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Stop making untrue accusations and address real concerns on discussion page-- name calling is not a substitute for lack of substance. Your edits continue to have biased tone against subject.
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Debicella was born in [[Bridgeport, Connecticut]] and raised in [[Shelton, Connecticut|Shelton]], where he currently resides. He graduated from [[Shelton High School (Connecticut)|Shelton High School]] in 1992. He holds a degree in finance from the [[University of Pennsylvania]]'s [[Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania|Wharton School of Business]] and an [[MBA]] from [[Harvard Business School]].
Debicella was born in [[Bridgeport, Connecticut]] and raised in [[Shelton, Connecticut|Shelton]], where he currently resides. He graduated from [[Shelton High School (Connecticut)|Shelton High School]] in 1992. He holds a degree in finance from the [[University of Pennsylvania]]'s [[Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania|Wharton School of Business]] and an [[MBA]] from [[Harvard Business School]].


Debicella is currently an Assistant Vice President of Marketing at [[The Hartford]].<ref>http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/sen_info/debicella.aspx</ref> Previously, Debicella worked as Director of Strategy at [[PepsiCo]], an online business owner, and a management consultant. He currently serves on the board of various community organizations.<ref>http://debicella.com/bio.html</ref>
Debicella is currently an Assistant Vice President of Marketing at [[The Hartford Financial Services]].<ref>http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/sen_info/debicella.aspx</ref> Previously, Debicella worked as Director of Strategy at [[PepsiCo]], an online business owner, and a management consultant. He currently serves on the board of various community organizations.<ref>http://debicella.com/bio.html</ref>


Prior to being elected to the Connecticut State Senate, Debicella served on Shelton’s Board of Apportionment and Taxation for seven years, four as its chairman. Debicella acted as the [[Fairfield County, Connecticut|Fairfield County]] regional chair for [[Rudy Giuliani]]'s unsuccessful 2008 [[Rudy Giuliani presidential campaign, 2008|presidential campaign]].<ref>http://www.newhavenadvocate.com/article.cfm?aid=4943</ref>
Prior to being elected to the Connecticut State Senate, Debicella served on Shelton’s Board of Apportionment and Taxation for seven years, four as its chairman. Debicella acted as the [[Fairfield County, Connecticut|Fairfield County]] regional chair for [[Rudy Giuliani]]'s unsuccessful 2008 [[Rudy Giuliani presidential campaign, 2008|presidential campaign]].<ref>http://www.newhavenadvocate.com/article.cfm?aid=4943</ref>



==State Senator==
==State Senator==
Debicella was first elected to the Connecticut State Senate in 2006 and subsequently re-elected in 2008. He succeeded George "Doc" Gunther, the longest-serving state legislator in Connecticut history, after working as his campaign manager for several elections.<ref>http://debicella.com/bio.html</ref>
Debicella was first elected to the Connecticut State Senate in 2006 and subsequently re-elected in 2008. He succeeded George "Doc" Gunther, the longest-serving state legislator in Connecticut history, after working as his campaign manager for several elections.<ref>http://debicella.com/bio.html</ref>


In the State Senate, Debicella is a Deputy Minority Leader and sits on the Appropriations (ranking member), Higher Education (ranking member), Public Health (ranking member), and Regulations Review committees.<ref>http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/leadership.html</ref><ref>http://www.votesmart.org/bio.php?can_id=68394</ref>
In the State Senate, Debicella is Deputy Minority Leader and sits on the Appropriations (ranking member), Higher Education (ranking member), Public Health (ranking member), and Regulations Review committees.<ref>http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/leadership.html</ref><ref>http://www.votesmart.org/bio.php?can_id=68394</ref>


==Accomplishments==
In 2007, Debicella co-authored a bill that provides tax credits for businesses that create at least 10 new jobs in a year. The bill was passed unanimously and signed into law by [[Governor]] [[M. Jodi Rell|Jodi Rell]].<ref>http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/press/debicella/2007/061507.html</ref> In committee, Debicella [[filibuster|filibustered]] a controversial bill that would have allowed children of illegal immigrants who graduated from a Connecticut high school to apply for in-state tuition. The bill eventually passed through the [[Connecticut General Assembly|General Assembly]] but was ultimately vetoed by Rell.<ref>http://www.boston.com/news/education/higher/articles/2007/06/26/rell_vetoes_in_state_tuition_rates_for_illegal_immigrant_kids/</ref>

In 2008, in response to [[United States Environmental Protection Agency|Environmental Protection Agency]] plans for a waste deposit in Stratford, Debicella co-sponsored a bill that prohibited the depositing of more than 1,000 cubic yards of [[asbestos]]-laden soil near residential areas without approval from two-thirds of the municipality's legislative body.<ref>http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=19677567&BRD=1637&PAG=461&dept_id=9180&rfi=8</ref> He also proposed legislation that would have allowed individuals and families who receive a physical exam and all age-appropriate preventive tests to deduct out-of-pocket medical expenses from their state income tax, which did not pass through committee.<ref>http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=19393688&BRD=1637&PAG=461&dept_id=9180&rfi=8</ref> Debicella co-sponsored a bill that expanded Operation Fuel, a program that provides a $500 credit for Connecticut [[Senior citizen|seniors]] 65 or older whose income is at or below the state median, to assist with their home heating costs.<ref>http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=20204740&BRD=1637&PAG=461&dept_id=9166&rfi=6</ref> Debicella also secured $2 million in bonding for downtown Shelton revitalization, which cumulated with a visit to Shelton by Governor Rell announcing the funding.

