Connecticut House Bill HB05497

Connecticut 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/10
• Refer: 3/10/10
• Report Pass: 3/26/10
• Refer: 4/6/10
• Report Pass: 4/13/10
• Refer: 4/16/10
• Report Pass: 4/19/10
• Engrossed: 4/27/10
• Report Pass: 4/28/10
• Chaptered: 5/24/10
• Enrolled: 5/26/10
• Passed: 6/7/10

Caption

An Act Concerning The Recommendations Of The Speaker Of The House Of Representatives' Task Force On Domestic Violence.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5497 will significantly amend existing statutes related to domestic violence and protective orders. It will facilitate a more structured and rapid response to incidents of family violence through the creation of specialized judicial dockets. Local family violence intervention units will be established to aid in case management and victim support. Furthermore, the bill introduces new measures that prevent employment discrimination against victims of family violence, thus providing them with a measure of job security while navigating their personal crises.

Summary

House Bill 5497 aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding domestic violence in Connecticut. The bill introduces measures to establish a dedicated domestic violence docket within certain geographical areas, improving the manner in which family violence cases are handled in the court system. It emphasizes the need for family violence intervention units, ensuring that victims receive timely support and judicial responses tailored to their circumstances. Moreover, the bill mandates the establishment of an automated protective orders registry to streamline the enforcement of protective measures for victims, enhancing their safety and access to resources.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 5497 appears to be largely supportive, particularly among victims' rights advocates and organizations working to combat domestic violence. The measures brought forth are seen as a step forward in providing much-needed support and protection for victims. However, there may be concerns from some sectors regarding the potential resource implications for the judicial system and the enforcement of these new provisions, which could require additional funding and training for court personnel.

Contention

There are potential points of contention concerning the practical implementation of the measures proposed in HB 5497. Critics may argue about the adequacy of resources to support the new family violence intervention units, fearing that without sufficient funding or training, the goals of the bill may not be fully realized. Additionally, some may express concerns about the privacy of victims in the context of the automated registry, emphasizing the need for stringent safeguards to protect sensitive information from misuse.