1998 NEWS RELEASES AND SPEECHES

June 26, 1998

TULISANO PRAISES SUPREME COURT RULING AGAINST LINE ITEM VETO

State Representative Richard D. Tulisano (D-29th District), House Majority Whip, today praised the Supreme Court
decision announced Thursday ruling the line item veto as unconstitutional.

"Contrary to what supporters of the legislation say, the decision is not a setback for those who support responsible
spending. It is a victory for the constitutional requirements of passing legislation, as well as the separation of power
doctrine," said Tulisano, who is the former chair of the General Assembly's Judiciary Committee. " To have allowed the
executive to pick and choose and set priorities by selective legislating shifts too much power to the executive, and is a
denial of the budget-making powers vested in the legislative branch of government."

Tulisano said that if the issue is to eliminate so-called "Pork", then that can be accomplished by the Congress, without
delegating their constitutional obligations by delegating to the executive branch.

"Like it or not, horse trading is an integral part of the legislative process. Bringing enough votes together to support
priorities must take into account legitimate needs and priorities of the people - what is pork to a Californian may be
essential government aid to a New Englander. The issue is legislative abuse. The president should use his bully pulpit to
engage public debate over anything that can be viewed as "waste", not his pen," Tulisano said.

May 30, 1998

MONEY BAN WOULD HURT FREE SPEECH

The First Amendment clearly states that "Congress shall make, no law ... abridging the freedom of speech, or of the
press."

This amendment, undoubtedly the most important in our Constitution must be defended and protected at all costs.

I take issue with the May 20 editorial "Soft Money Corrupts."

In a dangerous supposition, the editorial asserted that "slightly curtailing such 'speech' ... is a small price to pay."

Is it? When individuals abuse their guaranteed freedom of speech or news organizations similarly abuse their freedom of the
press, will The Courant then say that curtailing such freedom of expression to protect us from abuse is a small price to pay?
I would not.

The free discussion of ideas is what keeps us free. Discussion in regard to soft money abuses in free and open debate will
raise public concern.

In due time, the people will prevail and hold those accountable who are taking advantage of rights they have been granted.

To believe otherwise would be to deny our collective faith in the American experiment. Shackling freedom of expression --
no matter how slight or worthy the reason -- is violative of the tenets on which this country was built.

Frankly, the sentiment expressed in this editorial is a far cry from that usually stated on The Courant's opinion page.

In fact, much more characteristic was The Courant's May 24 editorial "A Threat To Free Speech," which justly defended
the right of a worker to express his or her opinion without fear of retribution or job loss.

The Courant's support of individual rights on May 24 was commendable. The editorial four days earlier the belief that
explicitly protected freedoms should be curtailed as long as the goal is laudable - was terribly disappointing.

May 26, 1998

Letter to the Editor

The First Amendment clearly states that "Congress shall make no law…abridging the freedom of speech, or of the
press…." This amendment, undoubtedly the most important in our Constitution, must be defended and protected at all
costs. As Justice Hugo Black once said, "I am for the First Amendment from the first word to the last. I believe what it
says." I concur.

For this reason, I write to take issue with your editorial 'Soft Money Corrupts' (Courant, May 20, 1998). In a dangerous
supposition you assert that "slightly curtailing such 'speech' is a small price to pay". Is it? When individuals abuse their
guaranteed freedom of speech or news organizations similarly abuse their freedom of the press will you then say curtailing
such freedom of expression in order to protect us from abuse is a small price to pay? Perhaps you will. I would not.

The free discussion of ideas is what keeps us free. Discussion in regards to soft money abuses in free and open debate will,
in my opinion, raise public concern. In due time, the vox populi will prevail and hold those accountable who are taking
advantage of rights they have been granted. To believe otherwise would be to deny our collective faith in the American
experiment. Shackling freedom of expression- no matter how slight or worthy the reason- is violative of the tenets on
which this country was built.

Frankly, the sentiment expressed in this editorial is a far cry from that usually stated on your opinions page. In fact, much
more characteristic was your editorial of May 24, 1998, where you justly defended the right of a worker to express his or
her opinion without fear of retribution and/or job loss.

Your support of individual rights on May 24 was commendable. Your editorial four days earlier- the belief that explicitly
protected freedoms should be curtailed as long as the goal is laudable- is terribly disappointing.

