Rep. Devin Carney Votes No on Executive Order Extension
HARTFORD – During a House Session on February 10th, State Representative Devin Carney (R-23) voted against extending the civil preparedness and public health emergencies, and the extension of executive orders issued by Governor Lamont.
The first item, HJ 1 ‘Resolution Declaring the Continuation of the Public Health and Civil Preparedness Emergencies in the State,’ renewed the state of emergency until June 30th. Connecticut has been governed under a state of emergency since March 10th 2020 when Governor Lamont first issued the declarations.
“It’s more than time to restore checks and balances to state government, especially since the legislature is in session,” said Rep. Carney.
The resolution was passed by 89-56 with 3 Democrats joining Republicans in opposition.
The second bill, HB 5047 ‘An Act Concerning the Extension of Certain Executive Orders and Department of Public Health Authority and Covid-19 Relief Days,’ extended a number of orders that were set to expire for the duration of the civil preparedness and public health emergencies.
“In Connecticut, we’ve been in this pandemic for 705 days, at the time we didn’t know much about the disease, what we know now is that many people’s lives have been made worse,” said Rep. Carney. “705 days is a long time, we need return people’s lives to normal, especially considering the learning loss and impact on our children.”
Republicans offered amendments on the bill, one would have allowed parental choice regarding school mask mandates. Ultimately, the bill was passed by 86-62 with 9 Democrats joining Republicans in opposition.
Both the HJ 1 and HB 5047 await action in the State Senate. Both bills can be tracked on the General Assembly website at www.cga.ct.gov.