State Rep. Derek Slap (D- West Hartford, Avon, Farmington) says the legislature cannot afford to take the summer off and is seeking constituent input.

Submitted

State Rep. Derek Slap is disappointed that the General Assembly failed to enact a new budget for the next biennium – and he’s ready at any time to make the difficult decisions necessary to end the uncertainty facing businesses, towns and families.

“I’ve been very clear to legislative leadership that my priorities are to protect our schools and local property tax payers, enact real reforms, make government more affordable, and maintain investments in transportation and higher education that drive our economy,” said Slap. “I understand doing all that will require making difficult decisions and that’s okay – it’s what we were elected to do.”

Slap told House leaders that he would be available on any day at any time to vote, whether it’s on a mini-budget or a full two-year budget. “The latest proposal  released Thursday is not the final budget and changes will – and must – be made,” he said. “What’s important is that the General Assembly works together to find common ground and take action.”

“This week I have spoken with town managers in West Hartford, Avon, and Farmington so I may understand how their communities will be impacted by the lack of a state budget. Needless to say the uncertainty is unsettling and we should all have a sense of urgency in the General Assembly to reach consensus and take action.”

“I look forward to hearing from constituents in the days ahead and have multiple community events planned,” said Rep. Slap. “My On Your Corner program comes to the Big Y Supermarket at 255 West Main St. in Avon from 3-5 p.m. on Sunday, July 9. I hope Avon residents take a few minutes to stop by and offer their suggestions.”

Slap is adding additional dates and locations for On Your Corner in Avon and West Hartford during the month of July. He can be contacted at 860-240-1376, by email at [email protected] and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/repderekslap.