Chris Aniskovich

CT House Republicans Unveil “Pathway to Affordability” Budget Plan

HARTFORD—House Republicans on Tues­day released a budget adjustment plan for the second year of the state budget through a series of policies aimed at making Connecticut more affordable, lowering household costs, easing property tax pressures, and addressing the school funding crisis facing communities across the state. House Republicans plan is balanced, provides more than $400 million in tax relief, comes in $167 million under the state spending cap, and spends less than the governor’s proposal, all while making smart, targeted investments where they’re needed. That includes our School Taxpayer Relief and Affordability Plan (STRAP), which would deliver approximately $1.1 million more in education funding to Clinton, Westbrook, and Killingworth . That’s meaningful support for our schools and real relief for local property taxpayers who have been carrying a heavy burden for too long. For years, towns in the 35th District have been asked to make up the difference because the state’s education funding formula hasn’t kept pace with reality. This proposal takes a fair, straightforward approach by distributing additional funding based on the same percentage towns already receive, so every community benefits. Just as importantly, this funding is built into the budget, making it predictable and something our towns can actually plan around. And while delivering for our towns, House Republicans are aiming to eliminate taxes on Social Security benefits for our seniors, in addition to other tax relief. And what’s included in the proposal to reduce state spending and provide tax relief? Eliminate the sales tax on children’s clothing for CT's families Eliminate fees on certain occupational licenses for the many independent businesses owners and tradesmen who make our state run Increase the state’s maximum property tax credit to $650 and expand income eligibility, extending relief to 800,000 filers Reduce healthcare costs by reducing a state levy on insurance companies ($20 million) that has been passed on to consumers in their monthly premiums This is about doing right by our students, supporting our towns, and easing the pressure on taxpayers, all while staying fiscally responsible and living within our means. We can do better for our communities, and it can start this session. Check out our plan here .

Rep. Aniskovich Joins Lawmakers in Hosting UK Parliament Members to Strengthen Economic and Cultural Ties

HARTFORD — Connecticut lawmakers, including Rep. Chris Aniskovich , the Ranking Member of the Commerce Committee, welcomed members of the United Kingdom Parliament to the Capitol for discussions focused on strengthening international partnerships and expanding economic opportunities between Connecticut and the UK. As part of the Connecticut-UK Friendship Caucus, legislators met with UK Members of Parliament, including Amanda Martin, Luke Akehurst, and Oliver Ryan. The caucus was established to promote and enhance the longstanding economic and cultural relationship between Connecticut and the United Kingdom. During the visit, participants engaged in a roundtable discussion covering a range of key issues, including the energy sector, international trade, opportunities for direct flights between Connecticut and the UK, and the strength of each region’s industrial base. The meeting highlighted Connecticut’s role in global commerce, particularly its manufacturing sector, which produces goods distributed worldwide. Lawmakers emphasized the importance of maintaining and expanding these international connections to benefit businesses and residents alike. Special thanks were extended to David Clay, His Majesty’s Consul General to New England, for coordinating the visit and helping facilitate ongoing dialogue between Connecticut and UK leaders. Officials expressed optimism about future collaboration and continued engagement through the Connecticut-UK Friendship Caucus.

Rep. Aniskovich Participates in Capitol Forum to Address Costs for Farmers

HARTFORD — State Representative Chris Aniskovich joined farmers from across Connecticut at a forum held at the State Capitol to hear firsthand concerns about recent changes to PA 490 farmland assessments and the impact those changes are having on agricultural land, farm operations, and long-term sustainability. During the discussion, which occurred in a packed hearing room, farmers shared how sudden assessment increases threaten working farms and place added pressure on an industry that plays a vital role in Connecticut’s economy and food supply. The forum provided an opportunity for lawmakers to better understand the real-world consequences of policies adopted in Hartford. Rep. Aniskovich noted that the Governor has since directed assessors to use 2020 valuation data and announced a review of the current assessment methodology, an important step toward preventing unexpected tax increases that could jeopardize farmland and family-run farms. “Our farmers are the backbone of our local food system and our rural communities,” said Rep. Aniskovich. “It’s essential that we hear directly from those who work the land when policies are being shaped that affect their livelihoods.” Rep. Aniskovich emphasized that while the administration’s action is a positive development, the issue requires continued attention. He stressed the importance of closely examining the PA 490 assessment process and ensuring farmers remain actively involved as potential changes are considered. “This conversation does not end here,” he added. “Farmers deserve a seat at the table as we work toward a fair, predictable assessment system that protects farmland and supports Connecticut agriculture.”