In 2009, Debicella is focusing on eliminating Connecticut’s budget deficit without tax increases by reducing spending through changing how the state provides social services.<ref>http://www.acorn-online.com/joomla15/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=17999:debicella-lands-appropriations-seat&catid=186:local-news&Itemid=517</ref> Debicella has also reintroduced his proposed for tax credits to those who obtain all prescribed preventative tests.<ref>http://www.newhavenindependent.org/archives/2009/01/health_care_ref_1.php</ref>

Debicella received the "Guardian of Small Business" award from the National Federation of Independent Businesses in March 2009 for his work in supporting pro-small business legislation. <ref>http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/press/debicella/2009/032709.html </ref>

==Voting Record==



===Economic issues===
===Economic issues===
Debicella generally opposes creating new taxes or raising existing ones.<ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=13643&can_id=68394</ref><ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=19877&can_id=68394</ref> In 2009, he has opposed Democratic deficit reduction plans and indicated a refusal to vote in favor of any budget that raises taxes.<ref>http://www.acorn-online.com/joomla15/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=24706:democrat-republicans-oppose-budget-proposal&catid=186:local-news&Itemid=1786</ref><ref>http://www.thehour.com/story/470485</ref><ref>http://www.acorn-online.com/joomla15/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=29374:local-leaders-protest-state-budget-impasse&catid=186:local-news&Itemid=1786</ref> He and other Republicans in the state legislature have proposed a series of spending cuts as an alternative, such as the amount of social services covered by state funding.<ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=24052&can_id=68394</ref><ref>http://www.connpost.com/ci_12156841?IADID=Search-www.connpost.com-www.connpost.com</ref><ref>http://www.acorn-online.com/joomla15/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=17999:debicella-lands-appropriations-seat&catid=186:local-news&Itemid=517</ref>


Debicella has opposed raising taxes or creating new ones. <ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=13643&can_id=68394</ref><ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=19877&can_id=68394</ref> In 2007, Debicella joined the majority of Senators in voting for a budget that did not raise taxes, was under the constitutional spending cap, and increased education funding by 10-20% to all towns. <ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=8003&which_year=2007&SUBMIT1.x=9&SUBMIT1.y=2</ref> In 2009, Debicella came out strongly against a Democratic proposal to increase taxes by over $3.3 billion. <ref>http://www.acorn-online.com/joomla15/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=24706:democrat-republicans-oppose-budget-proposal&catid=186:local-news&Itemid=1786</ref> Instead, he joined other legislative Republicans in proposing a budget that cut spending to close the budget deficit. <ref>http://www.connpost.com/ci_12156841?IADID=Search-www.connpost.com-www.connpost.com</ref>
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Debicella was endorsed in the 2008 election by the [[Connecticut Business & Industry Association]], indicating a voting record that generally favors businesses.<ref>http://www.cbia.com/newsroom/pastreleases/2008%20Releases/2008%20endorsements/21-%20Debicella,%20Dan.pdf</ref> He joined other Republicans in opposing bills requiring businesses to provide paid [[sick leave]] to their employees,<ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=601&which_year=2007</ref> as well as a bill extending benefits for workers injured on the job.<ref>http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-30926953_ITM</ref> Debicella opposed a bill that called for a ban of [[trans fat]] in Connecticut restaurants, which was proposed by leading Senate Republicans.<ref><http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-30748813_ITM></ref> He has repeatedly voted against raising the [[minimum wage]].<ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=19038&can_id=68394</ref><ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=20094&can_id=68394</ref> The Connecticut [[AFL-CIO]] gave Debicella a 29% rating on their 2008 scorecard, indicating a record generally opposed to the interests of [[Labor union|labor unions]].<ref>http://www.ctaflcio.org/2008%20political%20conv/2007-2008%20Scorecard.pdf</ref> Debicella co-authored a bill that provides tax credits for businesses that create at least 10 new jobs in a year. The bill was passed unanimously and signed into law by Governor [[M. Jodi Rell|Jodi Rell]].<ref>http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/press/debicella/2007/061507.html</ref> In March 2009, Debicella was named a "Guardian of Small Business" by the [[National Federation of Independent Businesses]].<ref>http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/press/debicella/2009/032709.html</ref>

