HARTFORD, Conn. (WFSB) – Connecticut lawmakers are debating several bills in the final days of the legislative session, which ends next week.

Energy bill sparks debate

A bill in the legislature would provide financial subsidies for residential and commercial customers who use solar. It would also give financial incentives to companies who want to store solar energy.

Democrats say the state needs more incentives for clean energy. Republicans say subsidies would mean increased costs passed on to electric customers.

“This is an unconscionable policy. It’s extraordinarily expensive. It will result in billions of dollars in new costs on the backs of consumers into the future,” said Sen. Ryan Fazio, a Republican on the Energy Committee.

Rep. Jonathan Steinberg, a Democrat who chairs the Energy Committee, said the bill is intended to lower costs.

“They are taking advantage of the affordability crisis to put fear in the people’s minds,” Steinberg said. “The whole structure of this thing is intended to lower people’s costs and particularly the public benefits which they focus on.”

Immigration enforcement restrictions

Another bill would create restrictions on federal immigration enforcement in Connecticut. The bill would allow Connecticut residents to sue federal agents in state court. It would also make churches, schools and hospitals protected areas. Agents would need a warrant to enter.

“It’s a strong statement that we want to close a loophole and ensure accountability when people’s constitutional rights are violated by federal officers in Connecticut,” said Sen. Matt Lesser, a Democrat on the Judiciary Committee.

Senate Republicans say the plan will not hold up in court.

“I don’t think ICE should do what they want whenever they want, but this bill does nothing about that,” said Senate Minority Leader Stephen Harding. “There’s nothing in this bill that is going to be upheld legally, and the Democrats know that.”

Cannabis sales changes

Another bill deals with cannabis sales. Democrats say Connecticut is losing money to neighboring states because the THC is higher in products being sold. They say the solution is allowing Connecticut businesses to raise THC content and create a flat tax for all products.

Republicans say raising THC is the wrong approach to make money and that substance abuse is a problem.

Education funding

Lawmakers are expected to vote this weekend on an adjustment to the state budget which would give a $270 million lifeline to cities and towns. Every school in the state would benefit.