Rep. Lanoue Votes Against Democrats’ Budget, Tax Increases
Tonight, the ‘Land of Steady Habits’ defended its reputation as House Democrats voted to pass yet another budget that raises taxes on every resident and business in the State of Connecticut – $1.75 billion over the next two years to be exact. I joined every other Republican member and five Democrats in voted against it. I entered public service because I wanted to help take our state in a new direction. Unfortunately, those in the majority seem content with keeping the status quo.
The new budget increases taxes on businesses by $50 million for the biennium, pushes out repayments on teacher pension obligations adding billions in interest payments to be paid by our children and grandchildren, offers debt-free community college to be paid by the state through an online lottery program, raises fees on vehicle trade-ins from $35 to $100, and it diverts money away from the Special Transportation Fund so they can make a case for tolls. In addition, they increased taxes on digital downloads (think Netflix) and rideshare services (Uber/Lyft), and created new taxes on prepared foods (grocery stores and restaurants), plastic bags, and safety apparel (helmets for your kids).
Along with a higher minimum wage and a 0.5% payroll tax to fund a state-run paid leave program, Democratic leaders continue to delay our economic recovery. We offered several amendments that would have improved the budget and provided some much-needed relief for our constituents, but they were all rejected.
While I am disappointed by the outcome this evening, I want you to continue to have faith in Connecticut. As long as we continue to push for better policies, lower taxes and less red tape, our families, businesses and communities still have a chance to thrive. We cannot give up hope. We adjourn in two days and still have much to vote on, but I will continue to represent our district with pride and determination through the end of session.