The state's budget had no sooner been passed than everyone wanted to change it. I support the budget as passed by the legislature because it preserves services for those who need them. We certainly do not need fewer supports for those among us who are elderly, infirm, or struggling with mental health issues or intellectual disabilities. 

This budget also works to shift taxes away from our over-reliance on the property tax. While some businesses are complaining about being taxed on the money they make, those same businesses will benefit by the increase in PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) moneys, such as will benefit New London, which is home to two colleges, the Coast Guard Academy, a hospital, the state pier, and other tax-exempt property. The increase in PILOT funding allows municipalities to meet needs without raising property taxes. Burdensome and inequitable property taxes have long been a problem in our state and this budget starts to address them. 

It is important to note that the business taxes in the budget are in line with or less than the taxes in most other states.  

For these reasons, I support the budget at passed, and encourage others to do the same. 

Carol Burgess

Montville