2008 General Assembly
concludes Wednesday, May 7

Lawmakers must finish well by 'doing no harm' to economy

(May 2, 2008) Despite a newly projected state budget deficit and the reality of a slowing Connecticut economy, legislators can still accomplish much this year — by “doing no harm” and avoiding actions that would delay tomorrow’s recovery or make today’s matters worse.

Lawmakers should apply fiscal restraint as they consider the state budget. Gov. Rell and Democratic leaders have already raised the possibility of making no changes to the second year of the biennial budget approved last year. And legislative Republicans have outlined an “do-something” budget that would cut state taxes and spending while making strategic increases in certain funding areas. In any case, it’s truly time for fiscal caution.

What’s more, lawmakers should also avoid imposing any new costs or mandates on Connecticut businesses. Several proposals still alive would weaken employers' ability to create or keep jobs, invest more in the state and help bring about an economic recovery.

Businesses need to be confident that state government will help them through the economic downturn and encourage them to make the investments needed for a robust recovery.

This week we review the most important business-related proposals remaining. Some merit approval. Others should be rejected because they fail this test: Will they help Connecticut’s businesses survive, or make it harder for them to compete? Connecticut'’s employers now await answers from state legislators.