HOUSE DEMOCRATS • CHRISTOPHER G. DONOVAN • STATEMENTS

Statements

November 11, 2009

SPEAKER DONOVAN: HEALTH CARE LEGISLATION LONG OVERDUE

“Saturday marked a historic day for our country. For the millions of American families who suffer without access to health care and the millions of small businesses who struggle under the weight of high health care costs—this day was long overdue.

“I applaud the leadership of President Obama, the Democrats in the House, and especially the hard work of our Connecticut Congressional delegation—U.S. Representatives Joe Courtney, Rosa DeLauro, Jim Himes, John Larson and Chris Murphy.

“I am confident that the Senate will build on this momentum and pass comprehensive reform so that Connecticut can position itself to take advantage of new initiatives in the new legislative session.”

October 27, 2009

STATEMENT FROM HOUSE SPEAKER CHRISTOPHER G. DONOVAN (D-MERIDEN) ON MOODY’S REPORT

“We all should be concerned with the Moody’s report and we need to work together to address longer-term structural holes in the state’s finances. We can take some comfort in the fact that our bond rating remains excellent, even as we just begin to emerge from the most difficult recession in decades.

“I am somewhat perplexed by Governor Rell’s letter in which she criticizes the major component of her own budget proposals – borrowing and securitization.

“Unlike the Governor, Democrats did not walk away from the budget but passed legislation that maintains needed services during very difficult times. We will continue to do what’s necessary for economic recovery. We take that responsibility seriously.”

October 22, 2009

SPEAKER DONOVAN ENCOURAGED BY GOVERNOR’S COMMITMENT OF STATE FUNDS
FOR NEW HAVEN-HARTFORD-SPRINGFIELD LINE

“I congratulate Governor Rell on today’s announcement that $26 million in state bond funding will be committed to the development of the New Haven-Hartford-Springfield rail line. We’ve long said the state needs to make this kind of commitment for a project that means so much to our economic, environmental and transportation future.

“With a big assist from our Congressional delegation, there have been encouraging signs in recent months that this project finally is gaining some traction. The design for double-tracking portions of the line is an important step in the process, and today’s announcement sends an important message about the state’s commitment to moving the project forward.

“I am encouraged that we are a bit closer to our vision for a solution to major transit shortcomings in this vital economic and transportation corridor.”

October 15, 2009

TWITTER SUSPENDS FAKE ACCOUNTS SET UP BY STATE GOP;
PARODY DEFENSE WRONG IN TWITTER RULES VIOLATION
Accounts “Impersonating” House Democrats Violate Twitter Rules

Twitter yesterday agreed with House Democrats that fake accounts set up by the State Republican Party violated their rules and has suspended 32 accounts created by the State GOP impersonating members of the House Democratic Caucus. In all, 34 accounts have now been removed from circulation by Twitter.

Several weeks ago, the State Republican Party began creating fake Websites in the names of members of the House Democratic Caucus (i.e., meetchrisdonovan.com) and featuring fake Twitter accounts in members’ names. According to the Republican Party chairman, the accounts “were set up legally and by the rules set down by Twitter” to “tell the truth” about the profiled member.

Twitter disagreed, called the fake accounts “impersonation,” and removed all of the fake accounts from circulation.

“Impersonation is a violation of the Twitter Rules, under Content Boundaries and Use of Twitter,” wrote a Twitter customer support representative. “A person may not impersonate others through the Twitter service in a manner that does or is intended to mislead, confuse, or deceive others. Impersonation is against our terms unless it’s parody. The standard for defining parody is, ‘Would a reasonable person be aware that it’s a joke?’

“Because this is not the case in your situation, we have removed the profile(s) from circulation.”

“It’s hard to claim you’re telling the truth when you’re breaking rules and operating under false pretenses,” House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden) said. “I am sorry we had to spend even five minutes on this issue, at a time when the people of Connecticut and our economic challenges deserve our full attention. Parody can be flattering. Impersonation is wrong. Some have called their efforts ‘innovative.’ I would call them deceptive and dishonest.

“Our members are proud of their records and the reputations they have established. Improper impersonation is a matter to be taken seriously. The real truth here is that rules were broken and a policy was violated.”

October 5, 2009

SPEAKER DONOVAN RESPONSE TO GOVERNOR’S VETO OF HOUSE BILL 7006

“I was disappointed, though not surprised, to learn that the Governor has vetoed legislation that would have helped small business incubators, protected the Judicial Department from potentially damaging budget cuts, and extended a moratorium on the privatization of residential facilities for our most vulnerable citizens.

“These issues deserved to be debated. I am very worried about what happens to the families who depend on these facilities. I am also concerned that the Judicial Department may be forced to close courthouses, causing unnecessary delays and backlogs in an already stressed system and hurting the communities in which they reside.”

