Buckbee Supports State-Wide Marketing Initiative

HARTFORD – State Representative Bill Buckbee (R-New Milford) co-sponsored and voted in favor of legislation that allows the Commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) to implement a state-wide marketing plan to promote and attract businesses to Connecticut. The initiative drew unanimous support by the entire membership of the House of Representatives.

Buckbee said, “I would like to thank my fellow co-sponsors and colleagues serving with me on the Commerce Committee for supporting the concept as well. In tough economic times, a marketing plan to showcase what our state has to offer is a great starting to point to reversing negative fiscal trends and strengthening our workforce.”

The legislation calls for a five part marketing plan. Components include:

1. Outreach to potential business and entrepreneurs
2. Establishment of “I Heart Connecticut” social media channels
3. A newsletter highlighting positive business-related news
4. A focus on promoting Connecticut’s higher education institutions
5. Media engagement campaign focusing on positive business stories from new or growing businesses

According to Buckbee, to augment the marketing plan there will be a logo contest that will solicit the participation of Connecticut’s youth, engaging a large segment of potential entrepreneurs and employees.

“We have talented workers, ambitious minds, and the space to grow businesses into industry leading enterprises here in New Milford, and across the state. This marketing plan will not cost any additional tax dollars to implement and will only make the DECD more effective in its goal to stabilize our economy,” concluded Buckbee.

Following the favorable action of the House, the bill now heads to the Senate where it must be acted on before May 9th in order for it to become law.

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