February 7, 2014

WALKER GIVES HIGH MARKS TO GOV'S LEGISLATIVE AGENDA

Rep. Toni Walker said Governor Dannel P. Malloy's State of the State Address contained some exciting policy initiatives that will benefit Elm City residents.

Malloy explained his vision for universal pre-kindergarten, making college more affordable and increasing the state's minimum wage. He also advocated for responsible budgeting by investing surplus dollars in the Rainy Day Fund and paying down long-term debt. The proposals also included tax relief – refunds on sales and gas taxes as well as expanded sales tax exemptions.

The Governor also announced a proposed increase in the College/Hospital PILOT by $8 million – great news for New Haven.

Other highlights include:

• Exempting clothing under $50 from sales tax
• Restoring EITC to 30 percent
• Exempting non-prescription drugs from sales tax
• Exempting 50% of Teachers' Pensions from income tax (phased-in)
• Offering new parents up to a $250 investment in a tax-free college savings account for their child
• Investing in Connecticut's state community colleges and universities
• Offering free college courses