House Approves Small Business Concierge Bill

The state House passed legislation establishing a small business concierge at the Department of Economic and Community Development April 23.

HB 5467 passed the House on a 143-4 vote and now moves to the Senate for consideration. 
 
The bill creates a designated point of contact within DECD to help small and medium-sized businesses navigate state programs, grants, and economic development resources. 
 
Commerce Committee ranking member Rep. Chris Aniskovich (R-Clinton) said the bill is designed to make it easier for businesses to get timely and clear answers from the state.

“This is a good piece of legislation that will provide many of our small- and medium-sized businesses with a clear point of contact at DECD,” he said.

“That kind of direct access can help answer questions and address concerns business owners may have as they start, grow, or expand their operations in Connecticut.” 

Bipartisan Support

The bill has strong bipartisan support, with co-sponsors including Rep. Joe Gresko (D-Stratford), Rep. Michael Quinn (D-Meriden), Rep. John Santanella (D-Enfield), Rep. Farley Santos (D-Danbury), Rep. Kerry Wood (D-Rocky Hill), and Rep. Joe Zullo (R-East Haven).

CBIA supports the legislation, which reflects best practices already working within state government.

“This is a practical step that can help businesses make better use of existing resources and support continued economic growth.”

CBIA’s Pete Myers

The bill is modeled in part on the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s permitting concierge, which was created to help businesses and applicants navigate complex permitting requirements, coordinate across divisions, and better understand regulatory expectations upfront.  

Advocates note that DEEP’s concierge approach has improved transparency, responsiveness, and predictability for employers, and believe applying a similar model at DECD will help small businesses more efficiently access economic development programs and resources. 

“Creating a clear point of contact within DECD is a practical step that can help businesses make better use of existing resources and support continued economic growth,” said CBIA senior policy director Pete Myers.

---

For more information, contact CBIA’s Pete Myers (860.244.1921).