September 25, 2009

STATEMENT OF SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE CHRISTOPHER G. DONOVAN RE:
GOVERNOR’S PLEDGE TO VETO REVENUE BILL

I am disappointed Governor Rell has decided to veto what is in reality her own proposal.  The governor proposed the fee hikes at DMV as well as increased fares on commuter rail and bus passengers.  We chose the least harmful of her ideas, a two dollar per year increase to driver’s license renewals to pay for things she wanted added back to the budget.

Connecticut needs the governor’s leadership, not these bizarre rejections of her own ideas.

September 18, 2009

STANDING UP FOR CONNECTICUT

By Christopher G. Donovan

Tough times call for honest leadership.

The global financial crisis presented Connecticut with one of its most daunting economic challenges ever. The crisis was not of our own making, but the solution became our responsibility.

Today, Connecticut has a fair and responsible budget, one that demands shared responsibility, protects our most vulnerable families, provides needed services in distressed times, and positions our state to participate in the recovery that is beginning to show signs of life.

That’s because Democrats in the General Assembly stepped up, spoke the truth from the beginning, and made the difficult decisions a crisis requires.

Thanks to our willingness to bend, but not break, courthouses remain open; digital resources, the Internet and book loan services remain offerings at our public libraries; the HUSKY program has been protected; students are continuing their educations at charter and magnet schools; seniors and disabled individuals can get basic dental care; and children are reaping the benefits of Family Resource Centers and day care centers.

Thanks to our refusal to take no for an answer, we were able to overcome the Republican propensity for protecting the rich. Because we were able to arm twist the Governor into agreement, millionaires in our state are part of the solution – a policy, by the way, supported by more than two in three Connecticut voters according to a recent Q Poll. Even so, individuals earning $600,000 a year ($12,000 a week) will only have to contribute an additional $30 a week. We don’t think that’s too much to ask.

We made cuts that we don’t like – Democrats cut three billion dollars from the budget – and we borrow more than we’d prefer to, but only because the Governor was unwilling to ask more of the wealthiest in our state to contribute.

Our cuts are strategic and fair, rather than targeting seniors, the disabled, and working families as the Governor’s and Republicans’ budgets did. It was stunning to see the breadth and depth of the Governor’s proposed cuts. In really bad times, broad cuts are the simple but wrong answer, leading to more lost jobs and a weakening of the economy. Proposals from the Republicans were make believe and not seriously considered by Democrats or the Governor.

We refused to accept spending reductions that put the state’s future growth at risk or imposed even more economic hardship on those in our communities who can least afford it.

Looking back, Democrats argued from day one that Governor Rell conveniently underestimated the real deficit by $2.7 billion, allowing her to avoid difficult choices and to persist in the deception to families in Connecticut that the budget could be balanced without raising taxes.

Finally, after an unnecessary five-month delay and only through the force of law, the Governor acknowledged the true deficit and agreed that taxes, including a progressive income tax, would need to be part of the budget solution.

In the end, Governor Rell completed what she started. She began by walking away from the most pressing economic crisis in our lifetimes in her inaugural budget message on February 4. Seven months later, she ran away from her responsibilities and a solution she helped craft.

Republicans in the legislature simply disappeared. In the past, simple majorities were difficult to achieve on tough budgets. Democrats in the House and Senate overwhelmingly supported this budget.

The Democrat-led budget will stimulate our economy, ensure continued competitiveness, protect our most vulnerable, clean our environment, protect jobs, advance healthcare for everyone, and position Connecticut for growth. Our times call for strong and decisive leadership. I am grateful to my fellow Democrats for answering that call.

The budget is not perfect; no budget is. It is, however, honest, fair, and responsible. We made tough choices. We did what’s right and necessary. We weren’t afraid to stand up for Connecticut.

Christopher G. Donovan is Speaker of the House and a Democratic state representative from Meriden.

September 17, 2009

SPEAKER DONOVAN: BUDGET MANDATES PROTECTIONS FOR MUNICIPALITIES

Speaker of the House Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden) said today that the budget passed two weeks ago by Legislative Democrats “mandates funding protections for cities and towns” and said municipalities and school construction projects will be protected in next week’s budget implementer session.

“Democrats voted on and passed a budget that maintains funding for cities and towns, and that also protects non-profits and social service agencies at a time when their services are more needed than ever,” he said. “We’ll continue to do the hard work required to help Connecticut through these difficult economic times. School construction projects will be funded, and funding for municipalities will be maintained.”

He added, “We’re happy to listen to suggestions, but only Democrats put their names on the budget with their votes – a budget that provides the funding that municipalities are relying upon. We don’t intend to abandon them now.”

September 16, 2009

STATEMENT OF SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE CHRISTOPHER G. DONOVAN RE: Q POLL

"During especially tough times it is not unusual to see a range of public opinion.  I am encouraged, however, by the vast majority of people who agreed with legislative Democrats that the wealthiest in our state need to be part of the budget solution.

