Capitol News from State Senator Bob Duff

July 2009 Issue

Capitol address
Legislative Office Building
Room 2400
Hartford, CT 06106-1595

On the Web
www.SenatorDuff.cga.ct.gov

Phone
Capitol: 860-240-0414
Toll-free: 1-800-842-1420
Home: 203-840-1333

As legislative leaders and the governor continue their work on a state budget that meets the needs of all Connecticut residents, this update offers a money-saving tip, a word of thanks for a job well-done and some concerning news straight from Wall Street.

Executive Bonuses, Round Two?

photo of Senator Duff speaking at AIG-related press conference Earlier this month, reports surfaced that the American International Group, or AIG, is in talks with federal officials about a second round of executive bonuses. The insurance giant faced a firestorm after awarding $165 million in so-called “retention bonuses” this past spring after the company took more than $170 billion in federal bailout funds.

My Banks Committee co-chair, Representative Ryan Barry of Manchester, and I were quick to point out that this additional round of bonuses is no surprise; in fact, our committee uncovered several key findings during a hearing in March, not the least of which was that AIG planned to pay out an additional $451 million in bonuses over the next couple of years. We urged federal officials to ensure that any additional bonuses be paid out only for their intended purpose: to retain vital staff so that AIG can fulfill its obligation to repay the billions borrowed from American taxpayers.

Giving Credit Where It’s Due

Many times, we ask for things, but we don’t take the time to acknowledge good work, give credit where it’s due and say “thank you.” Earlier this month, I expressed my thanks to the state Department of Transportation for responding to several requests that benefit our community.

Responding to a request I made on behalf of constituents, the DOT worked to clean up graffiti on the Silvermine Avenue underpass of the Merritt Park in Norwalk. The DOT also took care of some deep potholes on the West Rocks Road Bridge. Finally, the DOT responded very quickly to my request that the mowing schedule on our highway ramps — which had been reduced to save money — be revisited to ensure that overgrown grass does not obstruct drivers’ line of sight and pose a public safety hazard.

Electric Choice Can Equal Savings

energy graphic While CL&P is Norwalk and Darien’s utility company, consumers across the State of Connecticut have the right to choose who they actually buy electricity from. Since the legislature enacted electric choice, more than 177,000 customers have chosen their electric supplier and experienced savings on their electric costs. That, however, only represents about 11.5 percent of all Connecticut’s electric customers.

While our summer has been relatively mild so far this year, it’s likely to heat up, and shopping for electricity can save money not only during summer months but all year round. Learn more about choosing an electric supplier and contact one of the many licensed electric generation service providers to see how shopping for electricity could equal savings in your home energy costs.

Taking Part in the Health Care Debate

Late last month, I took part in the health care debate underway in our state and country and spoke at the SoNo Library's Speak Up for Health Care forum.