April 9, 2009

GENGA APPLAUDS PASSAGE OF BILL TO HELP ENSURE
FEDERAL FUNDS ARE PUT TO BEST USE

State Representative Henry Genga (D-East Hartford) is pleased to see House passage of comprehensive legislation that contains several provisions to benefit the entire state as part of the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009.

House Bill 6715, An Act Concerning Certain State Programs and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, provides transparency by requiring legislative review for $38.5 million in new federal energy funding to help ensure that Recovery Act funds are targeted toward maximizing job maintenance and growth in the state of Connecticut.

In addition, the bill allows individuals laid off from small companies between September 1, 2008 and February 17, 2009, to retroactively enroll in COBRA healthcare coverage and pay only 35% of the premium rather than 100% due to a federal subsidy under ARRA. The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA), a federal law in effect since 1986, permits employees and their dependents to continue in their employer's group health plan after their job ends.

"There are many significant benefits in this bill that will help families facing tough economic times and ensure that the federal funding our state receives is used in the best possible way," Rep. Genga said. "I am extremely pleased to see that the House of Representatives took action to ensure that the interest of our residents is protected."

In addition, this legislation revises unemployment compensation laws to conform to federal requirements so the state can receive an additional $58.5 million in federal funding which will help employers by keeping the unemployment compensation fund solvent.

Rep. Genga is serving his third term representing the 10th District. He is Assistant Majority Leader, and a member of the Appropriations, Education and Energy and Technology committees.