Connecticut continues to be battered by the worst economic downturn in generations. The state has lost nearly 95,000 jobs since the beginning of the recession ”“ and a record number of businesses have shut down in the past two years. Despite these alarming facts, some policymakers in Connecticut remain more concerned about their own political careers and advancing narrow agendas than coming up with real solutions to the state”™s economic crisis.
An example is the reaction of some politicians to the recent court case involving UTC”™s Pratt & Whitney division, one of Pratt”™s unions and the company”™s ability to close two plants in Connecticut. The court ruled that Pratt could not close the plants until the expiration of the union contract. Instead of responding to the ruling with calls for an honest debate on what can be done to make Connecticut a more attractive place to retain and create jobs, several politicians reacted as if the court had actually solved the fundamental economic problems underlying Pratt”™s decision. This misreading of the situation sent the worst possible message to businesses both inside and outside of Connecticut.
The message they sent is that our state is not prepared to address the competitive disadvantages that many Connecticut companies face. The tone set by these politicians raises serious questions about how much they value the contributions Connecticut employers make to their communities. Their “us-versus-them” posing denigrates not only employers but also the people they employ.
Everyone wants job security. But the best way to provide it is by creating a positive environment that encourages private-sector investment and economic growth. Connecticut-based businesses have an outstanding record of being good employers who treat their employees well. What they want from their political leadership is an understanding of the competitive pressures they face and to be treated with respect.
While Connecticut boasts many advantages, our state is faced with enormous challenges. Our cost of doing business, one of the highest in the nation, is even more of a detriment now as companies are forced to cut their costs. Connecticut also has a reputation, whether deserved or not, of being unfriendly to business.
We need our political leaders to work together to make our business climate more competitive and improve the image of our state. Putting Connecticut back in the forefront of states that are recognized for nurturing economic growth and job creation is the kind of win-win situation our citizens want and deserve.
John R. Rathgeber is president and CEO of the Connecticut Business & Industry Association.
