Senator Welch Statement Regarding ESPN Announcement of Layoffs

Hartford, CT – State Senator Jason Welch (R-Bristol) released the following statement today re: ESPN announcement that they will be laying-off a number of employees across the board.

“Connecticut has an unemployment rate of 8%. Any loss of jobs whether from attrition, or layoffs is devastating. I have sent a letter to the Commissioner of the State Department of Labor in an effort to help employees who may be affected. They will need to have a plan in place for their next step. These workers have families to provide for.

“It is also notable that the administration chose ESPN a First Five winner less than two years ago and awarded them at least $17.5 million in taxpayer money on the promise they would create at least 200 new jobs here in Connecticut. I will look forward to hearing from the company and from the department of economic and community development as to how these layoffs square with the First Five deal.”

Read Sen. Welch’s letter to DOL Commissioner Palmer re: ESPN layoffs