WICC The Voice of Connecticut

A new Quinnipiac University poll finds Americans are deeply concerned about artificial intelligence. The timing of this poll is interesting as Connecticut’s new AI employment laws roll out for the start of October. For key takeaways in the report, we connect with Dr. Brian O'Neill, Associate Dean of Quinnipiac University's School of Computing and Engineering and Associate Professor of Computer Science.

To read the full QU poll: https://poll.qu.edu/poll-release?releaseid=3969

A developer wants to turn an office property on Greens Farms Road in Westport into a multifamily project, with 30% of the new units designated as affordable. It’s a $100-million-dollar project and while the town continues talking about it – I wanted to talk generally about the importance of this model: taking current infrastructure and creating housing opportunities and making it affordable. We spoke with Renee Dobos of Connecticut Housing Partners about this example of creating affordable opportunities in our state.

For more information: https://cthousingpartners.org/

A Griswold High School fencing coach is facing charges involving alleged sexual misconduct with a minor. This coach is on administrative leave, and an investigation is now underway. But this case led to the conversation about holding coaches accountable while also making sure coaches get due process when serious allegations come up. We spoke about this generally with Glenn Lungarini, Executive Director at CAS-CIAC – that’s the Connecticut Association of Schools - Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference.

There are new state investments in Connecticut’s CT Grown for CT Kids grant program. The funding supports the state’s Farm to School initiative, helping schools buy more locally grown food and expand food education. The announcement comes during National Farm to School Month. For more details, we spoke with Connecticut Agriculture Commissioner, Bryan Hurlburt.

To apply for grants: https://portal.ct.gov/doag/adarc/adarc/grants/ct-grown-for-ct-kids-grant?language=en_US
To find a farm near you: https://ctgrown.org/

Connecticut drivers, take note: new rules take effect October first. Holding your phone while driving — including scrolling — will be prohibited. Distracted driving in a highway work zone can now be charged as reckless driving. And drivers convicted three or more times for passing a stopped school bus could lose their license for six months. We spoke with DMV Commissioner Tony Guerrera about the new rules and how to best inform drivers.

Connecticut is putting new rules around artificial intelligence into effect. The state’s AI Responsibility and Transparency Act requires companies to provide disclosures when AI is used in certain employment decisions, and adds safeguards for AI chatbots, including protections for minors. The law also creates programs aimed at responsible AI development and workforce training. What does this mean from an employment standpoint? We asked employment attorney, Gary Phelan, with Hurwitz Sagarin & Slossberg in Milford and is also a law professor at Quinnipiac University.

A criminal investigation is reopening into alleged sexual assaults at a Cornell University fraternity in 2024. A former student sued, alleging she was drugged and assaulted by seven fraternity members. The Tompkins County D.A. says the case will be presented to a grand jury, while Cornell says it conducted a Title Nine investigation and disciplined students involved. We spoke with Attorney Bill Bloss, our legal expert on the show, about the New York state law on the books regarding alcohol/drug consumption and consent.

Forget resumes and handshakes—the latest job interview debate is about iced coffee. A viral TikTok from a recruiter sparked a heated conversation over whether bringing a cold brew to an interview looks too casual. We talked about this with career strategist, Julie Bauke.

Connecticut is facing a shortage of volunteer firefighters, with more than 60 percent of the state’s fire departments relying on volunteers. Officials say staffing gaps are creating concerns about daytime response, especially in rural communities. The state is now examining fire protection statewide, with new local plans required beginning in 2027. We spoke to Comptroller Sean Scanlon who conducted a 2025 examination highlighting these issues.

Another leadership shakeup at Connecticut’s largest public college system. Board of Regents Vice Chair Juanita James has resigned, citing what she called a “dysfunctional culture and political in-fighting.” Her resignation comes days after an independent review found CSCU leaders failed to properly handle sexual harassment complaints. James had been expected to lead the search for a new permanent chancellor. We spoke with investigative reporter, Cassidy Williams, a member of the I-Team at WFSB.

A link to her story: https://www.wfsb.com/2026/09/28/cscu-board-regents-vice-chair-resigns-i-team-learns/

The Connecticut Police Officer Standards and Training Council is recommending changes to the state’s speed and red-light camera rules. The council says camera data should remain separate from license plate reader systems. The recommendations come as 19 municipal camera plans have been approved by the state DOT since late 2024. We got more information from Chief Paul Melanson, vice chair of POSTC.

One Connecticut town has rumblings about rumble strips. Vernon is now considering a quieter way to make Route 527 safer. The state wants to install centerline “rumble strips” after 90 crashes were reported on the road over three years. But residents have raised concerns about noise. Jim Cameron of Talking Transportation talked to us about a newer design idea called “mumble strips.”

To read Jim’s article: https://ctmirror.org/2026/09/27/the-vernon-grumble-over-rumble-mumble-jim/

Connecticut’s police standards council is recommending changes to the state’s speed and red-light camera rules. The council says camera data should remain separate from license plate reader systems, and renters and lessees should have a clearer way to challenge tickets. We talked about the recommendations with law enforcement expert, Gary MacNamara.

