Misfortune can come into all of our lives at any time and, yet, we Americans have so much for which to be thankful that we set aside a day each year to celebrate our good fortune in the company of family and friends.
No matter what else is happening in our lives, we Americans go to extraordinary lengths each Thanksgiving to share turkey and tradition with people who are important to us. This holiday is so much a part of our tradition that we cannot abide the thought of anyone not having the means to join in the celebration. Those of us who are able donate turkeys and other fixings for a traditional Thanksgiving meal in the hope that no one is left out. Many make volunteering at a soup kitchen or other community holiday dinner part of their personal Thanksgiving tradition.
That is as it should be.
I believe that we Americans need Thanksgiving to remind us of how very, very lucky we are. We are fortunate to live in a free country. We have the right to elect our government leaders. We have the right to worship, or not, as we choose. We have the right to freely express our opinions about our government, our personal politics, our individual religious beliefs, and any other issue that matters to us. Millions of people not fortunate enough to have been born citizens of our country risk everything to come here.
We Americans always have reason to celebrate Thanksgiving. This year, we should again be especially thankful for the ongoing sacrifices of our troops who will be far from home fighting the war on terror instead of sharing a turkey dinner with their families and friends. Earlier this month, we bid farewell to 700 troops representing the largest single deployment of Connecticut Guard members since the Korean War. The rights and freedom we hold dear as Americans means so much to them that they are putting themselves in harm’s way to protect those of us who will be celebrating Thanksgiving in safety. Not only should we be grateful to these soldiers, but to also to those they left behind. If you know someone whose husband, wife, son, daughter, grandchild or friend is serving our country far from home this Thanksgiving, please remember to thank them.
On a personal level, Marcy and I will give thanks, as we do every year, for the precious gifts of our son, Aidan, and daughter, Deana, who we adopted as infants from South Korea. We will express our gratitude for our lives as citizens of the United States and residents of the beautiful state of Connecticut. We will be thankful for our family members and friends who bring such joy into our lives.
Undoubtedly, misfortune will come into our lives from time to time, as it does to everyone’s life. Nevertheless, there is always much to be grateful for including our freedom, our rights, our good fortune to be citizens of the United States - and for the brave men and women who sacrifice their own safety and comfort to protect us.
I wish all of you a very Happy Thanksgiving!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Senator Kane to Join Speaker's Task Force on Children in the Recession
I was asked this week to participate in discussions on how the recession is affecting children in Connecticut and how future legislation should be crafted to address the needs of the state’s children.
The Speaker’s Task Force on Children in the Recession will be made up of legislators, congressional staff, experts on the economy, business, non-profits, child policy, family support, food security, housing, human services, and public health, as well as parent advocates. The focus of this newly formed group will be to review budget implications related to children and the recession; identify trends and research resulting from the recession related to housing, employment, homelessness, child care, and unemployment; make recommendations to the Speaker on appropriate budget and policy action; and recommend efficiencies and offer ways to streamline services and access points for families for the 2010 and 2011 sessions.
Connecticut is the first state in the nation to form a legislative task force to plan for children in the recession and during the recovery. More information can be found at http://www.cga.ct.gov/coc/taskforce.htm I invite anyone with feedback on this issue to contact me at rob.kane@cga.ct.gov.
The Speaker’s Task Force on Children in the Recession will be made up of legislators, congressional staff, experts on the economy, business, non-profits, child policy, family support, food security, housing, human services, and public health, as well as parent advocates. The focus of this newly formed group will be to review budget implications related to children and the recession; identify trends and research resulting from the recession related to housing, employment, homelessness, child care, and unemployment; make recommendations to the Speaker on appropriate budget and policy action; and recommend efficiencies and offer ways to streamline services and access points for families for the 2010 and 2011 sessions.
Connecticut is the first state in the nation to form a legislative task force to plan for children in the recession and during the recovery. More information can be found at http://www.cga.ct.gov/coc/taskforce.htm I invite anyone with feedback on this issue to contact me at rob.kane@cga.ct.gov.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Running Our State Without A Budget
As Governor M. Jodi Rell continues to run state government by executive order, it might help to keep things in perspective by remembering that this is not the first time in recent history that Connecticut has been without a budget.
Undoubtedly, many people remember the summer of 1991 – the year of the income tax – when Connecticut went without a state budget for more than fifty days as the General Assembly tried to pass a tax and spend plan that then Governor Lowell Weicker would sign into law. Then, as now, the Democrats controlled the majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. That year, the General Assembly passed several temporary appropriations measures to pay the bills for the first weeks of the new fiscal year. Also, Governor Weicker issued several executive orders to, first, allow state government to keep running while minimizing discretionary spending and, secondly, to authorize funding in cases where there was a gap between the expiration of one continuing spending resolution and the beginning of the next.
Connecticut was again without a state budget in 2003. That year, then Governor John Rowland vetoed the General Assembly’s continuing spending resolution and issued his own series of executive orders. At the time, Governor Rowland claimed that the General Assembly did not have the authority to pass its two-week resolution, which it did on June 30th, the day before the start of the new fiscal year. The Attorney General disagreed – but, while the Legislature had the authority to pass continuing resolutions, the Governor also had the authority to veto them and to issue his own executive orders. Again, the Democrats controlled the majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.
According to an interesting report recently issued by the General Assembly’s nonpartisan Office of Legislative Research, there is nothing in either state law or the state constitution spelling out what to do to pay the bills and keep government running in the absence of a budget. When we found ourselves in this situation back in 1991, the state Attorney General based his opinion on how to proceed, in part, on an 1892 Connecticut Supreme Court decision. Not surprisingly, the bottom line is that the state has an obligation to pay necessary expenses – with or without a state budget.
