Sen. Needleman Approves 3-Month Gas Tax Holiday, Another Sales-Tax Free Week
Over $100 million in tax savings for CT residents
HARTFORD – On a day when regular gasoline prices hovered around $4 a gallon across Connecticut, state Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) voted today to cut Connecticut’s gas tax by 25 cents a gallon for the next three months – saving Connecticut motorists an estimated $90 million between now and June 30.
Sen. Needleman also voted today to create a second sales-tax free week on clothing and shoes valued at under $100 to take place in April; the move is expected to save Connecticut consumers $3 million.
Today’s vote also saves Connecticut commuters an additional $8.1 million providing free public bus service transportation in Connecticut through June 30.
“Anyone who’s driving or shopping right now is feeling some pain in the wallet,” said Sen. Needleman. “It’s important for us to do what we can to provide relief. I’m glad we are approving these steps that will benefit residents across the state. I plan to continue working with my colleagues to find more ways to potentially ease current challenges.”
Sen. Needleman approved the combined $101.3 million in savings for Connecticut residents today by joining the bipartisan vote for House Bill 5501, “AN ACT SUSPENDING CERTAIN GAS TAXES AND SALES AND USE TAXES ON CERTAIN CLOTHING AND ALLOCATING FUNDS FOR FREE PUBLIC BUS SERVICES.” The bill had passed the House of Representatives earlier in the day and now heads to Governor Ned Lamont for his signature into law.
House Bill 5501 requires retail gas dealers to reduce their pump prices by 25 cents per gallon or face charges of unfair or deceptive trades practices. The $90 million gas tax cut will not affect Connecticut’s General Fund budget – which is now enjoying a $1.7 billion surplus – or its record-setting $3 billion Rainy Day Fund; the money will only affect the state’s Special Transportation Fund, where gasoline taxes are routinely deposited
The April sales tax holiday on clothing under $100 is designed to provide families with economic relief in the face of rising inflation, and it will be in addition to Connecticut’s annual tax-free week on apparel that traditionally takes place in August. Under sales-tax free week, clothing and shoes with retail prices under $100 will be exempt from the state sales tax of 6.35%.
Items included in the sales tax holiday include socks, hats, belts, blouses, diapers, dresses, employee uniforms, cress or work gloves, golf jackets and shirts, jeans, sweat suits, underwear, jackets, scarves, many types of shoes, sleepwear and swimsuits. Items that remain taxable include specialty boots for fishing, mountain climbing, skiing and firefighting; specialty gloves including athletic, garden, golf, tennis and rubber gloves; handbags; headbands; ice skates; martial arts attire and sports uniforms and helmets; safety equipment; specialty shoes including ballet, bicycle, bowling, football, golf, track and jazz shoes; ski pants; wallets; and wet suits.
Sen. Cohen Approves 3-Month Gas Tax Holiday, Another Sales-Tax Free Week
Sen. Cohen Approves 3-Month Gas Tax Holiday, Another Sales-Tax Free Week
Over $100 million in tax savings for CT residents
HARTFORD – On a day when regular gasoline prices hovered around $4 a gallon across Connecticut, state Senator Christine Cohen (D-Guilford) voted today to cut Connecticut’s gas tax by 25 cents a gallon for the next three months – saving Connecticut motorists an estimated $90 million between now and June 30.
Sen. Cohen also voted today to create a second sales-tax free week on clothing and shoes valued at under $100 to take place in April; the move is expected to save Connecticut consumers $3 million.
Today’s vote also saves Connecticut commuters an additional $8.1 million by providing free public bus service transportation in Connecticut through June 30.
“I have been hearing from neighbors and business owners about the impacts of these recent gasoline price spike to their wallets and bottom lines. We needed to act fast, and due to a hearty Rainy Day Fund that has met its cap, we have surplus to allow for some solutions,” Sen. Cohen said. “I am happy that we can provide immediate relief with the suspension of the gas tax for three months. I expect that motorists will see lower prices the first week in April. Additionally, we were able to provide families with another sales-tax free week, which has been widely popular, as well as give bus commuters free rides through the end of the fiscal year on June 30. While I think we should continue to put our heads together and seek further relief, altogether, this will amount to over $100 million in savings for Connecticut residents.”
