Record Journal: "Seeking Another Term"
Helping CT Foodshare Feed Our Neighbors
Wallingford Boys and Girls Club Unveils New Exergame Fitness System!
Combining physical fitness and intellectual stimulation, one of the new games is powered by riding a stationary bike!
2024 Major Issues Report Available Now
Click here to see this report.
Kudos to a LOCAL HERO!
Earlier today, State Senator Paul Cicarella, Wallingford Town Council Chair Joe Marrone and Vice Chair Christina Tatta, Board of Education member Caroline Raynis, and I presented an official state citation to Wallingford Postal Carrier Michael Waite for his heroic actions to alert residents of an apartment complex of a late-December fire in the building.
Putting aside concern for his own safety and reacting by instinct, Mr. Waite, a Meriden resident, quickly assessed the danger and went door to door of the Terrace Garden Apartment Complex to make sure everyone knew of the fire and would get out safely. Thanks to his actions, no one was harmed and only property was damaged.
Wallingford's Post Office already did a good job, but this is above and beyond. Well done and thank you!
A troubling event at SCSU
Eventually the situation diffused, however in the interim there appeared to be no planning by SCSU to prevent such an action, nor what could have been a much worse outcome. In response to this situation, myself and some other attendees submitted this letter to SCSU President Smith.
Recognizing National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day
Learn to Ice Fish in 2024!
LEARN TO ICE FISH IN 2024!
Learn to Ice Fish at one of DEEP's virtual, ZOOM ice fishing classes presented by CARE (CT Aquatic Resources Education).
They will cover all the basics of this fun, social wintertime sport, including: safety on the ice, how to dress for the cold, where to go, ice fishing equipment, baits, techniques, tactics, and what fish are most commonly caught through the ice in CT.
January 3, 2024 (Wednesday)
January 9, 2024 (Tuesday)
February 13, 2024 (Tuesday)
All class sessions start at 6:30 PM and end at 7:30 PM.
Link to Form to signup: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=-nyLEd2juUiwJjH_abtzi3kz2pkuXFZBjVKoKR7yZllUOVFGT1oxWDFOQU9JWTVEMEhVRElMWUJRVC4u
If you are able to get the training done early, or are already an experienced ice angler, you can go ice fishing with them at the annual No Child Left Inside® Winter Festival at Burr Pond State Park, Torrington, where they will provide loaner equipment, bait, and instruction (subject to safe ice conditions). The festival is 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 3 with a rain date of February 4. The event is FREE.
Here's to a Healthy, Happy, and SAFE New Year!
THE CBIA Recognizes My 100% Pro-Business Voting Record
Today, I was recognized by Connecticut’s largest business organization recognized with a perfect voting score on key bills impacting Connecticut’s economic growth and business climate during the 2023 legislative session.
The Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA) ranked all state lawmakers based on their support for the business community’s positions on 10 important policies. The bills all affect job creation, small business growth and economic stability in Connecticut.
The scorecard was calculated using select pieces of legislation and may reflect votes from committee, the House, or both. The bills assessed in the report are:
- SB 938 – An Act Concerning (AAC) Unemployment Benefits for Striking Workers
- SB 1020 – An Act Establishing a First-Time Homebuyer’s Savings Account and a Related Tax Deduction
- SB 1091 – AAC Certain Business Reporting Requirements
- SB 1145 – AAC Establishment of Sector Specific Subtargets for Greenhouse Gas Emissions
- SB 1178 – An Act Expanding Connecticut Paid Sick Days
- SB 1179 – An Act Amending Connecticut Paid Family Medical Leave
- HB 6273 – AAC Disclosure of Salary Ranges on Public and Internal Job Postings
- HB 6558 – AAC Property Tax Abatement for Certain First-Time Home Buyers
- HB 6585 – AAC A Study to Promote Workforce Development Using the Global Entrepreneur in Residence Program as a Model
- HB 6710 – AAC Association Health Plans and Establishing a Task Force to Study Stop-Loss Insurance
The complete CBIA legislative scorecard can be viewed here: https://www.cbia.com/issues-policies/2023-ct-house-voting-records/
For more information on the Connecticut Business and Industry Association, the largest most representative business organization in the state, please visit www.cbia.com.