Photo Credit: Nicole Perelli

Connecticut is cleaning up after a powerful nor’easter brought heavy rain, coastal flooding and strong winds. Gusts reached 56 miles per hour in Bridgeport, while thousands lost power across the state. The storm also caused road closures and downed trees. Officials say conditions are improving, but coastal flooding and scattered rain remain concerns. We checked in with Tricia Modifica from Eversource for the latest on outages and storm aftermath.

For storm safety tips: After A Storm | Eversource

According to the CDC, 1-in-31 children age eight, has been identified with autism -- and 74% of autistic children in one large study had documented sensory differences. For families looking for a place where every child can play comfortably, sensory centers are becoming an important resource. To learn more, we spoke with Martha Parkins and Michele Lovallo, co-founders of Sensory Play Center in Shelton.

For more information: Sensory Play Center

A viral “Cat in the Hat” trend is prompting warnings from schools and police nationwide. Videos show an ominous version of the character appearing outside homes and schools, with some posts using AI and naming specific locations or students. We broke down the viral video dangers and how police respond regarding school safety. 

“Looksmaxxing” is a social media trend focused on improving physical appearance. It can range from simple changes like grooming, exercise and skincare, to more extreme practices. Experts warn that the pressure to look a certain way online can affect self-esteem, especially among young people. As the trend grows, so does the conversation about healthy versus harmful beauty standards. We spoke with Natalie Jennings, assistant director of fitness and wellness at Quinnipiac University about this.

Starting Monday, there will now be armed School Security Officers at all elementary schools in Milford. The district has hired officers for all eight elementary schools, as well as The Academy. With the start-up of the armed School Security Officer program, we anticipate curiosity from students and families across the district. To discuss this further, we have Dr. Ana Cutaia back on the show, superintendent of schools in Milford.

There’s encouraging news for Long Island Sound. A new report from Save the Sound finds water quality is improving, with all three major basin areas earning A grades. In Connecticut, 19 of 28 smaller coastal sites tested received an A or B. But officials say climate change, development and sewage overflows remain challenges. We talked about key takeaways from Peter Linderoth, Director of Healthy Waters and Lands at Save the Sound.

To read the Long Island Sound Report Card: https://www.savethesound.org/about-us/projects/long-island-sound-report-card/

As a nor’easter approaches Connecticut, the Better Business Bureau is warning homeowners to watch out for storm chasers. After the storm, don’t rush into repairs or fall for high-pressure sales. We spoke with Kristen Johnson from the Better Business Bureau serving Connecticut to talk about warning signs and how to properly vet contractors.

Report scams here: bbb.org/scamtracker
Find businesses you can trust: BBB | Better Business Bureau

Central Connecticut State University President Zulma Toro is stepping down after nearly a decade leading the school. Her resignation comes amid an investigation into allegations that she bullied and intimidated employees. Toro is set to retire from the university October first. The investigation will not continue. But is that OK? Is that really the end of the story? We had that conversation with state Senator Henri Martin, Ranking Senator on the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee.

A new report from Connecticut’s Office of the Child Advocate shows 67 children died in 2025, down from 83 the year before. But officials are raising concerns about youth suicide. Sixty-two percent of children who died by suicide were under 15, compared with 34 percent in the previous four years. The report also highlights unsafe sleep deaths among infants. We spoke more about this with CT Child Advocate, Christina Ghio. 

It’s a pretty simple concept: slow down, move over. Not only is it the law but it’s a relatively easy task for drivers; yet, a lot of people don’t do it. That’s why non-profits like Flagman is making such a difference in the current driving trends and impacting the next generation of drivers. It all started after the passing of Corey Iodice. His sister, Cindy Iodice, created Flagman in his honor and was back in studio with the latest news surrounding the organization.

For more information: https://flagmansafety.com/

In top national health news this week, we see Legionnaires’ cases and measles outbreaks are back. But we also noticed something else that seemed a bit unfamiliar in America: typhus outbreaks. We talked about all three topics with Dr. Fred Browne of Griffin Health.

Image Courtesy: Griffin Health System

I wonder if this was on his bucket list – an exclusive facetime call with convicted fugitive.
Kosta Diamantis spoke to News 8’s Mike Cerulli from Greece after fleeing Connecticut ahead of his federal sentencing. We talked to Mike to hear more about the call.

To see Mike’s story: https://www.wtnh.com/news/connecticut/kosta-diamantis-exclusive-news-8-interview-greece/

Image Credit: Eric Urbanowicz

The comptroller temporarily paused payments, but the reality of former Connecticut official Kosta Diamantis still receiving a state pension is a bit mind blowing. The international fugitive missed his federal sentencing after reportedly leaving the country. Diamantis was convicted last year on corruption charges tied to his state position. The state had moved to stop his pension payments, but Diamantis is now challenging that action in federal court. Why is Diamantis even allowed to get a pension after being convicted of a crime? We spoke about this with state Senator Jeff Gordon.