Sen. Cohen approved the combined $101.3 million in savings for Connecticut residents today by joining the bipartisan vote for House Bill 5501, “AN ACT SUSPENDING CERTAIN GAS TAXES AND SALES AND USE TAXES ON CERTAIN CLOTHING AND ALLOCATING FUNDS FOR FREE PUBLIC BUS SERVICES.” The bill had passed the House of Representatives earlier in the day and now heads to Governor Ned Lamont for his signature into law.
House Bill 5501 requires retail gas dealers to reduce their pump prices by 25 cents per gallon or face charges of unfair or deceptive trades practices. The $90 million gas tax cut will not affect Connecticut’s General Fund budget – which is now enjoying a $1.7 billion surplus – or its record-setting $3 billion Rainy Day Fund; the money will only affect the state’s Special Transportation Fund, where gasoline taxes are routinely deposited
The April sales tax holiday on clothing under $100 is designed to provide families with economic relief in the face of rising inflation, and it will be in addition to Connecticut’s annual tax-free week on apparel that traditionally takes place in August. Under sales-tax free week, clothing and shoes with retail prices under $100 will be exempt from the state sales tax of 6.35%.
Items included in the sales tax holiday include socks, hats, belts, blouses, diapers, dresses, employee uniforms, cress or work gloves, golf jackets and shirts, jeans, sweat suits, underwear, jackets, scarves, many types of shoes, sleepwear and swimsuits. Items that remain taxable include specialty boots for fishing, mountain climbing, skiing and firefighting; specialty gloves including athletic, garden, golf, tennis and rubber gloves; handbags; headbands; ice skates; martial arts attire and sports uniforms and helmets; safety equipment; specialty shoes including ballet, bicycle, bowling, football, golf, track and jazz shoes; ski pants; wallets; and wet suits.
Senator Needleman Takes Action to Ease Restrictions Against Access to Absentee Ballots
Senator Needleman Takes Action to Ease Restrictions Against Access to Absentee Ballots
Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex), joined Senate Democrats in voting to ease restrictions against access to absentee ballots, making it easier for residents to participate in elections by that method. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, absentee ballots have provided a safe and simple way for residents concerned for their health to cast ballots; today’s vote on House Bill 5262 solidifies their options to do so.
“This bill simply makes sure more folks who have reasons to vote absentee – sickness, caregiving, working out of town on Election Day – can do so,” said Sen. Needleman. “Absentee ballots should be more accessible, and by passing this legislation, we help more folks access them.”
House Bill 5262, “An Act Revising Certain Absentee Voting Eligibility Statutes,” expands two of the six reasons why qualified voters can participate in an election via absentee ballot. Under the bill, qualified voters may vote by absentee if they are unable to appear in person because of “sickness,” instead of their own illness, and due to “physical disability,” instead of their own physical disability. The bill also allows voters to cast ballots via absentee if they are unable to appear at their polling place due to absence from the town they are registered to vote in, updating language allowing that reason only in cases where a voter is absent during all hours of voting.
The bill also modifies language to apply reasons for voting absentee to qualified voters who are unable to appear at their polling place during the day of an election, primary or referendum, expanding current language that only applies to those unable to appear during all hours of voting on that day.
The changes this legislation provides will be in place permanently.
Sen. McCrory Votes to Ensure Outdoor Dining Can Continue Without Interruption Through 2023
Sen. McCrory Votes to Ensure Outdoor Dining Can Continue Without Interruption Through 2023
Today, State Senator Doug McCrory (D-Hartford, Bloomfield and Windsor) joined in passing legislation ensuring outdoor dining, a practice that grew in popularity during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic allowing restaurants to safely offer their services, will continue without interruption through 2023. In doing so, an initial target for municipalities to allow outdoor dining in perpetuity was shifted from this year to 2023, a precaution taken due to the continued uncertainty posed by rapidly shifting pandemic dynamics.