Candidate Forum - October 7, 2022 – Connecticut’s High Cost of Living
Candidate Forum - October 7, 2022 – How to address Connecticut’s High Cost of Living
At a recent Candidate Forum, the moderator asked, "How would you work to reduce the high cost of living [in Connecticut], if elected?” Here is a short video of my answer.
Candidate Forum - October 7, 2022 – What Should Be The Top Priority of the 2023 General Assembly?
On Friday, October 7, 2022, various local Chamber(s) of Commerce held a Candidate Forum in North Haven, during which it was asked: "What do you think should be the top priority of the 2023 General Assembly?” Here is video of my answer:
Candidate Forum - October 7, 2022 – "How should we attract new businesses to our state?"
On Friday, October 7, 2022, various local Chamber(s) of Commerce held a Candidate Forum in North Haven, during which it was asked: "Attracting and retaining companies, right here in the state of Connecticut is key to ensure that the state remains competitive. If elected, how would you ensure that we continue to attract new business to come to Connecticut?" Here is video of my answer:
Candidate Forum - 10/7/2022 - "How would you prioritize retaining Connecticut residents in the state?”
Recently various local Chamber(s) of Commerce held a Candidate Forum during which the moderator asked: “During the pandemic, Connecticut attracted 50,000 new residents from New York. Retaining Connecticut residents is essential to business in so many ways: it enhances the local economy, enhances the workforce, and ensures that Connecticut remains competitive with other states. So how would you prioritize retaining Connecticut residents in the state?”
Here is a link to the video of my answer: https://youtu.be/YPKRB7spBWY
CT Police Chiefs Association sends letter of thanks for my legislative efforts in support of police
A heartfelt THANK YOU to the CONNECTICUT POLICE CHIEFS ASSOCIATION for recognizing my efforts on behalf of our men and women in blue who put their lives on the line on a daily basis to keep us safe. Their thanks is met with my thanks FOR ALL THAT THEY DO. #GoodStuff
CT Sees Uptick in Fraudulent Benefit Claims (How to Protect Against It)
A petition to help families struggling to pay their energy costs
Only a month until the FISHBEIN/YMCA COMMUNITY ROAD RACE!
Always a fun-filled community event, this year the 2022 FISHBEIN/YMCA COMMUNITY ROAD RACE will take place on Sunday, October 2, the morning of the second day of Celebrate Wallingford.
Events include a 5K, 1M Walk, and a Youth Race. All proceeds go towards the Wallingford YMCA’s Community Support Campaign, which funds LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA (their cancer survivor program), as well as providing financial assistance for all of the Wallingford YMCA’s programs and services.
More info here: https://runsignup.com/Race/CT/Wallingford/FishbeinYMCARoadRace
SEE YOU THERE!
I was elected to represent you, California's politicians were NOT...
NEW Wallingford Police Department website unveiled!
Please be advised that the Wallingford Police Department has announced the launch of its new Department Website. This website will allow community members greater access to the agency and provide a platform to showcase agency events and officer achievements. It is my understanding that they will continue to grow the website as they move forward, and welcome feedback from the community.
Here is the link to the site: https://www.police.wallingfordct.gov
Public Hearing Regarding Escalating Costs for Home Heating
However, Our concern on this subject continues as the legislature grapples with the reality that one-time federal funding for people who rely on the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program has evaporated. I want you to know that there’s a public hearing Monday that provides you an opportunity to share your concerns about this topic either in person (via Zoom) or by submitting written testimony. I hope you’ll consider participating by telling state lawmakers about how rising home heating costs will impact you and your family members. Here’s how to participate:
Public Hearing: Committees on Appropriations, Energy, and Human Services
Monday, Aug. 29, 10 a.m. – Zoom
FFY 23 Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program Allocation Plan Proposed Amendment to the FFY 23 Low Income Household Water Assistance Program Grant Allocation Plan
The Appropriations, Energy and Technology and Human Services Committees will hold a joint public hearing, followed by committee meetings, on Monday, August 29, 2022, at 10:00 AM via Zoom. The public hearing can be viewed via YouTube Live.
