Veterans' Affairs Committee
JOINT FAVORABLE REPORT
Bill No.: HB-5737
Title: AN ACT CREATING A VETERANS AND MILITARY TOURISM TRAIL.
Vote Date: 3/18/2021
Vote Action: Joint Favorable
PH Date: 2/11/2021
File No.: 199
Disclaimer: The following JOINT FAVORABLE Report is prepared for the benefit of the
members of the General Assembly, solely for purposes of information, summarization and
explanation and does not represent the intent of the General Assembly or either chamber
thereof for any purpose.
SPONSORS OF BILL:
Veterans' Affairs Committee
Rep. Dorinda Borer, 115th Dist.
Rep. Christine Palm, 36th Dist.
Rep. Gary A. Turco, 27th Dist.
Rep. Michael DiGiovancarlo, 74th Dist.
Rep. Ronald A. Napoli, 73rd Dist.
Rep. Brian T. Smith, 48th Dist.
Rep. Kerry S. Wood, 29th Dist.
Rep. John "Jack" F. Hennessy, 127th Dist.
Rep. John-Michael Parker, 101st Dist.
REASONS FOR BILL:
This bill proposes creating a Military and Veterans Tourism Trail to link military and veterans'
landmarks throughout Connecticut. This trail would be a tourist draw both within Connecticut
and for out of state visitors, as well as provide recognition to our military heroes. As written,
the bill asks DECD and the Dept of Veterans Affairs to jointly determine the sites to include
and would allow for the Commissioner of Veterans Affairs to solicit funds for any materials
made to support the trail.
RESPONSE FROM ADMINISTRATION/AGENCY:
None Expressed.
NATURE AND SOURCES OF SUPPORT:
Rep. Dorinda Borer, 115th Dist.: Representative Borer testified at the public hearing, as well
as submitting written testimony. She stated her support for the creation of a state-wide
Veterans Trail not only to provide recognition to our heroes, but to also provide a tourist
attraction for all resident in and outside CT. While many historic military sites exist, creating a
trail that connects the state's many museums, memorials, and landmarks would be the first of
its kind. She added that CT has a "wine trail, chocolate trail, and a beer trail, why not a
veterans trail?" In her spoken testimony, she agreed that it would be a great opportunity to
get veterans, active military, and students involved as volunteers.
Tom Flowers, Chairman, CT American Legion Legislative Affairs. : Mr. Flowers submitted
written testimony in support of HB-5737.
NATURE AND SOURCES OF OPPOSITION:
None Expressed.
Reported by: Edward Jacome, Assistant Clerk Date: 03/24/21
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