CT Patch Candidate Profile: Pat Billie Miller For 27th State Senate District

STAMFORD, CT — The 2022 election is heating up in Connecticut and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office. Eyes are primarily focused on the gubernatorial election, but every state representative and senate seat is up for grabs. All five of Connecticut's congressional seats, plus one U.S. Senate seat, are up for grabs as well.

There are 151 seats in the state House of Representatives and 36 in the state Senate. Democrats currently hold majorities in both chambers.

Connecticut Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Pat Billie Miller, a Stamford resident, is running for State Senate 27th Senate District

Campaign website

https://www.billiemiller4ct.com

Party affiliation

Democratic Party

Education

The King (formerly Low-Heywood Schoo); Moravian College, B.S. in Mathematics

Occupation

State Legislator - 13 years;
Affordable Housing Consultant - 15 years

Family

I am married with two daughters and two grandsons.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Previous public office, appointive or elective

State Senator for 27th District – 1 year, 7 months;
State Representative for 145th Assembly District – 12 years;
Former member of Stamford Board of Representatives – 1 year

Why are you seeking this office?

I believe I've accomplished a great deal for my district as a first term Senator. I would like to continue to work to improve the quality of life for the people I serve and to be their voice in Hartford.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

With rising inflation and the cost of living going up, the most important issue facing my constituents and residents across Connecticut is the economy. It was the most pressing issue for me this past legislative session which is why I am proud to have passed a budget which cut taxes by over $600 million statewide.

My colleagues and I took steps such as passing an extended gas tax holiday through November 30th of this year, creating a one-time $250 per-child tax rebate for working families, and eliminating pension and annuity taxes for qualifying taxpayers.

The hard-working residents of Stamford and Darien are always on my mind as a State Senator and those are the people I think about when voting on legislation. I look forward to next session where I will have the opportunity to pass additional efforts focused on continuing to improve and strengthen our State’s economy.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

My unique qualifications to continue to serve as State Senate 27th District are many, varied, and distinctive. I have resided in the district most of my life. During this time, it has been my privilege to have served the public professionally and politically. The needs and concerns of my constituents have always been a priority to as member of the State House and State Senate.

The 27th Senate District is comprised of different areas economically, geographically, politically, and socially. As its Senator, it has been and will remain my assignment to ensure that the residents’ issues are known, heard, and addressed with meaningful outcomes that enhance their quality of life.

As State Senator, I remain in strong contact with my constituents--working to safeguard their interests. Additionally, my strong work ethic has opened doors of leadership positions in the House and Senate. As a freshman Senator, I chaired two committees during my first term which is a clear indication of my abilities.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

Education reform has always been one of my top priorities: closing the opportunity gap and working to ensure my district gets its fair share of funding from the State. I am proud to say that these are all issues which I successfully addressed in the recent legislative sessions and look forward to continuing to champion if I am re-elected.

Rent stabilization is an issue that I tried to address as a member of the House. Rents are continually becoming unaffordable in the 27th district and I intend to bring this fight to the Senate should I be given the opportunity to return.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Prior to being elected, I worked in the affordable housing industry for over 25 years. This experience gives me a unique understanding and perspective which I bring with me as a legislator.

I think it is important to invest in our communities and ensure that towns and municipalities have equitable and affordable housing for all. I did this as the former House Bonding Subcommittee Chair by making sure that there was adequate funding for affordable housing in our State’s bond package.

I’ve championed consumer protection legislation like a consumer being able to request a cash refund for gift card balance less than $3.00; and making Connecticut the third state to pass legislation prohibiting certain indemnity and hold harmless clauses within snow and ice management services contracts.

In the recent budget, I spearheaded securing over $200 million in state funding toward the new $259.7 million Westhill High School project due to a change in the state reimbursement rate from 20% to 80%. In addition, the reimbursement rate for all future new school construction projects in Stamford will be 60% over the next 25 years, which is much higher than the current 20%. This rate change will save property taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars moving forward.

My proven record as a legislator is evidence that I can handle the job.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

The best political advice that I received was from former Board of Representative Phil Giordano. He said in politics your word is important and always remember to keep it.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am dedicated to being the voice for the constituents of the 27th district and no one will work harder for you. It is a true honor and privilege to represent you in Hartford.