7/14/14
(North Haven, CT) – Connecticut Governor Dannel Malloy has signed into law Special Act 17-22, which expanded eligibility for the Small Business Express program to include primary care physicians and physician offices, regardless of the number of employees.
SA 17-22 provides new access to capital, making it easier for physician practices to expand services, invest in new healthcare equipment, recruit/retain physicians and other healthcare professionals, and continue to thrive in independent practice.
CSMS President Jeffrey Gordon, MD issued the following statement:
"On behalf of the Connecticut State Medical Society, we extend our sincere thanks to Governor Malloy for signing this important bill, and to the General Assembly for passing it with strong support in both the House and Senate.
The ability to tap into the Small Business Express Program can provide small practices with needed capital to remain viable or even expand. This sends a signal to Connecticut physicians that their services are valued, and demonstrates an understanding that our state economy benefits from a vibrant physician workforce."
Dr. Gordon also thanked CSMS member State Representative William Petit, Jr., MD for his tireless efforts on behalf of the bill.
Rep. Petit responded,
"I am pleased to have been part of the effort that led this bill through the legislative process to finally become law with its signage by the governor yesterday. Our physicians' offices are major drivers of employment and our local and state economies. By allowing Connecticut physicians the ability to apply for grants through the Small Business Express Program, we are providing them with opportunities to remain competitive with other small businesses in the state."
CSMS has advocated for physician inclusion in this program for several years. It takes time, patience and focus to successfully effect legislative change; CSMS physician leaders continued their efforts during this session, providing legislators with detailed information about the positive impact of physicians on the state's economy.
Media Contact:
Kelly Raskauskas
CSMS VP of Communications
203-865-0587 x110
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