Groton — LeadingAge Connecticut has named state Sen. Heather Somers, R-Groton, as its 2019 Legislator of the Year, according to an announcement.

"As the ranking member of the Senate Public Health Committee, I've fought to support those who care for some of our most vulnerable citizens and to improve the quality, availability and affordability of care for those who need it most," Somers said in a statement. "I'm honored to accept this recognition for those efforts and look forward to continuing to champion common sense policies to support providers and the consumers, residents and patients they serve."

LeadingAge Connecticut is a membership organization representing more than 130 not-for-profit provider organizations serving older adults and disabled individuals across the continuum of services  and housing, according to the news release.

LeadingAge Connecticut said in a message notifying Somers of the award: "This prestigious award is presented to legislators who have distinguished themselves by developing and supporting public policies that are beneficial to LeadingAge Connecticut members and the older adults they serve."