Amy Morrin Bello

I am pleased to have supported the $46.4 billion biennial state budget approved by the House of Representatives and the State Senate, that includes a $2.3 billion surplus which is expected to help jumpstart the economy, provide support for nonprofits, protect working families and invest in cities and towns, without new taxes.

As a freshman legislator, I have listened to my constituents about their priorities including, strengthening our economy and protecting our working families. I am grateful to my colleagues on the Finance and Appropriations Committees who worked tirelessly to bring forward a bill that helps our residents and supports our municipalities.

Beginning July 1, 2022, for FY 2022 under the Education Cost Sharing formula, Wethersfield will receive $11,540,764, and in FY 2023 $12,196,352.

In addition, Wethersfield will receive $266,038 in PILOT funds in both fiscal years, as well grants under the Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan Fund, Non-Education Aid and Adult Education aid for a total town aid of $11,989603 in FY 22 and $12,645,429 in FY 23.

Our communities, including small businesses, families, students, frontline workers, essential and non-essential employees all have felt the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in different ways. I am proud of the work we put into this budget that delivers the resources needed to turn the corner and move toward a much brighter future for all.

Provisions in the budget bill that include:

• Tax relief for restaurants and allowing certain businesses to keep 13.6% of the 7.35% sales tax they collect on sales of meals and beverages for FY 22
• An increase in the state's earned income tax credit to 30.5% of the federal credit
• Expanding workforce training to get people back to work
• Fully funding debt-free community college
• Relief for arts, culture and tourism