September 24, 2021

Conservative Caucus Holds Successful Public Hearing for Workers Affected by Employment-related Vaccination Requirements

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HARTFORD—The General Assembly’s Conservative Caucus thanked the more than 50 concerned citizens who testified in person, and nearly 400 teachers, healthcare workers and bus drivers who say they have been negatively affected by COVID-19 vaccination requirements imposed by their employers.

The hearing began at noon and didn’t conclude until after 7:30 p.m. when the final speaker finished.

“Yesterday, we heard from hundreds of concerned Connecticut residents who have been, and will be, directly affected by vaccine mandates, including many who have lost their jobs for personal, religious and spiritual beliefs,” Rep. Mike France (R-42), Conservative Caucus Chair said. “Throughout the hearing, there was a sense of overwhelming frustration with the mandates, but also with the legislature’s closure to the public and repeated extensions of the governor’s emergency powers. Many people seemed especially thankful simply to be able to address their elected officials again.”

The capitol complex reopened to the public in July after being shuttered for 14 months in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The legislature’s Reapportionment Committee held the first public hearing on Sept. 8.

“Allowing the voice of the people to once again be heard in the Capitol complex is a tremendous step forward and signals that the start of a return to normal government functions is well within our reach,” Rep. Craig Fishbein (R-90), Conservative Caucus Vice Chair said. “I was encouraged by the individual stories shared during yesterday’s hearing and want to thank everyone who expressed their opinion on these important and sensitive issues. Democracy needs to be open, public and vigorously defended.”

Residents who were unable to attend the hearing can still submit comments via email to: Craig.Fishbein@housegop.ct.gov, with “CC Hearing” in the subject line.

The CGA Conservative Caucus is a group of 17 Connecticut legislators dedicated to the principles of limited government, economic freedom, and individual liberty. Its members foster open debate about the role of government in society, adherence to the Constitution, and the rule of law. They propose and advocate for legislation that promotes the freedoms, individual rights, and prosperity of all Americans.

The members of the Connecticut General Assembly Conservative Caucus are: Rep. Mike France, Chair (R‑42); Rep. Craig Fishbein, Vice Chair (R-90); Rep. Mark Anderson, Secretary (R-62); Rep. David T. Wilson, Treasurer (R-66); Rep. Tim Ackert (R-8); Rep. Anne Dauphinais (R-44); Rep. Doug Dubitsky (R‑47); Rep. Kimberly Fiorello (R-149); Rep. John Fusco (R‑81); Rep. Cindy Harrison (R-69); Rep. Rick Hayes (R‑51); Rep. Brian Lanoue (R-45); Rep. Gale Mastrofrancesco (R-80); Rep. John Piscopo (R-76); Rep. Joe Polletta (R-68); Rep. Kurt Vail (R-52); and Rep. Donna Veach (R-30).