WICC The Voice of Connecticut

A new study shows OpenAI's chatbot called ChatGPT Health is underestimating the seriousness of certain medical emergencies. For the study published in the journal Nature Medicine, ChatGPT Health was given 60 medical situations, and the responses were compared to the responses of three doctors. Researchers concluded that a little over half of emergency cases, ChatGPT recommended seeing a doctor within 48 hours in contrast to the opinion of doctors saying ChatGPT Health should have advised the emergency room instead. We talked about this with Dr. Fred Browne of Griffin Health.Image Credit: Dr. Fred Browne / Griffin Health

Sacred Heart University recently shared new data through new sports gambling poll. We looked at some of the key takeaways with Professor Andrew Miller, director of Sacred Heart’s sports communication and media graduate program.Poll results: https://www.sacredheart.edu/media/shu-media/press-room-2026/SHU-2026-Nationwide-Sports-Gambling-Poll-Report-ADA.pdf

Host Paul Pacelli opened Wednesday's edition of "Connecticut Today" looking at the start of the "YIGBY" - or - "Yes In God's Back Yard" campaign in Connecticut, a push to make it easier for Churches and other houses of worship to build affordable housing on property they already own (00:45). Greenwich/Stamford GOP State Rep. Tina Courpas joined us the talk about that so-called "YIGBY" housing initiative (16:40). Hearst Connecticut Media Senior Columnist and Editor Dan Haar weighed in on the latest corruption allegations at the State Capitol (24:07), while CBS News contributor Courtney Kealy briefed us on the U.S.-Israel military attacks on Iran (34:22)

The clock is ticking; PURA needs to make a decision later this month regarding the proposed $2.4 billion sale of Aquarion Water Company. Today, regional municipal leaders and a bipartisan group of Connecticut state legislators are addressing recent developments in the proposed deal and why lawmakers in Hartford need to act fast! Shelton Mayor Mark Lauretti is one of the speakers being featured in the event and spoke with us before the event.

Global oil and gas prices jumped on Tuesday since the attack on Iran halted energy exports from the ​Middle East. Here in Connecticut, there are constant concerns around energy and gas prices. To make sense of it all, we talked to Bryson Hull, Deputy Northeast Director for Consumer Energy Alliance.Image Credit: Justin Kingsley

Norwalk resident, Chris Dwyer, announced his intention to run for state Senate and to primary the 20-year incumbent, Bob Duff. We got to know Dwyer, his political intentions for the state and his outlook on the current Democratic party in Connecticut.For more information: https://chrisdwyerct.com/Image Credit: Eric Urbanowicz

There’s a constant focus in our state about supporting our military. According to state reports, CT has 130,000 veterans and only 50,000 use the VA healthcare system. That’s why major healthcare networks are stepping up to do their part. We spoke with Sherri Vogt, Hartford Healthcare Veteran's Liaison, about the upcoming Veteran’s Suicide Prevention Conference.To register and attend the event (virtually): Veteran's Suicide Prevention Conference 2026 - Hartford HealthCare - Continuing Education (CE) - Veteran's Suicide Prevention Conference 2026HHC Center for Healthy Aging: 877-424-4641

Host Paul Pacelli got Tuesday's "Connecticut Today" underway with word that a law change at the State Capitol might give Connecticut restaurants and bars the ability to sell cannabis-infused beverages alongside alcohol (00:58). Connecticut Energy Marketers Association President Chris Herb explained how crude oil and gasoline prices might be affected by unrest in the Middle East. Chris also offered a look at the possible consumer costs of a potential state-level climate "superfund" (10:58). State House GOP leader Vin Candelora dropped by to talk about a threatened line-item veto from Gov. Ned Lamont (19:37). Yankee Institute blogger Meghan Portfolio broke down some key bills she's following at the Capitol (24:12). Finally, CBS White House reporter Linda Kenyon had the latest on the U.S.-Israeli joint attacks on Iran (35:01)

The Education Committee will hold a public hearing tomorrow covering 14 pieces of legislation. Specifically, the first piece of legislation is Senate Bill 7, is getting a lot of attention specifically from Bridgeport students, educators and city leaders (AN ACT CONCERNING EDUCATIONAL EQUITY) We spoke with Joe Sokolovic, Vice Chair of the Bridgeport Board of Education.To see the list of bills and learn more: https://cga.ct.gov/2026/EDdata/pha/pdf/2026pha00304-R001100ED-pha.pdf

It’s no secret; health insurance is beyond expensive; some Connecticut residents have even opted to forgo having insurance. And after subsidies expired in December, Connecticut lawmakers are again trying to find affordability solutions. One idea that has come up in the last several legislative sessions involve association plans. We spoke with Grace Brangwynne, Policy Director covering healthcare and insurance for CBIA, about association plans prior to the public hearing today in front of the Insurance Committee.

