Sens. Somers & Harding Statement re: CCSU Controversy

Sen. Heather Somers and Sen. Minority Leader Stephen Harding today issued the following statement regarding a CT Inside Investigator investigation which revealed that administrative officials at Central Connecticut State University were looking for “creative ideas” to pay undocumented students for internships “in a way that doesn’t mention ‘employment’ or require a social security number.’” (Article: https://insideinvestigator.org/ccsu-searches-for-creative-ideas-to-get-undocumented-students-paid-jobs/)

“The investigation raises multiple questions and concerns.

First, if any of these students were to work in areas that receive grants, it would violate the federal grants that require people to be U.S. citizens.

Second, what about students who are here legally? What is the university doing to help them?

Third, federal law requires employers to complete a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services form for each employee. These forms confirm Social Security numbers and immigration status. Does CCSU intend to avoid this federal law? If so, why?

Fourth, Connecticut law requires payment for labor and imposes rules on minimum wage, unemployment insurance, workers comp, and liability insurance. Does CCSU intend to extend these benefits to the undocumented students?

Fifth, this story merits a comment from the Connecticut Department of Labor. Is the agency looking into this? We also need to hear from the Connecticut State Colleges & Universities system and the CSCU Board of Regents. Is this occurring at other CSCU institutions? Will they be following up with CCSU on this story?

Finally, we would welcome a comment from the governor. Is Connecticut taxpayer money being used to circumvent the law? The governor is the one who can get that simple question answered quickly. He is the one who can take action swiftly to straighten this situation out.

The bottom line: Every taxpayer dollar is precious.

Wasteful spending must not be tolerated. Working and middle class families are struggling to pay for groceries, electricity, heat, water, and insurance. Their money – and our laws – must be respected.”