They care for us when we’re at our most vulnerable—but who’s caring for the caregivers? Nurses and healthcare workers are facing growing stress, exhaustion, and burnout. Long hours and heavy workloads can take a toll on both physical and mental well-being. We spoke with Nickia Jackson. She is a nurse-turned-small business owner focused on caring more for nurses struggling. We learned more about the CT Nurse Wellness Summit.

For more information: https://nickia-jackson.com/ct-wellness-summit

Lindsay Clancy’s defense is asking a Massachusetts judge to dismiss the murder charges against her, arguing a retrial would violate double jeopardy. Clancy’s first trial ended in a mistrial after jurors deadlocked 11-to-one. Her attorneys argue the judge should have questioned the lone holdout before declaring a mistrial. For perspective, we spoke with our legal expert on the show, Attorney Bill Bloss.

Image Credit: Reuters 

Work stress may not always be about having too much work. A new Harvard Business Review analysis of 515 studies found unclear expectations and conflicting demands can be major sources of stress — sometimes more damaging than workload itself. Researchers say employers should identify what's actually causing stress before deciding how to address it. We asked our career strategist, Julie Bauke, about this.

CNN, MS NOW and Politico are suing the Trump administration after their reporters were barred from the White House. The outlets say their credentials were revoked without due process and that the ban violates First Amendment protections. The administration says the outlets can still report on the president but are not entitled to special access. A federal judge is expected to hear the case tomorrow.

These instances lead to a bigger conversation about media access to important stories but also the importance of being credible, having balanced reporting and being a consumer not a conduit of news...

An author described his journey of surviving sexual abuse as a child. Melissa and Gary listened to Stephen Mills speak at a local domestic violence prevention event and took two key lessons away: "blind spots" and "an army of enablers." We did a deeper dive into these two topics and how it can apply to parents today. 

Joan Hogan Gillman joins the show to talk about the League of Women Voters.

Melissa welcomed Sara Connolly,  Ph.D., Associate Dean for Student Success in the Farrington College of Education & Human Development at Sacred Heart University, to talk about why we need great teachers and education leaders. As students head back to school, they discussed the changing role of educators, what makes an effective teacher today and the growing need for strong leadership in schools.

Image Courtesy of Sacred Heart

Connecticut is putting new guardrails around artificial intelligence in state health plans. Comptroller Sean Scanlon announced a policy requiring human oversight in healthcare decisions involving AI, keeping patients and their doctors—not algorithms—at the center of care. The policy applies to Connecticut’s state employee and retiree health plans. We got more details from the comptroller.

One of my sources shared that Anthony Mastrangelo has access to screens in prison. He is the former camp counselor from Bethany convicted for sexually assaulting five children. It got me digging into the truth of this and the emergence of technology for inmates in Connecticut. We spoke with Senator Paul Cicarella, the leading Republican on the legislature’s General Law and Public Safety and Security Committees.

Bridgeport police are facing questions about an out-of-service driving simulator, amid scrutiny over police cruiser crashes. The simulator was designed to help officers improve their emergency driving skills, but the technology now needs an upgrade or replacement. The police chief says officers involved in crashes receive discipline and retraining, while the department has also tightened rules around high-speed pursuits. We spoke about this further with Bridgeport’s Police Chief Roderick Porter.

New privacy protections are coming to Connecticut October first. The Attorney General says new laws will give consumers more control over genetic data, facial recognition and precise location information, while limiting surveillance pricing. The laws also set new rules for AI, including protections for children using chatbots and requirements for employers using AI. We spoke with Senator James Maroney who was a key legislative sponsor of the 2026 AI and privacy legislation.

Connecticut families are getting together to rethink how kids use technology. The Screen Smart Initiative is hosting community events focused on reducing screen time, encouraging device-free schools, and giving children more opportunities for play, connection and independence. We spoke with Representative Jen Leeper, Chair of the Education Committee and Regina von Gootkin of the Smart Screen Initiative.

For more information: Screen Smart Initiative - Screen Smart Initiative

Two men have pleaded guilty in a federal embezzlement conspiracy involving Success Village Apartments in Bridgeport and Stratford. Prosecutors say Charles Pitcher and Carmine Gentile were involved in fraudulent invoices and inflated payments, with more than four hundred thousand dollars allegedly diverted to Pitcher. Both men face restitution and forfeiture, with sentencing pending. We spoke about this more with Richard Matos. He has been a resident of SVA for 41 years and was recently named to serve on the Advisory Committee. The seven-member advisory board has been created to assist the court and the receiver in returning the running of...

September is Suicide Prevention Month—a time to remind people that reaching out, listening, and letting someone know they’re not alone can make a difference. Here in Connecticut, Ellie Haney of Here For You Clothing is using her platform to help spread that message and encourage conversations about mental health, hope, and support. Ellie shared her story and what led to her brand.

For more information: https://hereforyouclothing.com/