Based on the opinion issued by the state Attorney General in 1991, the two legal ways to run government in the absence of a state budget is to for the legislature to pass continuing spending resolutions and, or, for the Governor to issue executive orders. As recent history has taught us, the Governor has the authority to veto a continuing resolution passed by the General Assembly. As with all gubernatorial vetoes, it would take a two-thirds vote of the General Assembly to reinstate a continuing spending resolution struck down by the Governor.
This year, Governor Rell has issued two executive orders to keep the state running while she and legislative leaders continue to meet behind closed doors to negotiate a budget agreement. It is my hope that such an agreement is reached soon, and that I have the opportunity to join my colleagues in the General Assembly in voting for a responsible state budget that Connecticut can afford.
As always, I welcome hearing from you. I can be reached at my legislative office in Hartford at 1-800-842-1421, or via e-mail to Rob.Kane@cga.ct.gov.
Undoubtedly, many people remember the summer of 1991 – the year of the income tax – when Connecticut went without a state budget for more than fifty days as the General Assembly tried to pass a tax and spend plan that then Governor Lowell Weicker would sign into law. Then, as now, the Democrats controlled the majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. That year, the General Assembly passed several temporary appropriations measures to pay the bills for the first weeks of the new fiscal year. Also, Governor Weicker issued several executive orders to, first, allow state government to keep running while minimizing discretionary spending and, secondly, to authorize funding in cases where there was a gap between the expiration of one continuing spending resolution and the beginning of the next.
Connecticut was again without a state budget in 2003. That year, then Governor John Rowland vetoed the General Assembly’s continuing spending resolution and issued his own series of executive orders. At the time, Governor Rowland claimed that the General Assembly did not have the authority to pass its two-week resolution, which it did on June 30th, the day before the start of the new fiscal year. The Attorney General disagreed – but, while the Legislature had the authority to pass continuing resolutions, the Governor also had the authority to veto them and to issue his own executive orders. Again, the Democrats controlled the majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.
According to an interesting report recently issued by the General Assembly’s nonpartisan Office of Legislative Research, there is nothing in either state law or the state constitution spelling out what to do to pay the bills and keep government running in the absence of a budget. When we found ourselves in this situation back in 1991, the state Attorney General based his opinion on how to proceed, in part, on an 1892 Connecticut Supreme Court decision. Not surprisingly, the bottom line is that the state has an obligation to pay necessary expenses – with or without a state budget.
Based on the opinion issued by the state Attorney General in 1991, the two legal ways to run government in the absence of a state budget is to for the legislature to pass continuing spending resolutions and, or, for the Governor to issue executive orders. As recent history has taught us, the Governor has the authority to veto a continuing resolution passed by the General Assembly. As with all gubernatorial vetoes, it would take a two-thirds vote of the General Assembly to reinstate a continuing spending resolution struck down by the Governor.
This year, Governor Rell has issued two executive orders to keep the state running while she and legislative leaders continue to meet behind closed doors to negotiate a budget agreement. It is my hope that such an agreement is reached soon, and that I have the opportunity to join my colleagues in the General Assembly in voting for a responsible state budget that Connecticut can afford.
As always, I welcome hearing from you. I can be reached at my legislative office in Hartford at 1-800-842-1421, or via e-mail to Rob.Kane@cga.ct.gov.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Tax Free Week in Connecticut
Connecticut shoppers are gearing up once again for back to school shopping. In many households this is an expensive venture. Our state aims to help ease this burden by exempting clothing and shoes under $300 from the 6% sales tax for one week beginning Sunday August 16th. The tax free holiday runs through Saturday August 22nd.
This will be the 7th year Connecticut has celebrated this popular shopping week. Since its inception it has saved taxpayers over $3 million dollars. The exclusion applies to each item sold, regardless of how many items are sold to a customer on the same invoice. However, the exclusion does not apply to any portion of the price of an item that costs $300 or more. The exclusion week replaces the regular exemption for articles of clothing or footwear costing less than $50 which remains in effect for all other periods.
Tax free week although popular among families shopping for students is not exclusive to back to school shopping. It is also a tool to spur consumer spending, and is a part of the economic development in the state. Retailers benefit from the week as well and look forward to it each year.
The Sales and Use Tax Exclusion is regulated by the Department of Revenue Services. More information on it can be found on their website at http://www.ct.gov/drs/cwp/view.asp?a=1514&q=318566.
As always I encourage anyone with questions to contact my office for more information at 860 240 0381 or via email at rob.kane@cga.ct.gov
This will be the 7th year Connecticut has celebrated this popular shopping week. Since its inception it has saved taxpayers over $3 million dollars. The exclusion applies to each item sold, regardless of how many items are sold to a customer on the same invoice. However, the exclusion does not apply to any portion of the price of an item that costs $300 or more. The exclusion week replaces the regular exemption for articles of clothing or footwear costing less than $50 which remains in effect for all other periods.
Tax free week although popular among families shopping for students is not exclusive to back to school shopping. It is also a tool to spur consumer spending, and is a part of the economic development in the state. Retailers benefit from the week as well and look forward to it each year.
The Sales and Use Tax Exclusion is regulated by the Department of Revenue Services. More information on it can be found on their website at http://www.ct.gov/drs/cwp/view.asp?a=1514&q=318566.
As always I encourage anyone with questions to contact my office for more information at 860 240 0381 or via email at rob.kane@cga.ct.gov
Senator Kane on Twitter
Social networking has taken hold of us all and I am no exception. Blogger, Facebook, LinkedIn, MySpace just to name a few. My latest venture into cyberspace is on Twitter. You can follow my daily updates or “tweets” of what I am doing, where I am and how I am working for the residents of the 32nd District.
