Sen. Sampson on “Re-open Connecticut Advisory Group”

State Senator Rob Sampson (R-16) shared the following reaction to Gov. Lamont’s announcement of the “Re-open Connecticut Advisory Group”

“There is no question that there needs to be a clear, organized strategy when determing how Connecticut will return to ‘normal’ life following this pandemic. I share the Governor’s desire to create an intelligent path forward.  However, I must object to the establishment of an “advisory group” for this purpose. In America, citizens hold elections and select from their neighbors whom they choose to make public policy and represent their best interests in government – yet not a single elected representative is included in the makeup of this new 21-person board.  In fact, a number of them are not even CT residents.”

“This should concern every citizen no matter who you voted for.  We have elections to decide who will represent us. It is not okay to have the Governor establish a committee to replace them.”

“It has also been brought to my attention that the Governor is violating the U.S. Constitution by entering into a Congressionally unapproved compact with the other states.”

Article I, Sec. 10 of the U.S. Constitution states:

No State shall, without the Consent of Congress, lay any Duty of Tonnage, keep Troops, or Ships of War in time of Peace, enter into any Agreement or Compact with another State, or with a foreign Power, or engage in War, unless actually invaded, or in such imminent Danger as will not admit of delay.

“Congress has not approved any compact, Connecticut is not being invaded, and the states are not in such imminent danger that will not admit of delay.  This committee is going to exist for a period of time, appointing members, holding meetings, discussing matters, and waiting for who knows how long to make a decision.  I urge Governor Lamont to respect the limits of his executive powers when making policy and reconsider those decisions outside the scope of his authority, particularly those that go beyond public health concerns.”