House Republican Press Release

January 14, 2009

Press Office: 860-240-8700

HETHERINGTON SEEKS TO EASE BURDEN ON TOWNS WHILE CONFRONTING STATE DEFICIT

State Rep. John Hetherington (R-125th) was among Republican legislators supporting a move to relieve towns of certain unfunded mandates by delaying their effective date.

Given the likely loss in state aid during the current budget crisis, Hetherington argued that "it was critical at least not to add to municipal costs and make local taxpayers pay for new initiatives."

The move came by way of amendment in the course of debating a deficit mitigation plan proposed by the Democrat majority that fell short of the Governor's plan and added new spending. Republicans also proposed a symbolic 5% cut in legislator salaries.

"We should show that we understand the sacrifices people have to make in this environment," Hetherington said.

Both amendments failed on a vote that closely followed party lines.

Later Representative Hetherington and other Republicans voted to reject as inadequate the Democrat's deficit mitigation plan that left a current deficit of $90 million that is anticipated to grow substantially in coming weeks as revenues continue to lag.