Individuals who wish to testify via Zoom must register using the On-line Testimony Registration Form. Registration will close on Friday, August 26, 2022, at 3:00 PM. If you do not have internet access, you may provide testimony via telephone. To register to testify by phone, call the Phone Registrant Line at 860-240-0033 to leave your contact information.
Please email written testimony in Word or PDF format to each committee at the following email addresses: APPTestimony@cga.ct.gov; ETTestimony@cga.ct.gov; HSTestimony@cga.ct.gov.
You can watch the hearing via CT-N or YouTube Live.
From the Record Journal Newspaper: "Living the American Dream"
From the Record Journal Newspaper - 8/24/2022
Back to School Safety Tips!
With school starting and thousands of children soon waiting at the end of their driveways or on the side of a road for the bus, I wanted to remind everyone to be careful on our public roadways.
When school is in session, drivers should use extra caution, especially near bus stops, schools, playgrounds, and athletic fields.
Click below for safety tips!
"Tax Free Week" is coming up!
With inflation causing prices to rise, we are paying more for everything we purchase, including food, clothing and fuel, and saving money is more important than ever.
And with school less than two weeks away for some students, I want to remind you to take advantage of the upcoming “Tax Free Week” which runs from Sunday, August 21 through Saturday, August 27.
Click HERE for more information and a general list of included items.
FREE Museum Passes (For Children) This Summer!
I just wanted you to know that the popular “Connecticut Summer at the Museum” program has returned for the 2022 summer season, which enables Connecticut children to receive FREE ADMISSION at more than 130 museums across the state during the summer months.
Originally established in 2021 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the program is a way of providing children with engaging summer enrichment and learning experiences. It is funded by money Connecticut received from the federal government under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
Under the program, from July 1, 2022, to September 5, 2022, Connecticut children aged 18 and under – plus one accompanying Connecticut adult – can receive FREE ADMISSION to any of the participating museums, which include historic house museums, historic sites, historical societies, art museums, children’s museums, science centers, special-interest museums, natural history museums, university museums, arboretums/botanical gardens, and zoos.
Some of the notable attractions include:
• Connecticut Science Center, Hartford
• Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, Bridgeport
• Hill-Stead Museum, Farmington
• Institute for American Indian Studies Museum, Washington
• Kidcity Children’s Museum, Middletown
• Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, Norwalk
• Mystic Aquarium, Mystic
• Mystic Seaport Museum, Mystic
• Prudence Crandall Museum, Canterbury
The full list of participating museums is available at www.CTSummerMuseums.com.
ENJOY!
New 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Unveiled
An important priority this past session was to address mental and behavioral needs of our residents. One important measure we passed included funding for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
As of July 16th, that number is active. If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to either the 988 line, medical or emergency service professionals or trusted family and friends.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Help is available.
For more information, please click HERE.
Please Protect Your Pets - It is HOT Outside!
With hot temperatures here for the summer it’s important to be prepared, and that includes making sure your pets are safe, too.
Click below for tips from the American Red Cross, but essentially treat your pets like you treat yourself to stay cool.
Comment Period Open for Proposed Insurance Rate Increases
Addressing the Mental Health Needs of Our Adolescents
Passed during the 2022 Legislative Session, HB5001 comprehensively addressed many concerns regarding mental health issues of adolescents. I am proud to have supported its passage. Below please find a synopsis of some of its content. Here is a link to the legislation's page: https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&which_year=2022&bill_num=5001
Recap of 2022 State Budget Discussions
A main purpose of the even year legislative session is to make adjustments to the state's biennial budget passed in the prior odd year session. The 2022 session's budget discussions were buoyed by hundreds of millions of one-time federal COVID relief dollars. Here is my synopsis of those budget discussions:
Some Brief Highlights of the 2022 Session
Some of my priority bills during the 2022 session
In the 2022 legislative session, we handled well over 500 bills. Not all of them passed. I am proud to have worked with my colleagues to get many of my priority initiatives passed, some of which are highlighted here.
A Brief Recap of Juvenile Justice / Public Safety Reforms in the 2002 Session
In the 2022 session, we were able to get some juvenile justice reforms passed, although not all of our public safety bills were met with favor. Here is a brief recap.