⚫
Debicella was endorsed in the 2008 election by the [[Connecticut Business & Industry Association]].<ref>http://www.cbia.com/newsroom/pastreleases/2008%20Releases/2008%20endorsements/21-%20Debicella,%20Dan.pdf</ref> He joined other Republicans in opposing bills requiring business to provide paid [[sick leave]] to their employees,<ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=601&which_year=2007</ref> as well as a bill extending benefits for workers injured on the job.<ref>http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-30926953_ITM</ref> He has repeatedly voted against raising the [[minimum wage]].<ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=19038&can_id=68394</ref><ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=20094&can_id=68394</ref> The Connecticut [[AFL-CIO]] gave Debicella a 29% rating on their 2008 scorecard.<ref>http://www.ctaflcio.org/2008%20political%20conv/2007-2008%20Scorecard.pdf</ref>


Debicella generally opposes health care mandates, as well as the creation or expansion of government-run health care programs. He has voted against mandating insurance companies to cover hearing aids for children,<ref>http://search.cga.state.ct.us/dtsearch_lpa.asp?cmd=getdoc&DocId=34777&Index=I%3a\zindex\2007</ref> but in favor of requiring coverage of autism diagnosis and treatment.<ref>http://www.connpost.com/ci_12378669</ref> Debicella voted against the creation of [[SustiNet]],<ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=26031</ref> a program that would guarantee limited health care coverage for all Connecticut residents.<ref>http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/ci_12454817</ref> He also voted against allowing municipal, small business, and nonprofit employees to join the state employees' health insurance pool,<ref>http://blogs.courant.com/capitol_watch/2009/05/senate-approves-controversial.html</ref> as well as expanding Connecticut's HUSKY health plan to cover more children.<ref>http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/73585.php</ref> Debicella has proposed a bill that would allow individuals and families who receive a physical exam and all age-appropriate preventive tests to deduct out-of-pocket medical expenses from their state income tax.<ref>http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=19393688&BRD=1637&PAG=461&dept_id=9180&rfi=8</ref>
Debicella has also generally been against government involvement in healthcare. He voted against the creation of[SustiNet,<ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=26031</ref> a program that would create a government-run health care system. <ref>http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/ci_12454817</ref> He also voted against allowing municipal, small business, and nonprofit employees to join the state employees' health insurance pool,<ref>http://blogs.courant.com/capitol_watch/2009/05/senate-approves-controversial.html</ref> as well as expanding Connecticut's HUSKY health plan.<ref>http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/73585.php</ref> He co-sponsored a bill to provide autism diagnosis and treatment .<ref>http://www.connpost.com/ci_12378669</ref>, but voted against mandating insurance companies to cover hearing aids for teenagers <ref>http://search.cga.state.ct.us/dtsearch_lpa.asp?cmd=getdoc&DocId=34777&Index=I%3a\zindex\2007</ref> Instead, Debicella introduced an amendment that would have replaced such mandates with individual choice without pre-conditions—allowing people to choose to be covered, but not forced to pay for more coverage they do not want. <ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/2009/AMD/H/2009HB-05023-R00SA-AMD.htm</ref>


Debicella co-sponsored a bipartisan bill to make it more difficult to take property by [[eminent domain]] for commercial development.<ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=167&which_year=2007&SUBMIT1.x=6&SUBMIT1.y=12</ref> He was one of three State Senators to vote against a bill allowing municipalities to delay their property [[revaluation]] process until 2011.<ref>http://www.connpost.com/ci_12312254</ref> He was also the lone vote against a bill that gave the town of [[Westport, Connecticut|Westport]] control over a shellfish bed.<ref>http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=CTPB&p_theme=ctpb&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=119361772E5563A0&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM</ref>
Debicella co-sponsored a bipartisan bill to make it more difficult to take property by [[eminent domain]] for commercial development.<ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=167&which_year=2007&SUBMIT1.x=6&SUBMIT1.y=12</ref> He was one of three State Senators to vote against a bill allowing municipalities to delay their property [[revaluation]] process until 2011.<ref>http://www.connpost.com/ci_12312254</ref> He was also the lone vote against a bill that gave the town of [[Westport, Connecticut|Westport]] control over a shellfish bed.<ref>http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=CTPB&p_theme=ctpb&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=119361772E5563A0&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM</ref>



===Quality of life issues===
===Quality of life issues===
During his first term in the State Senate, Debicella served on the Environment committee. In response to plans the [[United States Environmental Protection Agency|Environmental Protection Agency]] had for waste deposit in Stratford, he co-sponsored a bill that prohibited individuals and government agencies from depositing more than 1,000 cubic yards of [[asbestos]]-laden soil near residential areas without approval from two-thirds of the municipality's legislative body.<ref>http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=19677567&BRD=1637&PAG=461&dept_id=9180&rfi=8</ref> The Connecticut [[League of Conservation Voters]] gave Debicella a 58% rating on their 2008 scorecard, the lowest in the state legislature.<ref>http://www.ctlcv.org/Scorecards/2008%20Scorecard.pdf</ref>