"Many also believe the Governor abandoned her responsibilities by refusing to act on the budget.  I’ve spent the past two days at our public libraries and Family Resource Centers and I can tell you the people there do not believe we abandoned them.  In fact, the staff, parents and others who need and use these resources thought we passed a terrific budget."

September 1, 2009

STATEMENT OF SPEAKER DONOVAN ON STATE BUDGET

“Thanks to the leadership of Democrats in the House and Senate, the people of Connecticut today have a fair and balanced budget that will move the state forward.

“Though I was disappointed to hear the Governor make such disparaging remarks about our work together, which is not helpful as we move forward, we should all be pleased that she had the wisdom to allow this budget to become law.

“In doing so, she has agreed with us that a millionaires’ tax is important, that those who are able to will do their part to solve our budget challenges.

“Given some of the dramatic cuts that she had proposed in earlier budgets, I am also pleased that we are able to protect the people of Connecticut from cuts to job creating programs, education, health and human services programs, culture and tourism, programs for children and healthcare for our seniors, among many others.

“With respect to her intention to line item veto portions of the amendment introduced last evening, I would only say those items were agreed to by the Governor’s office. That was a negotiated amendment that had the blessing of her office, and included important programs for children and jobs creation.”

August 6, 2009

STATEMENT BY SPEAKER DONOVAN ON REPUBLICAN BUDGET

“The Republican leadership is far behind. I don’t see anything new in their proposal. They seem to be pushing themselves away from the negotiating table.

“Democrats and the Governor are coming closer together. Even the Governor agrees that taxes are needed. The Republican leadership is clearly in conflict with the Governor.

“A budget that only cuts programs and services imposes cruel hardships on Connecticut’s middle class, poor citizens, vulnerable and struggling families.

“Governor Rell’s budget includes a tax and revenue package of more than $800 million. She still protects the wealthiest among us, however. Democrats are asking those who can to pay an extra $20 a week to help us out. We look forward to sitting with the Governor to close the gap and agree on a budget for all Connecticut residents.”

July 10, 2009

SPEAKER DONOVAN STATEMENT ON POTENTIAL STIMULUS FUNDS
FOR NEW HAVEN TO SPRINGFIELD RAIL LINE

“Connecticut must apply for federal stimulus funds to develop the New Haven to Springfield rail line. I’ve been in regular contact with the Connecticut delegation and DOT Commissioner Marie and stand ready to do everything I can to help move this important economic development and environmental project forward. Our future is riding on it.”  

July 5, 2009

OPENING STATE PLAN WILL SAVE MONEY

By Christopher G. Donovan

Anthem Blue Cross announced this past week that it wants to raise individual insurance policy rates by as much as 32 percent.

With the bargaining power of bulk purchasing for 200,000 lives, the state employee health plan has been able to keep premium increases for individuals in the Anthem program to an average of only 4.6 percent over the past three years.

It's no wonder, then, that small businesses, municipalities and nonprofits support the Connecticut Healthcare Partnership, which was passed by the General Assembly this session and awaits the governor's signature. It is a health care reform plan that provides good health care insurance at lower costs and the choice to join the state health plan.

It's also why President Barack Obama talks about a public health care option at the federal level.

The Connecticut Healthcare Partnership is bold — it starts us on the path of truly reforming our state's broken health care system by establishing Connecticut's own public insurance option.

It's creative — it uses resources already in place to streamline health care purchasing for our cities and towns, the nonprofits that supply vital services to our communities and the small employers that will ignite our economic recovery.

Finally, it's fiscally responsible — it will provide immediate relief for the state budget — to the tune of $80 million in savings in the fiscal year that began Wednesday, plus hundreds of thousands of dollars in savings for small businesses and cities and towns.

Health care really is becoming unaffordable. Ever-rising premiums are taking a financial toll on Connecticut's families. Small employers are struggling to afford health insurance for themselves, let alone their employees. More frequently business owners are cutting benefits or employee coverage altogether because of cost. As taxpayers, we all foot the bill.

The partnership will introduce savings from self-insuring the state employees' health plan, as most large employers already do, so the state can start spending fewer of its scarce dollars on insurance policies and apply them directly to cost-saving care.

It would also create a bulk-purchasing structure, allowing small employers that have difficulty negotiating affordable insurance coverage the option of pooling together under the state employee plan. Like shopping at a wholesale store, bulk purchasing of health care saves consumers money by allowing them to take advantage of improved buying power and reduced overhead costs.

Opening the state employee plan will bring financial relief to the small enterprises our economy relies on — allowing them to provide their employees with good health care at good prices, stretch their dollars further and attract talented people to grow their organizations.

The partnership bill will improve access to insurance for many — but not all Connecticut residents. It is intended to work in concert with the SustiNet Plan, which provides a framework for creating additional coverage options with the goal of covering 98 percent of the state's population.

Like any bold initiative, the partnership has its critics, and many of them happen to sell health insurance. They have big stakes in preserving the status quo — which drove Connecticut premiums up 8.2 times faster than wages from 2000 to 2007. This plan will bring a healthy dose of cost-saving competition to the private insurance market and drive costs down.