Wallingford 350th (+2): Three Cheers for Gaylord Gauntlet 2022!
Another FANTASTIC Wallingford350 Event was held over the weekend, the Annual Gaylord Gauntlet! One of my very favorite events of the year, which benefits the various programs for patients and the community as well as the Gaylord Sports Association which provides adaptive sports for people with physical disabilities.
(I must admit that inevitably I ask myself somewhere half-way through WHY I am putting myself through this. The self-doubt is quick though as I see the adaptive athletes who have had to overcome much more challenging obstacles than I have.) Their intestinal fortitude is both inspiring and motivational. THREE CHEERS! Hip, Hip, Hurray! Hip, Hip, Hurray! Hip, Hip ...
HURRAY!
Wallingford 350th (+2): Jubilee (Sip & Savor Event)
Congrats to Wallingford's own Tim Ryan on receiving the Chamber's Special Recognition Award, as well as the Ulbrich Boys & Girls Club for receiving the Non-Profit of the Year Award!
A spectacular night for all! #WallingfordCT #350+2Jubilee
Wallingford 350th (+2): Jubilee (Women's Day Tea)
A FANTASTIC turnout at this afternoon's Women's Day Tea, sponsored by the Wallingford Community Women as part of the Wallingford 350th (+2) Jubilee. Great food, great conversation, great friends and, of course GREAT TEA! #WallingfordCT #350+2Jubilee
Wallingford 350th (+2): Jubilee (Essay Contest Winner Selected!)
Wallingford’s 350th +2 Jubilee has been the talk of the town for more than two years and despite the delay, I was going to make sure Wallingford’s youth received the recognition they deserved for researching and writing about their favorite local historical figure.
Two years ago, before the pandemic suspended the town’s 350th Jubilee festivities, I sponsored a voluntary 400-500 word essay contest for Middle school students from both Dag Hammarskjold and James H. Moran Sr. Middle School on their “Favorite pre-1960 Wallingford Historical Figure, and Why?”
The winner – Luke Bobarsky, who wrote about Moses Yale Beach – was announced during the History Day Continental Breakfast at the Wallingford Historical Society on Monday, June 20th. I read his winning essay to a crowd of more than 50 people gathered in front of the historical society building on Main Street.
In order to truly engage students with town history, I narrowed the theme to focus on Wallingford figures deceased prior to 1960. Essays were judged by each school’s administration based on form, style, research, grammar, and insight. From four finalists, I chose the top essay.
I’m proud of the work all of the students put into their entries.The four finalists:
- Luke Bobarsky, whose winning essay is addressed above.
- Emilia R. Farrell, who wrote about John Brockett and Alfred L. Pierce.
- Maritza Hernandez, who wrote about Lyman Hall.
- Carter Lagasse, who wrote about Dr. Mark T. Sheehan.
The Wallingford Historical Society is located at 180 South Main Street, Wallingford.
Wallingford 350th (+2): Jubilee (All-Faith Service)
A very moving and inspirational Juneteenth All-Faith Service at Choate's St. John Chapel. Another GREAT EVENT in celebration of the Wallingford 350th (+2) Jubilee. Thank you very much to Lorraine Connelly and Jerry Farrell, Jr. for all their work in putting this program together. #WallingfordCT #350+2Jubilee
Happy CELEBRATION OF FREEDOM! Happy Juneteenth!
GREAT TIME at the Most Holy Trinity Church Bazaar!
From Record Journal Media: "Rep. Fishbein Organizes Essay Contest"
"As a way to get the town’s youth involved in the upcoming Wallingford 350+2 Jubilee celebration, State Rep. Craig Fishbein created an essay contest for middle school students. Four finalists have been selected and the winner will be announced during the History Day breakfast on June 20, at 7:30 a.m. at the Wallingford Historical Society..."
Republican Plan to Address Soaring Costs for Connecticut Residents
Yesterday, CT Republicans unveiled a detailed tax relief proposal to help save Connecticut residents from increasing costs on everything from gasoline to groceries.
Presentation of Citation to the retiring Rev. Anne Bracket
Great News! (Campaign Approved by the SEEC)
GREAT CAMPAIGN NEWS!
