Perillo To Seek Fourth Term As State Rep

State Representative Jason Perillo (R-113) has announced that he will seek re-election as Shelton’s State Representative in Hartford. Perillo, who was formerly the volunteer Chief of Shelton’s Echo Hose Ambulance, was first elected in 2007.

Perillo cited past successes along with his desire to do more for Shelton in his next term as his reasons for seeking re-election.

“Particularly in this economy, there is much at stake for Shelton residents,” Perillo said. “Now is not the time for tax increases. Given that the state’s financial picture is bleak, I will be proposing budget cuts this session that do not put jobs at risk. We need to remove regulations and bureaucratic red tape that holds employers back and prevents them from hiring workers.”

Perillo stated that he wanted to build on past successes on behalf of Shelton. Following a fire that caused extensive damage at Shelton High School, Perillo authored legislation that requires tighter oversight by fire marshals.

He also pointed to his work with former Governor Jodi Rell to deliver $2 million in state bond funding for infrastructure improvements and road reconstruction in downtown Shelton as evidence of his early accomplishments. 

Perillo also cited working across party lines as a reason behind his legislative achievements. “I have worked very well with the other party to drive legislation that will strengthen Shelton’s fire department, help Shelton’s farms, and ensure that criminals of violent crimes do not receive early release,”  he said.

Most recently, Perillo co-authored a state budget alternative that would have avoided the tax increases proposed by Governor Dannel Malloy and later passed by the Democratic majority in the legislature.

Perillo said he is looking toward the future. “There is much more work to be done to boost Shelton’s redevelopment, to create new jobs in Connecticut, and to protect our children, our families, and our seniors,” he said. 

Shelton Republican Party Chairman, Anthony Simonetti, had high praise for Perillo.  Simonetti said, “Jason has done a fantastic job for Shelton. Everyone recognizes that and respects his tremendous commitment to our town.”

Perillo, 34, works as a consultant to non-profit organizations and local governments on ambulance and public safety matters. He holds a Master’s degree in public policy from Harvard University. He also earned a Master’s degree in business from Boston College and received a Bachelor’s degree in accounting from Georgetown University.

In the legislature, Perillo serves on the Appropriations Committee, the Planning and Development Committee, and the Public Health Committee where he serves as the Ranking Member (Republican leader).

Perillo is a lifelong Shelton resident and lives with his wife, Becky, in the home where his grandfather, former Shelton Mayor Vincent P. Tisi, Jr., grew up.