Piscopo Attends Legislative Forum at the Burlington Public Library
HARTFORD – Earlier this month, State Representative John Piscopo (R-76) attended a legislative forum hosted by the Burlington Public Library. Also in attendance was state Senator Beth Bye (R-5). They were joined by residents of Burlington, in addition to local officials.
The purpose of the forum was to give constituents an opportunity to speak with their legislators regarding their thoughts and concerns as well as hear from the legislators about the 2014 Legislative Session and how it will affect the people of Burlington and the state of CT.
Many residents focused their comments and questions on current issues being hotly debated in the legislature. Residents expressed views both for and against such issues as aid in dying, common core standards and smarter balance assessment, and the proposed minimum wage increase.
“I’d like to thank everyone who took time out of their evening to come to the event and make their voices heard,” said Rep. Piscopo. “It’s clear that people have very strong opinions on both sides of the arguments. It continues to be my commitment that I will read each piece of legislation carefully prior to casting my vote.”
Residents also expressed concern over the loss of jobs in CT and rising energy costs. They also noted the CT Fastrack Busway project as an example of unjustifiable spending of taxpayer dollars while the state faces a serious debt crisis.
“I share the same concern as residents regarding the state of our economy in CT, loss of jobs, and increasing energy costs. We need to get our state back on fiscal track and make CT more business friendly. I, along with my fellow House Republican colleagues proposed legislation, which would immediately loosen the tax burden on all businesses across the state. I’m pleased to say that this bill, HB5314, An Act Concerning Payments On Advances From The Federal Unemployment Account , will be brought to the floors for debate in the legislature later this session.”
Rep. Piscopo also shared that he is working with Sen. Bye to secure funding for upgrades to local fire stations. “It is important that we continue to invest in upgrading critical public safety needs. We rely on our volunteers, and we need to make sure they have the best equipment and facilities available to protect the public.”
“I understand that these issues resonate personally with people and can bring about strong responses,” said Piscopo. “I am here to represent the voice of my constituency in Hartford and I encourage anyone who would like to express their thoughts or concerns on these or any legislative issues to contact me.”
Anyone who was unable to attend, but would like to voice a concern may contact Representative Piscopo at 800-842-1423 or email john.piscopo@housegop.ct.gov.
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