Naysayers would suggest we do nothing but sit back and wait for the federal government to fix health care. Fortunately, the Connecticut Healthcare Partnership and SustiNet will make Connecticut "Obama-ready" — prepared to implement national initiatives and take full advantage of new health care dollars.

Connecticut has the opportunity to lead the nation in health care reform. We have the chance to make a real difference in the lives of thousands of Connecticut families, and in the fortunes of small businesses across the state. We cannot ignore this opportunity to implement bold, creative reform.

Christopher G. Donovan, D- Meriden, is speaker of the state House of Representatives.

Copyright © 2009, The Hartford Courant

May 30, 2009

SPEAKER DONOVAN STATEMENT ON GOV. RELL CRITICISMS

“Democrats in the legislature are working night and day to protect the very same people the Governor is willing to sacrifice in order to protect the wealthy,” House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden) said.

“We just learned on Thursday that the Governor wants to close technical schools in Stamford and Bristol, six courthouses in Manchester, Derby, Meriden, Putnam, Norwalk and Bristol, a DMV office in New Britain, eliminate funding for libraries, for people with disabilities, for young people who want to go to college, and cut funding for job training.

“We won’t do that.

“For a day, she wanted to close parks across the state, but then she changed her mind. She said she wouldn’t borrow, but she’s put $2 billion on the state credit card.

“All of this is new, and there is much more that we still don’t know.

 “Isn’t it time for the Governor to sit down and talk with us, to put everything on the table, to be productive? While she’s issuing press releases that insult the people she needs to negotiate with, Democrats have been passing comprehensive healthcare reform, paid sick days for workers, and bills that protect children and consumers.

“Isn’t it time for Governor Rell to work with us to craft a budget that is fair to all of Connecticut’s families?

“We’re ready to sit down with her. I hope she’ll join us.”

May 30, 2009

SENATE JOINS HOUSE IN PASSING HEALTHCARE BILLS;
SPEAKER DONOVAN SAYS ACTION PUTS STATE NEARER
TO REFORMS TO HELP CONNECTICUT FAMILIES

“Tens of thousands of people in Connecticut deserve access to affordable, quality healthcare,” Speaker Donovan said. “We owe it to them give them that access. The time for healthcare reform in this country and in Connecticut is long overdue. Today, we are one step closer to remedying that.
 
“Connecticut took another major step toward becoming a national leader in healthcare reform as the state Senate joined the House of Representatives in passing two important pieces of healthcare reform legislation.

“President Obama is pushing to enact sweeping, national healthcare reform, and the Congress is expected to consider those reforms as early as this summer. Now, the Connecticut legislature has made a loud and clear statement that we will be Obama-ready.

“I commend Senator Harris, Senator Williams, Senator Crisco and others who joined with their colleagues in the House of Representatives in passing he Connecticut Healthcare Partnership and SustiNet Plan bills. We have given new hope to families across Connecticut that healthcare assistance may be on the way.”

May 30, 2009

SPEAKER DONOVAN STATEMENT ON SPECIAL SESSION

In April, the Appropriations Committee put forward a draft Democratic budget for the biennium to jumpstart negotiations with the Governor. After some delay, those negotiations have ensued and are continuing. Just this week, Governor Rell put a supplemental budget on the table that gives all of us a much clearer picture of the work we have to do to produce a balanced budget that is fair to all families in Connecticut.

It is for that reason that we voted to call a special session of the House following conclusion of the regular session on June 3.  Negotiations are progressing, but it is clear that we may need additional time beyond June 3 to reach consensus on a budget that protects the people of Connecticut, positions the state for recovery, and ensures that people across the state share the responsibility for addressing our economic challenges. We remain hopeful that we can reach agreement by June 3 and are ready to do whatever is needed to get there, but we also have to be prepared to go beyond June 3 if necessary.

May 8, 2009

HOUSE SPEAKER DONOVAN SAYS LABOR AGREEMENT PROTECTS PUBLIC SERVICES AND HELPS ADDRESS STATE BUDGET CRISIS

House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden) today praised the state’s public service workers for voting overwhelmingly to support an agreement with the state that “makes a valuable contribution to reducing the state’s budget deficit while protecting services the public sorely needs and expects in these troubled times.”

Speaker Donovan said, “If you look to the past when our state has faced daunting economic challenges, our state employees have always recognized their obligation to make significant sacrifices and contributions. They’ve done so again today, in a voice that is loud and clear. We can be comforted with the knowledge that public services so many in our state rely upon will continue to be provided uninterrupted. Once again, our state employees have done the right thing.”

April 23, 2009

SPEAKER DONOVAN: SAME SEX MARRIAGE BILL PROTECTS CIVIL AND RELIGIOUS RIGHTS; HELPS END DISCRIMINATORY LANGUAGE IN CT LAWS
Applauds Governor for Signing Landmark Legislation

House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden) today called the same sex marriage legislation passed by the General Assembly on Wednesday notable for the civil rights protections it offers Connecticut couples and families and for the protections it offers for religious freedom.

