Reopening Connecticut: Make Your Voices Heard
Dear Friend and Neighbors,
Two months ago, our state government began taking steps to mitigate the impending threat of COVID-19. Many businesses were forced to close, schools were shut down, and life came to a halt for most of us. Since then, thousands of Connecticut residents have contracted the virus, many have been hospitalized, and tragically, over 3,000 have died. Countless others, left with no choice but to remain indoors, have grappled with loneliness and isolation in the absence of normal routines and social interaction. It’s safe to say that not only public health, but also mental health, are major concerns.
To make matters worse, unemployment has soared as the virus, as well as the federal and statewide response, have suppressed economic activity. Last week’s announcement by Foxwoods has only augmented fear across the 45th District, which is home to many casino employees. The events of the last eight weeks have been detrimental to our local economy, and you have every right to be angry.
While many believe the actions taken to slow the virus were necessary, many others have expressed legitimate concerns about the unintended consequences of these measures. I am one of them.
In response to mounting public pressure, Governor Lamont has formed the Reopen Connecticut Advisory Group, which is tasked with developing a statewide plan to help all sectors recover from the pandemic. I call this a step in the right direction, but I do have two major issues with this group.
One, the group is not subject to open-records laws, meaning some of their work will not be disclosed to the public. This is concerning because the recommendations they make to Governor Lamont may ultimately determine when and how our state reopens.
Two, I do not believe the group accurately represents the everyday citizens of this state. Members of the group and its subcommittees include industry experts and academics, but the group excludes many others with direct connection to our cities and towns.
We need teachers, principals, superintendents, parents, members of local boards, employees from various industries, small business owners, members from local organizations, and state legislators on these subcommittees. In other words, we need people who represent those most affected by COVID-19.
We are now at a point where we as a state must decide how to rebuild, and what that will look like. If we do not act quickly and methodically, the damage to our economy could be long-lasting, or even permanent. This process must be done safely and responsibly, but it must begin soon.
As your state representative, it is my job to be your voice and your advocate in Hartford, and when it comes to reopening the State of Connecticut, and the businesses that put food on our tables, your concerns must be heard.
I know many of you do not like surveys (I am one of them), but I am asking you to take a moment to complete this one. Your feedback will give me crucial information about how YOU think the state should reopen, and when. Your responses will remain anonymous, and will only be conveyed to the governor’s administration and the advisory group in an aggregate fashion.
This crisis has affected you, your families, and your livelihood in so many ways. Now, it’s your turn to speak up and to let our state government hear your ideas.
As always, please email me with any questions or concerns. I am here for you and your families during this difficult time.
Email: Brian.Lanoue@cga.ct.gov
Best,
State Rep. Brian Lanoue
45th General Assembly District
Griswold, Lisbon, Plainfield, Sterling, Voluntown