Rep. Mastrofrancesco Takes Oath of Office

On the north steps of the Capitol in Hartford on Wednesday, January 6, 2021, State Representative Gale Mastrofrancesco (R-80) joined 150 legislators in the House of Representatives in being sworn in, taking the oath of office in an outdoor ceremony. “It was an honor to be sworn in for my second term representing the residents of Wolcott and Southington. Thank you for placing your confidence and trust in me to represent you once again,” explained Rep. Mastrofrancesco.

January 6, 2021 is considered Opening Day for the legislature as it marks the beginning of the 2021 legislative session that will conclude on June 9, 2021. Rep. Mastrofrancesco, indicated that fixing the state’s ailing budget, getting residents and businesses back to work, and ensuring that fairness and integrity remain in our election process will all be top priorities. “This year the legislature is concerned with matters pertaining to the state budget, and as a member of the Finance, Revenue and Bonding committee, my aim will be to help craft a budget that is balanced and one that does not place additional burdens on taxpayers,” said Rep. Mastrofrancesco. “Many individuals across the state are faced with various hardships, and the last thing they need is additional taxes or for the state to remain closed – people want and need for the state to open back up so everyone can get back to work. Similarly, the Capitol Building in Hartford also needs to open so that elected officials can do the people’s work, which simply cannot be effective without input from the public directly.”

“During Opening Day in the House of Representatives, I cast a vote against the proposed House Rules as it would allow the legislature to make laws remotely without any in-person interaction with the voters of this state. I firmly believe that it is our duty as elected officials to gain public input and offer an opportunity for public hearings before any legislation is crafted. Even during times like these when public health is a grave concern, we must not lose sight of the fact that we work for the people and that gaining public input is a fundamental aspect of our Constitution. There are ways to operate safely and practice social distancing, which is evidenced by many states across the nation that are conducting business in-person and following safety protocols. Just as residents conduct their necessary shopping, frequent restaurants, and attend work and school in-person, the state’s Capitol must function similarly so that monumental issues like state spending, education, job creation and economic growth can be properly addressed. Matters such as these cannot be limited to virtual zoom meetings, which negate a voter’s ability to effectively interact with their elected officials. The people of this state have a right to be heard, and the legislature should not attempt to function without the public’s critical input,” added Rep. Mastrofrancesco.

Mastrofrancesco will serve as the Ranking Member on the legislature’s Government Administration and Elections committee, and as a member on the Finance, Revenue, and Bonding and Human Services committees.