The Committee on Children is offering a public hearing today to discuss several bills, including ones to better support DCF. We spoke with Christina Ghio, Acting Child Advocate for the Connecticut Office of the Child Advocate, about some of the bills being proposed.

Monday's "Connecticut Today" kicked off a new week looking at the U.S.-Israeli joint attacks on Iran over the previous weekend. Paul offered his thoughts on the attacks (00:41), and we also welcomed back University of New Haven Professor of National Security Dr. Howard Stoffer to the show for his perspective (13:04). Landmark Legal Foundation Vice-President of Legal Affairs Mike O'Neill broke down oral arguments for a key U.S. Supreme Court case regarding gun ownership and marijuana use (23:53). Finally, GOP State Rep. Greg Howard had the latest from the State Capitol (30:27)

According to the World Health Organization: in 2019, about 528 million people worldwide were living with osteoarthritis, which was an increase of 113% since 1990. It’s safe to say that osteoarthritis remains a very common joint disorder in the United States. That’s why a new treatment offered at Norwalk Hospital is such a big deal. We talked to Dr. Christine Chin about radiation therapy. Dr. Chin is a radiation oncologist and board-certified by the American Board of Radiology. For more information: https://www.nuvancehealth.org/health-tips-and-news/low-dose-radiation-for-osteoarthritis-a-non-invasive-option-for-lasting-joint

There were concerns over pension offset language in the emergency certified bill that passed the state House and Senate last month. We spoke with Pete Brown, President of the Uniformed Professional Firefighters Association of Connecticut, to understand the language better and its impact on firefighters across the state.

Today is Read Across America Day which is meant to foster a lifelong love of reading in children and to promote literacy. But should this day really focus on the kids? We spoke with Connecticut State Librarian, Deborah Schander, about the importance of parents falling in love with reading again.

Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas stopped in studio. We talked about election integrity funding in jeopardy and new provisions to election law recently passed during the legislative session.To access the free Power of Civics Course: https://portal.ct.gov/sots/education/the-power-of-civics/the-power-of-civics---homeImage Credit: Eric Urbanowicz

What is the good and the bad following the sudden attack on Iran over the weekend? We asked Congressman Jim Himes; he serves as the Ranking Member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. The Intelligence Committee conducts oversight of the United States Intelligence Community, which includes the intelligence and intelligence-related activities of 17 elements of the US Government, and the Military Intelligence Program.Image Courtesy of Congressman Jim Himes

Tomorrow is election day for the 130th district Democratic Town Committee in Bridgeport! Meet the first line candidates and find out more about the role of the DTC in local elections!

Host Paul Pacelli updated listeners on Friday's "Connecticut Today" about an emerging proposal in Hartford to implement a possible state income tax surcharge on its richest residents, a plan that's already up and running in Massachusetts, with interesting results (00:46). Former Bridgeport Democratic state Rep. Chris Caruso offered his thoughts on a controversial "emergency" bill that passed in Hartford (16:12). Southern Connecticut State University Sports Communications and Sports Marketing Instructor Len Mead talked about "Problem Gambling Awareness Month" and the continued integration of legal wagering and mainstream sports programming (25:41)

Despite being denied by PURA this past fall, a potential sale of Aquarion Water Company may happen before the end of March! Find out in the podcast how this could affect your water bill and what is being done about it.

There is a push to pass a proposal funding universal free breakfasts for school children across the state. But it's more complicated than just wanting to do the right thing and feed kids. We talked about funding and quality of food concerns with state Rep. Tina Courpas.

The Connecticut Conference of Municipalities is sounding the alarm about slipping pension offset language into Senate Bill 298. This was the sweeping emergency certification bill that passed in the state House and Senate. We got a better understanding about CCM's concerns from Joe DeLong.

The emergency bill that passed the Senate has now passed the House and moves to the governor’s desk. In the House, three Republican representatives, including Rep. Ben McGorty of Stratford, voted in favor of the bill. We found out why.

