State Budget is Tipping Point

State Senator Tony Guglielmo (R-Stafford) released the following statement today re: his no vote on Emergency Certified House Bill 6704; An Act Concerning Expenditures and Revenue for the Biennium June 30, 2015 (the state budget). “Connecticut state government cannot stop spending and when you borrow for operating expenses that’s a real problem. This $44 billion budget increases spending by more than 8%, borrows for operating expenses and is irresponsible. “I’m proud to serve here at the state legislature, but we have created a state that is near last to retire in, has the highest per capita debt in the nation and has the latest tax freedom day in the country. You work to pay government imposed taxes for the first five months of the year. This budget increases taxes even more by adding new taxes in the amount of $315 million. “It’s gotten so expensive in our state that seniors can’t afford to live here and college graduates can’t get a job here. We have lost businesses as well because they can’t afford to grow here anymore, not because of competition but because of all the high taxes and regulations. “This budget also slashes funding for our community hospitals; Johnson & Memorial Hospital will lose $1,272,157, Rockville Hospital will lose $1,616,332 and Manchester Hospital all part of the Eastern Connecticut Health Network (ECHN) will lose $$7,800,357. “This out of control spending has been a trend. Lately, it’s gotten worse. It’s extremely difficult to work, live and raise a family in Connecticut and this budget will hurt our residents for generations to come. “There is a tipping point and I believe this just may be it.” The vote in the senate was 19 in favor 17 against. The budget now goes to the Governor for his signature. Sen. Guglielmo represents the 35th district towns of Ashford, Chaplin, Coventry, Eastford, Ellington, Hampton, Pomfret, Stafford, Tolland, Union, Vernon, Willington and Woodstock. Guglielmo is the ranking member of the Public Safety Committee and is a member of the Program Review & Investigations, Internship, Exec & Legislative Nominations committees.