Sen. Kelly & CT Senate GOP Call for Government Transparency and Accountability

Proposals Address COVID-19 Relief Funds, Federal Infrastructure Dollars, and Opioid Settlement Funds

HARTFORD – Connecticut Senate Republicans are announcing a package of legislative proposals to enhance government transparency and accountability ahead of the 2022 legislative session.

The “Better Way to an Accountable Connecticut” plan includes initiatives to:

• Increase oversight and transparency of federal COVID-19 relief funds
• Establish accountability in overseeing federal infrastructure dollars
• Safeguard opioid settlement funds

“As our state faces some of its most challenging times, Connecticut has an obligation to ensure every taxpayer dollar entrusted to our state is spent wisely and with full transparency,” said Senate Republican Leader Kevin Kelly (R-Stratford). “Over the last year, there have been serious concerns raised about the state’s lack of transparency and accountability when it comes to managing federal investments in our state. From allegations of theft in West Haven, to questions of whether funds made it to communities most in need, the public trust has been shaken. To move forward, Connecticut must take strong action to restore public confidence and enhance accountability across the board.”

“As Connecticut receives a historic amount of federal funding intended to provide relief and investment in our state, we must work to establish proper safeguards, openness, and accountability,” said Senator Henri Martin (R-Bristol), ranking member of the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee. “We must learn from the past and better safeguard settlement funds meant to help fight an epidemic and we must take a proactive role in holding government accountable to best use federal funds to help our residents and state thrive.”

“All Connecticut residents deserve a government that is transparent and accountable. The sacrifices of taxpayers must be respected,” said Senator Craig Miner (R-Litchfield), ranking member of the Appropriations Committee.

“We must establish accountability through the checks and balances of our democracy. We must safeguard funds and implement oversight as needed. Above all, we must enhance transparency and public access,” said Senate Republican Leader Pro Tempore Paul Formica (R-East Lyme).

Read the full plan here.