Sen. Art Linares Backing Bill to Help CT Exporters Create Jobs

Sen. Art Linares is supporting a bill which aims to help Connecticut exporters grow jobs locally.

Sen. Art Linares (pictured taking the Oath of Office) is backing a measure which aims to help Connecticut exporters grow jobs locally.

Linares, who has toured several area manufacturers which rely on exports of their products, said the bill would allow the state to give priority for available funding to small businesses attempting to export their products or services to foreign markets.

Currently, state law allows the Small Business Express program (EXP) to prioritize small businesses creating jobs and industries in the precision manufacturing, business services, green and sustainable technology, and bioscience and information technology fields. The new proposal would add Connecticut exporters to the priority list. On the web: www.ct.gov/ecd .

“I believe Connecticut has a very bright future in exports,” Sen. Linares said. “But we must continue to remove obstacles to growth for our local manufacturers. In recent years, Connecticut companies that ship products overseas have seen an increase in their exports. These small businesses have been one of the few bright spots in our state’s economy. Why not help them build upon that growth? This common sense bill will improve existing state law to make exporters a priority. Passing it into law will send a positive message to area manufacturers and show them that Hartford is listening to their concerns.”

Connecticut exports include everything from jet engines to industrial equipment and surgical supplies.

The bill – Senate Bill #1004 – received unanimous support in the State Senate on April 18 and now heads to the House of Representatives.