HARTFORD – Senator Tony Hwang (R-Fairfield/Westport), as vice-Chairman of the Aging committee, is a committed advocate for senior issues across the state and in the 28th district. In the last few years, Senator Hwang has helped raise the tax-exemption threshold for Social Security income (100% tax free up to $75,000 for single filers, $100,000 for joint filers), save the Medicare Savings Program, increase protections for seniors applying for a reverse mortgage, and bring the Estate Tax to parity with the federal threshold.
Senator Hwang met with the Y’s Men of Westport Club during their capitol tour on December 4th. The vibrant and engaged group of seniors, and their equally quick-witted spouses, enjoyed a full tour of the Capitol and Legislative Office Building, stopping in the House Chamber with Rep. Gail Lavielle (R-Westport) before meeting for lunch in the Capitol’s North Lobby.
“The Y’s Men of Westport/Weston embark on several trips and tours each year, but few have engendered more enthusiasm and favorable report than our recent visit to the State Capitol. There is no question that the gracious reception given to us by Senator Hwang and Representative Lavielle, both of whom are well known to us, made the day extra special. Thanks for all the hospitality and the insights into the workings of our public servants at the State level,” said Bob Mitchell, Assistant Secretary for the Y’s Men.
Senator Hwang, ever the student of history, spoke not only on critical current events and policies but also about many of the hidden quirks and stories of the building and the State at large. From talking tolls to the Capitol’s intricate hand-painted stenciling, budget deficits to civil war stories, Senator Hwang and the Y visitors enjoyed a great afternoon of historical storytelling and serious policy debate before their tour continued across the street at the Supreme Court and the State History Museum.
“The Y’s Men are always such a fun group to have at the capitol. They are an incredibly engaging group who know the issues we are dealing with and ask the tough questions, and I always appreciate the time we get to spend with them,” said Senator Hwang.
