Senate Leadership
July 17, 2006
Statement of State Senate President Donald E. Williams, Jr.,
re: Governor Rell's proposals on energy prices
"The legislature will hold an important fact-finding hearing this Thursday to help develop options that we can take as a state to have a better, more dependable energy future. There have been a series of forums sponsored by House and Senate leadership this spring and summer which may lead to a special session to build on the initiatives the legislature has already passed.
"I share Governor Rell's frustration at the lack of a national energy policy, and the dismal record of the Bush administration. We have seen massive benefits for the oil companies and higher prices for the consumer.
"In Connecticut we have taken significant steps in the past two years to move the state forward, including last year's Energy Independence Act which provides incentives for increased power generation and alternative energy, and this year's tax breaks for consumers who invest in conservation measures which help reduce energy bills.
"I look forward to the governor's more detailed energy recommendations that have been promised in the next two weeks, however, I am concerned by some of what she is proposing. For example, the proposed cut in the gross receipts tax would not guarantee a reduction in the price at the pump for gasoline--it would likely be tax relief for the oil companies who would pocket the difference. It would also cut the revenues that have been earmarked for mass transit and other transportation initiatives that will help us reduce our dependence on foreign oil in the future.
"We should not follow the Bush administration's lead and provide tax relief for the oil companies while leaving consumers with no long-term energy solution."
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Senator Williams’ Larry Cook |
Listing of Leadership’s recent press releases. |
Senator Looney’s Larry Cook |
