East Lyme Legislators discuss Tolls and More at Office Hour

February 4, 2020

EAST LYME- State Senator Paul Formica (R-20) and State Rep. Holly Cheeseman (R-37) joined constituents on Feb. 3 for a Pre-Session Legislative Update to discuss the major issues impacting East Lyme residents and the rest of Connecticut. A lively discussion forced the group to relocate to accommodate the scheduled town zoning meeting, but the officials were happy to oblige and take a few minutes extra to address every attendee’s concerns.

The legislators spoke with constituents about the upcoming 2020 legislative session, including the governor’s push for tolls, the size and scope of the state budget and ways to increase government efficiencies. They also discussed the continued progress on updating Connecticut’s energy sources.

“I appreciate every opportunity to check in with community members and hear about what is affecting them at home. Heading into the 2020 legislative session I want to be sure that I am advocating for what’s best for our beautiful corner of Connecticut,” Sen. Formica said. “We must prioritize improving CT’s transportation infrastructure, however tolls are not the answer.”

Senator Formica highlighted the Republican’s alternative plan, FASTRCT, which frees up funding for transportation within the existing state budget.

“I am grateful for the time I had in East Lyme last night to discuss the major pieces of legislation we are expecting to see in the upcoming 2020 legislative session. It is important for us to stand up against the “trucks only” tolling, as it can very easily turn into tolling for all vehicles,” Rep. Cheeseman said. “We must work to ease the burden of opening and operating small businesses and bringing jobs back to Connecticut.”

Legislators told the crowd that they oppose any form of tolls on state highways and believe a proposed truck-only toll plan will eventually lead to tolls on all vehicles.

Senator Formica serves the 20^th District which includes the towns of Bozrah, East Lyme, Montville, New London, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Salem and Waterford.

Representative Cheeseman serves the 37^th District which includes the towns of East Lyme and Salem.