“Restaurants were among the hardest-hit businesses by the COVID-19 pandemic and outdoor dining provided them a lifeline to keep their doors open. Even more, it allowed restaurants to stay in business while reducing the risk of infection for both their customers and employees,” said Sen. McCrory. “I’m proud to support this continued flexibility for outdoor dining because it will help restaurants chart a path forward in recovering from the financial impact of the pandemic.”
House Bill 5271, “An Act Concerning The Provision Of Outdoor Food and Beverage Services and Outdoor Displays of Goods,” extends laws passed last year to allow the continuation of outdoor dining and retail activities initially authorized during the pandemic. Those laws are extended through April 30, 2023. On May 1, 2023, businesses seeking to continue outdoor dining operations would need to seek local approval.
Studies and surveys show that outdoor dining as an option has shown strong benefits for restaurants and demand for restaurant patrons. The National Restaurant Association reported in October 2021 that, as the Delta variant spread across the United States in early fall 2021, nearly 10% more restaurants offered outdoor dining than in prior months. Restaurants found that outdoor dining comprised a significant swath of sales – 60% of restaurants saw at least 21% of sales coming from outdoor dining – and 71% of full-service restaurants saw increased customer demand for outdoor seating.
Outdoor dining is a valuable tool to aid restaurants as the pandemic continues to cause tumult in the industry. As of March 2021, more than 10% of restaurants in the United States had closed permanently, impacting millions; flexible options like outdoor dining allow businesses to diversify their offerings and appeal to cautious diners. Many downtown and central areas of towns saw outdoor offerings bring new foot traffic and interest as well.
Sen. Hartley Votes to Ensure Outdoor Dining Can Continue Without Interruption Through 2023
Sen. Hartley Votes to Ensure Outdoor Dining Can Continue Without Interruption Through 2023
Today, State Senator Joan Hartley (D-Waterbury, Middlebury and Naugatuck), joined in passing legislation ensuring outdoor dining, a practice that grew in popularity during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic allowing restaurants to safely offer their services, will continue without interruption through 2023. In doing so, an initial target for municipalities to allow outdoor dining in perpetuity was shifted from this year to 2023, a precaution taken due to the continued uncertainty posed by rapidly shifting pandemic dynamics.
“Outdoor dining has been a vital tool for restaurants across the greater Waterbury region in staying afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic, while taking precautions to protect the health of employees and customers” said Sen. Hartley. “This continued flexibility for restaurants to have outdoor dining will afford them a greater chance to recover profit losses caused by the pandemic and scale-up their businesses during these next few warmer months.”
Studies and surveys show that outdoor dining as an option has shown strong benefits for restaurants and demand for restaurant patrons. The National Restaurant Association reported in October 2021 that, as the Delta variant spread across the United States in early fall 2021, nearly 10% more restaurants offered outdoor dining than in prior months. Restaurants found that outdoor dining comprised a significant swath of sales – 60% of restaurants saw at least 21% of sales coming from outdoor dining – and 71% of full-service restaurants saw increased customer demand for outdoor seating.
Outdoor dining is a valuable tool to aid restaurants as the pandemic continues to cause tumult in the industry. As of March 2021, more than 10% of restaurants in the United States had closed permanently, impacting millions; flexible options like outdoor dining allow businesses to diversify their offerings and appeal to cautious diners. Many downtown and central areas of towns saw outdoor offerings bring new foot traffic and interest as well.
Senate Ensures Outdoor Dining Can Continue Without Interruption Through 2023
Senate Ensures Outdoor Dining Can Continue Without Interruption Through 2023
Today, Senate Democrats passed legislation ensuring outdoor dining, a practice that grew in popularity during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic allowing restaurants to safely offer their services, will continue without interruption through 2023. In doing so, an initial target for municipalities to allow outdoor dining in perpetuity was shifted from this year to 2023, a precaution taken due to the continued uncertainty posed by rapidly shifting pandemic dynamics.
“Outdoor dining provided a vital resource during an extremely challenging time for restaurants, and I’m happy to see it continuing,” said State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex). “It allowed restaurants to provide service safely during the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some diners may still be more comfortable eating out, not to mention that many communities have seen increased activity in town centers and downtowns; it’s a valuable practice we can continue.”
