Anti-privatization bill vetoed

(March 17, 2006) Gov. M. Jodi Rell has vetoed a bill that would make it nearly impossible for state agencies to contract with Connecticut businesses to deliver certain services

HB-5684 dictated such overly restrictive contracting standards and procedures that it ruled out the option of the state using private contractors, and thereby eliminated an important tool for making sure that Connecticut taxpayers get the most value for their tax dollars.

The governor said the bill’s requirement that private companies under contract to the state pay wages and benefits at least equal to those that would be paid to state employees doing the same work made the measure impossible for her to sign.  

According to the governor’s office, companies now doing work for the state in such typical realms as printing, laundry, security and office supplies, employ an estimated 300,000 people.

CBIA opposed the bill, believing that the state needs the flexibility to provide the best services at the best prices for the citizens of Connecticut.

For more information, contact CBIA’s Eric Brown at 860-244-1900 or browne@cbia.com.