Debicella generally votes against the creation of unfunded mandates on municipalities, such as requiring all student suspensions to be in-school.<ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=7350&which_year=2007&SUBMIT1.x=20&SUBMIT1.y=3</ref> He co-sponsored a bipartisan bill that funded the Teacher’s Retirement Fund through state bonding.<ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=6141&which_year=2007</ref> In committee, Debicella filibustered a controversial bill, which was ultimately vetoed by Rell, that would have allowed children of illegal immigrants who graduated from a Connecticut high school to apply for in-state tuition.<ref>http://www.boston.com/news/education/higher/articles/2007/06/26/rell_vetoes_in_state_tuition_rates_for_illegal_immigrant_kids/</ref> In June 2009, as political backlash against Senate Democrats, Debicella filibustered another bill that would have attracted qualified teachers to needy districts by explaining how much he liked the bill while running out the clock to prevent a vote on it, in a display one columnist described as "embarrassing."<ref>http://www.courant.com/news/local/columnists/hc-teacher-legislature-green-0605jun05,0,5460340.column</ref>
In the area of education, Debicella co-sponsored a bipartisan bill in 2007 that funded the Teacher’s Retirement Fund through utilizing state bonding<ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=6141&which_year=2007</ref>, and has consistently opposed the creation of unfunded mandates on municipalities such as mandating all school suspensions be in-school. <ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=7350&which_year=2007&SUBMIT1.x=20&SUBMIT1.y=3</ref>

In the area of transportation, Debicella co-sponsored a bill that passed in both 2007 and 2008 to forbid the expansion of Sikorsky Airport in Stratford. <ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=5746&which_year=2008&SUBMIT1.x=4&SUBMIT1.y=12</ref><ref>http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=19791493&BRD=1773&PAG=461&dept_id=30987&rfi=8</ref>
In a rare tie vote in the Senate, he voted for ending zone pricing of gasoline in Connecticut, which did not become law.<ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=6980&which_year=2007&SUBMIT1.x=9&SUBMIT1.y=15</ref>


Debicella supports having a “three strikes” law in Connecticut, which would automatically impose a life sentence upon anyone convicted of three violent felonies.<ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=671&which_year=2008&SUBMIT1.x=2&SUBMIT1.y=17</ref> He voted against abolishing the [[death penalty]] in the state and supports reforms to make it "more workable."<ref>http://www.nhregister.com/articles/2009/05/31/news/a1-deathpenalty.txt</ref> He has also opposed the legalization of [[medical marijuana]].<ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=6715&which_year=2009</ref> Debicella voted against a bill that increased penalties for trafficking firearms in the state and required lost and stolen firearms to be reported within 72 hours. <ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=13740&can_id=68394</ref>
On crime issues, Debicella has supported having a “three strikes” law in Connecticut, which would automatically impose a life sentence upon anyone convicted of three violent felonies.<ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=671&which_year=2008&SUBMIT1.x=2&SUBMIT1.y=17</ref> He supports the [[death penalty]], voted against abolishing it, and said he supports reforms to make it "more workable."<ref>http://www.nhregister.com/articles/2009/05/31/news/a1-deathpenalty.txt</ref> He has also opposed the legalization of [[medical marijuana]].<ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=6715&which_year=2009</ref> Debicella voted against a bill that required lost and stolen firearms to be reported within 72 hours. <ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=13740&can_id=68394</ref>


Debicella has co-sponsored multiple bills to prohibit the expansion of [[Sikorsky Memorial Airport]] in Stratford.<ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=5746&which_year=2008&SUBMIT1.x=4&SUBMIT1.y=12</ref><ref>http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=19791493&BRD=1773&PAG=461&dept_id=30987&rfi=8</ref> In a rare tie vote in the Senate, he voted for ending [[Geographical pricing|zone pricing]] of gasoline in Connecticut, which did not become law.<ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=6980&which_year=2007&SUBMIT1.x=9&SUBMIT1.y=15</ref>
The Connecticut [[League of Conservation Voters]] gave Debicella a 58% rating on their 2008 scorecard. Debicella opposed a bill that called for a ban of [[trans fat]] in Connecticut restaurants.<ref><http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-30748813_ITM></ref> He has proposed amendments to end the power of judges to force affordable housing on communities. <ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=581&which_year=2007&SUBMIT1.x=11&SUBMIT1.y=14</ref>


Debicella co-sponsored a bill that expanded Operation Fuel, a program that provides a $500 credit for Connecticut [[Senior citizen|seniors]] 65 or older whose income is at or below the state median, to assist with their home heating costs.<ref>http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=20204740&BRD=1637&PAG=461&dept_id=9166&rfi=6</ref>


