We were critical of the General Assembly last session for the lack of attention given to the economy and job creation while the state was mired in one of the worst recessions in decades. Although it’s only November, we’re already hearing a lot of discussion about the economy and jobs as we get closer to the beginning of the next legislative session (Feb. 3).
The Commerce and Labor Committees held a joint hearing in October to take testimony on jobs and the Connecticut workforce. This week, a group put together by Majority Leaders Looney and Merrill held another in a series of hearings on economic development and job creation in the state. In a few weeks the commerce Committee will solicit comments on the state’s strategic plan as unveiled by the Department of Economic and Community Development a couple of months ago.
Between recent forecasts on the economy and the state’s fiscal condition, some lawmakers are waking up to the fact that things that were not addressed during the last session can’t be put off any longer. The reorganizing, consolidating and streamlining of state government is no easy task, but the process must be begin. Creating a climate that encourages employers and entrepreneurs to invest in Connecticut rather than elsewhere is also a challenge, but one that policymakers must stand up and tackle. Hearings in November is the easy part. I think voters will be judging General Assembly candidates next year based on how they meet the challenges of handling the state’s fiscal crisis and spurring greater economic growth in the state.