CT Gov Lamont's big plan: A one-time $200 check that barely covers one month of heating costs
- Guy
- 3 minutes ago
- 2 min read
At his State of the State address on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, Governor Ned Lamont announced the centerpiece of his 2026 legislative agenda: a one-time sales tax rebate. This plan would send checks of $200 per person to help residents struggling with high energy costs and persistent inflation. If approved by the General Assembly in May 2026, the checks will hit mailboxes just in time for the November 2026 election campaign season.
A Token Gesture. The plan would provide a one-time payment of $200 for single taxpayers earning up to $200,000 per year, $320 for Head of Household filers earning up to $320,000 annually, and $400 for couples earning up to $400,000 annually. While the $500 million cost to the State sounds massive, the administration frames it as meaningful relief for up to 2.2 million residents. However, in a state with the third highest utility bills in the nation, a one shot $200 check feels embarrassingly skimpy. For the average Connecticut family paying over $320 a month for power, this "relief" seems like a token gesture.
Fazio's Permanent Plan. Republican gubernatorial candidate State Senator Ryan Fazio is pitching a structural overhaul. He wants to strip the Public Benefits Charge—a "hidden tax"—off your bill and move the essential programs onto the state budget. This charge—which funds everything from low-income subsidies, EV charging programs, nuclear power and offshore wind power—currently accounts for roughly 20% (about $65-$75) of every single bill every month. Fazio argues that if moved to the state budget, these costs would face actual legislative oversight, review and prioritization. Lamont has balked at this idea, arguing that it would blow a $1 billion hole in the budget annually and jeopardize funding for the state's transition to clean energy.
Between the Lines: Your choice: Do you want a one-time $200 check that won't even cover a full month's heating bill, or a permanent 20% reduction in your utility costs every month?