State Senator David Cappiello (R-24th) expressed his disappointment over the Democrats’ decision to adjourn today’s Appropriations Committee meeting without taking action on the only two resolutions on the agenda. The resolutions in question would award $45,000 in raises to state employees. Earlier, the Committee was informed that a failure to act would result in a favorable passage of the resolutions.

“If the Democrats do not have the courage to say “no” to only $45,000 in raises for state employees, how do they expect to deal with a budget deficit of over $3 billion?” asked Senator Cappiello. “The members of the Appropriations Committee have been given the authority to act on serious matters affecting our state’s fiscal situation. They have an obligation and a responsibility to the people of Connecticut to make these tough choices. Today’s inaction is simply an example of them abandoning this responsibility.”

The Committee held a roll call vote on adjournment and it passed 31-18, with all Democrats voting to adjourn and all Republicans voting to act on the resolutions.

“It is unfortunate that these legislators refuse not only to make the tough choices, but to make any choices at all,” continued Senator Cappiello. “As elected officials, we should embrace the opportunity to act on behalf of the constituents who elected us, not run from it.”