Legislative Priorities
During the 2010 legislative session, CWEALF will monitor legislation, participate in coalition efforts and provide public testimony on issues affecting women, girls and their families related to family law, career opportunities and advancement, educational equity and civil rights issues.
2010 Priorities
- Family Law - We will oppose legislation that would detrimentally affect women and their children as it relates to divorce, child support and custody and support efforts to provide increased safety for women affected by domestic violence. Additionally we will support programs such as legal services and court service centers which make the judicial process more accessible to women.
- Career Opportunities & Advancement - Family and Medical Leave - We will support efforts to provide individuals with time off from work to care for themselves and/or a family member in the form of sick days, expanding the reach of FMLA and establishing paid family leave.
Education and Training for Women & Low-Income Workers - We will lead efforts to increase the availability and quality of education and job training options low-income and low-skilled adults, particularly for women receiving public assistance. Additionally, we will call for funding for career ladders initiatives for health care and early child care workers as well as opportunities to attract women into non-traditional occupations.
Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities - We will support efforts to enhance access and utilization of the CHRO for individuals who file discrimination complaints and oppose efforts to diminish the agency's resources and/or responsibilities. - Educational Equity - Educational Opportunities for Girls - We will support legislation that promotes a more rigorous course selection and academic supports for girls in science, technology, engineering and math in high school. Additionally, we will support legislation that seeks to ensure Connecticut schools provide an equitable learning climate for all of our students.
- Civil Rights - Equity for Transgender/gender non-conforming Individuals - We will lead efforts to include gender identity or expression in Connecticut's non-discrimination laws.
Reproductive Rights - We will oppose any efforts to restrict access to contraception or abortion. We will support efforts to educate women and girls about their reproductive and sexual health options.
Health Insurance - We will lead efforts for legislation that prohibits gender and age discrimination in insurance rates.
