Connecticut Senate Bill SB00198

Connecticut 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/17/10
• Refer: 2/17/10

Caption

An Act Requiring A Two-thirds Vote To Enact New Municipal Mandates.

Impact

The enactment of SB00198 would significantly amend the procedures surrounding how new mandates can be introduced and passed within the state. By requiring a two-thirds majority for such mandates, it could lead to a decrease in the frequency of new municipal mandates being enacted. This measure is likely to be beneficial for local governments that often struggle with financial constraints, as it would provide them with a buffer against potentially burdensome state mandates that can arise from legislative actions. It also seeks to ensure that local governance retains some level of autonomy and control over their fiscal responsibilities.

Summary

SB00198 is an act that proposes a requirement for a two-thirds vote of the General Assembly to enact new municipal mandates. The purpose of this legislation is to impose more stringent conditions on the passage of laws that would create or expand local government mandates. Currently, local governments in the state can be impacted by state mandates that may require them to allocate resources or modify their operations without adequate reimbursement or funding from the state itself. By necessitating a supermajority vote for new mandates, the bill aims to protect local governments from unexpected fiscal pressures resulting from state legislation.

Contention

While supporters of SB00198 argue it will safeguard local governments from excessive and unfunded state mandates, critics may respond that this requirement could hinder the state's ability to respond promptly to necessary changes in governance or public policy. Opponents could also express concerns that such a measure might lead to gridlock in legislative processes, particularly when urgent public health or safety issues arise that would necessitate quick action at the local level. Balancing the interests of local control with the need for effective state governance could be a point of contention as this bill moves forward.