Earlier today we learned that our re-election campaign is one of the very first in the state to have complied with all the requirements of the Citizens' Elections Program (CEP) and have been approved by the State Elections Enforcement Commission (SEEC). YEAH TEAM! #OnToNovember #Fishbein4CT Fishbein4ct.com
Letter to the Editor: "Margin of Victory"
Remembering Those Who Gave the Ultimate Sacrifice for Our Freedom
Essay Contest Winner to be Announced June 20!
Two years ago, before the pandemic suspended Wallingford’s 350th Jubilee festivities, I sponsored a voluntary 400-500 word essay contest for students from Dag Hammarskjold and Moran Middle Schools to write about their “Favorite pre-1960 Wallingford Historical Figure, and Why?”
The finalists (and ultimately the winner) will be recognized during the History Day Continental Breakfast at the Wallingford Historical Society, 180 South Main Street on Monday, June 20th. The breakfast begins at 7:30a.m.. See y’all there!
For more information: https://www.cthousegop.com/fishbein/rep-fishbein-to-announce-wallingford-350th-essay-contest-winner-at-history-day-breakfast/
Republican Delegates UNANIMOUSLY Endorse My Re-Election!
National Police Week is May 11-17, 2022
THANK YOU to those that Protect and Serve!
Catalytic Converter Bill Passes
CT Humane Society (and Puppies) Visit the Capitol
"Drug Take Back Day" is April 30th
Rep. Fishbein participates in Workforce Development Roundtable Discussion
“Supporting the business community needs to be more than platitudes. We must listen to their needs, and make sure our laws don’t hamper their ability to hire qualified employees,” State Rep. Craig Fishbein said. “The manufacturing and construction industry have distinctly different hiring needs than small retail or healthcare employers. We must do more to support workforce development across all sectors.”
(Please click title of news item for more information.)
The CT Renters’ Rebate Program is accepting applications
Rep. Fishbein and the Judiciary Committee Favorably Vote for Bill Strengthening Juvenile Justice Laws
“Over the last year, House Republicans have traversed the state calling for changes to the policies and procedures in our Juvenile Justice system. I’m pleased to announce that through negotiation and compromise many of the important provisions we’ve advocated for will be realized,” Rep. Craig Fishbein, Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee said. More information is available HERE.
Kickball for a CAUSE! (Connecticut Foodshare)
Please join us on Monday, April 11th at 4:30 p.m. at Dunkin’ Donuts Park for the Inaugural CGA Kickball Classic.
This fun charity event will probably make you laugh and is GUARANTEED to make you feel good with ALL of the proceeds being donated to Connecticut Foodshare. Connecticut Foodshare, according to the website, “supports individuals and families – from one end of the state to the other – by addressing root causes, creating long-term solutions, and distributing nutritious food through local partner programs in an effort to alleviate hunger.”
The ONLY thing better than spending a Monday evening at the park watching your favorite legislators run around the bases like they’re at fifth grade recess is knowing you helped a great cause!
If you want to witness the sporting spectacle of the session, GET YOUR TICKETS here!
CCDL Legislator of the Year Award!
A heartfelt THANK YOU to the CCDL (Connecticut Citizens Defense League), Connecticut's main gun rights group, comprised of 42,000 members strong, for voting me their 2021 LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR!
Celebrating Read Across America Day!
Rep. Fishbein and Fellow House Republicans Unveil Full Legislative Proposals
Rep. Fishbein and Fellow House Republicans Present Plan to Address Connecticut's Crime Crisis
Today, I joined my House Republican colleagues for a news conference outlining our legislative proposals addressing Connecticut’s crime crisis. We were also joined by victims and advocates to explain how the crisis has impacted them.
Our proposals are the result of months of discussions between law enforcement, crime victims, advocates, concerned citizens, government agencies and other stakeholders.
You can view our proposals here https://www.cthousegop.com/safety, and watch the news conference here: https://youtu.be/6_X3YDGq5Hs
Meeting with members of the CT Apartment Association (CTAA)
Great meeting with members of the Connecticut Apartment Association (CTAA) discussing the difficulties of providing Connecticut residents with a vital service - that being clean, safe and adequate housing stock. Unfortunately, some denigrate the efforts of landlords to provide this service. I for one appreciate the efforts of these business people.