Rep. Aniskovich Honors Educators of the Year

CLINTON — Representative Chris Aniskovich, R-Clinton , presented official citations from the Connecticut General Assembly in recognition of outstanding contributions by two members of Clinton's schools: Ms. Sandi Bogucki, paraeducator at Eliot Middle School, and Ms. Cathy Baldwin, 4th grade teacher at Joel Elementary School. Ms. Baldwin was recognized within the district as Teacher of the Year for her creative and impactful math instruction techniques in Grade 4. Ms. Bogucki was honored as Classified Employee of the Year for her exemplary willingness to step in wherever needed and for her advocacy to advance paraeducator professional development. Rep. Aniskovich surprised the educators during a visit on Wednesday morning, presenting them each with a citation. “It’s an honor to recognize the dedication and outstanding work of Sandi Bogucki and Cathy Baldwin," Rep. Aniskovich said . "Their commitment to our children and our schools sets a high bar for public service in education. This is a great way to celebrate not only their individual excellence, but also the value our community places on education, professional development, and strong classroom instruction.” Rep. Aniskovich added that the recognition also helps shine a light on teachers and support staff who work every day behind the scenes for the benefit of students. Rep. Aniskovich can be contacted at Chris.Aniskovich@housegop.ct.gov or (800) 842-1423 with any questions or concerns related to state government. You can also follow his legislative activity by visiting his website, www.cthousegop.com/Aniskovich or on Facebook here .

Rep. Aniskovich Joins CT House GOP in Proposing Historic Property Tax Relief Plan

HARTFORD —House Republicans on Tuesday proposed the largest expansion of Connecticut's property tax credit in state history, increasing the maximum credit to $1,000 and growing eligibility for additional relief to more than 800,000 residents. House Republicans outlined their plan at a Legislative Office Building news conference, joined by municipal officials whose constituents face financial pressure from property tax hikes driven by revaluation. House Republican Leader Vincent Candelora (R-North Branford) and his caucus developed the middle-class tax relief plan after Democrats announced they would raid $500 million in state surplus funds during an anticipated November special session for an off-budget fund to prepare for the speculated impact of federal funding changes that won't be fully understood until next year. "Property taxes driven by revaluation are crushing Connecticut's middle class, yet our Democratic colleagues ignore this crisis while pushing policies that increase costs—from higher electric bills to unfunded mandates that drive up local taxes," Candelora said. "The treasurer is delaying transfer of $1.9 billion in volatile revenue beyond the $4.3 billion Rainy Day Fund so Democrats in the legislature can redirect it into a slush fund. That's unacceptable. If they won't use that money for pension debt—the primary purpose for volatile revenue—it should go back to taxpayers. When people see the size of our reserves, they understandably feel overtaxed. They're right. This isn't the Democrats' money to intercept through an opaque process—it belongs to taxpayers." Under the Republican plan, every qualifying taxpayer would see an increase in their credit. The proposal raises the maximum credit from $300 to $1,000 and sets a minimum credit of $400 for eligible filers. It also increases income eligibility thresholds by about $20,000 for single filers and $30,000 for joint filers. The plan particularly benefits joint filers by raising the eligibility threshold from $130,500 to $200,000. Under current law, thousands of these filers receive only the minimum $30 credit—or nothing at all. Overall, more than 800,000 filers would see more relief. The Republican tax relief plan would use $501 million from the $1.9 billion in volatile revenue that’s targeted by Democrats who are plotting yet another off-budget fund. "Republicans pushed for fiscal guardrails to create financial stability, and it’s led to a $4 billion reserve that can help address unexpected situations as they arise. But Democrats would rather create a new government fund they control rather than trust the systems already in place,” said Rep. Joe Polletta (R-Watertown), House Ranking member of the Finance Committee. “Our plan is straightforward: take that same money and put it toward the largest property tax credit expansion in state history. More than 800,000 filers would see more relief—some for the first time. That's how you help people, not by speculating about what might happen down the road and using fear as an excuse to grab money now." The $700 increase to the maximum property tax credit offered by Republicans contrasts sharply with Governor Lamont's 2025 proposal—a $50 increase that was ultimately ignored by Democrats in their final $55 billion two-year budget adopted in June.