The stage has been set for Connecticut’s 2022 legislative session, which will begin on Feb. 9. Here’s what you need to know as it gets started.
The session will be held virtually and possibly in-person
Lawmakers will hold public hearings and most meetings only by video conference during the first month of session due to COVID-19. Senate President Martin Looney and House Speaker Matt Ritter said the remote-only policies will be reviewed again at the end of February.
The legislative leaders said in a joint statement that the hearings and meetings will be held on Zoom and “members of the public will once again be able to testify remotely from the safety and convenience of their home.”
Gov. Lamont has unveiled his first legislative proposals
Gov. Ned Lamont released his first package of legislative proposals. It includes a series of tax cuts that will provide approximately $336 million in relief for Connecticut residents.
The governor said that he’s proposing the tax cut package as the state is projecting an operating surplus of $1.48 billion, which will enable a significant reduction in the one-time revenues built into the enacted budget. It will also continue to ensure the state has a strong rainy day fund.
It’s an election year
Connecticut residents will be voting for their General Assembly representatives and governor on Nov. 8. While the election takes place after the session concludes on May 4, the looming election will certainly be a consideration for lawmakers during the session.
Gov. Lamont is running for re-election, and Republicans Bob Stefanowski and Susan Patricelli Regan have declared their candidacy to run against him.