Very Truly Yours,

Richard D. Tulisano (D-Rocky Hill)

State Representative, 29th District

May 25, 1998

MEMORIAL DAY ADDRESS

"Sadly, but not with upbraiding,

the generous deed was done:

In the storm of the years that are fading

No brisker battle was won;

Under the sod and the dew,

Waiting the judgment day;

Under the blossoms, the blue,

Under the garlands, the gray."

With this poem by Francis Finch, began the national recognition of a custom that was springing up around the country of
decorating the graves of those soldiers on both sides who had given their lives during the Civil War. In May, 1868, the
Grand Army of the Republic issued the first national order to recognize the day to observe, "the cost of a free and
undivided Republic. That first order not only was a call to memorialize those who had given their lives, but to also renew
our pledge to aid and assist those whom they have left widowed and orphaned".

Today, as we gather to memorialize those who gave their lives, we must question ourselves - What does their sacrifice
mean today, and in the future?

We must recognize that our obligation today is to make sure that their sacrifice was not made in vain. We must hold their
sacrifice out to the world to show that our values and way of life are worth emulating, and the cost of life of our men and
women was made for us individually, and for America as an idea - and model for the world.

How do we pay this debt and honor our heroes? We do so in our daily lives by supporting those same ideals for which
they died.

Our Constitution and system of laws, especially our Bill of Rights, established the foundation which makes us different than
others, and contains those ideals which we must defend. - How?

WHEN WE HEAR others make derogatory comments about another's religion or practices which may seem strange; or,
when we are tempted to prohibit some of their practices - SPEAK OUT. Only in this country have so many with different
religions lived together without experiencing the brutal repression and conflict that has and still, exists in other parts of the
world.

WHEN WE HEAR an individual, or group of individuals, express ideas that may be different than those held by
ourselves, or the majority of the community, do not join those who seek to silence or repress both - SPEAK OUT - and
defend their right to free speech.

WHEN WE HEAR that freedom of the press is threatened by acts which, in themselves, may seem insignificant, but in
their totality threaten the free exchange of ideas - SPEAK OUT - because whatever the failures of the fourth estate, or
what we may think to be an abuse of their freedom - we would be worse off without them.

WHEN WE HEAR that in order to protect us from our fear of crime, our government is prepared to take some short cut
to bring someone, or group, that we believe threatens our safety, to justice, - SPEAK OUT - because those same short
cuts may be used any time against those for whom it was not intended.

WHEN WE HEAR that some people, because of their language, race, or skin tone, may be less worthy than others to
the benefits of, and participation in, American life - SPEAK OUT.

Ours is a diverse country - we come from different cultures - some speak different languages, and we share different
customs. However, our ideals of individual liberty and freedom, and rule of law, have made it possible for us to live and
grow together in relative peace and harmony. We must remember that as a country, that we are ever changing and we will
always be challenged to live up to our ideals.

Remember, in the past, nor do I believe in the future, have or will we be free of conflict, misunderstanding, and difficult
times; but among all countries, with those ideals, we have established, we have and believe we can overcome!

For those many young people gathered here today, a special word. As you grow to take your place in leadership positions
in business, government or as parents, it is our hope that you will be free of armed conflict, which has beleaguered this
world for so long. It is also our hope that you will not forget those who we honor this day; and no matter how distant the
war, or unknown, to us, the individuals who lost their lives were lost in order that you and I may be FREE!

May 18, 1998

REP. TULISANO ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL

LAND GRANT TO ROCKY HILL

Amendment to 1997 conveyance bill will increase locally controlled parkland by 75 acres

State Representative Richard D. Tulisano (D-Rocky Hill), the General Assembly's House Majority Whip, announced
today that 1997 legislation calling for conveyance of 50 acres of surplus Veterans' Home and Hospital land to Rocky Hill
has been amended to include an additional 25 acres.

Tulisano was instrumental in pushing for the increase. He said that all 75 acres of newly acquired municipal parkland
would be used for recreational and educational purposes.

"This is yet more good news for the town and its residents," said Rep. Tulisano. "We worked with state and local officials
in identifying and arranging for the transfer of the first 50 acres of land and similarly for the increase. I look forward to a
continued cooperative spirit."

The 75-acre parcel of land abuts the existing Elm Ridge Park, which itself was the result of a land conveyance originally
sponsored by former state Sen. Kathleen Tracy.

"This large, contiguous parcel of land in the corner of Rocky Hill will become a center of activity for residents," Rep.
Tulisano. "Amenable to both passive and recreational use, Elm Ridge Park will be a showcase for our community."

