Connecticut Senate Bill SB01130

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/13
• Refer: 3/14/13
• Report Pass: 3/26/13
• Refer: 4/5/13
• Report Pass: 4/11/13
• Refer: 4/18/13
• Report Pass: 4/23/13
• Report Pass: 4/24/13
• Engrossed: 6/1/13
• Report Pass: 6/1/13

Caption

An Act Maximizing Jobs For State Workers By Requiring Local Construction Hiring Reports By Recipients Of Economic Development Funds.

Impact

One of the primary implications of SB01130 is the requirement for periodic local construction hiring reports from recipients of the state’s financial assistance. These reports must detail the efforts made to employ Connecticut residents, the number of residents hired, and the wages offered. Additionally, state departments will compile and submit annual reports summarizing these hiring activities to the Governor and the General Assembly, thereby increasing transparency and accountability in public spending on economic development.

Summary

Senate Bill 01130, titled 'An Act Maximizing Jobs For State Workers By Requiring Local Construction Hiring Reports By Recipients Of Economic Development Funds,' aims to enhance local job opportunities in Connecticut through a structured approach to economic development funding. The bill mandates that any applicant seeking more than five million dollars in financial assistance for economic development projects must commit to engaging Connecticut businesses for the construction aspects of the project. This commitment includes developing a list of proposed strategies to ensure that local firms are contracted whenever possible.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB01130 appears generally supportive among legislators who advocate for job creation and local economic empowerment. Proponents view the bill as a critical step toward ensuring that state-funded projects result in tangible benefits for local communities through increased employment opportunities. However, concerns do exist regarding the potential burden on businesses to comply with these reporting requirements, which some may perceive as overly bureaucratic.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding the bill include the balance between incentivizing local hiring and the administrative burden it may impose on businesses applying for state funds. Critics may argue that strict requirements could discourage businesses from seeking state assistance if they perceive the conditions to be too stringent or cumbersome. On the other hand, supporters assert that such measures are necessary to ensure that taxpayer money directly benefits Connecticut residents, thereby promoting local economic resilience.