He also said an important component of the legislation is that it helps to end discriminatory language in a number of Connecticut laws.

Speaker Donovan thanked Governor M. Jodi Rell for signing the bill into law today, following legislative action yesterday that codified the Connecticut Supreme Court decision to guarantee equal protection under the Constitution of the State of Connecticut for same sex couples.

“This bill, signed into law today, protects the separation of church and state, protects the civil liberties of same sex couples, protects the rights of religious organizations, and respects the religious beliefs of all Connecticut citizens,” Speaker Donovan said.

“I think the General Assembly, and now the Governor, passed strong, sensible and important legislation in a difficult atmosphere where emotions and tensions have run high. I am proud of the elevated level of discourse we heard last evening, and believe we have proven once again that Connecticut is a leader on the critical issues of the day.”

April 17, 2009

SPEAKER DONOVAN MOVES TO EXPEDITE
PURSUIT OF HIGH SPEED RAIL FUNDS
Will Convene Working Group to Plan Application for Funds;
Calls on Governor to Allocate Money for Planning and Design

House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden), a vigorous champion of improved commuter rail service along the I-91 corridor between New Haven and Springfield, today said Connecticut “has a rare opportunity to make this long-anticipated project a reality” thanks to the announcement yesterday of a  $13 billion stimulus package by President Barack Obama.

He called on Governor M. Jodi Rell to schedule the next Bond Commission meeting for next month and allocate $30 million for planning and design work, and said he will convene a high-level working group to plan “the best and most thorough application” for a share of the stimulus funds. He said the working group would also investigate how the environmental review of the project, now scheduled for completion early in 2010, could be expedited.

Public Act 06-136 authorized the Governor to bond out up to $1 billion for various transportation projects, including the Springfield-New Haven line. As of now, there is more than $800 million unallocated.

“Senator Dodd, along with members of the state Congressional delegation, has done a tremendous job in Washington fighting for this project for Connecticut,” Speaker Donovan said. “Now we at the state level must do our part to secure these funds for a project that will give Connecticut a tremendous economic boost.”

“It is absurd that one of the major transportation corridors in the Northeast is without high speed commuter rail,” he added. “We simply have to make the most of the opportunity now before us.”

Speaker Donovan said he will ask the Governor to direct commissioners of the Departments of Transportation and Environmental Protection to join the working group. He said Amtrak officials will be asked to participate, as will other stakeholders.

He said the working group also would coordinate with officials in Massachusetts to make application for the federal dollars. Connecticut and Massachusetts will compete with nine other regions across the country for a share of the $8 billion designated for high speed rail initiatives.

April 6, 2009

HOUSE SPEAKER DONOVAN SAYS SEBAC ‘FRAMEWORK’ WILL HAVE POWERFUL IMPACT ON BUDGET CRISIS AND OFFER PROTECTION OF PUBLIC SERVICES
Commends Negotiators for Recognizing Urgency in Talks

House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden) welcomed the announcement by state employee union leaders and Governor M. Jodi Rell today of a framework for an agreement as “hopeful news that will have an immediate and powerful impact on Connecticut’s ability to manage the current budget crisis and that will offer the public protection for the services they expect.”

Speaker Donovan said, “I have always maintained that state employees are willing to make a meaningful contribution to the state’s financial challenges, as they have done consistently in the past. The proposed  labor cost savings are a clear signal that our state employees are willing to share in the responsibility of helping Connecticut navigate through these troubled times, as all of us must.”

“This is a significant step forward in making sure the important work these front line employees do in terms of providing public services will be protected,” Speaker Donovan added. “I know I speak for House Democrats in the General Assembly, as well as for many people across the state, in thanking the union leadership for their diligence and sacrifice in coming to agreement on this framework,” Speaker Donovan added.

“I also commend Governor Rell and her negotiating team for recognizing the urgency of completing these negotiations.”

Speaker Donovan cautioned that the deal is not yet completed, and called on both sides to continue with the hard but necessary steps to reach final agreement within the next week.

March 13, 2009

SPEAKER DONOVAN: GOVERNOR RELL IS WRONG
ABOUT OFF-BUDGET ACCOUNTS
Disappointed with Governor’s Unwillingness to Work with Legislature

House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan (D- Meriden) said he is disappointed with the Governor’s unwillingness to cooperate and work with the legislature to solve the fiscal crisis.

Speaker Donovan said Governor M. Jodi Rell’s contention that “far less” than $220 million is available in off budget accounts is “flat out wrong.”

“The Governor was unaware of these hidden accounts from the start,” Speaker Donovan said. “We did the hard work to find these savings, and the status of many of them is still being concealed by the administration. The officials assigned by the Governor to ‘help’ the Appropriations Committee review the off-budget accounts have not worked with the Appropriations Committee chairs. Instead they have come to their own conclusions about these funds. We are pleased to see that they have found tens of millions of dollars in savings, and we are confident we will be able to find significantly more.”

