4 things lawmakers did right this year
Swimming in money, the Legislature made unusually wise decisions this year. It’s not spending every penny. It’s not making Connecticut even more expensive with higher taxes. Instead, it’s saving for an inevitable rainy day. It’s paying down more of its huge debts. Here is a list of what we like about this year’s session, which ended Wednesday, and how it might affect you.
1. No income-tax hikes
Gov. Ned Lamont and the Democrats who control both chambers of the Legislature won’t raise taxes in the next two years, despite intense pressure from the party’s progressive wing.
Why this matters to you
Connecticut doesn’t need to lose any more people and jobs to lower-tax states like (ugh) Florida.
Also, the state doesn’t need the money right now. It’s getting boatloads from taxes on the profits made from the booming stock market. It’s socked away a record amount for a rainy day. That’s a nice cushion against future tax hikes too.
The rising tide, along with federal relief funds, means the state can cover more people who can’t afford health care. The working poor get more tax breaks. Needy school districts get more money. Fewer students are shackled with community college debt. Wages for nursing home workers go up.
All welcome relief after a hellish year.
2. You can’t buy pot yet, but maybe soon
The bill that would have legalized marijuana will be taken up in a special session. Republicans say it came before the House too late for them to review properly.
Why this matters to you
Whether or not you like pot, you might like what it will do for the state treasury. Plus, a majority of people in Connecticut support legalization, and it’s legal in Massachusetts and New York. Finally, the communities ravaged for decades by the war on drugs will get first shot at licenses for growing and selling the product, as is only fair.
3. You can bet on the Super Bowl, legally
Connecticut is now one of two dozen states allowing sports betting — the first significant expansion of gaming since Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun opened. Patrons can soon bet online, in the casinos or at 15 spots to be licensed by the Connecticut Lottery.
Why this matters to you
Again, it’s more tax money coming into Connecticut rather than flowing out to New York and Rhode Island, where sports betting is legal. Not that we’re competitive, but this gives Connecticut a financial leg up over Massachusetts’ casinos, where sports betting remains illegal. Yes, there will be money for treatment of problem gamblers, which is a serious concern.
4. College athletes can get paid
The Legislature quickly passed a bill pushed by UConn to allow student-athletes to earn money from marketing deals.
Why this matters to you We’re all Huskies fans. This new law helps UConn recruit and retain stars. The same goes for all higher ed, public and private. This bill got passed in a hurry because other states are allowing their student-athletes to profit from endorsement deals. Without that bargaining chip, Connecticut would be at a competitive disadvantage in college sports.