Host Paul Pacelli jump-started Thursday's edition of "Connecticut Today" telling critics of President Trump that it was more than proper for the U.S. Men's Olympic Hockey Team to accept an invitation to the State of the Union Address (00:35). New Canaan/Darien/Stamford GOP State Rep. Tom O'Dea (16:23) and former GOP State Senate Leader John McKinney explained their thoughts on a so-called "emergency" bill at the State Capitol (21:57)

Two pieces of election law provisions are included in that massive emergency certified bill that passed the Senate this week. We talked about the legislation with state Representative Matt Blumethal, Chair of the Government Administration and Elections Committee.Image Courtesy of Matt Blumenthal

There’s an effort to pass a bill that would combat wage theft at the workplace. We’re told the bill was designed to improve accountability among contractors and protect workers on state-funded projects. We asked Comptroller Sean Scanlon about this legislation.Image Credit: Eric Urbanowicz

There is a public hearing next week regarding the need for parental consent when a minor wants to have an abortion. We spoke with state Representative Brian Lanoue about the push for this legislation.If you want to make public comment or testified on this: https://www.cthousegop.com/lanoue/public-hearing-announcement--hb-5309-parental-notification-bill

The Senate voted to pass a 121-page bill through an expedited process called emergency certification. The bill introduced Wednesday covers a wide range of issues from education to election law to warehouse ownership requirements. It also includes earmarks – directing millions of dollars toward various nonprofit groups and municipalities. All Senate Democrats and Republican Senator Tony Hwang voted in favor of the legislation; the remaining Republican Senators voted against it. We spoke with Senator Hwang about his decision to vote for it.Image Courtesy of Tony Hwang

A government shutdown or a natural disaster are good reasons to pass legislation under emergency certification. But what is the ‘emergency’ prompting the passage of a 121-page bill in the state Senate and does it point to a bad trend coming in Hartford? We spoke with House Minority Leader, Vin Candelora, about the process of e-cert legislation.

There's a new blood test that may indicate whether older people have a real high chance of living longer. Researchers at Duke University published findings in "Aging Cell" that show certain small RNA molecules in the bloodstream can predict whether older adults are likely to survive at least two more years. We asked Dr. Fred Browne about this.Image Courtesy of Griffin Health and Dr. Fred Browne

Wednesday's "Connecticut Today" featured both host Paul Pacelli (00:35) and Hearst Connecticut Media Senior Columnist and Editor Dan Haar (16:52) talking about a rare, parliamentary move by majority Democrats at the State Capitol to pass a big, multi-faceted bill. We also analyzed the previous evening's State of the Union address with Southern Connecticut State University Associate Professor of Political Science and Urban Affairs Dr. Jonathan Wharton (23:46) and Quinnipiac University Professor of Political Science Dr. Scott McLean (30:29)

Connecticut lawmakers are considering a bill that would provide public funding for 12 early-career journalism fellowships in newsrooms around the state. As a fellow reporter, I love the idea of building our pipeline of local journalists but is there a catch? We talked through the legislation with Ben Bogardus, Professor of Journalism and Chair of the Department of Journalism at Quinnipiac University.To read the bill: https://www.cga.ct.gov/2026/TOB/H/PDF/2026HB-05159-R00-HB.PDF

A new bill is looking to improve reading skills for our students. It builds on an effort that started three years ago. Senate Bill 220 would require that schools adopt an individual reading plan for every student in grades 4 through 9 who does not meet the achievement standard for reading on annual exams. It may sound good on the surface, but is it more complicated to implement than we realize and how will we pay for it? A real reading advocate and education leader in our state, Fran Rabinowitz, weighed in on this. She is the executive director of The Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents.

Following President Trump’s State of the Union address, our governor, Ned Lamont, released this statement saying in part: President Donald Trump outlined his administration’s priorities, but for too many families in Connecticut and across the country, the reality of this administration can be summed up by increased costs and unpredictability. What were the key takeaways from the address and what direct impact will it have on Connecticut residents? Sacred Heart University political professor, Dr. Gary Rose gave feedback.

