Congressman Chris Murphy and Sen. Richard Blumenthal launched on Thursday a temporary platform for Connecticut manufacturers to have voices heard in Washington.
The two Democratic lawmakers announced they are available online to hear manufacturers concerns. A questionnaire on their Congressional Web sites allows manufacturers to lobby both directly.
The announcement came in Waterbury as the duo attended a forum put on by CONNStep and the Manufacturing Alliance of Connecticut.
The 30 people in attendance told the two legislators that they need freedom from federal regulations such as restrictions on what can be sold international. The group also discussed the need for infrastructure for freight and high-speed rail; intellectual property protection; and giving American manufacturers preference for government contracts.
“Information is power. This survey is one way for us to get that information,” Blumenthal said.
Murphy’s online questionnaire went live Thursday, with Blumenthal’s scheduled to follow shortly thereafter. Both will stay live through May 20.
The two legislators claim the results will make them better able to advocate for Connecticut manufacturers. Murphy is trying to establish a federal Buy American initiative.
