Bonding package still elusive; another special session this week

(Sept. 26, 2007) State lawmakers and Gov. Rell continue to work on a bonding package for significant statewide projects, but they have not yet resolved their differences.

Last week, the legislature approved a $3.2 billion bonding package that included funding for projects such as immediate transportation improvements and a 10-year commitment to upgrade the campuses of the Connecticut State University system.

But at the end of the week, Gov. Rell vetoed the package because she said the borrowing would be “simply unaffordable for the people of Connecticut.” She said it sends the message “That state government cannot control state spending.”

She then called for a special session of the legislature to be held Wednesday, Sept. 26, to approve school construction bonds for projects already under way.

On Wednesday morning, lawmakers opened the special session but immediately adjourned without taking any action. CBIA will provide updates on the legislature as it continues to work on the bond package.

The bond package approved last week authorized spending over two years for projects ranging from sewage treatment plants to $1 billion worth of improvements over 10 years to the Connecticut State University campuses.

Lawmakers also passed an additional $850 million in bonding for transportation initiatives and $550 million for clean water projects, for a total approximate package of $4.6 billion over two years.