Veterans' Affairs Committee
JOINT FAVORABLE REPORT
Bill No.: SB-413
AN ACT WAIVING CERTAIN FEES FOR VETERANS FOR OCCUPATIONAL
Title: LICENSURE.
Vote Date: 3/18/2021
Vote Action: Joint Favorable Change of Reference to Finance, Revenue and Bonding
PH Date: 2/18/2021
File No.:
Disclaimer: The following JOINT FAVORABLE Report is prepared for the benefit of the
members of the General Assembly, solely for purposes of information, summarization and
explanation and does not represent the intent of the General Assembly or either chamber
thereof for any purpose.
SPONSORS OF BILL:
Veterans' Affairs Committee
Sen. Catherine Osten, 19th Dist
Rep. Dorinda Borer, 115th Dist
REASONS FOR BILL:
The bill was proposed to waive fees for Veterans for application and initial license, permit, or
registration for occupational licensure. This would allow those who are exiting military service
and looking to pursue a career in trades the opportunity to do so without creating a financial
burden on the veteran.
RESPONSE FROM ADMINISTRATION/AGENCY:
None Expressed.
NATURE AND SOURCES OF SUPPORT:
Sen. Catherine Osten, 19th Dist. : Senator Osten submitted written testimony stating that she
supports this bill because it would amend state law and exempt veterans from application and
renewal fee for occupational licenses. Senator Osten referenced veterans in her district who have
started businesses upon completing military service and that creating a business can be costly.
This bill will exempt veterans from licensing fees and aid them in their transition back into the
community.
Kimberly Glassman, Director, Foundation for Fair Contracting of Connecticut Inc. : Director
Glassman provided spoken and written testimony in support of SB 413. She noted that while
Public Act 14-131 also gives DCP latitude regarding fee waivers to returned service members,
this bill would clarify that and provide relief to returning military members.
Bill Finch, National Electrical Contractor Association. : Mr. Finch submitted written testimony
stating his support and pointing to a longstanding program called "Helmets to Hardhats", which
will be assisted if SB 413 is successful. He referred to the nearly 40,000 veterans served since its
inception, without compromising safety, and that veterans deserve support and assistance when
returning to the workforce.
Michael A. DAmico, IBEW Second District. : Mr. D'Amico submitted written testimony stating that
this bill is a good way to offer licensed trade jobs to those leaving military service, provided that
they meet current licensing requirements and pass examinations. This will serve the purpose of
keeping the industry and people safe while relieving financial burden placed on veterans.
Cameron Champlin, Pipefitters Local Union 777. : Mr. Champlin provided spoken and written
testimony stating that he believes this bill will clarify the intent of Public Act 14-131.
NATURE AND SOURCES OF OPPOSITION:
None expressed.
Reported by: Edward Jacome, Assistant Clerk Date: 03/22/21
Page 2 of 2 SB-413