Connecticut House Bill HB05257

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/11
• Refer: 1/13/11

Caption

An Act Requiring A Two-thirds Vote For Enacting Unfunded Mandates On Towns And Cities.

Impact

The implementation of HB 05257 would significantly affect how state mandates are applied to local governments. Currently, town and city administrations can be compelled to adhere to state mandates that come with financial requirements, which may not always be funded by the state. By necessitating a two-thirds vote for such unfunded mandates, the bill promotes fiscal accountability, potentially resulting in fewer mandates being passed. This could enhance local government autonomy, as it would provide them with greater safeguards against state-imposed financial pressures.

Summary

House Bill 05257 aims to amend the general statutes by requiring a two-thirds majority vote in the General Assembly for the enactment of unfunded mandates on towns and cities. This legislative proposal, introduced by Representative Simanski, seeks to ensure that local governments are not burdened with financial responsibilities without adequate funding or support from the state. Essentially, it establishes a more stringent requirement for the passage of laws that would impose additional fiscal obligations on municipalities, fostering a dialogue around state-local funding relationships.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 05257 may evoke contention among lawmakers and local government officials. Supporters argue that the bill protects towns and cities from being unfairly burdened by the state, thus enabling them to manage their budgets more effectively. Conversely, critics might contend that requiring a two-thirds majority for the passage of such mandates could impede necessary reforms or programs intended to be implemented at the state level, potentially stalling critical initiatives designed to address broader community issues. The balance between state authority and local self-governance is at the heart of this legislative discussion.