Posted on January 25, 2024
HARTFORD — House Republican Leader Vincent Candelora on Thursday announced the appointment of state Rep. Steve Weir (R-Hebron) as House Ranking Member of the legislature’s Labor and Public Employees Committee.
“During his short time in the General Assembly, Representative Weir has established himself as a leader capable of analyzing complex topics and the views and concerns of stakeholders on each side of the issue at hand,” said Candelora (R-North Branford.) “I look forward to seeing the good work Steve will do not only on behalf of our caucus and its members, but also the residents of Connecticut whose lives and livelihoods are impacted by the work that occurs in this critical committee.”
Among the many topics handled by the Labor Committee are issues tied to the state’s Department of Labor, law related to collective bargaining for state and municipal employees, occupational health and safety, and unemployment compensation.
“It is an honor and privilege to have been named the House Ranking Member of the legislature’s Labor Committee,” Weir said. “I am thankful to Republican Leader Candelora for this appointment and his faith in my ability to be our caucus voice on important issues. I pledge to continue working with my colleagues on the committee to improve our business climate and increase economic opportunities throughout our state.”
A Ranking Member is the designated leader from the minority party on a committee. Each committee has a House and Senate ranking member. Individuals who serve in this role are responsible for communicating to their caucuses details about bills voted out of committees.
As a business owner, immediate past chair of the CT River Valley Chamber of Commerce and board member of the Connecticut Apartment Association, Representative Weir is a staunch supporter of free markets and limiting government intrusion.
The appointment of Weir as House Ranking Member allows Rep. Tim Ackert (R-Coventry), who will continue to serve on the committee, to focus more on his role as Deputy Republican Leader At-Large.
“Representatives Weir and Ackert, with Representative Dave Yaccarino, will be an effective team on the Labor Committee for the upcoming session, when we’re sure to see proposals that affect Connecticut businesses of all shapes and sizes,” Candelora said.