Speaker Donovan added, “Statements of this kind are counterproductive to the kind of bipartisan solutions we need to help the people of Connecticut through this economic crisis. We hope the governor will take her lead from the House Republicans who worked with us to achieve a unanimous, bipartisan budget mitigation bill just two weeks ago.

“We have no intention of wiping out stem cell research funding or the Soldiers’, Sailors’ and Marines’ Trust account. It is interesting that the Governor makes a significant cut in the Soldiers’, Sailors’ and Marines’ Trust account in her biennial budget, and that she proposed cutting that account in her December mitigation proposal.

“In terms of cuts, Democrats initiated a $20 million cut in excess Connecticut Development funds that the Governor rejected in the February deficit mitigation legislation, and she turned down another $10 million of her own party’s recommended cuts in deputy commissioners and wardens.”

March 2, 2009

SPEAKER DONOVAN SAYS TIME IS RIGHT FOR HEALTHCARE PARTNERSHIP
Questions Assertions of OPM Secretary Genuario: They Don’t Make Sense

House Speaker Christopher G. Donovan (D-Meriden) told a legislative committee that passage of the Connecticut Healthcare Partnership this year is “an important step toward our goals of saving state dollars, providing relief to municipalities and the small businesses and non-profits we rely on, and expanding access to high quality affordable healthcare options.”

Donovan made his remarks at a public hearing of the Insurance and Real Estate, Human Services and Public Health Committees of the General Assembly at the Legislative Office Building today.

Speaker Donovan championed a similar bill a year ago, where it passed both the House and Senate but was vetoed by Governor M. Jodi Rell. At the time, the Governor indicated her willingness to have further discussions on the legislation. Since mid-January, the Speaker and Lieutenant Governor Michael Fedele have been meeting regularly to discuss health care initiatives, including the Connecticut Health Care Partnership.

Responding to criticisms of the bill expressed today by Office of Policy and Management Secretary Robert L. Genuario, Speaker Donovan said, “The Secretary’s assumptions just don’t make sense. The Governor’s own choice to give us advice on restructuring government, David Osborne, makes a strong case for the benefits of healthcare purchasing pools. The non-partisan Office of Fiscal Analysis and the State Comptroller’s Office both have expressed the opinion that a self-insured healthcare pooling plan could save the state tens of millions of dollars in the next few years.”

Beyond those savings, Speaker Donovan said, are savings that could be realized by municipalities that are hurting from the economic downturn. “Given the changes our state has experienced in the past year, the time is even more right for municipalities to be given the chance to participate in this kind of plan,” he said.

As far as Secretary Genuario’s contention that Connecticut’s small businesses are largely able to meet the needs of their employees’ health care needs, Speaker Donovan said, “That’s not what I’m hearing from small business owners. In fact, what I’m hearing is quite the opposite – that an inability to provide affordable, quality health care is the single biggest obstacle to attracting talented people, keeping people employed and growing their businesses.”

October 21, 2008

GOVERNOR’S DEFICIT MITIGATION PLAN

“Connecticut must act swiftly, but wisely to deal with the current budget crisis. The governor’s proposal appears solid, but we must analyze the specifics.  The Appropriations and Finance Committees will hold hearings on November 18th on the most recent revenue projections and the governor’s deficit mitigation plan. House leadership is committed to moving forward and working with Governor Rell as we prepare for special session on November 24th.”

August 28, 2008

WELCOME HOME HEATING RELIEF

By Christopher G. Donovan

When we think about five dollar-per-gallon heating oil, it’s scary – but it looks like a reality this winter.  How can a family on a budget deal with this kind of increase?  Families and seniors are looking at skyrocketing home heating costs and are asking for help.  The legislature worked through the night to make sure no one freezes this winter, crafting a comprehensive home heating relief package.

After a turbulent year where we saw a huge surplus disappear entirely.  We had a happy surprise this summer when revenue numbers rebounded and we expect to end 2008 $75 million dollars in the black.  The House, Senate and the governor immediately went to work to make sure that money would provide relief to seniors and families this coming winter.

Our solution is multi-pronged in its approach. We provide financial relief, incentives to conserve as well as reforms to protect consumers.  For instance, we allocated $13.5 million to Operation Fuel for direct assistance to households with incomes from $31,000- $93,821, changed the consumer protection laws to make sure that oil companies honor their prepaid and capped fuel oil contracts and increased rebates for fuel-efficient furnaces.

To delve further into the relief you can expect, we allocated $8.5 million to Operation Fuel for assistance to households with incomes greater than 150% but less than 200% of the federal poverty level – this home heating assistance includes deliverable fuel, electricity and natural gas.  We also allotted $5 million to expand Operation Fuel’s assistance to households greater than 200% of the federal poverty level but equal to or less than 100% of the state median household income (up to $93,821).  Recognizing the plight of some of our most vulnerable citizens, $4 million was included specifically for seniors. 

