To The Editor:

I am writing as a constituent from Newtown, Connecticut, to express my concern about SB 137 and to share that I am opposed to this bill as it is currently written. For many years while my children were growing up, I actively participated in and supported ecumenical Bible camps and other church‑based youth programs. These experiences were meaningful to my family and contributed positively to the spiritual and social development of many children in our community.

In these settings, churches already take the safety and well‑being of children seriously. Many denominations and local churches require staff and volunteers who work with children to complete training on appropriate behavior, boundaries, and child protection. One well‑known example is the “Safe Sanctuaries” program, which teaches volunteers how to create safe environments, recognize warning signs, and follow established protocols. These measures show that congregations are already committed to protecting children without needing additional state licensing burdens that could shut down small, volunteer‑run programs.

Many churches offer these programs at no cost or minimal fees to cover supplies. This allows children the opportunity to interact with their peers, which positively impacts their social‑emotional health during the summer break from school. By keeping costs low or free, these programs also remove the economic barriers that might otherwise prevent families from participating in camp over the summer.

I worry that this legislation, as it is currently written, could unintentionally make it much harder for small, volunteer‑driven, faith‑based programs like those camps to continue operating. I urge you to consider the impact on local congregations and nonprofit youth ministries and to oppose SB 137 unless it is amended in a way that protects and preserves these vital community programs.

Vikki Lynn Carlson

Newtown