Energy

Connecticut has among the highest energy prices in the country. Connecticut energy consumers pay more for electricity and natural gas than all but a handful of states nationally, and we have one of the highest gasoline taxes in the United States. These facts, when combined with the dramatic increase in gasoline prices throughout the country, have placed an enormous burden on our residents and businesses.

Unfortunately, political leaders in Hartford have paid little attention to energy issues until the sudden price spikes caused them to react. But press conferences aren't policies. The General Assembly must do more than it has done, as demonstrated by Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal's declaration that "on energy issues, [the 2006 session of the General Assembly] has been a do-nothing legislative session."

Connecticut must adopt a strategy for dealing with this problem in a long-term and comprehensive manner. The State must have resources that are dedicated to addressing this issue on a permanent basis, not just in an ad hoc manner when gas prices spike. The State must develop a policy that enhances its energy infrastructure, encourages conservation and the use of alternative energy sources, cuts taxes and fees that are passed on to consumers where it is prudent to do so, and protects consumers from price gouging and discriminatory pricing schemes.

Developing a comprehensive energy policy that addresses this enormous and growing burden on our residents must be a top priority. As your State Senator, I will fight to see that such a policy is developed for our State and that consumers are protected.

More to come during the campaign.

1. Connecticut Business and Industry Association.

2. State Rankings 2006: A Statistical View of the 50 States, pp. 206, 207, 211, 212, 328 (Morgan Quitno Press 2006).

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