This week marked a solemn moment in history following the passing of President George H.W. Bush as we reflected on his lifetime of service to others. May his life and legacy guide us all in our commitment to those who we are elected to serve. Now as much as ever, I remain committed to my sworn duty to serve and represent the hardworking people of eastern Connecticut in Congress.
Here with my weekly update on a few important issues from this week.
An Update for Homeowners with Crumbling Foundations
Last week, the Connecticut Foundation Solutions Indemnity Company, or the “captive” insurance company, announced that they had received the first round of state bonding money to assist homeowners with crumbling foundations. This money will be used for homeowners to submit a claim which, if the captive approves, would allow the homeowner to receive financial assistance to pay for a crumbling foundation repair.
This “milestone moment” is a step in the right direction and my office has been working closely with the captive and the State of Connecticut to make sure that this money is available as expeditiously as possible. It’s important to note that homeowners know that any remaining uninsured losses are still covered by the federal property casualty loss tax deduction that I helped to secure from the IRS. It is essential that we capitalize on this new development at the state and federal level. My office has been in constant contact with the captive’s leadership to achieve the maximum help possible for homeowners. In addition we are continuing to pursue every other possible avenue for help at the federal level.
If you are interested in submitting a claim to the captive insurance company, their website will be live this month at https://crumblingfoundations.org and the claims process will begin in January. If you have any questions regarding the casualty loss deduction, please do not hesitate to contact my office at 860-886-0139.
Introducing CT-First
On Monday, I was proud to join Heather Gates, president and CEO of CHR in Enfield to announce CT-First, an initiative created to address the high need for behavioral mental health services and addiction treatment in our communities. The program is made possible by a $4 million federal grant that will be used to enhance the services at CHR. The funding will enable them to earn certification as a community behavioral health clinic and expand access and services to people with substance abuse disorders. The clinic will have the resources to hire overnight staff, additional recovery coaches and implement critical programs that weren’t possible before this funding. Additionally, CHR will launch an agreement to liaison with the VA and other veterans groups to better provide care for veterans in our region in need of treatment.
The addiction epidemic is national crisis that requires the attention of every level of our government. CT-First is a step that will make meaningful change in our communities, and I look forward to a continued partnership with CHR as we work towards improving access to mental health care at home and across the country.
Protect Yourself from Phishing Scams
Approaching the holiday season, the IRS has reported a surge in email phishing scams, and it’s important to know how you can protect yourself from these unlawful solicitors. Phishing attacks will use email or fraudulent websites to solicit private and sensitive information by posing as the IRS. It’s important to remember the IRS doesn’t initiate spontaneous contact with taxpayers by email, and to remain vigilant if you receive an email with subjects like “IRS Important Notice” or “IRS Taxpayer Notice”.
If you receive one of these emails, you can report it by forwarding it to phishing@irs.gov.
It’s Time to GetCovered
With just a week left in this year’s enrollment period, it is imperative that eastern Connecticut residents explore their options and choose the best health insurance plan for themselves and their families.
If you or your family are in search of the best way to get covered before the enrollment period closes on December 15th, visit my enrollment page to get started.
Joe Courtney
Member of Congress
