Sen. Sampson: Affordability in Connecticut Is Broken This Plan Fixes the Damage

February 11, 2026

“Can’t Afford CT…Can’t Afford CT Democrats!”

Sen. Sampson: Affordability in Connecticut Is Broken This Plan Fixes the Damage

HARTFORD, CT — State Sen. Rob Sampson (R–16) and the Connecticut Senate Republican Caucus today unveiled a structural affordability plan aimed at reversing policies that have made Connecticut one of the most expensive states in the nation.

“Connecticut’s affordability crisis didn’t happen overnight,” Sen. Sampson said, “It is the result of years of bad policy choices that have made it extremely difficult for hardworking people to stay, earn a living, and raise their families here.”

Under the current leadership, Connecticut now ranks:

Sen. Sampson and Senate Republicans are advocating for the following:

WORKING CLASS INCOME TAX CUT:

A $1 billion income tax cut

40% reduction for single filers making $50,000 and joint filers making $100,000
16% reduction for single filers making $100,000 and joint filers making $200,000
Eliminate income tax for single filers making $25,000
Up to $1600 in tax relief for joint filers, up to $800 for a single filers

The Senate Republican Caucus Affordability Plan also includes:

Institute a Property Tax Levy Cap for municipalities of the greater of 2% or the cost of inflation. Towns are allowed to override the cap for major projects with 60% vote at referendum
Eliminate occupational license fees for professions including: electrician, HVAC, plumber, teacher, realtor, speech and language pathologist
Reduce the Payroll tax (CT Paid Family Leave) by 20%
Implement the Bipartisan Supported Association Health Plans
Cut All Public Benefits Charges from electric bills for end use customers of each electric distribution company and move such expenses to the state budget process
Cap Power Purchase Agreements at 2.5 times the wholesale price of electricity
Prohibit PURA from Enacting Programs with Ratepayer Impact without Legislative Approval
Immediate study by state agencies on how to reduce the costs of living and working for the people, businesses, municipalities, and non-profit organizations of Connecticut

“For years, residents have been offered temporary rebates and election-year gimmicks,” Sen. Sampson said. “This plan actually changes the structure that made Connecticut unaffordable in the first place.”

Sen. Sampson urges Democratic lawmakers to engage with the proposal.

“Connecticut families can’t afford more excuses,” Sen. Sampson said. “They need relief, and they need it now.”