Twitter allows me to connect with you daily with quick text like micro-blogs. I encourage you to join me on Twitter, it’s free. Sign on to follow me at www.twitter.com/senatorkane32. As a follower we can engage in dialogue about what concerns you most about your town in the 32nd District or the State of Connecticut at large. I am proud to represent and serve you in the State Senate and the more ways we can connect and engage one another the better.
See you in cyberspace!
Twitter allows me to connect with you daily with quick text like micro-blogs. I encourage you to join me on Twitter, it’s free. Sign on to follow me at www.twitter.com/senatorkane32. As a follower we can engage in dialogue about what concerns you most about your town in the 32nd District or the State of Connecticut at large. I am proud to represent and serve you in the State Senate and the more ways we can connect and engage one another the better.
See you in cyberspace!
Friday, July 24, 2009
Senator Kane Fights To Protect Legislation Important To Local Communities
State Senator Rob Kane (R-32) said he helped to protect legislation important to local communities during the General Assembly’s recent veto session.
The legislation, House Bill 6649 (Public Act 09-186) An Act Concerning The Programs And Activities Of The Department Of Transportation, includes provisions for installing a sign at Exit 37, Route 8 southbound, for the Watertown Business Park, and for installing signs on I-84 at exits 15 east and west in Southbury for the Connecticut Antiques Trail. Senator Kane voted to preserve the legislation during the veto session.
“I respect Governor Rell’s efforts to control costs during these tough economic times, but I disagree with her on this bill. Supporting community efforts to promote local businesses is a way for the state to help revitalize our economy. These particular projects, installing highway signs pointing the way to the Watertown Business Park and to the Connecticut Antiques Trail, have a great deal of community support. Providing this type of help to our local businesses, especially during the recession, is an investment,” said Senator Kane.
Senator Kane did vote to sustain the Governor’s vetoes of seven other bills considered Monday, including legislation that begins the process of establishing a universal health care system in Connecticut, and that creates a cumbersome, time-consuming system of forecasting revenues as part of the budget process. However, the General Assembly successfully overrode seven of the eight gubernatorial vetoes acted upon.
“I was disappointed when the General Assembly overturned the Governor’s veto of the so-called SustiNet bill that creates a board charged with making recommendations for a very costly state universal health care system that might not even work with whatever plan Congress ultimately adopts. There is just too much we do not know, and need to know, before the state starts down this road,” said Senator Kane, adding that he joined other legislators in successfully helping to sustain Governor Rell’s veto of another bill that would have converted the state employee health care plan to a self-insured plan available to municipal government workers, non-profit employers and small employers.
The legislation, House Bill 6649 (Public Act 09-186) An Act Concerning The Programs And Activities Of The Department Of Transportation, includes provisions for installing a sign at Exit 37, Route 8 southbound, for the Watertown Business Park, and for installing signs on I-84 at exits 15 east and west in Southbury for the Connecticut Antiques Trail. Senator Kane voted to preserve the legislation during the veto session.
“I respect Governor Rell’s efforts to control costs during these tough economic times, but I disagree with her on this bill. Supporting community efforts to promote local businesses is a way for the state to help revitalize our economy. These particular projects, installing highway signs pointing the way to the Watertown Business Park and to the Connecticut Antiques Trail, have a great deal of community support. Providing this type of help to our local businesses, especially during the recession, is an investment,” said Senator Kane.
Senator Kane did vote to sustain the Governor’s vetoes of seven other bills considered Monday, including legislation that begins the process of establishing a universal health care system in Connecticut, and that creates a cumbersome, time-consuming system of forecasting revenues as part of the budget process. However, the General Assembly successfully overrode seven of the eight gubernatorial vetoes acted upon.
“I was disappointed when the General Assembly overturned the Governor’s veto of the so-called SustiNet bill that creates a board charged with making recommendations for a very costly state universal health care system that might not even work with whatever plan Congress ultimately adopts. There is just too much we do not know, and need to know, before the state starts down this road,” said Senator Kane, adding that he joined other legislators in successfully helping to sustain Governor Rell’s veto of another bill that would have converted the state employee health care plan to a self-insured plan available to municipal government workers, non-profit employers and small employers.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Senator Kane Secures Highway Signs For “Connecticut Antiques Trail”
State Senator Rob Kane (R-32) successfully proposed legislation this year that calls for the state Department of Transportation to post signs at exits 15 east and west on I-84 in Southbury for the Connecticut Antiques Trail.
“As everyone who lives in our part of the state already knows, this is the place to come if you love shopping for antiques. We want to make sure that people travelling through here know where to find our antiques shops and dealers, and I am certain that posting these new informational highway signs will help.” said Senator Kane, adding that efforts to help the antiques businesses will also benefit other types of economic development in the region.
Senator Kane said he sought legislation for the informational highway signs with the support of area antique dealers and government officials. The requirement for the signs is included in House Bill 6649, An Act Concerning The Programs And Activities Of The Department Of Transportation (PA 09-186). Senator Kane said that posting the signs should be the beginning, and not the end, of efforts to promote the region as the Connecticut Antiques Trail.
“The fact is that bringing more people to the region to patronize antiques businesses will also help other businesses in the area. For example, people visiting the antiques shops may also stop for gas and have lunch or dinner somewhere nearby. They might need something else while they’re here and buy something in a grocery story or a pharmacy, maybe stop for coffee. All of this will have a powerful, positive, effect on the area’s economy,” said Senator Kane.
Senator Kane said that, while he is delighted that the state will post Connecticut Antiques Trail highway signs in Southbury, he said that more can and should be done to promote the antiques businesses in the area.
