Sen. Berthel Joins Senate Republican Call for Government Transparency & Accountability, Unveils ‘Better Way to an Accountable CT’ Plan  

Proposals Address Oversight of COVID-19 Relief Funds, Federal Infrastructure Dollars

(WATCH the press conference here.)

Today, Chief Deputy Senate Republican Leader Eric Berthel (R-Watertown) joined Senate Republicans and local advocates to unveil a set of policy proposals called “A Better Way to an Accountable Connecticut” that inject transparency and sunlight into state government. Senator Berthel also emphasized the potential positive impacts of government transparency on the state’s job growth, transportation infrastructure, and the environment.

The plan, which can be viewed in detail here, includes initiatives to:

• Increase oversight and transparency of federal COVID-19 relief funds
• Establish accountability in overseeing federal infrastructure dollars
• Establish a Chief Accountability Officer to increase oversight of state, quasi-public, and municipal activities

“There continue to be serious concerns about the state’s lack of transparency and accountability when it comes to managing federal investments in our state. From the fraud and abuse in West Haven, to questions of whether funds ever made it to communities most in need, Connecticut must take strong action to restore public confidence and enhance accountability across the board. This oversight is critical as the legislature contemplates hundreds of millions in funding for our schools,” said Senator Berthel.

“Connecticut has been blessed with an unprecedented amount of federal funding aimed at providing relief and investment in our state. It is our duty to ensure that this money is used wisely and transparently. Every hard-earned taxpayer dollar deserves respect and accountability. By providing better transparency, we will restore the public’s faith in our government. Let us lead the way with a better, more accountable future for Connecticut,” he said.