Sen. Berthel Statement on Senate Extension of $330M ‘Emergency’ Fund

State Sen. Eric Berthel (R-Watertown) issued the following statement following yesterday’s Senate approval to extend $330 million in emergency-certified funding now known as the “Federal Cuts Response Fund,” to be allocated at Gov. Ned Lamont’s discretion:

“The legislature opened the 2026 legislative session at 10 a.m. on Feb. 4. By the end of the business day, the majority irresponsibly gave the governor complete authority to spend more than $300 million with no checks and balances or accountability.

“This fund was originally established in November as a temporary, emergency-only measure to offset the impact of sudden federal funding disruptions. It was always intended to serve as a short-term bridge until the General Assembly reconvened. Instead, we’re seeing an effort to extend and expand its use, without restoring checks and balances or addressing transparency concerns. That’s not how emergency funds should be handled.

“With the legislature in session, there is no emergency. Any appropriations, if necessary, can be discussed, debated, have a public hearing, and be done using the process that includes the public and is transparent. Giving the Executive Branch a blank check for $330 million via an emergency-certified bill is an abuse of power, lacks transparency, and disrespects every over-taxed taxpayer in Connecticut.

“People in Connecticut are worried about affordability, and majority Democrats’ extension of a $330 million blank check does nothing to assuage these worries. How will this money really be spent, and on what and whom?” he said.

A $500 million emergency fund was first created during the November 2025 special legislative session in anticipation of disruptions to essential federally funded programs such as SNAP and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). At that time, it was intended to expire when the 2026 legislative session began on Feb. 4. Approximately $330 million remains.