State Representatives Selim Noujaim (R-74) today joined Republican Legislative Leaders and unveiled a no-tax increase balanced budget proposal for Fiscal Years 2012 and 2013.
“As a small manufacturer and a member of the middle class I know the state can’t afford more tax increases,” Rep. Noujaim said. “The state government needs to operate like a business and keep expenses low to stay competitive.”
By focusing on core government functions, eliminating waste and creating efficiencies, the Republican Alternative Budget significantly reduces the size and cost of government while protecting the social safety net and preserving state aid to municipalities.
Highlights of the (line by line) Republican Alternative Budget include:
• No new taxes on any business, individual, employer or services or goods.
• The Republican budget cuts spending from Gov. Malloy’s plan by $1.2 billion.
• The budget preserves municipal aid for all towns and cities.
• Enhanced Medicaid fraud detection units will save an estimated $224 million in wrongful payments.
• Republicans plan to save more than $46 million through agency consolidations.
• State government will be streamlined through attrition and reduction in the 54,000- state payroll.
• No money will be borrowed for day-to-day state operations.
• The $500 property tax credit that Gov. Malloy wanted to abolish is fully restored.
• More than $200 million in the state’s highest cost debt will be pre-paid, thus allowing for greater flexibility in budgeting throughout state agencies.
• It restores the sales tax amnesty week that every Connecticut consumer can use to support household budgets.
Half of the proposed reductions in state-funded positions, 1,250 would be targeted toward management. The Bipartisan Commission on Enhanced Agency Outcomes recommended that Connecticut cut in half the number of managers to come in line with the private sector.
“This budget is balanced without raising the sales and gasoline taxes and without taxing non-prescription drugs, back-to-school supplies, clothing under $50 and more,” Rep. Noujaim said.
