May 1, 2025

Rep. Irene Haines Backs GOP Budget That Puts Taxpayers First and Cuts Wasteful Spending

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HARTFORD, CT — State Representative Irene Haines (R-34) strongly supports the House Republican budget proposal, praising its commitment to fiscal responsibility, government transparency, and protecting Connecticut taxpayers.

“This budget is a promise to every Connecticut family that we will spend their money wisely and with purpose,” said Rep. Haines. “We’re prioritizing essential services, trimming waste, and reinforcing the financial guardrails that have helped stabilize our state’s economy.”

The Republican budget maintains Connecticut’s Volatility Cap, contributing to a projected $104.3 million in pension savings for Fiscal Year 2027 and an anticipated $800 million in annual long-term savings, ensuring future generations are not burdened by unsustainable obligations.

Highlights of the proposal include:

Ending state-funded healthcare for undocumented immigrants, redirecting resources to citizens and legal residents, and saving millions in taxpayer dollars.
Eliminating the Public Benefits Charge from electric bills, offering relief to families and small businesses struggling with high utility costs.
Fully funding healthcare for state employees, with a $370 million investment to restore gaps in the Governor’s plan and honor commitments to workers and retirees.
Cutting state agency operating expenses by 5%, generating $67 million in savings without compromising essential services.
Implementing a $250 annual EV registration fee, following other states’ models to ensure fair contributions to road maintenance from all vehicle owners.
Freezing state employee wages for two years following recent bonuses, saving $330 million, and halting automatic legislative pay raises, saving nearly $800,000.
Raising public transit fares modestly to phase out unsustainable COVID-era subsidies, ensuring the future stability of Connecticut’s transportation system.
Increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates by $137.5 million, strengthening support for hospitals and healthcare providers serving our most vulnerable residents.

“We are directing state resources to areas of genuine necessity, particularly focusing on senior citizens, working families, and the healthcare system,” stated Representative Haines. “This budget exemplifies a responsible approach that aligns with the values of Connecticut’s residents: accountability, fairness, and a government that operates within its financial means.”

Learn more at RealityCheckCT.com to explore the full proposal and use our interactive budget tool.