CT HB05426

Repeals and replaces Section 32-6m of the general statutes to establish a Connecticut-Made product promotion program administered by the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, effective October 1, 2016.

Requires the commissioner to design and implement a multiyear statewide marketing and advertising campaign using television, radio, and other media to promote Connecticut-made products and manufacturing.

Mandates creation and continuous updating of a website listing Connecticut manufacturers, Connecticut-made products, and retailers selling such products, with a separate feature linking manufacturers to potential institutional purchasers.

Directs the commissioner to organize statewide or regional events bringing together Connecticut manufacturers, producers, and institutional purchasers to promote business relationships and interaction.

Requires annual reporting to the joint standing committee on commerce regarding program efforts, private matching funds received, and expenditures by the department.