House Republican Press Release

June 25, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

State budget increases education funding to towns without increasing taxes

Last week, the House of Representatives approved a $17 billion spending plan for the next two years by a vote of 134-5. The highlight of the budget is the increased state education funding to towns – without any increase in income or sales taxes.

“The House Republicans’ no-tax-increase budget proposal was able to change the debate at the Capitol and ultimately led to this budget getting done without increasing taxes on our already over-tax burdened constituents,” said state Rep. John Piscopo (R-Thomaston). “The increases in education funding and Medicare reimbursements to doctors and hospitals should go a ways toward maintaining and improving our overall quality of life in Connecticut.” 

All the towns in the 76^th District will see increased education funding from the state over the next two years. The breakdown is as follows: Burlington - $836,903; Harwinton - $340,958; Litchfield - $333,452; Thomaston - $853,355.

Other highlights of the budget include:

• $224 million to address healthcare needs for our state’s most needy residents. The money will increase Medicaid reimbursement rates for doctors, dentists and hospitals, encouraging more medical professionals to accept Medicaid patients.
• $17 million for state parks, including additional personnel.
• Increased funding for nursing homes and other agencies who work with our state’s needy and disadvantaged citizens.

Rep. John Piscopo represents Burlington, Harwinton, Litchfield and Thomaston in the General Assembly.