===Social issues===
===Social issues===
Debicella is pro-choice but was one of three State Senators to vote against requiring health care facilities to provide [[emergency contraception]] to victims of [[sexual assault]].<ref>http://www.myleftnutmeg.com/diary/10632/</ref><ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=12895&can_id=68394</ref> While defending this vote during the 2008 campaign, Debicella stated, "On the rape bill all I voted against was a bill allowing morning-after contraception to be issued to victims."<ref>http://www.connpost.com/localnews/ci_10838303</ref> This comment was heavily criticized by Democrats, including his opponent, Janice Andersen, who called it "insensitive to rape victims." Debicella defended his position by explaining that he supports access to emergency contraception but opposes forcing Catholic hospitals, who would have been affected by the bill, to go against their religious beliefs, and said Andersen was "using an emotional issue for political gain."<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.acorn-online.com/joomla15/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=12697:debicella-defends-record-called-insensitive-to-rape-victims&catid=186:local-news&Itemid=517 | title=Andersen calls Debicella 'insensitive to rape victims' | first=John | last=Kovach | date=2008-10-31 | accessdate=2008-11-19 | publisher=''[[Stratford Star]]''}}</ref>
Debicella voted in favor of a bill codifying the [[Connecticut Supreme Court]]'s recognition of [[Gay marriage|same-sex marriages]], but only after including protections for religious institutions and organizations. He also introduced amendments requiring schools to notify parents when marriage and sexuality were being discussed, and allowing parents to remove their children from such discussions, neither of which passed.<ref>http://www.courant.com/news/politics/hc-same-sex-marriage-0423.artapr23,0,3521923.story</ref><ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB-0899</ref> He was endorsed in the 2008 election by the [[Family Institute of Connecticut]].<ref>http://www.ctfamily.org/2008_Endorsements.pdf</ref> Debicella was one of four State Senators to oppose prohibiting [[discrimination]] based on [[gender identity]].<ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=13795&can_id=68394</ref> Debicella was one of three State Senators to vote against requiring health care facilities to provide [[emergency contraception]] to victims of [[sexual assault]]. This vote, as well as a specific comment made by Debicella at a 2008 campaign debate,<ref>http://www6.lexisnexis.com/publisher/EndUser?Action=UserDisplayFullDocument&orgId=574&topicId=100021144&docId=l:876229709&start=13</ref> were strongly criticized by opponent Janice Andersen and other Democrats, who held a rally to condemn Debicella's position as "insensitive to rape victims" and “criminal”. Debicella defended his position by explaining that he supports access to emergency contraception "for all women, and especially for rape victims", but opposes forcing Catholic hospitals, who would have been affected by the bill, to go against their religious beliefs. Debicella said Andersen was "using an emotional issue for political gain."<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.acorn-online.com/joomla15/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=12697:debicella-defends-record-called-insensitive-to-rape-victims&catid=186:local-news&Itemid=517 | title=Andersen calls Debicella 'insensitive to rape victims' | first=John | last=Kovach | date=2008-10-31 | accessdate=2008-11-19 | publisher=''[[Stratford Star]]''}}</ref>


Debicella voted in favor of a bill codifying the [[Connecticut Supreme Court]]'s recognition of [[Gay marriage|same-sex marriages]], but only after including protections for religious institutions and organizations. He also introduced amendments requiring schools to notify parents when marriage and sexuality were being discussed, and allowing parents to remove their children from such discussions, neither of which passed.<ref>http://www.courant.com/news/politics/hc-same-sex-marriage-0423.artapr23,0,3521923.story</ref><ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB-0899</ref> He was endorsed in the 2008 election by the [[Family Institute of Connecticut]], an anti-gay marriage outfit that advocated strongly for the amendments to the bill.<ref>http://www.ctfamily.org/2008_Endorsements.pdf</ref> Debicella was one of four State Senators to oppose prohibiting [[discrimination]] based on [[gender identity]].<ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=13795&can_id=68394</ref>


===Governance issues===
===Governance issues===
Debicella supports [[referendum]] and [[initiative]], including a [[constitutional convention]].<ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=444&which_year=2008&SUBMIT1.x=12&SUBMIT1.y=5</ref><ref>http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/press/debicella/2008/080408.html</ref> He opposes holding special elections for [[United State Senate|U.S. Senate]] vacancies.<ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=26069&can_id=68394</ref> Debicella was one of two Senators to oppose a "clean contracting" bill designed to prevent preferential treatment and no-bid contracts, which brought scandal to former Governor [[John G. Rowland|John Rowland]].<ref>http://www.ccm-ct.org/advocacy/2006-2007/092107.html</ref> Debicella joined the majority in voting for reform of the state's [[probate court]] system.<ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=25927&can_id=68394</ref>
Debicella supports [[referendum]] and [[initiative]] in Connecticut. <ref>http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=444&which_year=2008&SUBMIT1.x=12&SUBMIT1.y=5</ref><ref>http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/press/debicella/2008/080408.html</ref> He voted against holding special elections for [[United State Senate|U.S. Senate]] vacancies, favoring maintaining Gubernatorial appointment. .<ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=26069&can_id=68394</ref> Debicella was one of two Senators to oppose a "clean contracting" bill designed to prevent preferential treatment and no-bid contracts, saying it would stop privatization efforts. <ref>http://www.ccm-ct.org/advocacy/2006-2007/092107.html</ref> Debicella co-sponsored a bill to reform of the state's [[probate court]] system by reducing the number of courts.<ref>http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=25927&can_id=68394</ref>



