Editor’s Note: This is an updated version of an earlier story.
Cigna Corp. and state officials confirmed Tuesday a plan for the health giant to tap state incentives to add at least 200 jobs to Connecticut within two years.
Cigna Chairman and CEO David Cordani joined Gov. Dannel P. Malloy in the announcement in Bloomfield, where the Philadelphia-based insurer has its national claims headquarters.
In addition, Cigna said it will make a significant investment in capital improvements and technology infrastructure to upgrade its facilities in Connecticut.
In a statement, the company did not elaborate on the kinds of jobs to be added, nor did it specify how much it would invest and where in the facilities upgrades. Cigna did not immediately return a phone call or e-mail seeking comment.
Cigna is the first company to take advantage of Malloy’s new “First Five” initiative, which will provide a series of economic incentives and tax breaks for the first five companies that add 200 jobs in the state.
Connecticut taxpayers will provide $50 million in economic assistance to allow for the move to happen, officials said.
That hint was provided in a press release issued by Malloy’s office late Monday that announced the press conference, which will be followed by a ceremonial signing of the “First Five” legislation. Malloy already officially signed that measure into law July 1.
Currently the health insurer employs nearly 4,000 people in Connecticut.
“The combination of these economic benefits and our own investment in our company is a major positive step for CIGNA, the state of Connecticut and all those we serve as a leading health service company,” Cordani said in a statement.
