Senator Judith G. Freedman (R-26) today voted in favor of legislation intended to help Connecticut residents who can least afford what is expected to be very high energy costs this winter.

"I believe it is important for the General Assembly to take what steps it can to help lower income households stay warm this winter. We are especially concerned about those who can least afford to pay higher energy prices," said Senator Freedman, who voted for the bill during today's special legislative session.

Senator Freedman said she favors a provision of the legislation that exempts certain energy-related items from the six percent sales and use tax from November 25, 2005 to April 1, 2006. Those items include insulation; programmable thermostats; water heater blankets; window film; window and door weather strips; caulking; water heaters; gas furnaces and windows that meet Energy Star standards, and oil furnaces that are at least 85% efficient.

"Suspending the tax on products that we can buy to make our homes more energy efficient is a terrific way to help everyone save money, not just this winter but for many years to come," said Senator Freedman.