==Electoral history==
==Electoral history==
Line 120: Line 137:
}}
}}
{{Election box end}}
{{Election box end}}



==External links==
==External links==
*[http://www.debicella.com/ Campaign website]
*[http://www.debicella.com/ Campaign website]
*[http://www.votesmart.org/summary.php?can_id=68394 Issue positions and key votes] at Project Vote Smart
*[http://www.votesmart.org/summary.php?can_id=68394 Issue positions and key votes] at Project Vote Smart



==References==
==References==

Revision as of 10:23, 15 June 2009

Dan Debicella
Member of the Connecticut State Senate from the 21st district
In office
2007–present
Preceded byGeorge Gunther
ConstituencyShelton, Stratford (part), Monroe (part), Seymour (part)
Personal details
Born225x250px
October 24, 1974
Bridgeport, Connecticut
Died225x250px
Resting place225x250px
Political partyRepublican
SpouseAlexandra Galli-Debicella
Parent
  • 225x250px
ResidenceShelton, Connecticut
Websitehttp://www.debicella.com

Daniel Charles Debicella (born October 24, 1974) is a Republican politician and businessman currently representing the 21st district in the Connecticut State Senate.

Personal life and background

Debicella was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut and raised in Shelton, where he currently resides. He graduated from Shelton High School in 1992. He holds a degree in finance from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

Debicella is currently an Assistant Vice President of Marketing at The Hartford Financial Services.[1] Previously, Debicella worked as Director of Strategy at PepsiCo, an online business owner, and a management consultant. He currently serves on the board of various community organizations.[2]

Prior to being elected to the Connecticut State Senate, Debicella served on Shelton’s Board of Apportionment and Taxation for seven years, four as its chairman. Debicella acted as the Fairfield County regional chair for Rudy Giuliani's unsuccessful 2008 presidential campaign.[3]


State Senator

Debicella was first elected to the Connecticut State Senate in 2006 and subsequently re-elected in 2008. He succeeded George "Doc" Gunther, the longest-serving state legislator in Connecticut history, after working as his campaign manager for several elections.[4]

In the State Senate, Debicella is Deputy Minority Leader and sits on the Appropriations (ranking member), Higher Education (ranking member), Public Health (ranking member), and Regulations Review committees.[5][6]


Accomplishments

In 2007, Debicella co-authored a bill that provides tax credits for businesses that create at least 10 new jobs in a year. The bill was passed unanimously and signed into law by Governor Jodi Rell.[7] In committee, Debicella filibustered a controversial bill that would have allowed children of illegal immigrants who graduated from a Connecticut high school to apply for in-state tuition. The bill eventually passed through the General Assembly but was ultimately vetoed by Rell.[8]

In 2008, in response to Environmental Protection Agency plans for a waste deposit in Stratford, Debicella co-sponsored a bill that prohibited the depositing of more than 1,000 cubic yards of asbestos-laden soil near residential areas without approval from two-thirds of the municipality's legislative body.[9] He also proposed legislation that would have allowed individuals and families who receive a physical exam and all age-appropriate preventive tests to deduct out-of-pocket medical expenses from their state income tax, which did not pass through committee.[10] Debicella co-sponsored a bill that expanded Operation Fuel, a program that provides a $500 credit for Connecticut seniors 65 or older whose income is at or below the state median, to assist with their home heating costs.[11] Debicella also secured $2 million in bonding for downtown Shelton revitalization, which cumulated with a visit to Shelton by Governor Rell announcing the funding.

