State Representative Dave Yaccarino (R-North Haven) proudly announced the passage of the Connecticut Heroes Act, a bipartisan legislative package that delivers comprehensive support to the state’s veterans and military families. As a co-sponsor of the bill, Rep. Yaccarino played a key role in advancing one of its most impactful provisions: expanded access to dental care for Connecticut veterans.
“Expanding dental care is more than a policy change — it’s a matter of dignity and basic healthcare,” said Rep. Yaccarino. “For too long, veterans have faced gaps in coverage that affect their overall health. This bill begins to right that wrong by recognizing oral health as a critical part of veteran care.”
The Connecticut Heroes Act includes a broad array of initiatives to honor and support veterans, but Yaccarino highlighted the dental care expansion as a long-overdue and transformative step for those who served.
In addition to expanding dental care for eligible veterans, the Act includes:
- Official recognition of November as Veterans’ Month
- Creation of new commemorative license plates for women veterans, the Borinqueneers, and Purple Heart recipients — with fees waived
- Free driver’s license renewals for veterans
- Increased property tax relief and prioritization of long-term care for those with service-connected disabilities
- Stronger protections for military families, including school enrollment stability and improved access to special education
- Establishment of new state-level military awards to recognize exceptional service
“As a co-sponsor, I’m proud to stand behind this legislation and the message it sends — that Connecticut honors its veterans not just with words, but with real, tangible support,” Yaccarino said. “This is a critical step forward in ensuring veterans receive the care and recognition they deserve.”
The Connecticut Heroes Act passed with broad bipartisan backing and now awaits the Governor’s signature.