“The communities of the 32nd Senatorial District have a great deal to offer people who enjoy antiques. Posting signs at exit 15 on I-84 in Southbury is a terrific way to let people know what is waiting for them just off the highway. But, we can do more to promote all the dealers and shops along our antiques trail through so many of the communities in this region and I look forward to contributing to those efforts,” said Senator Kane.
“As everyone who lives in our part of the state already knows, this is the place to come if you love shopping for antiques. We want to make sure that people travelling through here know where to find our antiques shops and dealers, and I am certain that posting these new informational highway signs will help.” said Senator Kane, adding that efforts to help the antiques businesses will also benefit other types of economic development in the region.
Senator Kane said he sought legislation for the informational highway signs with the support of area antique dealers and government officials. The requirement for the signs is included in House Bill 6649, An Act Concerning The Programs And Activities Of The Department Of Transportation (PA 09-186). Senator Kane said that posting the signs should be the beginning, and not the end, of efforts to promote the region as the Connecticut Antiques Trail.
“The fact is that bringing more people to the region to patronize antiques businesses will also help other businesses in the area. For example, people visiting the antiques shops may also stop for gas and have lunch or dinner somewhere nearby. They might need something else while they’re here and buy something in a grocery story or a pharmacy, maybe stop for coffee. All of this will have a powerful, positive, effect on the area’s economy,” said Senator Kane.
Senator Kane said that, while he is delighted that the state will post Connecticut Antiques Trail highway signs in Southbury, he said that more can and should be done to promote the antiques businesses in the area.
“The communities of the 32nd Senatorial District have a great deal to offer people who enjoy antiques. Posting signs at exit 15 on I-84 in Southbury is a terrific way to let people know what is waiting for them just off the highway. But, we can do more to promote all the dealers and shops along our antiques trail through so many of the communities in this region and I look forward to contributing to those efforts,” said Senator Kane.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
State Senate Should Establish Internal Bipartisan Ethics Process
As someone who sought elective office as a way of giving back to my community, I am always interested in ideas and proposals for encouraging the public’s trust in elected government officials, as well as state government. I felt that way when I was a member of the Watertown Town Council, and I continue to feel that way now that I represent the 32nd District in the State Senate.
Unfortunately, there are always plenty of negative political stories to read about. True enough, some politicians and some government officials are as capable of bad behavior as are the members of any other group. And, when politicians get caught doing bad things, or sometimes even suspected of doing bad things, the press writes about it. Of course, reporting about politics and government – the good and the bad – is what the media is supposed to do. The problem is that the bad stuff is often so much more interesting than the good stuff. As a result, the bad stuff is what people tend to remember most vividly.
That is one of the many reasons I so ardently supported the resolution offered by Republican Senators to invite the public trust by creating an internal bipartisan committee to investigate and, if necessary, act on ethics complaints against state senators. If our resolution had passed, Connecticut would have followed the example of 41 other states that have legislative ethics committees. Sadly, all but one of the Democratic majority senators present voted against the Republican resolution.
In explaining their opposition to our proposal, Senate Democratic leadership asserted that Connecticut does not need an internal ethics committee because the state already has an independent ethics office – even though many of the states that have legislative ethics committees also have independent ethics agencies. Furthermore, the Democrats said they did not like aspects of our proposal that called for establishing a permanent bipartisan committee and allowing members of the public, as well as state senators, to bring complaints. In response, Republican Senators agreed to amend their proposal to allow for the appointment of a bipartisan internal committee when a complaint is filed, and to limit the authority to file complaints to just state senators.
In the end, Republican Senators’ willingness to compromise did not lead to an agreement to create a permanent internal bipartisan ethics process to investigate ethics complaints against our members.
Interestingly, you may remember that it was not all that long ago when both the Democratic and Republican Senate leadership called for the creation of a permanent bipartisan legislative ethics committee as part of their respective caucus’s agendas. Meanwhile, the fact that the State Senate does not have a permanent bipartisan committee in place to conduct ethics complaints against senators does not mean that the Senate cannot conduct such an investigation. As it stands now, the decision to conduct an internal investigation regarding the behavior of an individual state senator essentially rests with whoever is in power – right now, that means the Senate Democratic majority leadership.
Of course, I am disappointed that we ended this legislative session without establishing a permanent bipartisan process to investigate ethics complaints regarding State Senators. But, I am optimistic that we will ultimately put such a process in place, and I am committed to working in a bipartisan manner with my colleagues in the State Senate to make that happen.
As always, I welcome the opportunity to discuss this issue, and others important to our state. I can be reached at my legislative office at 1-800-842-1421, or via e-mail to Rob.Kane@cga.ct.gov.
Unfortunately, there are always plenty of negative political stories to read about. True enough, some politicians and some government officials are as capable of bad behavior as are the members of any other group. And, when politicians get caught doing bad things, or sometimes even suspected of doing bad things, the press writes about it. Of course, reporting about politics and government – the good and the bad – is what the media is supposed to do. The problem is that the bad stuff is often so much more interesting than the good stuff. As a result, the bad stuff is what people tend to remember most vividly.
That is one of the many reasons I so ardently supported the resolution offered by Republican Senators to invite the public trust by creating an internal bipartisan committee to investigate and, if necessary, act on ethics complaints against state senators. If our resolution had passed, Connecticut would have followed the example of 41 other states that have legislative ethics committees. Sadly, all but one of the Democratic majority senators present voted against the Republican resolution.