Other highlights of our heating assistance plan include:

• $7 million for the furnace/boiler replacement or upgrade program and for the installation of insulation or alternative energy devices

• $2 million for weatherization programs through the Department of Social Services

• $7 million to subsidize the cost of an energy audit to households that heat by means other than natural gas or electricity (currently the program is free to those households but cost $300 to all other households)

• $6.5 million for local and regional school districts to heat school buildings

In addition, the legislature created a $35.5 million energy contingency account for future needs, including special help for households with electric heat.  These funds supplement federal dollars to the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program.

Applying for our home heating aid is simple. Residents should call 2-1-1 or the state’s energy hotline at 800-842-1132.

Hopefully, the November elections will usher in a new era in Washington where the new President, unlike George W. Bush, will craft an energy policy that looks out for all of us instead of just Big Oil.  Until then, the state is standing ready to help its citizens get through a cold and costly winter.

Christopher G. Donovan serves as Majority Leader of the Connecticut House of Representatives.  He represents the 84th Assembly District of Meriden.

June 13, 2008

GOVERNOR’S VETO OF CT HEALTHCARE PARTNERSHIP

“I am very disappointed at this missed opportunity for real health care relief. House and Senate Democrats voted to let others share in the same health care plan that the legislature and governor enjoy. Sadly, Governor Rell has decided to block small businesses, municipalities and non-profits from saving money while receiving good health care.

The information the governor used to reach her decision is wrong – she was swayed by threats and numbers from the insurance companies and not the comprehensive analysis that we provided.  I was always open to discussing the legislation with the governor and I will work with her in the future to ease her concerns.  Unfortunately, her veto means small businesses, non-profits and municipalities must wait another year for relief while their health care costs continue to go through the roof.” 

April 25, 2008

PASSAGE OF CRIME BILL

“Our goal has always been to put violent criminals behind bars for as long as possible, not make election year headlines. We did not bend to the ‘sound bite’ proposals that were thrown at us.  Instead we worked directly with the state’s prosecutors and criminal justice experts to craft a solution that will send violent offenders to prison and keep them there.  I am very confident that the governor will stand with Democrats and Connecticut’s prosecutors and sign this legislation.”

“Strong laws are only effective if you have the tools and manpower to get the job done.  Our bill includes $10 million in new funding for prosecutors, increased GPS tracking, state police, parolee supervision, and parole officers to make sure we have enough feet on the pavement and tools in the toolbox to strengthen our criminal justice system. Additionally, prosecutors have told us that our proposal will allow them to significantly reduce the number of plea bargains that often result in lighter sentences.”

March 28, 2008

QUALITY CARE AT NURSING HOMES

By Christopher G. Donovan

Quality care at our state’s nursing homes should be the rule, not the exception.  Unfortunately we have read stories about money intended for seniors funneled to Nashville or seen TV news segments of patients being neglected.  It is sad, and it is preventable.  We have all had family members who have spent time in a nursing home at one time or another and we know the fears and doubts that hit when you entrust a loved one to another’s care.

For years we have been fighting the battle to boost staffing levels at all nursing homes to no avail.  This year we have a breakthrough - an agreement to increase funding for nursing homes for the purpose of raising the current statutory minimum staff-to-resident ratio.

Our proposal would increase the mandated staff-to-resident ratio from the current level of 1.9 hours of care per day to 4.2 hours of care per day. This targets substandard nursing homes, not the many facilities that already provide top-notch care.

Governor Rell provided no increase for nursing homes in her budget.  The House and Senate majorities have said stepped up to add $9.5 million for the fiscal year beginning July 1st to increase staffing. This is an issue that impacts families across the state and it certainly deserves more attention form the state’s chief executive, than say…banning billboards.

Under the plan, increased nursing home staffing requirements would be phased in over the course of a year.   Staffing level requirements haven’t been updated in 25 years so a remedy is long overdue. Our proposal means more quality time between staff and patients – which is good for residents and eases stress on family members who entrust their loved ones to nursing homes.

The new ratio will equate to at least one full-time nurse’s aide for each five residents during the day, one aide per 10 residents in the evening and one aide per 15 residents during the overnight shift.

There are currently 240 nursing home facilities in the state serving approximately 27,000 patients. The National Citizens Coalition for Nursing Home Reform recommends a standard of 4.13 hours of care per resident day.  Our changes would positively impact an estimated 134 homes when fully implemented.

This is a solution that would never have been achieved without the hard work of Democraticlegislators as well as a broad coalition of nursing home advocates including the Connecticut Citizens Coalition for Nursing Home Reform, the national Center for Medicare Advocacy and the New England Health Care Employees Union District 1199.

As someone who once worked as anorderly in a nursing home, I know how important it is for staff to spend time with patients.  This is an issue that demands attention. Our most vulnerable citizens are counting on us.

