Editorial: Resolutions and Solutions
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Happy New Year! I hope that all your holiday celebrations encompassed the same peace and joy that I experienced with my children and family. Ringing in the New Year comes with new ideas, new goals, and sometimes new responsibilities. This year, as we prepare for the 2023 Legislative Session, it’s time to maintain the right resolutions for more effective political solutions.
In the fall of 2022, my campaign goals reflected aspects of the “Contract with CT” initiative, led by House Republican candidates across the state. At our pledge signing, I agreed to propose policy which would assure a more affordable way of life for our residents, safer communities, and an emphasis on family values and local control. Now, following your appreciated and continued support, I look forward to having my legislative focus emphasize the foundational principles of our Contract with CT.
The first tier is the most significant: the Affordable Connecticut Act. Between reducing the income tax rate on the middle class, as well as fighting back against the unnecessarily high sales tax, gas tax, insurance premiums, and utility costs, we can once again develop an economically viable and attractive state for new residents and small businesses. With the Highway Use Tax (HUT) now in effect following January 1, 2023, a focus on reducing costs across the board is essential for the future of our state.
Next, the second aspect concerns better protection for our communities; extending from stricter penalties on specific crimes and felonies, to active Driver’s Education training on the effects of marijuana use while behind the wheel. Now, more than ever, it is prevalent to support our law enforcement and return respect to the investigation process, which ultimately secures victim’s rights.
In association with community safety comes an increased legislative focus on the hardworking and supportive families and parents in our communities. Through our Families First initiative, we look forward to expanding parental influence in town Boards of Education and curriculum committees, as well as promoting more state scholarship opportunities and incentivizing residents with tax credits after donating to certain nonprofits that serve to make education more affordable in all parts of Connecticut.
Other pieces to our plan will include ways to make the state government more accessible and the legislative process more transparent, as I believe every one of my constituents deserve to know how I am best upholding their interests. Additionally, rearranging authority to provide more local control concerning state curriculum, affordable housing, and zoning issues is critical to permit more access to decisions at the state level.
I am excited to lead as Ranking Member of the Transportation Committee and in my duty to best represent your interests and concerns. The 2023 Legislative Session convenes on January 4th, at 10:00am and can be viewed throughout the legislative cycle on YouTube via CT-N: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSHbDCECkQM
As always, please contact me should you have any questions about these important issue or concerns on any other topics relating to state government at Kathy.Kennedy@housegop.ct.gov or at 800-842-1423.