Following their first organizational meetings of the 2019 Legislative Session, State Rep. Dorinda Borer (D-115) was named leader to represent the Democratic members and State Rep. Rosa Rebimbas (R- Naugatuck) was elected to lead the Republican members as joint co-chairmen of the Bipartisan Women’s Caucus.
“I’m incredibly thrilled and proud to be representing the women leaders and this caucus which is now the largest and most influential caucus at the Capitol,” said Rep. Borer. “Women’s issues are all encompassing; they are not strictly issues that involve women. They involve men, children, and every aspect of our day to day lives. We had great successes during the last legislative session and I look forward to growing those accomplishments as we enter the 2019 legislative session. We are 61 women strong and I’m so delighted to watch this caucus flourish.”
“I am honored to be co-chairing the Bipartisan Women’s Caucus once again,” Rep. Rebimbas said. “This incredible group of legislators is dedicated to advancing bills that will enhance the lives of women and their families across the state. Thank you to everyone who was able to join us today and I look forward to working with my colleagues on these issues during session and throughout the year.”
In Connecticut, women make up of 52 percent of the population and women-owned businesses employee an estimated 95,000. The bipartisan caucus met early Tuesday to kick off the legislative session and stress the importance of women’s issues in our state. This session, the caucus will include 20 freshman legislators.
Rep. Borer will be stepping into a role previously held by State Rep. Kim Rose (D-Milford). “Representative Rose helped navigate the women’s caucus during a difficult budget year, but stayed focused on driving important initiatives for everyone. I hope to build upon the influential work she began,” said Rep. Borer. “I look forward to continuing the bipartisan partnership with Rep. Rebimbas to accomplish our shared goals.”
“This is a monumental year for women in the legislature,” said Rep. Rose. “During the election cycle, we cheered on 132 women running for a seat in the General Assembly. Now, at our first meeting on the Bipartisan Women’s Caucus we are pleased to welcome our 20 new members. This is a very exciting time to be a part of the caucus and I’m thrilled that Rep. Borer has been chosen as my successor. It was a pleasure working with Rep. Rebimbas for the last four years. We made significant strides and formed a friendship”
During the last legislative session, the women’s caucus supported several bills ranging from healthcare benefits and access to pay equity. As they enter the 2019 legislative session, the Women’s Caucus will be reviewing and discussing about the proposed bills.