Connecticut Lawmakers Pass Climate, Education Measures Before Session Ends

As the Connecticut 2025 legislative session neared its midnight deadline, lawmakers scrambled to finalize priorities including a two-year bond package for state borrowing and legislation setting more aggressive carbon emissions targets. Democrats highlighted achievements such as a budget expanding childcare through an endowment, increased education aid, and tax rebates for qualifying households, while Republicans criticized the budget changes that raised spending caps and failed to address unfunded mandates contributing to rising property taxes. The House also took action on wildlife management, requiring a bear management plan rather than permitting bear hunting. Meanwhile, Florida lawmakers began conference-committee negotiations to resolve spending and policy differences for the 2025-2026 fiscal year budget, focusing on areas like health, environment, education, and tax cuts after a month-long impasse. Both states face tight deadlines, with Connecticut's session ending at midnight and Florida aiming for budget votes by June 16, followed by Governor Ron DeSantis's review. The outcomes will shape fiscal priorities and legislative agendas amid ongoing debates over tax policy and funding allocations.