The CT Senate Republican Caucus will address the “emergency” Senate session happening today. We’re told more than a dozen pieces of legislation will potentially pass today without public hearings. State Democrats say all the bills being discussed have had prior hearings and went through committees in the past. We talked about the controversies around this emergency session with News 8 political reporter, Mike Cerulli.Image Credit: Eric Urbanowicz

Tuesday's edition of "Connecticut Today" featured host Paul Pacelli wondering if listeners were going to listen to, or watch, President Trump's State of the Union address, or avoid the event (00:42). Yankee Institute blogger Meghan Portfolio talked about a big "emergency bill" being considered this week at the State Capitol (15:42), while CT News Junkie and Substack.com columnist and blogger Terry Cowgill commented on the national scene (27:11). CBS News correspondent Olivia Rinaldi joined us from Washington, D.C. on tonight's State of the Union address (37:22)

Right now, Connecticut lawmakers are looking at a piece of legislation that willenhance protections for ticket purchases and crack down on deceptive internet sites posing as event venues. It’s called An Act Concerning Entertainment Event Tickets which really got more attention after an event came to light at The Klein. We spoke with Laurence Caso, executive director at The Klein, about what happened in 2024 and how it’s prompted change during this legislative session.

State Police released an arrest warrant affidavit for the former Chief of Police in New Haven, Karl Jacobsen. He is alleged to have stolen more than $85,000 from the department between 2024 and 2025. The document says the money stolen is allegedly tied to gambling. We spoke with Gary MacNamara, former Chief of Police in Fairfield, about the potential issue of battling addictions while performing in a top cop role.

The blizzard of 2026 really packed a punch and hit Connecticut hard. We looked at the aftermath with Josh Morgan of the Department of Transportation and asked if we are ready for anything else this winter can bring.

Host Paul Pacelli chatted with WICC Chief Meteorologist Paul Piorek on Monday's "Connecticut Today" about the previous day's blizzard, known as Winter Storm "Fern." (00:18 and 03:52)

CT Senate and House Republicans unveiled legislative proposals aimed at preventing fraud. We spoke to Senate Minority Leader, Steve Harding, about efforts to strengthen oversight and accountability and whether this is a culture of corruption in state government.

It’s any parent’s nightmare: your child is in the care of a predator. That nightmare came to life in Bethany a few years ago. A former parks and recreation employee was arrested and charged with multiple felony charges, including sexual contact with a victim under 13, first-degree sexual assault and risk of injury to a minor. A recent OCA report revealed there are a lot of systemic failures for license-exempt programs, like parks and rec. We spoke with Acting Child Advocate, Christina Ghio, for the Connecticut Office of the Child Advocate.For parents to search program licensing and more: https://www.211childcare.org/

Host Paul Pacelli kicked off Thursday's "Connecticut Today" wondering if it's an insult to a member of Congress' constituents if that member - like Sen. Chris Murphy - skips the upcoming State of the Union address (00:50). We also heard the latest on Connecticut politics from former Bridgeport Democratic State Rep. Chris Caruso (14:54) and former State Senate GOP leader John McKinney (24:16). CBS News White House reporter Linda Kenyon had the latest on a possible U.S. attack on Iran (33:53), while Quinnipiac University men's and women's hockey TV play-by-play voice Phil Giubileo broke down today's women's Olympic Gold-Medal game between the U.S. and Canada (36:14)

A stadium meant for the Connecticut United Football Club is still happening but maybe not in Bridgeport anymore. The shocking decision comes after Governor Lamont announced that the state would not invest any more state dollars into the project.We got more details from Andre Swanston, CEO of Connecticut Sports Group which owns the Connecticut United Football Club.

The FDA is agreeing to review Moderna's influenza vaccine. Officials defended the initial decision, saying the company should have given a higher-strength vaccine to older patients in the control arm of its trial. However, Moderna made revisions to its approach and is now seeking full approval for the shot for adults between 50 and 64 years old as well as accelerated approval for those aged 65 and above. We talked about this with Dr. Browne of Griffin Health.Image Courtesy of Griffin Health and Dr. Fred Browne

The governor wants to raise the minimum age to access prediction market platforms from 18 to 21. Prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket allow users to risk money forecasting all kinds of events including sports, elections, and celebrity news. But how likely is it for Connecticut to pass effective legislation without enough federal regulation? We asked Paul Tarbox, Director of Public Policy and Communications at the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling.For more information: https://ccpg.org/

The Stratford High School softball team is joining forces with Notre Dame West Haven. We got the scoop on what happened from Stratford’ Head Coach, Gary Sherrick.Image Credit: Eric Urbanowicz

Governor Lamont is proposing more incentives to recruit and retain police officers and firefighters. The push comes amid staffing shortages in both industries across the state. But does it really do enough, especially for police, to attract people to the jobs and keep them? We asked State Senator Paul Cicarella, who is a leading lawmaker on the Public Safety and Security Committee.