Please Protect Your Animals from Cold Temperatures
With the potential for major snow this weekend, and with temperatures expected to stay low and wind chills making it feel even colder, it’s important to think about the care of your pets, too!
Some animals, like our state’s beloved Husky, enjoy being outside in the cold and snow, but even they have their limits. Leaving animals exposed to extreme weather is cruel, can be deadly for them, and could be against the law.
If you suspect abuse locally, please contact: Cheshire Animal Control, Wallingford Animal Control or your local police department.
The ASPCA and the Humane Society of the United States offer good information and tips to keep animals safe and healthy.
To make sure your pets are properly protected and cared for, the Humane Society offers the following five tips to protect pets in winter, and guidelines on what to do if you suspect animals are being mistreated.
- Keep pets sheltered
- Bundle up, wipe down
- Remove common poisons
- Protect outdoor animals
- Speak out
If you suspect an animal is being abused, including being left outside in extreme heat or cold, please:
- Report what you see: Take note of the date, time, exact location and the type of animal(s) involved and write down as many details as possible about the situation. Video and photographic documentation of the animal, the location, the surrounding area, etc. (even a cell phone photo) will help bolster your case.
- Contact your local animal control agency or county sheriff’s office: and present your complaint and evidence. Take detailed notes regarding whom you speak with and when. Respectfully follow up in a few days if the situation has not been remedied.
- If you need advice, contact the Humane Society. Because they aren’t a law enforcement agency, they cannot take legal action, but can provide expert counsel.
- If you have pets, follow advice for keeping them safe in cold weather.
"An Honor and Pleasure" - From the RJ Newspaper 1/25/2022
Tax Season Information, Tips and Deadlines
Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
On this day, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a man of compelling words and peaceful action, toward a just cause. Felled in his prime, sadly we will never know the mountaintops he would have reached, had he lived longer. Here, is just one of my favorite quotes:
International Human Trafficking Awareness Day
Human trafficking is abhorrent in any form, and strengthening state law to put an end to these abuses was one of my top priorities in the legislature last year, where I was proud to work with my colleagues to help draft and amend House Bill 6657 “An Act Concerning Human Trafficking”
More information and a link to this important legislation can be found here: https://www.cthousegop.com/fishbein/january-11th-is-international-human-trafficking-awareness-day/
National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day
Please Take My Legislative Survey Online
My "Candidate Profile" from the Cheshire Herald Newspaper
Craig Fishbein
Age: 55
Occupation: Attorney at FishbeinLaw Firm, LLC practicing Civil Rights, Domestic Violence, Family Law and General Civil Litigation.
Reason for Running: In Hartford, I have fought for (and will continue to fight for) smaller government, lower taxes, and less interference in the day-to-day affairs of our law-abiding citizens. I have fought not only the other party, but my own. I vote on matters not based upon the identity of its sponsor, but rather whether the item makes for proper government and sets Connecticut back on the right path.I tend to ask a lot of questions — some say too many questions. But, from my perspective, questions are necessary. Those in Hartford are not used to being questioned. I know for a fact that I have compelled change in Hartford, as well as a level of respect, for my knowledge and interpretation of the written word, as well as my skills of persuasion and negotiation.
There are many times that I look around the room and imagine the many people that filled it prior to my tenure, and I truly get chills. Serving in the legislature has been an absolutely stupendous, fantastic, and exhilarating time, and I would like to continue in that position, fighting for the betterment of our state and the constituents of my district.
Three Critical Issues:
1. Pandemic Response: People are still significantly affected by the pandemic and now there appears to be a second wave mounting. Over the last six months, being a state representative drastically shifted to almost full time constituent services. For me, this meant contacting various departments, most commonly the Department of Labor, for many constituents that were having issues getting through to them about unemployment benefits. Timely dissemination of information also became extremely important. People just wanted to know what was going on, and when will it end (if ever). I am honored that I was able to help so many people (unfortunately) in their newfound time of need. Over the next months, our state will more than likely face even greater unemployment and business closings, and we will need to be prepared for a wave of even poorer economic activity than that of spring and fall.
