Belsito Critical of Governor's Transportation Plan

TOLLAND/HARTFORD, CT – State Rep. Sam Belsito on Thursday ripped into Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s plan to fund state transportation initiatives.

In Belsito's words, the plan, "raises taxes on hard-working Connecticut commuters and business owners."

He said, “Over the past seven years, Governor Malloy has failed to prioritize transportation projects and is now asking taxpayers for more money,” said Rep. Belsito. “We don’t need tolls or a gas tax increase to rebuild our infrastructure. It’s time to start focusing our efforts to rebuild on the projects that need it the most.”

Malloy’s proposal includes the following:

• A seven-cent increase in the gas tax by up to 7 cents, to 32 cents, gradually implementing the increase over a four-year period.

• Implementation of statewide electronic tolling beginning in fiscal year 2023.

• Acceleration of the transfer of car sales tax by two years.

• Establishment of a $3 per tire fee on tire purchases

See more in The governor's proposals here.

Belsito said as it is, the the state’s transportation fund "will increase to over a billion dollars."

He said an increase in transportation-related taxes is not necessary.

He added, “Our problem isn’t from revenue, its Governor Malloy’s infrastructure plan isn’t realistic,” said Rep. Belsito. “We all know that our state’s infrastructure needs to be rebuilt, but we need to live within our means.”

Photo Credit: Rep. Sam Belsito's office