CMC Report

March 2026

Following is a recap of March’s CMC Legislative Report.

The Legislative Report for the Connecticut Manufacturers’ Collaborative provides an overview of numerous bills moving through the Connecticut General Assembly, with a strong focus on workforce development, labor policy, economic growth, and regulatory changes. Many of the proposals aim to address workforce shortages, improve training pipelines, and strengthen connections between education systems and industry needs. For example, legislation seeks to expand the debt-free community college program to include workforce and continuing education, as well as to study workforce shortages and improve training availability across the state.

A major theme throughout the report is workplace transparency and employee protections. Several bills propose requiring employers to disclose wage ranges and benefits in job postings, improve paycheck transparency, and expand workers’ rights. Other proposals include allowing unemployment benefits for striking workers, increasing dependency allowances, and expanding workers’ compensation eligibility to include PTSD from witnessing serious injuries. Additional legislation focuses on workplace conditions, such as accommodations for menopause, breastfeeding protections, and studies on heat safety standards.

The report also highlights economic development and business support initiatives, particularly for small businesses and manufacturers. Notable proposals include creating research and development tax credits, offering concierge services through the Office of Small Business Affairs, and revising commerce statutes to modernize programs and reduce outdated requirements. There is also a strong emphasis on tax policy, including rebates, tax credits, and adjustments to income tax thresholds, alongside broader fiscal measures tied to the state budget.

Another significant focus is technology and innovation, especially artificial intelligence. One comprehensive bill proposes establishing an AI Policy Office, workforce training programs, and regulatory frameworks for AI systems, while also addressing risks such as discrimination in automated employment decisions. Additional proposals support cybersecurity infrastructure, emerging technologies, and workforce adaptation to technological change.

Environmental and energy-related policies are also present, including proposals to create a climate change superfund, impose surcharges tied to fossil fuel impacts, streamline environmental permitting, and incorporate economic development perspectives into energy planning. These efforts reflect a broader push to balance environmental goals with economic and industrial considerations.

Overall, the report reflects a legislative agenda centered on modernizing Connecticut’s workforce, supporting business growth, strengthening worker protections, and adapting to technological and environmental challenges, with many bills advancing through committees and awaiting further action.