House Bill 5271, “An Act Concerning The Provision Of Outdoor Food and Beverage Services and Outdoor Displays of Goods,” extends laws passed last year to allow the continuation of outdoor dining and retail activities initially authorized during the pandemic. Those laws are extended through April 30, 2023. On May 1, 2023, businesses seeking to continue outdoor dining operations would need to seek local approval.
Studies and surveys show that outdoor dining as an option has shown strong benefits for restaurants and demand for restaurant patrons. The National Restaurant Association reported in October 2021 that, as the Delta variant spread across the United States in early fall 2021, nearly 10% more restaurants offered outdoor dining than in prior months. Restaurants found that outdoor dining comprised a significant swath of sales – 60% of restaurants saw at least 21% of sales coming from outdoor dining – and 71% of fullservice restaurants saw increased customer demand for outdoor seating.
Outdoor dining is a valuable tool to aid restaurants as the pandemic continues to cause tumult in the industry. As of March 2021, more than 10% of restaurants in the United States had closed permanently, impacting millions; flexible options like outdoor dining allow businesses to diversify their offerings and appeal to cautious diners. Many downtown and central areas of towns saw outdoor offerings bring new foot traffic and interest as well.
Sen. Osten Approves 3-Month Gas Tax Holiday, Another Sales-Tax Free Week
Sen. Osten Approves 3-Month Gas Tax Holiday, Another Sales-Tax Free Week
Over $100 million in tax savings for CT residents
HARTFORD – On a day when regular gasoline prices hovered around $4 a gallon across Connecticut, state Senator Cathy Osten (D-Sprague) voted today to cut Connecticut’s gas tax by 25 cents a gallon for the next three months – saving Connecticut motorists an estimated $90 million between now and June 30.
Sen. Osten also voted today to create a second sales-tax free week on clothing and shoes valued at under $100 to take place in April; the move is expected to save Connecticut consumers $3 million.
Today’s vote also saves Connecticut commuters an additional $8.1 million by providing free public bus service transportation in Connecticut through June 30.
“I know the residents and businesses of eastern Connecticut have been hammered in recent weeks by gas prices that we haven’t seen in a decade and a half. Something had to be done, and quickly, even if it was just for a few months before gas prices can hopefully come off these historic highs. Now it’s up to local gas stations to lower their prices by 25 cents a gallon beginning April 1,” Sen. Osten said. “I’m also pleased to support the creation of another sales-tax free week in Connecticut for millions of dollars of savings on clothing, and also to allow for free public bus service throughout the state. Connecticut is in great financial shape, and if ever there was a time to give people a break, it’s now.”
Sen. Osten approved the combined $101.3 million in savings for Connecticut residents today by joining the bipartisan vote for House Bill 5501, “AN ACT SUSPENDING CERTAIN GAS TAXES AND SALES AND USE TAXES ON CERTAIN CLOTHING AND ALLOCATING FUNDS FOR FREE PUBLIC BUS SERVICES.” The bill had passed the House of Representatives earlier in the day and now heads to Governor Ned Lamont for his signature into law.
House Bill 5501 requires retail gas dealers to reduce their pump prices by 25 cents per gallon or face charges of unfair or deceptive trades practices. The $90 million gas tax cut will not affect Connecticut’s General Fund budget – which is now enjoying a $1.7 billion surplus – or its record-setting $3 billion Rainy Day Fund; the money will only affect the state’s Special Transportation Fund, where gasoline taxes are routinely deposited
The April sales tax holiday on clothing under $100 is designed to provide families with economic relief in the face of rising inflation, and it will be in addition to Connecticut’s annual tax-free week on apparel that traditionally takes place in August. Under sales-tax free week, clothing ad shoes with retail prices under $100 will be exempt from the state sales tax of 6.35%.
Sen. Slap Approves 3-month Gas Tax Holiday, Additional Sales-Tax Free Week
Sen. Slap Approves 3-month Gas Tax Holiday, Additional Sales-Tax Free Week
Over $100 million in tax savings for CT residents
HARTFORD – On a day when regular gasoline prices hovered around $4 a gallon across Connecticut, state Senator Derek Slap (D-West Hartford) voted today to cut Connecticut’s gas tax by 25 cents a gallon for the next three months – saving Connecticut motorists an estimated $90 million between now and June 30.
