in blue who put their lives on the line on a daily basis to keep us safe. Their thanks is met with my thanks FOR ALL THAT THEY DO. #GoodStuff

Only a month until the FISHBEIN/YMCA COMMUNITY ROAD RACE!

Always a fun-filled community event, this year the 2022 FISHBEIN/YMCA COMMUNITY ROAD RACE will take place on Sunday, October 2, the morning of the second day of Celebrate Wallingford.

Events include a 5K, 1M Walk, and a Youth Race. All proceeds go towards the Wallingford YMCA’s Community Support Campaign, which funds LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA (their cancer survivor program), as well as providing financial assistance for all of the Wallingford YMCA’s programs and services.

More info here: https://runsignup.com/Race/CT/Wallingford/FishbeinYMCARoadRace

SEE YOU THERE!

I was elected to represent you, California's politicians were NOT...

From the Record Journal Newspaper: "Living the American Dream"

From the Record Journal Newspaper - 8/24/2022

Addressing the Mental Health Needs of Our Adolescents

 Passed during the 2022 Legislative Session, HB5001 comprehensively addressed many concerns regarding mental health issues of adolescents. I am proud to have supported its passage. Below please find a synopsis of some of its content. Here is a link to the legislation's page: https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&which_year=2022&bill_num=5001

Recap of 2022 State Budget Discussions

A main purpose of the even year legislative session is to make adjustments to the state's biennial budget passed in the prior odd year session. The 2022 session's budget discussions were buoyed by hundreds of millions of one-time federal COVID relief dollars. Here is my synopsis of those budget discussions:

Some Brief Highlights of the 2022 Session

Some of my priority bills during the 2022 session

In the 2022 legislative session, we handled well over 500 bills. Not all of them passed. I am proud to have worked with my colleagues to get many of my priority initiatives passed, some of which are highlighted here.

A Brief Recap of Juvenile Justice / Public Safety Reforms in the 2002 Session

In the 2022 session, we were able to get some juvenile justice reforms passed, although not all of our public safety bills were met with favor. Here is a brief recap.

Wallingford 350th (+2): Three Cheers for Gaylord Gauntlet 2022!

Another FANTASTIC Wallingford350 Event was held over the weekend, the Annual Gaylord Gauntlet! One of my very favorite events of the year, which benefits the various programs for patients and the community as well as the Gaylord Sports Association which provides adaptive sports for people with physical disabilities.

(I must admit that inevitably I ask myself somewhere half-way through WHY I am putting myself through this. The self-doubt is quick though as I see the adaptive athletes who have had to overcome much more challenging obstacles than I have.) Their intestinal fortitude is both inspiring and motivational. THREE CHEERS! Hip, Hip, Hurray! Hip, Hip, Hurray! Hip, Hip ...

HURRAY!

Wallingford 350th (+2): Jubilee (Sip & Savor Event)

Wallingford 350th (+2): Jubilee (Women's Day Tea)

A FANTASTIC turnout at this afternoon's Women's Day Tea, sponsored by the Wallingford Community Women as part of the Wallingford 350th (+2) Jubilee. Great food, great conversation, great friends and, of course GREAT TEA! #WallingfordCT #350+2Jubilee

Wallingford 350th (+2): Jubilee (Essay Contest Winner Selected!)

Wallingford’s 350^th +2 Jubilee has been the talk of the town for more than two years and despite the delay, I   was going to make sure Wallingford’s youth received the recognition they deserved for researching and writing about their favorite local historical figure.

Two years ago, before the pandemic suspended the town’s 350^th Jubilee festivities, I sponsored a voluntary 400-500 word essay contest for Middle school students from both Dag Hammarskjold and James H. Moran Sr. Middle School on their “Favorite pre-1960 Wallingford Historical Figure, and Why?”

The winner – Luke Bobarsky, who wrote about Moses Yale Beach – was announced during the History Day Continental Breakfast at the Wallingford Historical Society on Monday, June 20^th.  I read his winning essay to a crowd of more than 50 people gathered in front of the historical society building on Main Street.

In order to truly engage students with town history, I narrowed the theme to focus on Wallingford figures deceased prior to 1960. Essays were judged by each school’s administration based on form, style, research, grammar, and insight. From four finalists, I chose the top essay.

The four finalists:

• Luke Bobarsky, whose winning essay is addressed above.
• Emilia R. Farrell, who wrote about John Brockett and Alfred L. Pierce.
• Maritza Hernandez, who wrote about Lyman Hall.
• Carter Lagasse, who wrote about Dr. Mark T. Sheehan.

The Wallingford Historical Society is located at 180 South Main Street, Wallingford.

Wallingford 350th (+2): Jubilee (All-Faith Service)

A very moving and inspirational Juneteenth All-Faith Service at Choate's St. John Chapel. Another GREAT EVENT in celebration of the Wallingford 350th (+2) Jubilee. Thank you very much to Lorraine Connelly and Jerry Farrell, Jr. for all their work in putting this program together. #WallingfordCT #350+2Jubilee

Happy CELEBRATION OF FREEDOM! Happy Juneteenth!