In 2009, Debicella is focusing on eliminating Connecticut’s budget deficit without tax increases by reducing spending through changing how the state provides social services.[12] Debicella has also reintroduced his proposed for tax credits to those who obtain all prescribed preventative tests.[13]

Debicella received the "Guardian of Small Business" award from the National Federation of Independent Businesses in March 2009 for his work in supporting pro-small business legislation. [14]

Voting Record

Economic issues

Debicella has opposed raising taxes or creating new ones. [15][16] In 2007, Debicella joined the majority of Senators in voting for a budget that did not raise taxes, was under the constitutional spending cap, and increased education funding by 10-20% to all towns. [17] In 2009, Debicella came out strongly against a Democratic proposal to increase taxes by over $3.3 billion. [18] Instead, he joined other legislative Republicans in proposing a budget that cut spending to close the budget deficit. [19]

Debicella was endorsed in the 2008 election by the Connecticut Business & Industry Association.[20] He joined other Republicans in opposing bills requiring business to provide paid sick leave to their employees,[21] as well as a bill extending benefits for workers injured on the job.[22] He has repeatedly voted against raising the minimum wage.[23][24] The Connecticut AFL-CIO gave Debicella a 29% rating on their 2008 scorecard.[25]

Debicella has also generally been against government involvement in healthcare. He voted against the creation of[SustiNet,[26] a program that would create a government-run health care system. [27] He also voted against allowing municipal, small business, and nonprofit employees to join the state employees' health insurance pool,[28] as well as expanding Connecticut's HUSKY health plan.[29] He co-sponsored a bill to provide autism diagnosis and treatment .[30], but voted against mandating insurance companies to cover hearing aids for teenagers [31] Instead, Debicella introduced an amendment that would have replaced such mandates with individual choice without pre-conditions—allowing people to choose to be covered, but not forced to pay for more coverage they do not want. [32]

Debicella co-sponsored a bipartisan bill to make it more difficult to take property by eminent domain for commercial development.[33] He was one of three State Senators to vote against a bill allowing municipalities to delay their property revaluation process until 2011.[34] He was also the lone vote against a bill that gave the town of Westport control over a shellfish bed.[35]


Quality of life issues

In the area of education, Debicella co-sponsored a bipartisan bill in 2007 that funded the Teacher’s Retirement Fund through utilizing state bonding[36], and has consistently opposed the creation of unfunded mandates on municipalities such as mandating all school suspensions be in-school. [37]

In the area of transportation, Debicella co-sponsored a bill that passed in both 2007 and 2008 to forbid the expansion of Sikorsky Airport in Stratford. [38][39] In a rare tie vote in the Senate, he voted for ending zone pricing of gasoline in Connecticut, which did not become law.[40]

On crime issues, Debicella has supported having a “three strikes” law in Connecticut, which would automatically impose a life sentence upon anyone convicted of three violent felonies.[41] He supports the death penalty, voted against abolishing it, and said he supports reforms to make it "more workable."[42] He has also opposed the legalization of medical marijuana.[43] Debicella voted against a bill that required lost and stolen firearms to be reported within 72 hours. [44]

The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters gave Debicella a 58% rating on their 2008 scorecard. Debicella opposed a bill that called for a ban of trans fat in Connecticut restaurants.[45] He has proposed amendments to end the power of judges to force affordable housing on communities. [46]


Social issues

Debicella voted in favor of a bill codifying the Connecticut Supreme Court's recognition of same-sex marriages, but only after including protections for religious institutions and organizations. He also introduced amendments requiring schools to notify parents when marriage and sexuality were being discussed, and allowing parents to remove their children from such discussions, neither of which passed.[47][48] He was endorsed in the 2008 election by the Family Institute of Connecticut.[49] Debicella was one of four State Senators to oppose prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity.[50] Debicella was one of three State Senators to vote against requiring health care facilities to provide emergency contraception to victims of sexual assault. This vote, as well as a specific comment made by Debicella at a 2008 campaign debate,[51] were strongly criticized by opponent Janice Andersen and other Democrats, who held a rally to condemn Debicella's position as "insensitive to rape victims" and “criminal”. Debicella defended his position by explaining that he supports access to emergency contraception "for all women, and especially for rape victims", but opposes forcing Catholic hospitals, who would have been affected by the bill, to go against their religious beliefs. Debicella said Andersen was "using an emotional issue for political gain."[52]


Governance issues

Debicella supports referendum and initiative in Connecticut. [53][54] He voted against holding special elections for U.S. Senate vacancies, favoring maintaining Gubernatorial appointment. .[55] Debicella was one of two Senators to oppose a "clean contracting" bill designed to prevent preferential treatment and no-bid contracts, saying it would stop privatization efforts. [56] Debicella co-sponsored a bill to reform of the state's probate court system by reducing the number of courts.[57]


Electoral history

Connecticut State Senate Election, 2006: Senatorial District 21
Party Candidate Votes % ±%
Republican Dan Debicella 16,476 52.2
Democratic Chris Jones 15,099 47.8
Majority 1,377
Turnout 31,575
Connecticut State Senate Election, 2008: Senatorial District 21
Party Candidate Votes % ±%
Republican Dan Debicella 24,940 54.4
Democratic Janice Andersen 20,912 45.6
Majority 4,028
Turnout 45,852



