Sen. Sampson Voices Taxpayer Concern on Government Spending at CT’s State Parks

State Sen. Rob Sampson (R-Wolcott) today released a statement on his opposition to a bill that seeks to allocate an additional $250,000 for the purpose of providing all-terrain wheelchairs at select Connecticut state parks. The wheelchairs, valued at $25,000 each, would be available for use at no cost to the public.

The bill (S.B. 301) was approved by the Senate yesterday 35-1.

“When I see a concept like this, I immediately am sympathetic. Who does not want there to be free all-terrain wheelchairs at our state parks? In a perfect world, this amenity would not be a problem. The reality is that whenever the government provides a service like this, it takes money from taxpayers to do so. I was also unable to get clarification on exactly how the state would allocate funding for these highly specialized devices. Further, no information was provided on how many people are projected to utilize these devices, or whether the devices are permitted at our parks under current law.

“Absent answers to these basic questions and the hefty price tag, I do not see a compelling public interest to spend their money in this manner. Our job as legislators is to be the steward of taxpayer dollars. Most taxpayers will never encounter these items.

“This is a time when residents are contemplating moving to another state. There are people contemplating closing their business. Seniors on fixed incomes in my district are also leaving. The reason? Connecticut taxes too much because it spends too much. My opposition to S.B. 301 is the responsible approach that considers the voice of all taxpayers,” said Senator Sampson.