In explaining their opposition to our proposal, Senate Democratic leadership asserted that Connecticut does not need an internal ethics committee because the state already has an independent ethics office – even though many of the states that have legislative ethics committees also have independent ethics agencies. Furthermore, the Democrats said they did not like aspects of our proposal that called for establishing a permanent bipartisan committee and allowing members of the public, as well as state senators, to bring complaints. In response, Republican Senators agreed to amend their proposal to allow for the appointment of a bipartisan internal committee when a complaint is filed, and to limit the authority to file complaints to just state senators.
In the end, Republican Senators’ willingness to compromise did not lead to an agreement to create a permanent internal bipartisan ethics process to investigate ethics complaints against our members.
Interestingly, you may remember that it was not all that long ago when both the Democratic and Republican Senate leadership called for the creation of a permanent bipartisan legislative ethics committee as part of their respective caucus’s agendas. Meanwhile, the fact that the State Senate does not have a permanent bipartisan committee in place to conduct ethics complaints against senators does not mean that the Senate cannot conduct such an investigation. As it stands now, the decision to conduct an internal investigation regarding the behavior of an individual state senator essentially rests with whoever is in power – right now, that means the Senate Democratic majority leadership.
Of course, I am disappointed that we ended this legislative session without establishing a permanent bipartisan process to investigate ethics complaints regarding State Senators. But, I am optimistic that we will ultimately put such a process in place, and I am committed to working in a bipartisan manner with my colleagues in the State Senate to make that happen.
As always, I welcome the opportunity to discuss this issue, and others important to our state. I can be reached at my legislative office at 1-800-842-1421, or via e-mail to Rob.Kane@cga.ct.gov.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Creating and Retaining Jobs is Key by Senator Rob Kane
I recently had the pleasure of co-hosting a roundtable discussion at the Kerite Company in Seymour with area business leaders about the best way to revitalize our state's economy. Those helping to lead our discussion included my co-hosts, Lieutenant Governor Michael Fedele and representatives of CONNSTEP, a business resource organization.
What the roundtable participants had to say would come as no surprise to employers anywhere in Connecticut, or to the far too many people who have lost their jobs or have been forced to take pay cuts this year. To a person, every one of the more than a dozen business leaders at that meeting said that enacting state policies and laws that focus on creating and retaining jobs is the only way to turn around our economy. Increasing taxes would hurt, not help. After all, when people are not earning money and businesses are struggling to survive, who is going to pay these new taxes?
Sadly, not everyone in the General Assembly seems to understand the connection between reducing Connecticut's 7.5 percent unemployment rate and refraining from suggesting legislation and policies that frighten business owners into wondering whether they have a future in our state.
For example, included among the bills up for consideration this year was one that would have phased out the use of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) in certain products sold or distributed in Connecticut. One of the three major manufacturers of this very important flame retardant is Chemtura in Middlebury.
Proponents of the bill claim this chemical may be unsafe for people and the environment. However, the European Union, the federal Environmental Protection Agency, The National Academy of Sciences and the Consumer Product Safety Commission disagree. Furthermore, the National Institute of Standards and Technology is working with the National Association of State Fire Marshals and the International Association of Fire Fighters to evaluate this product.
Undoubtedly, the people who work at Chemtura were relieved when the second legislative committee to consider this bill rejected it. At the very least, the General Assembly ought to wait for the results of this latest study before considering any further action.
Nevertheless, just the fact this bill was on the table must have had a chilling effect on employers across the state. Proposals like this, along with the legislative Democratic majority's proposal to enact the largest single tax increase in state history - including the imposition of a 30 percent surcharge on corporate profits - is not the way to keep jobs in Connecticut.
Fortunately, the news is not all bad. Employers and their employees who are worried about harmful legislation and talk of massive tax increases should also be aware of ongoing efforts to help businesses in Connecticut. For example, earlier this year, the Connecticut Development Authority (CDA) approved a $2 million loan to revive a Watertown manufacturer. The loan is intended to help local managers of DriveSol Worldwide, Inc. to purchase machinery and intellectual property from its former parent company. When DriveSol closed its Watertown plant, 241 people lost their jobs. Plans to revive the company as Global Steering Systems could create 130 jobs.
I was pleased to play a role in helping Chemtura and supporting efforts to revive the former local DriveSol operation as the new Global Steering Systems. I remain committed to doing everything possible to help businesses thrive and grow in our state - and will continue to fight misguided proposals to fund our state budget by imposing punitive, job reducing taxes, on businesses and residents.
It has been said that we cannot tax our way out of a recession. The key to putting Connecticut back on the road to prosperity is to pass state legislation and enact government policies that create a favorable business climate. A healthy business climate means jobs.
Putting people to work, and helping businesses to keep our citizens employed, will lead to a robust state economy.
The General Assembly can do its part to end this recession by refusing to impose massive tax increases and, instead, achieve meaningful cost savings by shrinking the size of state government. Republicans have proposed a responsible, workable, state budget that would accomplish this goal. More information about the state budget process is available by visiting the new Senate Republicans' interactive website at www.CTBudgetFacts.com.
As always, I hope you will continue to share your concerns about the issues discussed in this column, or any other state issue important to you. I can be reached at my legislative office in Hartford at 1-800-842-1421, or via e-mail to Rob.Kane@cga.ct.gov.
Senator Rob Kane represents the 32nd Senatorial District, which includes the communities of Bethlehem, Bridgewater, Middlebury, Oxford, Seymour, Southbury, Thomaston, Roxbury, Watertown and Woodbury.
What the roundtable participants had to say would come as no surprise to employers anywhere in Connecticut, or to the far too many people who have lost their jobs or have been forced to take pay cuts this year. To a person, every one of the more than a dozen business leaders at that meeting said that enacting state policies and laws that focus on creating and retaining jobs is the only way to turn around our economy. Increasing taxes would hurt, not help. After all, when people are not earning money and businesses are struggling to survive, who is going to pay these new taxes?
