House Republican Press Release

February 4, 2004

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Rep. DelGobbo: Governor’s Budget ‘Sets Right Tone’

NAUGATUCK—State Representative Kevin M. DelGobbo (R-70^th, Naugatuck) today said Governor John G. Rowland set the right tone in his annual budget address to the legislature, particularly on protecting taxpayers and preserving state aid to municipalities.

“I felt very encouraged by most of the proposals that the governor outlined in his address,” said Rep. DelGobbo. “Fundamentally, I agree that this is not the time—just when we are emerging from an economic downturn—to spend more money in countless ways. We must be very cautious in our spending.”

Rep. DelGobbo said he strongly agreed with the governor’s goal of breaking state government’s addiction to raising taxes, but disagreed with the governor’s proposals to increase  “sin” taxes on tobacco and alcohol.

“Living within our means remains an absolute priority,” added Rep. DelGobbo. “We can’t keep digging deeper into taxpayers pockets. We can’t keep dampening the climate for creating new jobs.”

Rep. DelGobbo supported the governor’s plan to protect cities and towns from cuts in state financial aid. “Particularly for Naugatuck, I am pleased that there will be no reduction in municipal aid,” said Rep. DelGobbo.

Rep. DelGobbo noted that last year’s budget proposal called for an initial reduction in state aid to Naugatuck of more than $1 million.

“The Naugatuck delegation last year fought to restore almost all of the lost state aid,” said Rep. DelGobbo. “I am happy that this budget effectively holds us harmless and we will see no reduction.”

Rep. DelGobbo serves the 70^th Assembly District of Naugatuck in the state House of Representatives.