In his first term as state senator, Matt Lesser has been appointed co-chair of the Insurance and Real Estate Committee.

“I’m honored to be given the opportunity to chair the Insurance and Real Estate Committee,” said Lesser. “I’m going to be focused on protecting consumers across the state. As we look ahead to the upcoming legislative session, the committee is going to deal with many pressing issues like helping families earn a safe and secure retirement, protecting our insurance workforce and assisting with crumbling foundations.

“But by far, the most important issue is going to be healthcare. I heard across my district, at kitchen tables and at the doors, one overriding concern – families are really worried about the rising cost of healthcare,” he added. “With a federal judge in Texas now moving to strike the [Affordable Care Act] down completely, states like Connecticut may have to take bold action to protect our residents.”

A cancer survivor, Lesser has been an advocate for quality, affordable healthcare. He has championed efforts to protect people with preexisting conditions. In his role as state representative, he was a lead sponsor of Paid Family Medical Leave and he wrote and passed legislation expanding health insurance coverage for young women with cancer.

Lesser served as a rank and file member of the Insurance and Real Estate Committee in the state house of representatives.