Sen. Slap also voted today to create a second sales-tax free week on clothing and shoes valued at under $100 to take place in April; the move is expected to save Connecticut consumers $3 million.
Today’s vote also saves Connecticut commuters an additional $8.1 million providing free public bus service transportation in Connecticut through June 30.
“With prices increasing all around us, we need to act and provide relief for folks in our state,” said Sen. Slap. “I’m glad we are taking action to lessen pain at the pump and keep more money in families’ wallets. I plan to continue working with my colleagues to find more solutions and continue to aid members of the public.”
Sen. Slap approved the combined $101.3 million in savings for Connecticut residents today by joining the bipartisan vote for House Bill 5501, “AN ACT SUSPENDING CERTAIN GAS TAXES AND SALES AND USE TAXES ON CERTAIN CLOTHING AND ALLOCATING FUNDS FOR FREE PUBLIC BUS SERVICES.” The bill had passed the House of Representatives earlier in the day and now heads to Governor Ned Lamont for his signature into law.
House Bill 5501 requires retail gas dealers to reduce their pump prices by 25 cents per gallon or face charges of unfair or deceptive trades practices. The $90 million gas tax cut will not affect Connecticut’s General Fund budget – which is now enjoying a $1.7 billion surplus – or its record-setting $3 billion Rainy Day Fund; the money will only affect the state’s Special Transportation Fund, where gasoline taxes are routinely deposited. The Transportation Fund recently received additional funding due to higher gas prices – this legislation gives that windfall back to residents. In November 2021, estimates for STF revenues for the current fiscal year rose $70 million.
The April sales tax holiday on clothing under $100 is designed to provide families with economic relief in the face of rising inflation, and it will be in addition to Connecticut’s annual tax-free week on apparel that traditionally takes place in August. Under sales-tax free week, clothing and shoes with retail prices under $100 will be exempt from the state sales tax of 6.35%.
Items included in the sales tax holiday include socks, hats, belts, blouses, diapers, dresses, employee uniforms, cress or work gloves, golf jackets and shirts, jeans, sweat suits, underwear, jackets, scarves, many types of shoes, sleepwear and swimsuits. Items that remain taxable include specialty boots for fishing, mountain climbing, skiing and firefighting; specialty gloves including athletic, garden, golf, tennis and rubber gloves; handbags; headbands; ice skates; martial arts attire and sports uniforms and helmets; safety equipment; specialty shoes including ballet, bicycle, bowling, football, golf, track and jazz shoes; ski pants; wallets; and wet suits.
Senate Ensures Outdoor Dining Can Continue Without Interruption Through 2023
Senate Ensures Outdoor Dining Can Continue Without Interruption Through 2023
Today, Senate Democrats passed legislation ensuring outdoor dining, a practice that grew in popularity during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic allowing restaurants to safely offer their services, will continue without interruption through 2023. In doing so, an initial target for municipalities to allow outdoor dining in perpetuity was shifted from this year to 2023, a precaution taken due to the continued uncertainty posed by rapidly shifting pandemic dynamics.
“During the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially before vaccinations were made available, outdoor dining stood as a safer way for diners to eat and an important revenue source for restaurants during dire times,” said State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor). “I’m encouraged that we will leave this option on the table for restaurants to utilize for another year – in addition to safety during the pandemic, outdoor dining has been a boon for many community locations like Evergreen Walk, spurring activity and interest.”
House Bill 5271, “An Act Concerning The Provision Of Outdoor Food and Beverage Services and Outdoor Displays of Goods,” extends laws passed last year to allow the continuation of outdoor dining and retail activities initially authorized during the pandemic. Those laws are extended through April 30, 2023. On May 1, 2023, businesses seeking to continue outdoor dining operations would need to seek local approval.
“The temporary outdoor dining permit was a valuable tool in getting us through the pandemic and it will continue to play a vital part in helping the brewery get back on its feet over the next year,” said Heath Gelinas and Alan Bukowinski, owners of Problem Solved Brewing Company in East Windsor. “We want to thank Senator Anwar for his work on getting bill 5271 passed. This will be a big step forward for all breweries and food establishments that established temporary outdoing areas during the pandemic. Our patrons will be happy to hear that the patio space will continue to happen when the weather cooperates.”