May 15, 1998

GENERAL ASSEMBLY REPORT

By State Representative Richard D. Tulisano (D-29th District)

For submission to Rocky Hill Life

The General Assembly's 1998 legislative session provided Rocky Hill with a golden opportunity to begin to address many
of the unresolved issues that stem from the abandoned and deteriorating Foundry property in town. Environmental and
safety concerns have plagued our last two town councils, as have questions of what the future holds should Rocky Hill
assume control of the property.

This year, I secured $150,000 in funding from the Department of Environmental Protection that will be used to remediate
this parcel of land. This work will begin the process that, down the road, will make the property amenable to development
as either a commercial or other amenity and ultimately enhance the use of our riverfront. It is now up to the Town of
Rocky Hill to choose its path, for this state funding is only an investment in an overall vision for the Foundry.

There is more good news for residents. Thanks in large part to the well being of our economy, the state has approved an
additional $362,448 in state grants to Rocky Hill above and beyond its original appropriation. As the future may bring
tighter times, I have suggested to town leaders that they explore spending this money on capital, non-recurring
expenditures or equipment needs rather than programs that rely on continuous funding.

In addition, our available recreation space will be bolstered by legislation passed during the last two Assembly sessions
that calls for the town to acquire some 75 acres of land formerly controlled by the state.

The last few years have been productive ones for Rocky Hill. As a community, this infusion of state money, environmental
funding and land acquisition has given us a wonderful opportunity to improve our overall quality of life.

The immediate future of Rocky Hill is now in local hands. I am confident that the community's best interest will be served.

May 4, 1998

REP. TULISANO SECURES FUNDING FOR FOUNDRY CLEAN-UP

State Representative Richard D. Tulisano (D-Rocky Hill), House Majority Whip, said the state budget approved by the
Legislature over the weekend includes $150,000 earmarked toward the clean-up of the Rocky Hill Foundry.

The unsightly property has been a contentious issue for a number of years because of contaminants left from Foundry
operations. Back taxes are owed by the owner and the town has begun foreclosure proceedings on the property.

Tulisano said the $150,000 appropriation, to be administered by the Department of Environmental Protection, will help
make the property an asset for the town once again.

"Our community wants to see this property recovered, cleaned up and made usable," Tulisano said. "I am glad to help
contribute to this goal by providing some much needed funding to begin this effort."

Despite the existing pollution concerns associated with the Foundry site, Tulisano believes the land can eventually enhance
the riverfront area and help nearby property values.

"There is great potential for this property to become a positive part of our riverfront," he said. "It has a nice proximity to
Ferry Park and I look forward to the day we can all enjoy this land."

May 2, 1998

REPRESENTATIVE TULISANO ANNOUNCES $150,000

FOR ROCKY HILL FOUNDRY

State Representative Richard D. Tulisano (D-Rocky Hill), House Majority Whip, announced today through his efforts the
recently enacted state budget includes an appropriation to the Department of Environmental Protection of 150,000 for the
purposes of aiding Rocky Hill in addressing the problem existing with the Foundry with regard to its remediation.

"It has become clear," Tulisano said, "that the citizens of our community are interested in recovering and remediating this
property and make it amenable to enhancing the Riverfront area. I am pleased to have been able to contribute to the
efforts of this town to get this local project off the ground."

April 15, 1998

TULISANO URGES ROCKY HILL TO APPLY FOR STATE SCHOOL READINESS
FUNDS

In a letter last week to Rocky Hill Town Manager Philip Dunn, State Representative Richard Tulisano (D-Rocky Hill)
urged local officials to apply for the next round of school readiness grants being offered through the Department of
Education.

Tulisano said that Rocky Hill may be eligible for up to $100,000 in funding through the Connecticut School Readiness
Grants Program.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for the town to enhance its early education programs," said Rep. Tulisano, who serves as
Majority Whip in the state House of Representatives. "We should continue to commit as many resources as possible to
the early schooling of our children. The earlier we can reach these youngsters, the better equipped they will be to handle
the rigor of academics in later years."

Connecticut's School Readiness Grant Program is designed to assist municipalities significantly increase the number of
spaces available for high quality pre-school education and day care programs as well as establish a shared cost system
between the state, various agencies, towns and families.

"During last year's legislative session, we finally committed to making school readiness a priority in our overall education
policy in Connecticut," Rep. Tulisano said. "We would do well in Rocky Hill to vigorously pursue these additional funding
sources so that we may continue to fully service the early learning needs of our children."