HARTFORD – Newly elected State Senator Robert D. Russo (R-Bridgeport) has been appointed as the ranking member on the General Assembly’s Housing Committee and as a member of the Commerce and Transportation Committees. He hit the ground running Tuesday, casting his first votes as a State Senator in support of job growth initiatives and funding economic development in Bridgeport, two issues he championed during his campaign.

“It was a thrill to be able to vote on day one for so many bills that have the potential to positively affect the people of the 22nd District and the state of Connecticut,” said Senator Russo. “I am grateful for the opportunity to represent the people of Bridgeport, Trumbull and Monroe on these committees.”

Senator Russo voted in the Commerce Committee Tuesday in support of expanding the Job Creation Tax Credit (HB 5780), creating a tax incentive program for next generation industries (SB 401), and funding renovations to Bridgeport’s Palace and Majestic Theaters and Black Rock Arts Center (HB 5882).

“It has become too expensive to live and do business in Connecticut. We in the legislature need to recommit ourselves to fiscal discipline and look for long-term strategies to keep our local economy moving. Expanding the Job Creation Tax Credit to small businesses and encouraging next generation industries to settle and grow in Connecticut, are two ways we can help protect our state’s long-term economic security,” said Senator Russo.

“I was also pleased to be able to vote Tuesday in support of bonding proposals that may one day help restore Bridgeport’s Palace and Majestic Theaters to their former glory, and help fund necessary renovations at Bridgeport’s Black Rock Arts Center,” he said.

Senate Minority Leader John McKinney (R-Fairfield) has also appointed Senator Russo as the ranking member on the Select Committee on Housing and a member of the Transportation Committee. Before appointing Senator Russo as his replacement, Senator McKinney had served as ranking member on the Housing Committee since 2003.

“Senator Russo understands that housing issues touch every facet of public policy,” said Senator McKinney. “Senator Russo has my complete confidence to play a leadership role on this committee. I look forward to working with him to pass responsible affordable housing solutions that have the best interest of homeowners in mind, not big developers.”

Senator Russo has also been appointed to the Transportation Committee where he said he will work to reduce traffic congestion in southwestern Connecticut and support Governor Rell’s plan to reorganize the Department of Transportation to focus on mass transportation alternatives.

“Connecticut’s transportation problems, particularly in Fairfield County, negatively impact our environment, public safety, economic development, and other areas of our daily lives. In recent years, Governor Rell and the General Assembly have allocated unprecedented funding to improve and expand public transportation and reduce gridlock. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve on the Transportation Committee at a time when our state is renewing its commitment to finding long-term strategic solutions to these problems,” said Senator Russo.