John Piscopo

Piscopo Raises Concerns Over State Budget Adjustment Legislation

As the Connecticut General Assembly wrapped up its 2026 legislative session on Sine Die in Hartford, State Representative John Piscopo voiced serious concerns about the recently passed budget adjustment legislation. While acknowledging that the package contained a few positive elements, Piscopo said the overall proposal fails to address the state’s long-term financial challenges and instead moves Connecticut closer to a potential fiscal cliff. “The legislation relies heavily on one-time expenditures that primarily benefit larger cities, while committing the state to ongoing spending that will be difficult to sustain in future years,” Piscopo said during debate on the House floor. Piscopo also criticized the rushed legislative process surrounding the bill. Lawmakers received the more than 700-page budget document only hours before the vote, leaving little opportunity for a thorough review or detailed analysis before final passage. During debate, House Republicans proposed amendments aimed at providing tax relief and implementing structural fiscal reforms. According to Piscopo, both proposals were rejected along party-line votes. Another major point of concern, Piscopo noted, was that the budget adjustment package does not fully adhere to Connecticut’s fiscal guardrails — policies designed to promote responsible budgeting and long-term financial stability. “You deserve a more responsible plan,” Piscopo said. “One that prioritizes sustainable spending, protects taxpayers, and avoids creating uncertainty for future budget cycles.” The debate marked one of the final major actions of the legislative session as lawmakers adjourned for the year.

Honoring a Legacy of Service: Celebrating the Retirements of Two Distinguished Connecticut State Marshals

It was a privilege to join colleagues and state leaders in recognizing the remarkable careers of two dedicated Connecticut State Marshals at a recent citation ceremony held in the Senate Chamber. The event, graciously hosted by State Senators Gordon and Martin, highlighted decades of public service, professionalism, and commitment to the people of Connecticut. We proudly celebrate the retirements of Sharon Uhlman and Julianne Ingham, whose contributions have left a lasting impact on the communities they served. Sharon Uhlman, of Tolland County, will retire this June after approximately 37 years of distinguished service. Over the course of her career, she held several key roles, including Chief Deputy Sheriff, State Marshal, and member of the State Marshal’s Advisory Board. Her leadership and dedication have helped shape the standards and practices of the profession. Julianne Ingham, of Litchfield County, concludes an equally impressive career spanning 34 years. Her steadfast commitment and service have earned her the respect of colleagues and the gratitude of the communities she served. Both women exemplify the highest ideals of public service. Their careers reflect not only longevity, but also a deep sense of duty and integrity that has strengthened Connecticut’s justice system. We extend our sincere thanks to Sharon and Julianne for their many years of service to the State of Connecticut. As they begin this next chapter, we wish them all the best in their well-earned retirements.

Piscopo Announces School/Taxpayers Relief & Affordability Plan (STRAP)

Connecticut’s broken education funding formula has forced cities and towns to make up the difference, leaving property taxpayers to shoulder the burden. The House Republican School Taxpayer Relief and Affordability Plan (STRAP) would return $365 million to communities across the state. For the 76th District, that means: Burlington – $698,362 Harwinton – $429,478 Litchfield – $231,422 Thomaston – $814,581 STRAP is built directly into the state budget, so towns can count on consistent funding year after year—no scrambling, no uncertainty. It provides meaningful, sustainable relief for local property taxpayers while lawmakers continue working to fix the flawed Education Cost Sharing formula for good. Click here to access the STRAP tool and see allocations for each town. For more information on the Pathway to Affordability, click here .

Piscopo Supports Veterans Initiative Improving Dental Care

HARTFORD – State Rep. John Piscopo (R–Thomaston) supported legislation aimed at expanding healthcare options for Connecticut veterans. The bill, H.B. 5406, An Act Concerning Various Measures Honoring the Heroism of Veterans and Members of the Armed Forces , establishes a Veterans Dental Care Program to help eligible veterans access critical dental services. “We have a responsibility to ensure that the men and women who served our country receive the care and support they deserve,” said Piscopo. “This legislation takes meaningful steps to expand access to critical services, including dental care, while also easing financial burdens for our veterans and their families.” In addition to creating a dental care program, the bill: Requires the DMV to waive fees for the initial issuance of a DVA-verified veteran designation on a driver’s license or identity card; Establishes state income tax deductions for (1) compensation received for serving on an honor guard at a veteran’s funeral and (2) pay received by National Guard members called to active duty; and Creates a task force to study ways to encourage nursing homes to contract with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and provide care to eligible veterans. “With these provisions, veterans will gain greater financial flexibility and improved access to the essential, life-enhancing services they deserve,” Piscopo added. The bill received broad bipartisan support, passing unanimously in the House, and now heads to the Senate for further consideration. ###

Piscopo Supports Greater Oversight of Government Spending

HARTFORD – The House of Representatives addressed concerns over wasteful government spending by taking up H.B. 5309 , An Act Requiring Transparency and Additional Oversight of the Distribution of Certain Legislative-Directed Funds . State Rep. John Piscopo (R-76) voted in support of the bill. “This is the first step in cracking down on historically questionable spending practices. The organizations that partner with the state are overwhelmingly great stewards of state resources. However, there should be greater transparency regarding recipients, especially in light of reports that funding has been wasted or used as political leverage,” said Piscopo. The bill follows increased scrutiny of state funding to nonprofits, including a Hartford organization flagged for financial mismanagement after receiving millions in taxpayer dollars. The issue intensified concerns raised during the 2025 budget debate. After passing unanimously in the House, the bill now heads to the Senate for further consideration.