Insert graphic here:
width: 175px
height: 64px
 |
|||||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
Jan. 22, 2002 The Connecticut Business & Industry Association (CBIA) is calling on the legislature to help speed Connecticut's economic recovery when the General Assembly goes back into its regular session on February 6. "Our economy is struggling compared to just a year ago," says Kenneth O. Decko, CBIA's president and CEO. "That's why state government should take steps to encourage economic growth and job creation during this session." Chief among those steps, Decko says, is keeping the cost of doing business here competitive with the cost in other states. "Connecticut made significant progress over the last decade to reduce the costs of doing business and produce a far more competitive business climate," he says. "However, many business costs are still much higher than in the states we compete with, and some of the costs that we stabilized, such as workers' compensation and health care, are again rising quickly and dramatically." CBIA is calling for the General Assembly to reject any measures that would further drive up the costs of health care benefits. Increased costs are making it more difficult for employers to provide this important benefit, particularly as their profits decline as a result of the recession. Connecticut's energy situation is also a priority for the upcoming General Assembly session. "State policy regarding energy must ensure the reliability of power at reasonable prices for all consumers," Decko adds. CBIA is emphasizing that state energy policy must also address Connecticut's transmission issues and foster a competitive marketplace. Transportation continues to be a top priority for the association this session. CBIA supports the efforts of the newly created Transportation Strategy Board and the Bradley Airport Board of Directors to create a strategic plan to upgrade our transportation systems. "The health of Connecticut's economy is related to our ability to move goods and people efficiently throughout the state," says Decko. Technology and education and training also continue to be important factors in helping Connecticut remain competitive, CBIA says. "Our ability to develop a highly skilled workforce is critical to our ability to compete in this global economy," Decko says. Finally, the association is urging state development officials to continue their efforts to improve access to, and delivery and marketing of, the state's economic development efforts. Media wishing to attend the event should contact Nancy Andrews, CBIA media relations manager, at 860-244-1957 or andrewsn@cbia.com. 350 Church
Street · Hartford, CT 06103-1126 · cbia.com/newsroom
|
 |
© Copyright 2003 Connecticut Business & Industry Association, cbia.com. All rights reserved. |
 |
