>>> LEGISLATIVE UPDATE: Unfortunately, the Association Health Plans (AHPs) bill, which would allow small businesses and nonprofits to pool employees to obtain lower-cost health insurance also, failed this session in a key committee vote at the end of the legislative session.

>>> State Director Andy Markowski spoke about this and other top small business issues with the Hartford Business Journal and the Connecticut Mirror. Read the articles HERE and HERE, respectively.

Though we fell short on AHPs this session, our member efforts were invaluable, and we thank you for making your voices heard! 

Below are the highlights – and lowlights – of legislation in the recently concluded legislative session in Harford.

• Research & Development Tax Credits were extended to small businesses/pass-through entities. NFIB supported these tax-parity incentivize for small business.
• A Climate Change Superfund did not pass. NFIB opposed the bill, as it would further drives up energy costs.
• Association Health Plans passed the Insurance Committee but did not make it to the floor. NFIB supported AHPs as an additional market-based option for small business owners in a very limited health insurance market in Connecticut.
• The ICHRA Tax Credit, $1,000 per employee, proposed by Governor Lamont passed with support from NFIB. It provides a measure of flexibility for small business owners who want to help provide coverage for their employees.
• A Capital Gains tax surcharge did not pass. NFIB opposed the tax over concerns about impact of higher tax rates on economy, as well as impact on business owners when they sell their business.