February 27, 2013
Deputy Speaker of the House Kevin Ryan recently joined 30 other legislators in announcing the formation of a new Life Sciences Caucus at a news conference at the Legislative Office Building in Hartford. The caucus consists of members from both political parties in the House and Senate and it will promote public policy that supports economic growth and scientific innovation in the state.
Connecticut has a strong presence in many of the industries that fall under the banner of life sciences, including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, biomedical technologies and devices, and life systems technologies. The Life Sciences Caucus will support the growth and expansion of these industries by meeting to discuss state policy and inviting local and national experts to come speak about their vision for the future of these industries in Connecticut.
“As a college science teacher, I believe that we are taking advantage of a great opportunity when we look at life sciences as an economic driver in our region,” said Rep. Ryan. “The state has made a major investment in this field and we should build upon that investment to enhance the industry in our state."
The caucus will focus on exploring the evolving nature of the life sciences, understanding Connecticut's strengths and weaknesses in the field, and learning about what measures other states have taken to establish themselves as leaders in life sciences industries.
Rep. Ryan is in his 11th term serving the 139th House District. He has been a member of the adjunct faculty at the University of New Haven teaching Physics since 1980.