January 7, 2009 Rell: Problems we are facing are not permanent Play video

(NECN: Hartford, Conn.) - The 2009 Connecticut legislative session is underway in Hartford. Republican Governor M. Jodi Rell gave her annual State of the State address at noon before a joint session of both chambers.

The state budget deficit is estimated at $343 million for this fiscal year and $6 billion for the two years that begin next July 1.

Rell had to pause for several minutes during her State of the State address when someone in the packed House of Representatives fainted. She joked about how her speech was dire, but predicted that Connecticut will weather the fiscal storm.

Click here for Part 1 of Rell's speech.

Click here for Part 2 of Rell's address.

"Our goal, our charge as leaders, is to help Connecticut thrive," said Rell.