Connecticut House Bill HB06166

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/11
• Refer: 1/26/11

Caption

An Act Concerning Surety Bonds And Contracts For Public Projects.

Impact

The bill's proposed changes could have significant implications for the landscape of public contracting within the state. By raising the threshold at which surety bonds are required, the state could potentially reduce the number of contracts subject to these requirements. This could enhance competition among contractors, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, by lowering entry barriers and fostering a more diverse pool of bidders for public projects. However, it also raises concerns about ensuring adequate protections for the state and taxpayers if fewer contracts require surety bonds.

Summary

House Bill 6166 addresses the requirements for surety bonds in government contracts related to public projects. The primary focus of this bill is to amend section 49-41 of the general statutes to increase the threshold amount for contracts pertaining to public works and buildings that must comply with surety bond requirements. This legislative change is intended to ease the financial and administrative burdens on smaller contractors who may find it challenging to meet these bonding requirements, thereby encouraging more participation in public contracting processes.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 6166 may involve varying perspectives on the necessity and impact of modifying surety bond requirements. Proponents may argue that this bill is a step towards making public contracting more accessible and efficient, thereby stimulating economic activity. On the other hand, critics might express concerns regarding the potential increase in risk for public projects if fewer contractors are required to post bonds, which traditionally serve as a safeguard against defaults or failures in project completion.