Christopher G. Donovan serves as Majority Leader of the Connecticut House of Representatives.  He represents the 84th Assembly District of Meriden.

January 25, 2008

CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM IS MORE THAN BUMPER STICKER SLOGANS

By Rep. Christopher G. Donovan

Violent criminals should be behind bars. Repeat violent criminals should remain behind bars.  It was a long and complicated journey to achieve this bumper-sticker policy of “lock them up and throw away the key.” But, for us, it was more than a bumper sticker slogan.  It was about the primary role of government – protecting its citizens.

The legislature’s Judiciary Committee, led by Rep. Mike Lawlor and Sen. Andrew McDonald heard from police, prosecutors, victims, and judges – anyone who could add perspective to the debate – before crafting a comprehensive solution. The result, wide-ranging changes to the penal code, the parole system, victim services and the information systems used by criminal justice agencies.

During our special session, the legislature passed this top-to-bottom review of our state’s criminal justice system recognizing that residents have the right to feel safe in their own homes.  Our reforms strengthen the entire system and give law enforcement the tools they need to protect the public from violent criminals.

Included in the legislative package is the establishment of a new crime of “home invasion” that makes the burglary of an occupied residence a Class A felony punishable by a 25-year sentence.  It also classifies all residential burglaries as “violent,” which requires that a minimum of 85 percent of the sentence be served.  The legislation also establishes a new, modern electronic communications system for each of the state’s criminal justice agencies to immediately share vital files about convicts and creates the requirement that the Board of Pardons and Parole cannot act upon a parole decision unless they have the complete file of the convict, including police reports, pre-sentence investigations, sentencing transcripts, and prison, parole and probation files.

In addition, the legislation strengthens the state’s “three strikes” law by making it easier for prosecutors to seek, and for judges to impose, life sentences for a third conviction of violent crimes.

Some of the other items in the legislation include the requirement of GPS supervision for an additional 300 high-risk offenders, the requirement for the Department of Corrections to contract new sex offender treatment beds, the modification of the membership of the Board of Pardons and Parole to full-time status, and the appropriation of additional funds for re-entry and diversionary services.

It is a comprehensive solution to what seemed like a simple task – locking up the worst of the worst.  But we found we also had to give law enforcement workable tools.  We had to make sure our prison system wasn’t overwhelmed.  We had to make sure prisoners who are released from prison were monitored.  We gave prosecutors the tools they need to put criminals behind bars and citizens the peace of mind to feel safe in their homes.

Christopher G. Donovan serves as Majority Leader of the Connecticut House of Representatives.  He represents the 84th Assembly District of Meriden.

January 23, 2008

APPROVAL OF LANDMARK CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORMS

“Violent criminals should be behind bars. The legislature has crafted a bill that ensures the dangerous criminals go to jail and remain behind bars.  Our three-strikes provision provides law enforcement with the tools it needs to prosecute criminals and lock them up for a long time.” 

November 30, 2005

PASSAGE OF CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM

“Almost 230 years ago, the founding fathers took a huge risk when they signed the Declaration of Independence and set the wheels in motion for the world’s greatest democracy. Today, this historic campaign finance reform legislation reaffirms that this is a government for the people, not special interests. This campaign finance reform bill is our declaration of independence. We can look our constituents in the eye and say we created the strongest campaign laws in the United States.”

November 16, 2005

GOVERNOR’S VETO OF CONTRACTING BILL

“Her veto makes one wonder whether the Governor truly wants to address the problems with state contracting that sent her predecessor to jail. She objected to privatization standards being part of the bill. I have news for her, privatization is contracting. We are all trying to work to improve public confidence in government. The Governor just made our job a lot harder.”

May 31, 2005

HOUSE PASSAGE OF STEM CELL RESEARCH BILL

In 1960, John F. Kennedy opened a speech by saying, ‘We stand today on the edge of a new frontier…’ Every once in a great while we do indeed stand on the edge of a new frontier. Today, we have the opportunity to invest in research that has the potential to find cures for crippling, chronic and even terminal diseases.

This chamber has the opportunity to open the door for groundbreaking medical research and send a message to biotech firms that Connecticut welcomes responsible research.

The bottom line is results – we stand at the cusp of cures for diabetes, Parkinson’s Disease and many others – these are results of which I would be very proud.

April 28, 2005

HOUSE PASSAGE OF MINIMUM WAGE BILL

If we are a society that supports work, we must support working people. It is our responsibility to update the minimum wage.

April 13, 2005

HOUSE PASSAGE OF CIVIL UNION BILL

It is my belief that civil unions will become law.

A friend and former colleague once told me that he loved saying the Pledge of Allegiance every day at the Capitol, “…because it ends with, ‘liberty and justice for all.’”  I am very proud of the General Assembly for its bipartisan support of civil unions.  Connecticut is taking a stand for liberty, justice, fairness and equality.

This bill is a giant leap forward in providing equal rights of all Connecticut citizens.