Kevin Witkos Sworn In As New State Senator for 8th District [Video]

Hartford, CT – State Senator Kevin Witkos (R-8) was officially sworn into office Wednesday at the opening of the 2009 Legislative Session. Senator Witkos represents the 8th District which includes the communities of Avon, Simsbury, Canton, New Hartford, Barkhamsted, Hartland, Colebrook, Norfolk, Granby, Torrington and Harwinton.

“Having my wife and children with me as I was sworn into the State Senate was a true honor and a day that I am proud to share with them,” said Senator Witkos. “And yet in the middle of the celebration, each one of us being sworn in was very aware of the difficult work we have ahead of us; the largest budget deficit in history, municipalities and businesses struggling, record job loss. These are problems we must solve together, regardless of party, and I am optimistic we will be able to get to work immediately.”

Senator Witkos joins the Senate after serving three terms in the State House of Representatives. He has been appointed Ranking Member of the General Assembly’s Energy and Technology and General Law committees by Senate Minority Leader John McKinney (R-Fairfield). Senator McKinney also named him to the Legislative Management and Public Health Committees.

“During his six years as a member of the State House of Representatives, Senator-elect Witkos has demonstrated common sense leadership on a number of important issues, from improving school testing standards to strengthening protections for victims of domestic violence,” said Senator McKinney.  “In addition to his years of service in the State House of Representatives, his dedication to the public good as a Canton police officer will bring invaluable perspective to all of his assignments.”

“As we stare down both a national recession and a growing state budget deficit, this is surely a time for tough cuts but also for smart choices,” said Senator Witkos. “Serving as ranking member on the Energy and Technology Committee is especially exciting for me at a time when the state must explore new and innovative ways to power our homes and businesses, and keep energy costs down for Connecticut residents.”

As a member of the General Law Committee, Senator Witkos will focus on a number of issues relating to fair trade and sales, including consumer protection and licensing. 

The Public Health Committee oversees all matters relating to the Department of Public Health as well as emergency medical services, nursing homes and the treatment of substance abuse.
 
“I’ve served with the Canton Police Department since 1989,” said Senator Witkos. “Serving on the police force brings you up close and personal with a wide array of public safety and health concerns. And making sure our emergency and social services have the tools they need to operate effectively is critical.  But this is a particularly tall order when our towns and cities face such crippling budget shortfalls. Despite that, seeing that our first responders and social services have the tools necessary to do their jobs will be one of my top priorities.”

The Legislative Management Committee is responsible for the operations of the General Assembly which includes matters such as working conditions, and employee compensation of the General Assembly. 

Senator Witkos represents the 8th District communities of Avon, Simsbury, Canton, New Hartford, Barkhamsted, Hartland, Colebrook, Norfolk, Granby, Torrington, and Harwinton. His press aide is Rachel Reese. She may be reached at 860.240.8865 or via email at [email protected]