Get extra lift from AOPA. Start your free membership trial today! Click here

Pro-aviation tax bill considered in Connecticut

AOPA encourages members to speak up in support

Connecticut lawmakers are considering legislation that would align the state’s tax policy with neighboring states by exempting aircraft that weigh less than 6,000 pounds from the sales tax. Now is a good time to speak up and support this bill.

Aerial view of Goodspeed Airport in East Haddam, Connecticut. Photo by Jim Moore.

The Joint Committee on Finance, Revenue and Bonding will hold a public hearing March 8 at 9 a.m. on a slate of bills including H.B.5185introduced by Rep. Joseph Gresko (D-Stratford) and strongly supported by AOPA, which has worked for years to exempt general aviation aircraft and services from state taxes. Such exemptions reliably benefit aircraft owners and aviation businesses including FBOs and maintenance shops, and create jobs. While sales taxes on GA aircraft and services raise a pittance on the revenue side of the equation compared to other transportation sectors, they do outsize damage to businesses that depend on customers who fly airplanes that put states with aviation-friendly policies within easy reach. 

AOPA Eastern Regional Manager Sean Collins said testimony from aircraft owners, flight schools, and other aviation businesses in Connecticut can help drive home the economic message that has persuaded lawmakers in other states to take similar action.

Approval by the committee with membership from both chambers of the legislature will be a key first step. The March 8 hearing (like most these days) will be conducted on Zoom, starting at 9 a.m. and include discussion of several bills. Those who wish to provide live testimony must contact the committee to register in advance. Written testimony can be emailed to the committee.

Those who wish to watch the hearing (without participating) can access the livestream on YouTube

Many bills go through the hearing process with little or no public input, so a few words of support can go a long way toward securing passage of this important legislation, Collins said.

Jim Moore
Jim Moore
Managing Editor-Digital Media
Digital Media Managing Editor Jim Moore joined AOPA in 2011 and is an instrument-rated private pilot, as well as a certificated remote pilot, who enjoys competition aerobatics and flying drones.
Topics: Advocacy, State Legislation, Taxes

Related Articles