References

  1. ^ http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/sen_info/debicella.aspx
  2. ^ http://debicella.com/bio.html
  3. ^ http://www.newhavenadvocate.com/article.cfm?aid=4943
  4. ^ http://debicella.com/bio.html
  5. ^ http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/leadership.html
  6. ^ http://www.votesmart.org/bio.php?can_id=68394
  7. ^ http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/press/debicella/2007/061507.html
  8. ^ http://www.boston.com/news/education/higher/articles/2007/06/26/rell_vetoes_in_state_tuition_rates_for_illegal_immigrant_kids/
  9. ^ http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=19677567&BRD=1637&PAG=461&dept_id=9180&rfi=8
  10. ^ http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=19393688&BRD=1637&PAG=461&dept_id=9180&rfi=8
  11. ^ http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=20204740&BRD=1637&PAG=461&dept_id=9166&rfi=6
  12. ^ http://www.acorn-online.com/joomla15/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=17999:debicella-lands-appropriations-seat&catid=186:local-news&Itemid=517
  13. ^ http://www.newhavenindependent.org/archives/2009/01/health_care_ref_1.php
  14. ^ http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/press/debicella/2009/032709.html
  15. ^ http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=13643&can_id=68394
  16. ^ http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=19877&can_id=68394
  17. ^ http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=8003&which_year=2007&SUBMIT1.x=9&SUBMIT1.y=2
  18. ^ http://www.acorn-online.com/joomla15/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=24706:democrat-republicans-oppose-budget-proposal&catid=186:local-news&Itemid=1786
  19. ^ http://www.connpost.com/ci_12156841?IADID=Search-www.connpost.com-www.connpost.com
  20. ^ http://www.cbia.com/newsroom/pastreleases/2008%20Releases/2008%20endorsements/21-%20Debicella,%20Dan.pdf
  21. ^ http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=601&which_year=2007
  22. ^ http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-30926953_ITM
  23. ^ http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=19038&can_id=68394
  24. ^ http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=20094&can_id=68394
  25. ^ http://www.ctaflcio.org/2008%20political%20conv/2007-2008%20Scorecard.pdf
  26. ^ http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=26031
  27. ^ http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/ci_12454817
  28. ^ http://blogs.courant.com/capitol_watch/2009/05/senate-approves-controversial.html
  29. ^ http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/73585.php
  30. ^ http://www.connpost.com/ci_12378669
  31. ^ http://search.cga.state.ct.us/dtsearch_lpa.asp?cmd=getdoc&DocId=34777&Index=I%3a\zindex\2007
  32. ^ http://www.cga.ct.gov/2009/AMD/H/2009HB-05023-R00SA-AMD.htm
  33. ^ http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=167&which_year=2007&SUBMIT1.x=6&SUBMIT1.y=12
  34. ^ http://www.connpost.com/ci_12312254
  35. ^ http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=CTPB&p_theme=ctpb&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=119361772E5563A0&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D&s_trackval=GooglePM
  36. ^ http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=6141&which_year=2007
  37. ^ http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=7350&which_year=2007&SUBMIT1.x=20&SUBMIT1.y=3
  38. ^ http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=5746&which_year=2008&SUBMIT1.x=4&SUBMIT1.y=12
  39. ^ http://www.zwire.com/site/index.cfm?newsid=19791493&BRD=1773&PAG=461&dept_id=30987&rfi=8
  40. ^ http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=6980&which_year=2007&SUBMIT1.x=9&SUBMIT1.y=15
  41. ^ http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=671&which_year=2008&SUBMIT1.x=2&SUBMIT1.y=17
  42. ^ http://www.nhregister.com/articles/2009/05/31/news/a1-deathpenalty.txt
  43. ^ http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=6715&which_year=2009
  44. ^ http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=13740&can_id=68394
  45. ^ <http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-30748813_ITM>
  46. ^ http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=581&which_year=2007&SUBMIT1.x=11&SUBMIT1.y=14
  47. ^ http://www.courant.com/news/politics/hc-same-sex-marriage-0423.artapr23,0,3521923.story
  48. ^ http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB-0899
  49. ^ http://www.ctfamily.org/2008_Endorsements.pdf
  50. ^ http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=13795&can_id=68394
  51. ^ http://www6.lexisnexis.com/publisher/EndUser?Action=UserDisplayFullDocument&orgId=574&topicId=100021144&docId=l:876229709&start=13
  52. ^ Kovach, John (2008-10-31). "Andersen calls Debicella 'insensitive to rape victims'". Stratford Star. Retrieved 2008-11-19. {{cite news}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  53. ^ http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=444&which_year=2008&SUBMIT1.x=12&SUBMIT1.y=5
  54. ^ http://www.senaterepublicans.ct.gov/press/debicella/2008/080408.html
  55. ^ http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=26069&can_id=68394
  56. ^ http://www.ccm-ct.org/advocacy/2006-2007/092107.html
  57. ^ http://www.votesmart.org/issue_keyvote_detail.php?cs_id=25927&can_id=68394
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