GOV. MALLOY: STATE FLAGS TO BE LOWERED IN HONOR OF

REP. ELAINE O'BRIEN

(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy directed Connecticut flags to half-staff in honor of State Rep. Elaine O'Brien, who passed away overnight. She was elected to the General Assembly in 2010 to serve the 61st District, which includes Suffield, East Granby and Windsor.

"Elaine was a passionate legislator who dedicated much of her life to public service at the local and state levels, championing proposals to improve the health and safety of Connecticut citizens," said Governor Malloy. "Throughout her illness, she remained focused on the people of her district. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends and constituents at this difficult time."

Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman said, "The General Assembly has lost an outstanding Representative who fought tirelessly to remain committed to the needs of her constituents - from families to small business owners to workers. Our hearts are broken today as we mourn her loss and reflect on her service."

Rep. O'Brien was Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee and served on the Commerce and Transportation Committees. A resident of Suffield, she also served as Town Clerk and was involved in the community for more than 20 years, serving on the Zoning and Planning Commission and Board of Education.

State of Connecticut flags will remain at half-staff until the day of her interment, which has not yet been determined.