Sadly, not everyone in the General Assembly seems to understand the connection between reducing Connecticut's 7.5 percent unemployment rate and refraining from suggesting legislation and policies that frighten business owners into wondering whether they have a future in our state.
For example, included among the bills up for consideration this year was one that would have phased out the use of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) in certain products sold or distributed in Connecticut. One of the three major manufacturers of this very important flame retardant is Chemtura in Middlebury.
Proponents of the bill claim this chemical may be unsafe for people and the environment. However, the European Union, the federal Environmental Protection Agency, The National Academy of Sciences and the Consumer Product Safety Commission disagree. Furthermore, the National Institute of Standards and Technology is working with the National Association of State Fire Marshals and the International Association of Fire Fighters to evaluate this product.
Undoubtedly, the people who work at Chemtura were relieved when the second legislative committee to consider this bill rejected it. At the very least, the General Assembly ought to wait for the results of this latest study before considering any further action.
Nevertheless, just the fact this bill was on the table must have had a chilling effect on employers across the state. Proposals like this, along with the legislative Democratic majority's proposal to enact the largest single tax increase in state history - including the imposition of a 30 percent surcharge on corporate profits - is not the way to keep jobs in Connecticut.
Fortunately, the news is not all bad. Employers and their employees who are worried about harmful legislation and talk of massive tax increases should also be aware of ongoing efforts to help businesses in Connecticut. For example, earlier this year, the Connecticut Development Authority (CDA) approved a $2 million loan to revive a Watertown manufacturer. The loan is intended to help local managers of DriveSol Worldwide, Inc. to purchase machinery and intellectual property from its former parent company. When DriveSol closed its Watertown plant, 241 people lost their jobs. Plans to revive the company as Global Steering Systems could create 130 jobs.
I was pleased to play a role in helping Chemtura and supporting efforts to revive the former local DriveSol operation as the new Global Steering Systems. I remain committed to doing everything possible to help businesses thrive and grow in our state - and will continue to fight misguided proposals to fund our state budget by imposing punitive, job reducing taxes, on businesses and residents.
It has been said that we cannot tax our way out of a recession. The key to putting Connecticut back on the road to prosperity is to pass state legislation and enact government policies that create a favorable business climate. A healthy business climate means jobs.
Putting people to work, and helping businesses to keep our citizens employed, will lead to a robust state economy.
The General Assembly can do its part to end this recession by refusing to impose massive tax increases and, instead, achieve meaningful cost savings by shrinking the size of state government. Republicans have proposed a responsible, workable, state budget that would accomplish this goal. More information about the state budget process is available by visiting the new Senate Republicans' interactive website at www.CTBudgetFacts.com.
As always, I hope you will continue to share your concerns about the issues discussed in this column, or any other state issue important to you. I can be reached at my legislative office in Hartford at 1-800-842-1421, or via e-mail to Rob.Kane@cga.ct.gov.
Senator Rob Kane represents the 32nd Senatorial District, which includes the communities of Bethlehem, Bridgewater, Middlebury, Oxford, Seymour, Southbury, Thomaston, Roxbury, Watertown and Woodbury.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Senator Kane Urges Constituents To Check Out CTBudgetFacts.Com
Senator Rob Kane (R-32), a member of the General Assembly’s Appropriations Committee, is urging constituents to learn more about the state budget process by checking out the Senate Republican Caucus’s new user-friendly website at http://www.ctbudgetfacts.com/.
"In my opinion, it is more important than ever for everyone to understand the choices facing Connecticut as the General Assembly puts together a state budget for the next two years. Our challenge is to pass a responsible state budget that funds necessary government programs and services at a cost the taxpayers can afford. An important part of that task involves erasing the budget deficit. I urge everyone with internet access to learn more about the state budget process by checking out our new website," said Senator Kane.
Viewers can directly access the website at http://www.ctbudgetfacts.com/, or through a link on Senator Kane’s web page on the Senate Republican Caucus website at http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/. Features of the new CTBudgetFacts website include a welcome video by Senator Kane, an interactive budget presentation, a description of the various budget issues facing Connecticut now and in the future, and an explanation of the various budget proposals under consideration.
"The regular legislative session ends on June 3rd, and our new fiscal year begins on July 1st. Connecticut residents rightfully expect legislators to work together, and with Governor Rell, to pass a responsible budget. As always, I urge everyone to share their thoughts and concerns with me. I can be reached at my legislative office in Hartford at 1-800-842-1421, or by sending an e-mail to Rob.Kane@cga.ct.gov," said Senator Kane.
"In my opinion, it is more important than ever for everyone to understand the choices facing Connecticut as the General Assembly puts together a state budget for the next two years. Our challenge is to pass a responsible state budget that funds necessary government programs and services at a cost the taxpayers can afford. An important part of that task involves erasing the budget deficit. I urge everyone with internet access to learn more about the state budget process by checking out our new website," said Senator Kane.
Viewers can directly access the website at http://www.ctbudgetfacts.com/, or through a link on Senator Kane’s web page on the Senate Republican Caucus website at http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/. Features of the new CTBudgetFacts website include a welcome video by Senator Kane, an interactive budget presentation, a description of the various budget issues facing Connecticut now and in the future, and an explanation of the various budget proposals under consideration.
