Fasano on Budget Proposal: It’s Our Obligation to Stop It

The following press release is courtesy of Sen. Len Fasano's office. 

Hartford, CT - Senator Len Fasano joined the Republican Senate Caucus in voting No against the majority party budget proposal early Tuesday morning.  The final vote tally was 19 to 17. Three Senate Democrats joined the Republicans in voting down the largest tax increase in state history. 

“It is ironic that the Governor can travel the state and say he is willing to work with everyone, but he couldn’t even walk across the aisle to include Republican ideas,” said Senator Fasano.

In his Inaugural Address Governor Malloy stated, ‘We will need to solve our problems together – by pursuing with great urgency not Republican ideas or Democratic ideas, but good ideas that know no political master or agenda.’   “I guess that was just lip service,” added Senator Fasano.

Republicans listened to constituents concerns at a number of Town Hall Meetings.  The consistent message at those meetings was ‘Don’t raise our taxes and cut state spending.’

Governor Malloy went on his own listening tour but he didn’t listen, raising taxes on middle income families and businesses at a time when they can least afford it.

“With more than 9.0 percent unemployment in Connecticut, what do we do? We raise taxes to grow government,” said Senator Fasano. “It’s our obligation to stop this incredible tax increase and to protect the people of Connecticut.  It’s easy to push through legislation when there is one party rule. While our budget wasn’t perfect, we didn’t raise taxes to the tune of $3 billion over two years like the Governor did.”

Highlights of the largest tax hike in state history include:

• Higher income tax
• Sales tax increases from 6 percent to 6.35 %
• Raises tax on cigarettes from $3 to $3.40 per pack
• Alcohol excise tax is increased to 20%
• Property tax credit is lowered to $300 
• Clothing and footwear under $50 will be taxed
• Nonprescription drugs
• Pet grooming services
• Yoga studios
• Automotive storage
• Limousine services
• Automotive towing services
• Manicures and pedicures
• Airport valet parking services
• Cosmetic surgery services and spa services
• Diesel taxes increase by three cents per gallon
• 7 % luxury tax on cars $50,000, boats $100,000, jewelry $5,000, clothing $1,000.
• "Amazon tax" for online purchase
• Corporation tax increased from 10 to 20 %

The House later approved the tax increase package, but there are still $2 billion in union concessions unaccounted for in this budget. It will be the Governor’s responsibility to come up with a proposal to make up for any gap left after negotiations.  The legislature is then required to approve, or reject the plan. The session does not end until June 8th. 

Republican state Sen. Len Fasano represents East Haven, North Haven and Wallingford.