Sen. Formica on Extension of Governor’s Emergency Powers

I do not support Governor Lamont’s request for an extension of his emergency powers. However, the process in place to approve or disapprove of the requested extension does not allow for a vote of the full legislature.

To clarify, the process is as follows;

1. Governor renews declaration (which happened at approximately 2:00pm on Tuesday, September 1);
2. Public Health Emergency Committee (https://cga.ct.gov/ph/taskforce.asp?TF=20200311_Public%20Health%20Emergency%20Committee) has 72 hours to disapprove of the declaration or the declaration remains valid.

The Public Health Emergency Committee is comprised of the president pro tempore of the Senate, the speaker of the House of Representatives, the majority and minority leaders of both houses of the General Assembly and the co-chairpersons and ranking members of the joint standing committee of the General Assembly having cognizance of matters relating to public health.

While I will not be able to participate in the committee discussion and possible decision, I want to add my voice to the call for the return to a balanced three branches of government, which would provide for public inclusion in the governing process, both directly and through their elected representatives.

Best,

State Senator Paul Formica