"The regular legislative session ends on June 3rd, and our new fiscal year begins on July 1st. Connecticut residents rightfully expect legislators to work together, and with Governor Rell, to pass a responsible budget. As always, I urge everyone to share their thoughts and concerns with me. I can be reached at my legislative office in Hartford at 1-800-842-1421, or by sending an e-mail to Rob.Kane@cga.ct.gov," said Senator Kane.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Monday, April 27, 2009
The NBA's Ryan Gomes & I Advocate for AED Legislation
Last week I was contacted by NBA superstar Ryan Gomes to help him garner support for two pieces of legislation which deal with the use of automatic external defibrillators. Ryan is a long time friend and I was happy to help him by co-sponsoring SB 981 AAC the Availability of Automatic External Defibrillators in Schools and SB 1089 AAC Automatic Defibrillators. Ryan grew up in Waterbury and played college basketball at Providence College. He was drafted by the Boston Celtics and after a trade last season now plays for the Minnesota Timberwolves.
As a way of background for those of you unfamiliar with AEDs, they are portable automatic devices used to restore normal heart rhythm to people having heart attacks. An AED consists of a small computer or microprocessor, electrodes, and electrical circuitry. If the heart is beating abnormally, the microprocessor recommends a defibrillating shock to restore a regular rhythm. The shock is delivered through adhesive electrode pads. These small machines can save lives. At a press conference on Thursday Ryan shared a personal story of a close friend in AAU basketball whose life could have been saved had there been an AED present at the Boys & Girls Club where they were playing.
SB 981 would require all schools to have at least 1 AED during/after school provided funding is available. It also allows schools to accept donations to buy defibrillators. This bill has passed in the Public Health, Education and Appropriations Committees.
SB 1089 addresses Good Samaritan immunity for an organization that provides the AED. There are already Good Samaritan Laws that protect the person who uses the AED. Passage of this bill will make it possible for youth sports leagues, churches, health clubs and businesses to acquire an AED without fear of liability.
Ryan has dedicated a great deal of time to this effort. The tragedy he witnessed motivated him to begin Hoops For Heart Health (http://www.hoopsforhearthealth.org/), his non profit foundation that addresses the issue of Sudden Cardiac Arrest in sports.
Hopefully this year with Ryan’s help we can pass these two important pieces of legislation.
As a way of background for those of you unfamiliar with AEDs, they are portable automatic devices used to restore normal heart rhythm to people having heart attacks. An AED consists of a small computer or microprocessor, electrodes, and electrical circuitry. If the heart is beating abnormally, the microprocessor recommends a defibrillating shock to restore a regular rhythm. The shock is delivered through adhesive electrode pads. These small machines can save lives. At a press conference on Thursday Ryan shared a personal story of a close friend in AAU basketball whose life could have been saved had there been an AED present at the Boys & Girls Club where they were playing.
SB 981 would require all schools to have at least 1 AED during/after school provided funding is available. It also allows schools to accept donations to buy defibrillators. This bill has passed in the Public Health, Education and Appropriations Committees.
SB 1089 addresses Good Samaritan immunity for an organization that provides the AED. There are already Good Samaritan Laws that protect the person who uses the AED. Passage of this bill will make it possible for youth sports leagues, churches, health clubs and businesses to acquire an AED without fear of liability.
Ryan has dedicated a great deal of time to this effort. The tragedy he witnessed motivated him to begin Hoops For Heart Health (http://www.hoopsforhearthealth.org/), his non profit foundation that addresses the issue of Sudden Cardiac Arrest in sports.
Hopefully this year with Ryan’s help we can pass these two important pieces of legislation.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Lawmakers Still Don't Grasp Magnitude of Crisis
The following appeared in Sunday's Waterbury Republican American 4/19/09
Connecticut's business owners and their employees understand their future depends to a large extent on the state budget adopted by the legislature this year. It is well past time for the legislature's Democratic leadership to realize it as well.As a small-business owner, I was dismayed when the majority unveiled its proposal to impose the biggest tax increase in Connecticut history. I hope there will be insufficient support in the legislature to impose a $3.3 billion increase in property, income and business taxes.Nevertheless, that the Democrats were even willing to put such a devastating plan on the table should send a chill down the spine of every business owner in Connecticut. Tax increases are always unwelcome, but when unemployment is at 7.4 percent, even half-hearted talk from legislators about punitive tax increases sends a powerfully negative message to businesses trying to survive.While Connecticut businesses decide between pay cuts and layoffs, legislative Democrats have turned to huge tax increases without any serious attempt to cut spending or streamline government.Recently, the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) released its economic analysis of proposals advanced by the legislature's Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee. The DECD analysis found imposing a 30 percent surcharge on corporate taxes and eliminating the sales-tax exemptions on computer and data-processing services could cost the state 2,670 jobs each year for the next 10 years. Under that scenario, the state's gross domestic product would decline by $344 million and personal income would drop by $250 million each year.I will do everything I can to convince my fellow legislators that passing a budget that includes punitive tax increases would plunge Connecticut into an even deeper recession. Meanwhile, judging from what we have seen so far, Connecticut's business owners, employees, taxpayers and families must be worried about exactly what kind of state budget the legislature will adopt. Whom will it help? Whom will it hurt? Does the legislature have the collective courage to reduce the size of state government? Cut spending? Control taxes?Connecticut's businesses and the workers who depend on them for their jobs need a clear, strong message from the legislature that its members are ready to work together, and with Gov. M. Jodi Rell, to pass a responsible state budget. Now.Republican legislators are and have been ready to help craft a state budget that encourages economic growth and provides necessary services at a cost taxpayers can afford. We owe it to the citizens who depend upon us to put aside partisan politics and pass a responsible state budget.Sen. Rob Kane, R-32nd District (rob.kane@cga.ct.gov), represents Bethlehem, Bridgewater, Middlebury, Oxford, Seymour, Southbury, Thomaston, Roxbury, Watertown and Woodbury.
