Rep. Mike France Joins Legislature's Manufacturing Caucus

HARTFORD – State Rep. Mike France (R-42), a member of the legislature’s Planning & Development Committee, has joined a bipartisan panel of lawmakers determined to improve Connecticut’s manufacturing industry, a critical sector in the state’s economy.

“I hope that through my position in this caucus, I may be able to advocate for support of local manufacturers, such as Gales Ferry’s Styron and Uncasville’s RockTenn in the 42nd District,” said Rep. France. “Connecticut manufacturing has the potential to thrive, but to make this happen we must first make the state friendlier to small businesses and improve skilled labor education, such as vocational and technical schools.”

Formed in May 2012, the Manufacturing Caucus is made of approximately 50 legislators from every corner of the state and 20 industry advocates and business representatives. It has so far focused on initiatives such as: developing strategies to reduce energy costs; enhanced training for incumbent manufacturing employees; encouraging innovation by helping start-ups to access research; and increasing and expanding apprenticeship opportunities in key manufacturing occupations. The ultimate goal this year is to provide the proper legislative support that Connecticut firms need to thrive here.

The caucus met Friday for the first time this session to determine which manufacturers are of highest concern, and which will be most exemplary in informing decisions ahead. Members also a need to continue enhancing manufacturing curriculum, and expanding manufacturing opportunities, in vocational high school and community college programming throughout Connecticut.

The group will continue to meet in the coming weeks to offer its ideas to the legislature’s Commerce Committee.