CT Lawmakers Plan Major Budget Boosts

0:00It's April 23rd. Hartford News today starts now. AI-powered and ready. I'm Cory with the story. Connecticut lawmakers and Governor Ned Lamont are said to dip deep into the state savings program like never before to balance the next budget. They're eyeing major boosts for town aid, affordable childcare, and some tax relief, with revenue looking strong at over $200 million. Extra from recent tax filings. Leaders are pushing hard for at least $150 million more in education cost sharing grants for local schools, especially in spots. Like Bridgeport, Hartford, and Hamden, facing crises from inflation and fading federal help. They're also talking about matching last year's $300 million child care endowment to keep working families afloat. Democratic bigwigs like House Speaker Matt Ritter and Senate President Pro Tem Martin Looney sound optimistic, saying they're close on education. Boosts, but stressing no deals done till every piece fits. The Governor's team echoes that, focusing on sustainable spending amid pension debts and budget caps that curb growth to match household income.

1:07To squeeze in these extras, they're getting creative prepaying teacher pensions from the $2 billion savings pot to free up cap space and shifting $700 million in hospital payments outside the limits. Le Mans proposed $500 million tax rebate for voters might shrink to $300 million or less if it sticks around. Talks pick back up tomorrow, with everyone walking a tightrope to invest now without blowing up the fiscal guardrails that turn Connecticut's budget. Around after decades of mess?