Connecticut's business owners and their employees understand their future depends to a large extent on the state budget adopted by the legislature this year. It is well past time for the legislature's Democratic leadership to realize it as well.As a small-business owner, I was dismayed when the majority unveiled its proposal to impose the biggest tax increase in Connecticut history. I hope there will be insufficient support in the legislature to impose a $3.3 billion increase in property, income and business taxes.Nevertheless, that the Democrats were even willing to put such a devastating plan on the table should send a chill down the spine of every business owner in Connecticut. Tax increases are always unwelcome, but when unemployment is at 7.4 percent, even half-hearted talk from legislators about punitive tax increases sends a powerfully negative message to businesses trying to survive.While Connecticut businesses decide between pay cuts and layoffs, legislative Democrats have turned to huge tax increases without any serious attempt to cut spending or streamline government.Recently, the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) released its economic analysis of proposals advanced by the legislature's Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee. The DECD analysis found imposing a 30 percent surcharge on corporate taxes and eliminating the sales-tax exemptions on computer and data-processing services could cost the state 2,670 jobs each year for the next 10 years. Under that scenario, the state's gross domestic product would decline by $344 million and personal income would drop by $250 million each year.I will do everything I can to convince my fellow legislators that passing a budget that includes punitive tax increases would plunge Connecticut into an even deeper recession. Meanwhile, judging from what we have seen so far, Connecticut's business owners, employees, taxpayers and families must be worried about exactly what kind of state budget the legislature will adopt. Whom will it help? Whom will it hurt? Does the legislature have the collective courage to reduce the size of state government? Cut spending? Control taxes?Connecticut's businesses and the workers who depend on them for their jobs need a clear, strong message from the legislature that its members are ready to work together, and with Gov. M. Jodi Rell, to pass a responsible state budget. Now.Republican legislators are and have been ready to help craft a state budget that encourages economic growth and provides necessary services at a cost taxpayers can afford. We owe it to the citizens who depend upon us to put aside partisan politics and pass a responsible state budget.Sen. Rob Kane, R-32nd District (rob.kane@cga.ct.gov), represents Bethlehem, Bridgewater, Middlebury, Oxford, Seymour, Southbury, Thomaston, Roxbury, Watertown and Woodbury.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Oxford Office Hours
Representative David Labriola and I will be hosting office hours on May 18 from 6:30 to 8 pm. I encourage anyone with concerns or questions to stop by Oxford Town Hall that evening. We look forward to seeing you and providing whatever assistance we can. If you have any questions please contact my office at 860 240 0381.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Middlebury Office Hours Reminder
Just a reminder...
I will be holding office hours on Tuesday May 5, 2009 from 5 to 8 pm. Representative D'Amelio and I will be at the Shepardson Community Center Dining Room in Middlebury located at 1172 Whittemore Road. I encourage everyone to attend and look forward to seeing you there. If you have any questions please contact my office at 860 240 0381.
I will be holding office hours on Tuesday May 5, 2009 from 5 to 8 pm. Representative D'Amelio and I will be at the Shepardson Community Center Dining Room in Middlebury located at 1172 Whittemore Road. I encourage everyone to attend and look forward to seeing you there. If you have any questions please contact my office at 860 240 0381.
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Thursday, April 9, 2009
Senator Kane Participates In National Donate Life Month Event At State Capitol
Senator Rob Kane (R-32) recently joined constituents and other legislators at a National Donate Life Month event at the State Capitol. The event was organized by Donate Life Connecticut, a volunteer coalition of professionals, donor family members, and transplant recipients that are dedicated to educating the public about the life-saving benefits of organ and tissue donation.
“I was so moved by the stories I heard that day from people who benefited from the generosity of those who chose to save the lives of others when their own lives could not be saved. Deciding to become an organ and tissue donor is an act of kindness and, from my point of view, an expression of one’s belief that life is a precious gift to be shared,” said Senator Kane, adding that he is now making plans to register as an organ and tissue donor.
Those attending the event included David Yish, a 42-year old Oxford resident who is celebrating his second anniversary as a heart transplant recipient. He said that Oxford is among the communities in Connecticut flying a Donate Life flag in April as part of the national “Flags Across America” initiative to raise awareness of organ donation.
“I was truly blessed with a second chance at life on April 4, 2007 when I received my transplant at Hartford Hospital. Since then, I have returned to work full time, managed to improve my condition enough to run a few 5 K races, and I became involved with Donate Life Connecticut. Donate Life Connecticut gives me the opportunity to speak publicly about my transplant and, in some way, give back for all I have received. I genuinely appreciate that Rob came and expressed sincere support for our efforts on behalf of Organ, Eye, and Tissue donation,” said David Yish.
According to Donate Life Connecticut, there currently more than 101,000 patients on the national transplant waiting list, and 18 people die every day due to the shortage in organs. According to the organization, organ donation can occur with a deceased donor, who can give kidneys, pancreas, liver, lungs, heart, intestinal organs, or with a living donor who can give a kidney, or a portion of the liver, lung, intestine, or pancreas. Deceased donors can also give corneas, skin, bone and heart valves.
Further information about organ donation and becoming an organ donor is available at http://www.donatelifect.org/.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Office Hours
I will be holding office hours on Tuesday May 5, 2009 from 5 to 8 pm. Representative D'Amelio and I will be at the Shepardson Community Center Dining Room in Middlebury located at 1172 Whittemore Road. I encourage everyone to attend and look forward to seeing you there. If you have any questions please contact my office at 860 240 0381.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Stay Tuned
Updates on the weekly and monthly happenings of my office in Hartford and events all around the 32nd District are coming soon. I look forward to you feedback and support.
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