Senator Tony Hwang Receives Statewide Award for Efforts Supporting Public Safety and Law Enforcement

BRISTOL, CT—The Connecticut Police Chiefs Association (CPCA) has selected State Senator Tony Hwang (R—Fairfield) to receive the coveted Carroll J. Hughes Legislator of the Year Award at the CPCA’s annual meeting on December 9, 2025 at the Bristol Event Center. The award recognizes Hwang’s outstanding commitment to law enforcement, public safety, and the well-being of Connecticut residents.
Hwang was chosen by several distinguished law-enforcement leaders from his district, including Chief Michael Paris, Chief David Kullgren, and former Chief Jim Viadero for his consistent support of police officers and his legislative leadership in the area of public safety.

“It is an honor to be recognized by those who serve as the first line of defense when keeping our communities safe,” Hwang said. “This award is not just for me—it honors the service of every officer who works tirelessly to protect people and families in our towns and cities.”
During his tenure, Senator Hwang has championed a broad array of public-safety and roadway-safety measures. As Ranking Member of the legislature’s Transportation Committee he led bipartisan passage of Senate Bill 1377, part of the state’s Vision Zero strategy which enacts reforms to reduce traffic fatalities, improve pedestrian and cyclist safety, and enhance support for transit users across Connecticut.

Sen. Hwang has been a vocal advocate for cracking down on impaired, distracted, and reckless driving, and for strengthening enforcement tools, coordinating with law-enforcement and transportation officials to protect drivers, pedestrians and highway workers alike.

Fairfield Police Chief Michael Paris added that Senator Hwang has served as an important piece connecting police departments to the legislature, saying, “We are here to represent traffic safety and our continued partnership with the legislature. Senator Tony Hwang’s office is especially helpful in our traffic safety committee, ensuring we get the best possible advocates and ensuring we have all of the right avenues covered. Our police department is represented well in the legislature, so for all of that we thank the legislature, we thank Senator Tony Hwang for all of the work he has done prior to this.”

Newtown Chief of Police David Kullgren spoke of his gratitude for Senator Hwang’s efforts in the legislature, and his ability to move across the aisle in order to pass measures of public safety. Chief Kullgren said, “I am proud of Senator Tony Hwang for his strong, cooperative working relationship with Connecticut law enforcement. Senator Hwang consistently stands with our police officers, and troopers–listening to their concerns, advocating for the resources they need, and partnering with them to keep our communities safe. His bipartisan approach and genuine respect for the men and women in uniform make him a true ally of law enforcement in Hartford. Thank you, Senator Hwang, for always having our backs!”

Former Newtown Chief of Police, now Chief Executive Liaison Connecticut Police Chief’s Association, James Viadero added, “I had the opportunity of meeting Tony about 10 years ago, and I found that he was a very valuable partner with us in Newtown. When I became Chief in Newtown, the relationship we had forged was very beneficial to the livelihood of the law enforcement of Connecticut. Tony partnered with us on several bills involving officer wellness and he has always been a willing and listening partner when it comes to the concerns that law enforcement has. Congratulations to him, a well deserved award, and we wish him the best.”

Furthermore, Hwang has backed legislation and funding to support police recruitment, training, and retention—underscoring the importance of investing in the men and women who serve and protect.
“Public safety is the foundation of every thriving community,” Hwang added. “I will continue working collaboratively with our police chiefs, officers, and local leaders to ensure Connecticut remains a safe place to live, work, and raise a family. This partnership is essential, and I am deeply grateful for their trust and dedication.”