Studies and surveys show that outdoor dining as an option has shown strong benefits for restaurants and demand for restaurant patrons. The National Restaurant Association reported in October 2021 that, as the Delta variant spread across the United States in early fall 2021, nearly 10% more restaurants offered outdoor dining than in prior months. Restaurants found that outdoor dining comprised a significant swath of sales – 60% of restaurants saw at least 21% of sales coming from outdoor dining – and 71% of fullservice restaurants saw increased customer demand for outdoor seating.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has put additional pressures on small businesses, especially restaurants,” said East Windsor First Selectman Jason E. Bowsza. “One of the good things that came out of the pandemic is more access to outdoor dining. Earlier this month, East Windsor passed outdoor dining regulations as a means of supporting our restaurant industry and expanding tourism opportunities. Passage of HB 5271 extends that same option to local restaurants around Connecticut.”
Outdoor dining is a valuable tool to aid restaurants as the pandemic continues to cause tumult in the industry. As of March 2021, more than 10% of restaurants in the United States had closed permanently, impacting millions; flexible options like outdoor dining allow businesses to diversify their offerings and appeal to cautious diners. Many downtown and central areas of towns saw outdoor offerings bring new foot traffic and interest as well.
Senator Slap Helps to Ensure Outdoor Dining Can Continue Without Interruption Through 2023
Senator Slap Helps to Ensure Outdoor Dining Can Continue Without Interruption Through 2023
West Hartford Restaurants to Benefit from Extension
Today, Senate Democrats passed legislation ensuring outdoor dining, a practice that grew in popularity during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic allowing restaurants to safely offer their services, will continue without interruption through 2023. It extends a bill – originally passed in 2021 – which reduces red tape for restaurants looking to expand outdoor dining. Instead of expiring this spring, the provision continues for another 13 months and will allow restaurants to establish outdoor seating without a lengthy permitting process.
“Outdoor dining has been a lifeline for restaurants during the pandemic, and it allowed people to support their local businesses while reducing their risk of infection,” said State Senator Derek Slap (D-West Hartford). “The restaurant industry plays a huge role in our district, especially in West Hartford, and it adds life and community elements to our downtowns. I’m glad it will continue for another year without issue, and next year, towns and cities will be able to choose to continue allowing outdoor dining indefinitely if they so choose.”
House Bill 5271, “An Act Concerning The Provision Of Outdoor Food and Beverage Services and Outdoor Displays of Goods,” extends laws passed last year to allow the continuation of outdoor dining and retail activities initially authorized during the pandemic. Those laws are extended through April 30, 2023. On May 1, 2023, businesses seeking to continue outdoor dining operations would need to seek local approval. The legislation also reduces red tape so restaurants can expand outdoor seating and ensures compliance with accessibility requirements under the Americans With Disabilities Act.
Under the bill, two major processes will remain in place for another year. Zoning officials in towns and cities can continue to expedite public hearings on zoning changes related to outdoor dining. The Department of Transportation can also continue to expedite its review of requests to close parts of vehicular right-of-ways on state highways for outdoor activities.
Studies and surveys show that outdoor dining as an option has shown strong benefits for restaurants and demand for restaurant patrons. The National Restaurant Association reported in October 2021 that, as the Delta variant spread across the United States in early fall 2021, nearly 10% more restaurants offered outdoor dining than in prior months. Restaurants found that outdoor dining comprised a significant swath of sales – 60% of restaurants saw at least 21% of sales coming from outdoor dining – and 71% of fullservice restaurants saw increased customer demand for outdoor seating.
Outdoor dining is a valuable tool to aid restaurants as the pandemic continues to cause tumult in the industry. As of March 2021, more than 10% of restaurants in the United States had closed permanently, impacting millions; flexible options like outdoor dining allow businesses to diversify their offerings and appeal to cautious diners. Many downtown and central areas of towns saw outdoor offerings bring new foot traffic and interest as well.