May 5, 2018

Update from Hartford

This article was archived from the previous WordPress site. Formatting and media should be close, but may not match the original post perfectly.

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

We are in the final stretch of the 2018 Session, and I am happy to report that House Republicans made progress this week in the struggle to provide stability and predictability to the State of Connecticut.

Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Proposal

On Wednesday, Republican lawmakers released our second balanced budget proposal for FY 2019. Our plan does the following:

Pays down unfunded liabilities
Fully funds teachers’ pension plan and retired teachers’ healthcare fund – something promised to our educators, but not delivered until now
Nearly doubles municipal funding to New Canaan and Wilton compared to Governor Malloy’s 2019 proposal
Fully restores the Medicare Savings Program
Provides assistance to the most vulnerable, including those living with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Accomplishes the above without introducing new tax increases

Republican Revised FY 2019 State Budget Proposal

Governor’s Judicial Nominations

My Republican colleagues and I voted against Gov. Malloy’s 31 judicial nominations to the Superior Court. Despite their outstanding qualifications and experience, the state simply cannot afford these appointments right now.

Between salaries, benefits and pension costs, these positions would add millions to our state expenses, and we have yet to see a spending plan from majority Democrats.

Voting against these nominations was the responsible thing to do for our residents.

Toll Bill Blocked for this Session

Finally, I am happy to report that our effort to block a vote on the toll bill was successful as the speaker has determined that he does not have the support to bring it to the floor.

Tolls are just another tax on Connecticut residents, and I do not support their installation while state government continues to spend recklessly.

With that said, I have no doubt that the majority party will attempt to revive the toll debate in the future, but rest assured, we will be prepared to fight it again.

I will keep you updated on any new developments during these final days of session. Until then, please contact me at (800) 842-1423 or tom.odea@housegop.ct.gov if you have any questions or concerns regarding state government.

Regards,

Tom

Tom O’Dea

State Representative – 125th District