HARTFORD – Citing troubling economic forecasts and the ongoing effects of Trump-era trade policies, Senate President Martin Looney (D-New Haven) and Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) have called on the state Department of Labor (DOL) to ensure it is ready for a potential economic downturn.
In a letter sent to DOL Commissioner Danté Bartolomeo, Sens. Looney and Duff expressed concern about national recession predictions and the compounding impact of lingering tariffs on Connecticut’s manufacturing, agriculture, and transportation sectors.
“We are already seeing signs of distress from businesses facing higher costs and supply chain complications,” the letter states. “We fear a flurry of layoffs may soon follow.”
The Senate leaders emphasized the importance of a proactive approach, requesting updates on the department’s current operational readiness, including:
• Whether the unemployment claims system has recently undergone stress testing
• Plans for temporary staffing increases in the event of a spike in claims
• Strategies to quickly inform displaced workers about how to access assistance
The Democratic leaders praised the DOL for its performance during the Covid-19 pandemic, acknowledging the challenges faced and the strides made since then to modernize systems and improve response capabilities.
“We stand ready to work with you to ensure the department has the resources and support it needs to serve Connecticut residents efficiently and compassionately during what could be another trying time for working families,” the letter concludes.
