State Representative Dubitsky Discusses the 2017 Legislative Session

HARTFORD – State Representative Doug Dubitsky (R-47) held office hours Wednesday night for their constituents to discuss the current legislative session and to provide answers to their local and statewide concerns.

The lawmaker who represents Lisbon and eight other municipalities discussed various current state budget proposal, legislative priorities, Educational Cost Sharing (ECS) cuts, the HUSKY program, and Electoral College.

A specific budget item of concern amongst area residents was the overall increase to the state’s pistol permits fees. Currently the initial fee for first time permits is $140, per the governor’s proposal, that amount would more than double to $370. In addition, five year renewals would also increase from $70 to $300.

“The state can’t raise money off of fees on a constitutional right,” Rep. Dubitsky said. “The fee cannot exceed the cost of administration. Yet, although many states are moving away from permits and fees altogether, Governor Malloy wants to generate revenue for the general fund by overtaxing a fundamental right.”

Rep. Dubitsky has submitted a bill to establish a reciprocity system between Connecticut and other states that have substantially similar standards for carrying a concealed firearm.

“The governor’s budget is just a proposal and will not be adopted as written,” Rep. Dubitsky said. “Republicans have produced responsible balanced budgets each of the past few years. The appropriations process is ongoing and we will continue to work toward a reasonable and balanced budget this year too.”