CBIA Optimistic About Dan Malloy

The state’s biggest business organization has written an open letter to Governor-elect Dan Malloy, just ahead of his inauguration. The Connecticut Business and Industry Association says it looks forward to working with the new administration. WNPR’s Harriet Jones reports.

 

The letter, from CBIA’s President John Rathgeber, pledges cooperation with Connecticut’s soon-to-be 88th governor. Rathgeber describes Connecticut’s economic renewal as critical to the state’s ability to solve its budget problems and provide essential public services. He applauds Malloy’s commitment to transparent state budgeting, and urges him to find ways to reduce the cost of government. Malloy is also asked to work with employers to unlock good ideas and improve business confidence in the state. Rathgeber says he’s looking forward to Malloy’s speech at this Friday’s economic summit hosted by the CBIA.

 

"He’s made several statements about the importance of economic renewal in Connecticut. How we can’t afford to miss the national recovery as it strengthens, Connecticut has to have its share of those kind of new investment activities so we do have a vibrant economy. Be interesting to hear some of his plans on how he is going to convince business leaders across the state from large and small businesses, that this is a place in which they can reasonably make an investment, take a risk and create opportunities."

 

The letter avoids mention of specific points of contention between the CBIA and the new governor, such as mandated sick leave, which is one likely flashpoint this legislative session.

 

For WNPR, I'm Harriet Jones.