Statement from Senate President and Majority Leader on Governor Rell’s Budget Address

Senate President Donald E. Williams, Jr. (D-Brooklyn) and Senate Majority Leader Martin Looney (D-new Haven):

“Growing jobs and balancing the budget are the top priorities for Democrats this legislative session and we’re glad to hear the same is true for Gov. Rell.

“Just days ago Democrats proposed the creation of a revolving loan fund for small businesses and we’re encouraged that the governor made a similar proposal in her address. While there may be a difference of opinion over how to pay for it^[1], we’re hopeful a compromise can be reached and small businesses will get the assistance they need.

“The governor’s call for more civility at the Capitol is something everyone can embrace. Last year at this time there was widespread disagreement over the size of the deficit—Gov. Rell underestimated it by more than $2.5 billion. This year we begin with consensus on the size of the deficit and a renewed commitment to working together to help solve it.”

^[1] Gov. Rell proposed borrowing $100 million for the loan fund while Senate Democrats proposed a temporary surcharge on Wall St. bonuses of at least $1 million.