Welcome News-Times Readers

Although this site has been quite for a while, I guess that this News-Times story shows that there is a need (/guilted me), so I will keep it alive and try to bring you the important stories in CT politics.

NO POSTS TODAY

Had to be at work extra early. Will try to catch up with anything of importance tomorrow.

Democrats Retain Dominace of Groton City Council

Despite recruiting a slate of candidiates that were known throughout the town, Groton Republicans were unable to gain a single seat in Monday's City Council election. Election officials reported 24.1% voter turnout.

Story here.

Is Redding the Future?

Tom Condon certainly hopes so. He loves the planned development of a former 19th Century industrial park into a residential area, complete with housing, office, retail and artistic spaces.

Story here.

Rowland Still Under the Microscope

Despite being in jail, ex-Gov. John Rowland is still being investigated by prosecutors. At issue is the legality of his consulting fees (5K a month) that he received after resigning from office.

Story here.

Hartford Loses to Milwaukee

Hartford lost its bid to host the 2010 American Legion Convention to Milwaukee. Not enough hotel rooms was a major consideration.

Story here.

Danbury Confrontation With Illegals Gaining National Attention

Danbury's attempt to deal with illegal immigrants has attracted attention beyond just Fairfield County. The Day had a story last week, Lou Dobbs dealt with it on Weds. on CNN, and it has been the buzz on certain right wing blogs and websites. This is an issue that will not go away, and the dangers to local politicians should be evident.

Story here.

End of the Car Tax?

Although it was not considered by Senate Democrats in the Finance Committee, Sen. David Cappiello (R-Danbury) will propose on the Senate floor an end to the state's car tax. However, don't expect the tax to be repealed any time soon.

Story here.

A New Batch of Future Leaders Sworn In

The Undergraduate Student Government (USG) at UConn swore in its new leaders this week.

Story here.

More on Danbury's Volleyball ban

A Public Defender has commentary on the proposed ban on Volleyball games in Danbury, an attempt by the city to combat illegal immigrants.

Commentary here.

Immigrant Driver's Licenses

Connecticut Law Blog is following a proposed Senate bill that would restricting the validity of the driver's license of someone who is not a citizen and is in the country on a visa of limited time-period, until the expiration of that visa.

Story and Commentary here.

Cellphone Restriction Bill Passes House

The House passed a bill that would allow drivers to place and answer calls, but they would have to conduct their conversations with headphones or some other hands-free technology. In the past the bill has been bottled up in the Senate, but Lt. Gov. Sullivan, an opponent, no longer controls the Senate agenda, increasing the likelihood of passing.

The bill would also ban drivers under 18 from using cellphones at all, and impose a $100 for driving while distracted, such as eating or drinking, leads to a moving violation.

Stories here and here.

Minimum Wage Increase Approved

The House voted 96-44 to increase the state minimum wage to $7.65 in 2007. The bill passed with primarily Democratic support. No word on the increase's fate with in the Senate or the Governor.

Storie here, here and here.

More High School Issues

House Minority Leader Robert Ward (R-North Branford) has proposed legislation that would institute steroid testing for high school athletes. The bill would affect almost 100,00 students in the state.

Story here.

Now For the Serious Issues Facing Connecticut

The Senate has passed a bill that bans the sale of soda at schools, including school fundraisers. Next the Senate will certainly take up the pressing issue of making sure that shoes laces are always tied.

Story here.

Can't We All Just get Along

Gov. Rell and House Speaker James Amann continue to be at loggerheads over the budget, but appear to be doing so in nicer terms.

Story here.