Rep. Linehan Remarks On Extension Of Emergency Powers

Press release from State Representative Liz Linehan:

July 21, 2021

A statement from State Representative Liz Linehan (D-Cheshire/Southington/Wallingford):

“Today’s vote for the extension of the emergency declaration presented to be a difficult decision for me. First and foremost, I believe the Governor’s leadership throughout the pandemic has been the key to our current success in low transmission, high vaccination, and a return to relative normalcy. There is value in getting back to normal and I believe the administration has ushered us to this moment in time.

“The plan is to extend 11 Executive Orders; and I do support these orders, especially utilizing rest stops for commuter vaccination clinics, payment to landlords for unpaid rent, and the flexibility to follow the science for masks in schools. However, I also believe that the legislature has the ability to continue this good work, and it is unnecessary to live in a state of emergency to achieve these goals. I have confidence in our ability to do this locally; the Chesprocott Health District, Cheshire’s Superintendent, Dr. Solan, and his district medical advisors are well-equipped to determine the right policies for our schoolchildren. As the elected Representative for the 103rd district, I believe it is my duty to take an active role in achieving these statewide and district-specific goals for the health and safety of the communities I represent. For those reasons, I voted against the resolution. Since the legislature passed the resolution without my vote, I look forward to any opportunity I have to work with the administration, roll up my sleeves, and help guide Connecticut throughout the remainder of the pandemic and our on-going economic recovery together.”

This press release was produced by State Representative Liz Linehan. The views expressed here are the author's own.