Rebimbas announces legislative agenda

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State Rep. Rosa Rebimbas (R-70)

 

HARTFORD — State Rep. Rosa Rebimbas, a ranking member of the General Law Committee, (R-70) revealed her 2012 agenda of legislative priorities for the short-session, which began Wednesday.

The following is a prepared statement released by Rebimbas’s office:

“Despite the passage of the largest tax increase in state history last year, the state budget is still on track to end the year with a $145 million deficit. We must aggressively address the underlying problems of our economic situation — we must stop overspending and reduce the cost of state government.”

“This session I will continue to focus on helping businesses start, stay and grow in Connecticut. This means improving our business climate by easing regulations, reducing fees and taxes and continuing to work closely with small business leaders to determine their needs,” Rebimbas said.

She continued, “Additionally, the state is long overdue for meaningful, comprehensive education reform that will prepare our students with the skills and training needed to join today’s competitive workforce. I will support reform that allows teachers to improve their skills where necessary, includes some form of evaluation for educators and administrators and exposes middle school and high school students to different types of professions early in their educational experience.”

“And, often forgotten, is the need to address children’s social challenges, such as drug use and abuse and the dangers of sexting. This year I will propose a bill that addresses the accessibility of prescription drugs for abuse by young adults and adults. I am also proposing a bill that protects children by requiring registered sex offenders to reside at least 1,000 feet from a school or daycare facility.”

“I will also push for ongoing protection and assistance for some of our neediest groups, including seniors and veterans. As the session progresses I will keep these groups in mind as I know they, in addition to others, struggle with affording the state’s high cost of living and health care,” Rebimbas said.

In addition to her legislative work in Hartford, Rebimbas plans to hold several in-district events, including a Department of Economic and Community Development business forum, a veterans event, several educational programs targeting students, forming a business advisory group and an educational advisory group.