Earlier this year, I proudly joined my colleagues in the legislature as we passed important legislation in the recognition of FREEDOM, and Governor Lamont signed into law, Public Act 22-128, which makes June 19th an official state holiday known as Juneteenth Independence Day.

 

Juneteenth (June 19, 1865) is a commemoration of the end of slavery and marks the date Federal troops freed slaves in Texas following the Emancipation Proclamation which took effect on January 1, 1863. Juneteenth is also referred to as Emancipation Day or Freedom Day.

 

This new Connecticut law takes effect on October 1st of this year, which means Juneteenth will be officially recognized and first-celebrated as a state holiday next year on June 19, 2023.

 

I hope you’ll join me this, next, and every year to pause and reflect on how important our freedoms are, and the work that still needs to be done to ensure we are all equal.

GREAT TIME at the Most Holy Trinity Church Bazaar!

From Record Journal Media: "Rep. Fishbein Organizes Essay Contest"

"As a way to get the town’s youth involved in the upcoming Wallingford 350+2 Jubilee celebration, State Rep. Craig Fishbein created an essay contest for middle school students. Four finalists have been selected and the winner will be announced during the History Day breakfast on June 20, at 7:30 a.m. at the Wallingford Historical Society..."

https://www.myrecordjournal.com/News/Wallingford/Wallingford-News/Rep-Craig-Fishbein-organizes-Essay-Contest

Republican Plan to Address Soaring Costs for Connecticut Residents

Presentation of Citation to the retiring Rev. Anne Bracket

Letter to the Editor: "Margin of Victory"

Remembering Those Who Gave the Ultimate Sacrifice for Our Freedom

National Police Week is May 11-17, 2022

THANK YOU to those that Protect and Serve!

Catalytic Converter Bill Passes

Tonight, we passed SB 256 (a bill that went through both the Public Safety Committee, and the Judiciary Committee) to tackle the incredible increase of catalytic converter theft by prohibiting scrap yards and recyclers from accepting them unless attached to a vehicle or marked with an identifiable stock number. The legislation also requires scrap dealers to keep detailed records.

Here is a link to the bill's page: https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&which_year=2022&bill_num=256

CT Humane Society (and Puppies) Visit the Capitol

Rep. Fishbein participates in Workforce Development Roundtable Discussion

“Supporting the business community needs to be more than platitudes. We must listen to their needs, and make sure our laws don’t hamper their ability to hire qualified employees,” State Rep. Craig Fishbein said. “The manufacturing and construction industry have distinctly different hiring needs than small retail or healthcare employers. We must do more to support workforce development across all sectors.”

(Please click title of news item for more information.)

The CT Renters’ Rebate Program is accepting applications

The CT Renters’ Rebate Program is accepting applications from now through October 1 for elderly and disabled renters. For additional questions, please contact the Renters’ Rebate Hotline at 860-418-6377 or online at Renters Rebate For Elderly/Disabled Renters Tax Relief Program (ct.gov)which can be accessed HERE.

Rep. Fishbein and the Judiciary Committee Favorably Vote for Bill Strengthening Juvenile Justice Laws

“Over the last year, House Republicans have traversed the state calling for changes to the policies and procedures in our Juvenile Justice system. I’m pleased to announce that through negotiation and compromise many of the important provisions we’ve advocated for will be realized,” Rep. Craig Fishbein, Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee said. More information is available HERE.

Kickball for a CAUSE! (Connecticut Foodshare)

Please join us on Monday, April 11^th at 4:30 p.m. at Dunkin’ Donuts Park for the Inaugural CGA Kickball Classic.

This fun charity event will probably make you laugh and is GUARANTEED to make you feel good with ALL of the proceeds being donated to Connecticut Foodshare. Connecticut Foodshare, according to the website, “supports individuals and families – from one end of the state to the other – by addressing root causes, creating long-term solutions, and distributing nutritious food through local partner programs in an effort to alleviate hunger.”

The ONLY thing better than spending a Monday evening at the park watching your favorite legislators run around the bases like they’re at fifth grade recess is knowing you helped a great cause!

If you want to witness the sporting spectacle of the session, GET YOUR TICKETS here!

CCDL Legislator of the Year Award!

A heartfelt THANK YOU to the CCDL (Connecticut Citizens Defense League), Connecticut's main gun rights group, comprised of 42,000 members strong, for voting me their 2021 LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR!

Celebrating Read Across America Day!

Rep. Fishbein and Fellow House Republicans Present Plan to Address Connecticut's Crime Crisis

Today, I joined my House Republican colleagues for a news conference outlining our legislative proposals addressing Connecticut’s crime crisis. We were also joined by victims and advocates to explain how the crisis has impacted them.

Our proposals are the result of months of discussions between law enforcement, crime victims, advocates, concerned citizens, government agencies and other stakeholders.

You can view our proposals here https://www.cthousegop.com/safety, and watch the news conference here: https://youtu.be/6_X3YDGq5Hs

Meeting with members of the CT Apartment Association (CTAA)

Great meeting with members of the Connecticut Apartment Association (CTAA) discussing the difficulties of providing Connecticut residents with a vital service - that being clean, safe and adequate housing stock. Unfortunately, some denigrate the efforts of landlords to provide this service. I for one appreciate the efforts of these business people.

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day