Sredzinski Supports Deal to Keep Sikorsky in Connecticut

From Connecticut House Republicans:

HARTFORD, CT – Today, Representative J.P. Sredzinski (R-Monroe) voted in favor of a deal that will keep Sikorsky Aircraft headquarters in Connecticut until 2032.

Rep. Sredzinski cited the thousands of jobs that will remain in Connecticut as well as the money that will be invested in local Sikorsky suppliers over the life of the agreement as his main reasons for supporting the deal, but he urged the legislature to focus on improving the cost of doing business in the state for all businesses in the future.

“When I was first elected, one of my priorities was improving Connecticut’s economy – and this is still a priority for me today,” said Rep. Sredzinski. “While I would much prefer our state take a proactive approach to our economy and create an overall business friendly environment for everyone, the reality is that Lockheed and Sikorsky face costs of $400 million more here in Connecticut than if they built these new CH53K helicopters in another state, so this deal was necessary to keep Sikorsky headquartered in Connecticut. Therefore, I feel compelled to support this reactive approach to help Sikorsky as they make over $69 billion worth of investments in our state economy.”

Sikorsky currently spends $350 million a year with local suppliers in Connecticut, including two businesses in Monroe. As part of the deal, Sikorsky will increase this yearly spending to $470 million.

Rep. Sredzinski, who represents Monroe and part of Newtown, said that backed the deal to show support for these two businesses as well as the 267 Sikorsky employees that live in the two towns.

“The employees and businesses that work directly for and with Sikorsky deserve to know their jobs are safe and will be supported by their elected officials,” added Rep. Sredzinski.

Image via Connecticut House Republicans.