Senator Welch, Bristol Delegation Applaud Passage of Bioscience Zone Legislation

Sen Jason Welch joined Bristol legislators in applauding the passage of a bill which modifies the designation of Bristol’s bioscience zone in order to maximize local job creation. Welch represents Bristol, Plainville, Harwinton and Plymouth.

Pro-Jobs Bill Awaits Governor’s Signature

Bristol legislators today applauded the passage of a bill which modifies the designation of Bristol’s bioscience zone in order to maximize local job creation.

A 2010 state law extended enterprise zone benefits to certain businesses and commercial properties in Bristol, generally located near Bristol Hospital. Enterprise zone benefits include property tax exemptions, business tax credits, and sales tax exemptions.

“The passage of this bipartisan proposal is an important piece to Bristol’s overall strategy to attract new businesses and to boost employment in our districts,” Sen. Jason Welch said. “It’s a step forward for jobs in the city and for taxpayers.”

“We all want the Bioscience Zone to be a magnet for entrepreneurs and investment,” Rep. Betty Boukus said. “With this fix to our maps, we are improving the city’s business climate and laying the groundwork for job growth.”

“We want to do everything we can to enable the bioscience zone to thrive,” Rep. Chris Wright said. “This measure will do just that. Bioscience businesses in these commercial and industrial tracts would qualify for the zone’s incentives—property tax exemptions and corporation business tax credits for improving property and creating jobs.”

“Good business is all about taking smart risks. To improve our economy and grow businesses that create jobs, the state is investing in Bristol. I know this is a risk worth taking,” Rep. Frank Nicastro said. “This common sense bill primes key local areas for bioscience development.”

The legislation substitutes two census tracts in a commercial/industrial zone for two residential tracts.

“Improving the zone gives Bristol a better chance to compete for bioscience firms,” Rep. Whit Betts said. “Adding new high-tech companies would increase the local tax base and also provide high-paying jobs.

Michael Nicastro, President and CEO of the Central Connecticut Chambers of Commerce, also supports the legislation.

The bill (Senate Bill 227) awaits the governor’s signature.