FAIRFIELD, Conn. — Connecticut residents have “significant anxiety” over the state’s budget and the prospect of deep cuts to essential service, a statewide Sacred Heart University poll found.

In a poll of 1,000 residents across the state, the college’s Institute for Public Policy found they favor alternative tax revenue sources, including highway tolls and legalizing and taxing marijuana.

“The State is at a critical crossroads, and it appears obvious from the results of this survey that residents are experiencing a high degree of anxiety over the state’s budget battles, taxes and the cost of living in Connecticut,” said the institute’s Director Lesley A. DeNardis.

One out of three state residents believes the overall quality of life in Connecticut is “declining,” according to the poll.

Three out of four, or 76.4 percent, agree the state should offer more incentives in the form of tax credits and rebates to retain and attract business.

The majority of residents polled, a full 84.4 percent, believe towns should merge and consolidate public services to help cut costs.

Other significant findings?

More than three out of five respondents are finding it “very” or “somewhat” difficult to maintain their standard of living.

Nearly half of respondents making more than $150,000 a year reported they are considering moving out of Connecticut within the next five years. The areas of greatest concern among residents are the “high overall cost of living” and “high overall tax burden” in Connecticut.

“Analysis indicates that public awareness and frustration over bipartisan bickering and the State’s failure to reach reasonable compromises that might help reverse declining income and quality of life will lead to residents ‘voting with their feet’ in the coming years,” DeNardis said.

Learn more about the poll here.

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