2. Unfunded State Pension Liabilities: For years, these continuing obligations have gone on with our state government turning a blind eye. There is enough blame to go around to hit just about everyone who has been in power over that time. From my perspective, these are obligations that should be honored. The state pension crisis should be addressed by focusing attention on paying down the liability. The means are necessary, the attention needs to be focused. To that end, in 2018 we created a “budget volatility cap” which mandates that revenues over a certain amount are required to be applied to the unfunded pension debt. Through the imposition of this new procedure, the state recently paid $60 million toward this liability. That is sound fiscal policy, by addressing the shortfall through present revenue streams, instead of raising taxes — as that would unnecessarily hamper the economy.
3. Reducing Spending and Taxes: If we reduce taxes, people spend more in the private sector. If people spend more in the private sector, there will be more private sector jobs. If there are more private sector jobs then there are less people on public assistance programs. If there are less people on public assistance programs, there is a greater level of personal worth, and less need for tax dollars. It is cyclical, and it works. One of the hardest things about being in Hartford is that almost everyone is looking for money. For some legislators, it is easy to say “yes” to everyone. I recognize that, after years of (what some call) extravagant spending, and borrowing to pay for the spending, the time of reckoning is well upon us. In the end, it is hard to say no to the numerous requests, but those in Hartford have to put the future of our state at the forefront.
Protecting Our Families - Supporting Our Police - Tackling the Opioid Epidemic
I am proud of my record of supporting rank and file law enforcement personnel, as well as legislation focused on keeping our families and communities safe.
Increasing Our Safety - Protecting Our Children - Protecting Our Pets
Fiscal Accountability - Limited Government - Experienced Leadership
Creating a More Affordable Connecticut and Protecting Our Families
Letter to the Editor of the Record Journal: "Fishbein Does His Homework"
State Relaunches Temporary Rental Housing Assistance Program (TRHAP)
MORE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT NEWS!
I just wanted to let you know that the state recently allocated $15 million from the state’s Coronavirus Relief Fund, which utilizes federal CARES Act money, to fund innovative workforce programs that will provide job training to more than 1,000 displaced workers in the state and connect them to high-growth, in-demand jobs.
More information can be found by clicking HERE.
Record Journal "Voices" asks about the Education MBR (Minimum Budget Requirement) and Local Control
The Record Journal asked:
“Connecticut’s Minimum Budget Requirement (MBR) prohibits a municipality from budgeting less for education than it did the previous year. Philosophically, do you agree with this means of state control over local town budgeting? Do you believe that a town like Wallingford, with declining student enrollment, should have more control over education funding, the same way it does on other vital services like public safety and public works?”
My answer:
“I understand the need for the MBR due to the fact that annually the state contributes millions of dollars for local education expenses. If the MBR went away, then arguably a municipality could artificially decrease their local education budget and seek more from the state, thereby burdening the taxpayers of other towns. On the other hand, I do think that municipalities should have the ability to reduce their budget based upon certain changed conditions. For that reason, in 2019 I co-sponsored HB5087, which would permit a municipality to reduce its education budget due to declining enrollment; HB5180, which would permit a decrease if a special education student was being serviced by a different school district; and HB5243, which would permit a decrease if the state reduced its contribution. Local elected officials should have more control over local budgets, and I am proud to be a part of these discussions in Hartford.”
Click HERE to read the full article.
VIDEO: My answer to the energy policy question at the WCW's Candidate Forum, 10/21/2020
Lauren Takores of the Record Journal Newspaper asks: “Eversource was criticized for implementing a rate increase in July, and then for prolonged power outages following tropical storm Isiasas in August, to the point where the legislature stepped in and created regulations around compensation for customers and the long power outages. What more should be done to ensure that the most vulnerable aren’t taken advantage of by utility companies?”
VIDEO: My Closing Statement at the WCW's Candidate Forum, 10/21/2020
Rep. Fishbein Learns More About Electric School Buses
Yesterday afternoon, I joined some state and town officials at Dag Hammarskold Middle School in Wallingford, for a very interesting and informative demonstration and test ride of an fully electric school bus. Discussions are taking place regarding the possibility of state grants being made available to exchange old diesel buses for these new electric ones.
