CT SB01058

CTNext board of directors shall issue a request for proposals to hire a private research organization to advise on short-term and long-term economic planning and identify emerging industries for state investment.

Selected research organization must track major industry sectors including healthcare, bioscience, financial services, advanced manufacturing, aerospace, digital media, green technology, and tourism, and possess expertise in Connecticut economics, technology, business planning, finance, and commercialization.

Research organization shall consult with employee organizations, public and independent institutions of higher education to assess workforce developments, higher education alignment with industry needs, and curriculum responsiveness to changing sector requirements.

Organization shall provide quarterly updates to CTNext board on prior recommendations and economic forecasts, with annual comprehensive reports including legislative and programmatic recommendations presented at a joint legislative hearing.

Following the annual hearing, relevant joint standing committees of the General Assembly shall include any recommended legislative changes in the next regular session.