From the president

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Connecticut employees trust you

By John R. Rathgeber

CBIA President and CEO

You might be surprised to learn that people across Connecticut have many of the same concerns as you and other employers: They think the state’s most important issues are taxes and spending, economic growth and job creation, education, and health care, according to a random survey of Connecticut residents, conducted for CBIA by Zogby International, a leading public opinion research firm.

You should also be pleased to know that most of the people surveyed said they trust their employers as brokers of information on public policy issues affecting their jobs.
Employers sometimes hesitate to talk to their employees about political issues, but this finding of the Zogby poll should encourage them to do just that. The legislature will soon be considering many issues affecting Connecticut businesses’ ability to compete profitably and provide good jobs for state residents.

During the upcoming legislative session, which will run from Feb. 6 through May 7, legislators will adjust the current two-year state budget, making changes in state spending and possibly taxes. This year, we also expect that the legislature will consider proposals on health care, education and other economic issues. Legislators need — and want — to hear not only from employers but also their employees about the impact proposed legislation will have on Connecticut businesses. I urge you to talk about the issues with your employees and encourage them to contact legislators.

CBIA will keep you informed about the issues and new developments as they happen during the session. In the meantime, please see Page 4 for the highlights of our “2008 Government Affairs Program.” The complete plan is available at cbia.com/gov.