Episode Information

Connecticut kicked off it’s 2009 legislative session today under a fiscal cloud – a budget deficit that is ballooning to billions over the next few years. We’re broadcasting today from the state Capitol in Hartford – where Governor Jodi Rell addressed a joint session of the legislature to begin this session. The atmosphere, as always on an opening day, is one of excitement and opportunity - but now, as the Governor said, it’s a time of great challenges.

A 350 million dollar deficit this year – with a budget hole of 6 billion or more coming in the next two years…

Rell, and lawmakers have all said “everything is on the table” – which could mean big cuts to state government, social services, and even education…all while towns and cities struggle to balance their own budgets.

Tonight, in this Where We Live special, I’ll be joined by WNPR’s Ray Hardman – as we hear from the Governor, and get reaction from lawmakers and department commissioners about plans for the budget session.

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