Thank you to Lion Electric Co., and officials from Wallingford Public Schools, Wallingford Electric Division and Durham School Services for providing this opportunity, answering our many questions, and presenting more transportation options to the district.
GREAT NEWS FOR CT SMALL BUSINESSES!
I just wanted to share with you that the state is launching the Connecticut CARES Small Business Grant Program to assist small businesses and nonprofits impacted by the economic downturn caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic.
The program will provide businesses and nonprofits in Connecticut that have fewer than twenty employees or a 2019 payroll of less than $1.5 million with a one-time grant of $5,000.
More information can be found HERE:
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Rep. Fishbein Honors 3 WWII Vets, Celebrates their 100th Birthdays!
Report Issued Re: State's Response to COVID-19 in Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities
Rep. Fishbein Once Again Stands Up For Electric Rate Payers
"The recent storms that ripped through Connecticut devastated electric infrastructure and forced people to go without electricity and other basic needs for days on end. That situation was more than inconvenient, it was dangerous, and I'm pleased we were able to pass this bipartisan legislation to provide benchmarks that will hold public electricity providers accountable when they fail to meet the basic needs of their customers..."
DMV amends extension of deadlines for several credentials
Please be aware that the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is extending deadlines again for several expiring credentials. The change impacts credentials that expired between March 10, 2020 through November 30, 2020. Late fees will be waived for qualifying credentials.
Deadlines have been extended for the following DMV transactions:
-- All licenses, permits, and identification cards, including commercial driver’s licenses
-- Motor vehicle and boat registrations
-- Emissions testing and retesting
-- Permanent disability placard
For more information, please click here: HERE
ENDORSED! By the CCDL and NRA
While my opponent is endorsed by groups that want to de-fund the police, and further restrict your ability to lawfully defend yourself in your own home, I have an actual record of supporting law enforcement, victims of crimes, and our right to defend ourselves. THANK YOU to the CCDL (Connecticut Citizens Defense League) for their endorsement of my campaign,
and to the NRA Institute for Legislative Action for my "A" rating based upon my record.
"An Employer's Guide to CT's new Paid Family Leave Program (PFMLA)"
Recently, Governor Lamont announced the launch of a new website – www.CTPaidLeave.org – the goal of which is helping Connecticut businesses and residents to understand their roles, rights, and responsibilities based on the Paid Family and Medical Leave Act (PFMLA).
The Connecticut Paid Leave program is set to begin on January 1, 2021, making the new website a vital tool for all impacted employees, employers, sole proprietors and self-employed individuals to understand their roles and responsibilities. Paid Leave program benefits become accessible to qualified employees beginning on January 1, 2022.
The new website serves as more than just an informational guide to the new PFMLA legislation, but also provides many of the tools needed by employers, employees, third-party administrators and healthcare professionals to begin preparing for and implementing the changes necessitated by this new program.
Some of these tools include:
· Downloadable fact sheets, video guides and timelines specific to employer, employee and sole proprietor/self-employed individuals' needs.
· An estimator tool to help employees anticipate payroll deductions. (The program is funded through payroll deductions)
· Resources for sole proprietors and self-employed individuals interested in opting in to the program.
· Resources for employers interested in applying for an exemption from the program.
· Resources specific to all business types on how to register with the CT Paid Leave Authority.
· Frequently Asked Questions that are updated periodically to include the most common inquiries as this new program is rolled out.
I hope that you find this website's information to be helpful to you, yours family, and your business.
The Recent "Insulin Bill" and Its Collateral Consequences
Wallingford Police Department to Conduct Their Annual School Supplies Drive
On Saturday, September 12, 2020 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., the Wallingford Police Department, Community Police Division will again sponsor its yearly School Supplies Drive.
COVID-19 has caused a greater need for supplies due to the fact that as a safety precaution, these items may not be shared between students.
As a result, this year, there is a special request for masks and calculators, in addition to standard supplies such as backpacks, pens, pencils and crayons, rulers, glue sticks, paper and notebooks.
Officers will be wearing face masks and stationed in the rear parking lot of the police department located at 135 North Main Street to accept donations. Those who wish to donate will not need to leave their vehicles and can exit our parking lot onto Center Street.
Please stay safe and healthy as we work together through these difficult times.