Senator Linares Urges Support for Tesla Bill

During a press conference on the steps of the state capitol today, Senator Art Linares (R-33) called for the passage of HB 7097, An Act Concerning the Licensing of New and Used Car Dealers. The bill would allow Tesla, Inc. to sell cars directly to Connecticut customers.

Sen. Linares told a crowd of Tesla employees and supporters that the Tesla bill is about welcoming new technology and businesses to the state.

“How many of you want to see Tesla sell more cars in Connecticut? We’ve got like 70 people here today and if we pass this bill, we could have 300 people, 500 people. It’s about bringing good quality careers and jobs to Connecticut. That’s what we are here to talk about today; a great innovative company,” he said. “Why are we preventing an innovative company that’s changing the world from coming to Connecticut. I cannot understand why we would do that. Connecticut needs to open its arms to Tesla to let them sell cars, innovate, build renewable energy and change the world here in Connecticut. They’re building cars. They’re selling cars all across the country. They’re creating jobs everywhere but Connecticut and we at the state capitol have the power to change that.”

Sen. Linares said the rows of 36 boxes behind him were filled with notes to Connecticut senators asking them to pass legislation that would allow for the sale of Tesla’s in Connecticut.

“I am so excited to be part of this movement,” Sen. Linares said. “I am so excited to be here with the Solar City and the Tesla family and I cannot tell you how excited the state will be when we can final welcome Tesla here in Connecticut. It’s an honor to be part of this fight. It’s an honor to be part of this movement and this year we are going to get it done.”

While many of the manufacturers of gas-powered vehicles this week announced they will lay off employees, Sen. Linares said Tesla is actually hiring. He said he would like to see them hire workers in Connecticut.

Sen. Linares represents the communities of Chester, Clinton, Colchester, Deep River, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Lyme, Old Saybrook, Portland and Westbrook.