Statement from Gian Carl Casa, President & CEO of CT Community Nonprofit Alliance on the potential for flat funding for nonprofits in the FY27-27 budget currently under discussion.

“If a final FY26-27 budget agreement does not include funding increases for community-based nonprofits — a defacto funding cut because of increased costs due to inflation — programs across the state that are already in crisis, will close or further cut back services. 

“We have made this case for months, that the state’s fiscal status is overwhelmingly healthy with a $2 billion surplus and a $4 billion rainy day fund. Funding pension liability, but not underfunded nonprofits will put the burden of decades of state pension underfunding on the backs of people who today need shelter, drug treatment, day programs, post-prison education and more. More than any time in recent history, Connecticut has the funds to do both this year. 

“The more than 2,500 nonprofit clients, staff and supporters who rallied at the Capitol on Tuesday to deliver the message that state’s safety net is in crisis, won’t just be dissappointed if there are no funding increases. Some will be without care, all will be devastated and angry.

“We urge the Governor and legislators not to make that choice.” 

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