Connecticut Senate Bill SB00409

Connecticut 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/4/10
• Refer: 3/4/10
• Report Pass: 3/16/10
• Refer: 3/26/10
• Report Pass: 4/1/10
• Refer: 4/8/10
• Report Pass: 4/14/10
• Refer: 4/16/10
• Report Pass: 4/20/10
• Refer: 4/22/10
• Report Pass: 4/28/10

Caption

An Act Establishing A Pilot Program Using Civilian Volunteers To Assist In The Enforcement Of State And Municipal Laws Concerning Parking For Persons With Disabilities That Limit Or Impair The Ability To Walk And Persons With Blindness.

Impact

The introduction of SB 409 is expected to provide a practical mechanism for improving compliance with disability parking laws while also fostering community involvement through volunteerism. By engaging civilian volunteers, the program seeks to address the ongoing issues of enforcement, which often fall short due to limited police resources. Local governments that participate are anticipated to benefit from increased oversight and potentially improved accessibility for their disabled residents, which can enhance overall community quality of life.

Summary

Senate Bill 409 establishes a pilot program aimed at enhancing the enforcement of state and municipal laws related to parking for individuals with disabilities, such as those who have mobility impairments or blindness. The bill proposes to utilize civilian volunteers to assist police departments in monitoring and enforcing parking regulations designed to protect the rights of persons with disabilities. The implementation is contingent upon the participation of three municipalities, selected based on population criteria, which aim to study the feasibility and effectiveness of using volunteers in this capacity.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 409 is generally positive among proponents, who argue that it represents a progressive step towards inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities. Supporters appreciate the innovative approach of leveraging community engagement to bolster law enforcement capabilities. However, there are concerns voiced by some that relying on civilian volunteers for enforcement might raise questions about the qualifications and training of these individuals, potentially leading to inconsistencies in enforcement practices.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB 409 include concerns about the adequacy of training for civilian volunteers and the potential for misunderstandings in the application of parking laws. Critics fear that without proper oversight, volunteers might overstep their bounds or fail to apply the laws consistently. Additionally, some local government representatives have expressed worries about the strain on existing resources to manage the volunteer program effectively, raising questions about its long-term viability and resource allocation.