’You work for us’; Connecticut lawmakers greeted by protests at start of session
Updated Jan 07, 2021;
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By Susan Haigh | The Associated Press
Greeted by hundreds of protesters waving signs, some chanting “you work for us,” Connecticut lawmakers on Wednesday officially convened what will be a highly unusual and possibly contentious legislative session that’s expected to mostly take place in the virtual world as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the state.
Despite the extraordinary circumstances, Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont urged the General Assembly during a pre-taped address to not allow COVID-19 to place limitations on this session. Rather, he called for legislation that expands the state’s commitment to affordable housing, access to broadband, transit-oriented development, small businesses and allowing urban students to attend nearby suburban schools. He also called for legalization of recreational marijuana, sports and internet betting.
Patrick Dragon, one of the first Connecticut state troopers to respond to the 2012 Sandy Hook Massacre, has died of COVID-19.
Tamburro said he doesn t know when members of the Connecticut General Assembly ever took the oath of office outdoors. Past Connecticut governors, as recent as Republicans M. Jodi Rell and John G. Rowland, have done so, however.
The plan is to have members of the Senate sworn in on one side of the state Capitol building and members of the House of Representatives sworn in on the other side. Most lawmakers have been discouraged from inviting family and friends to the event, which traditionally has been a joyful day full of hugs and handshakes.
Outdoor ceremonies, protests to mark new Connecticut session middletownpress.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from middletownpress.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
Patrick Dragon, one of the first Connecticut state troopers to respond to the 2012 Sandy Hook Massacre, has died of COVID-19.
Tamburro said he doesn t know when members of the Connecticut General Assembly ever took the oath of office outdoors. Past Connecticut governors, as recent as Republicans M. Jodi Rell and John G. Rowland, have done so, however.
The plan is to have members of the Senate sworn in on one side of the state Capitol building and members of the House of Representatives sworn in on the other side. Most lawmakers have been discouraged from inviting family and friends to the event, which traditionally has been a joyful day full of hugs and handshakes.