Connecticut 2012 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB05316

Introduced
2/24/12  
Introduced
2/24/12  
Refer
2/24/12  
Report Pass
3/7/12  
Refer
3/16/12  
Report Pass
3/22/12  

Caption

An Act Requiring A Two-thirds Vote Of The General Assembly To Enlarge Municipal Mandates And Authorizing A Review Of Certain Municipal Budgets.

Impact

The introduction of HB 05316 is poised to reshape the legislative landscape regarding state mandates on local governments. By requiring a supermajority for any proposed enlargements of mandates, the bill enhances the bargaining power of municipalities. It aims to protect local entities from potential financial burdens imposed by the state without assessing their financial implications and the necessity for reimbursement. Additionally, the requirement for certain audits aims to increase transparency and accountability within municipal budgets, allowing for a more systematic approach to fiscal management.

Summary

House Bill 05316 seeks to mandate a two-thirds vote of the General Assembly before any municipal mandates can be enlarged. The bill also authorizes the review of certain municipal budgets, which will further regulate the financial oversight of local governments. This legislative change is positioned to increase scrutiny over any bills that would impose additional requirements on municipalities, ensuring that such mandates are justified and supported by adequate state funding. As such, it aims to prevent unfunded or overreaching mandates from being enacted without significant consensus.

Sentiment

Discussion around HB 05316 has revealed a mixed sentiment among legislators and advocacy groups. Supporters highlight the importance of protecting municipalities from undue pressure from the state and the potential for sound fiscal practices gained through rigorous budget reviews. Conversely, opponents argue that the bill could limit the state's ability to enact necessary changes quickly, especially in emergent situations that demand immediate action at the local level. This divergence reflects broader ideological debates over the balance of power between state and municipal governance.

Contention

Key points of contention regarding HB 05316 center on the implications of requiring a two-thirds vote. Critics within the General Assembly worry that this would create significant hurdles for enacting much-needed reforms at the state level. The debate also touches on concerns about efficiency and flexibility in governing, particularly in how local governments respond to urgent needs. There is a palpable tension between ensuring local autonomy and maintaining state authority, with arguments that could either empower municipalities or inadvertently stifle legislative action.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05524

An Act Authorizing And Adjusting Bonds Of The State And Concerning Provisions Related To State And Municipal Tax Administration, General Government And School Building Projects.

CT HB05173

An Act Authorizing The Online Publication Of Legal Notices By Municipalities.

CT SB00447

An Act Concerning The Failure To File For Certain Grand List Exemptions And Authorizing The Deferral Of A Certain Municipality's Real Property Revaluation.

CT HB05472

An Act Concerning Municipal Finance And Audits.

CT HB05273

An Act Concerning The Recommendations Of The Intergovernmental Policy And Planning Division Within The Office Of Policy And Management, Audits And Municipal Finance.

CT SB00334

An Act Requiring Pensions For Police Officers And Firefighters Employed By Municipalities.

CT SB00294

An Act Concerning The Taking Of Municipal Park Lands By Municipalities.

CT HB05515

An Act Establishing The Municipal Employees Retirement Commission And Concerning The Municipal Employees' Retirement System.

CT HB05473

An Act Concerning The Expansion Of Municipal Sewerage Systems To Promote The Development Of Housing And Requiring The Majority Leaders' Roundtable Group On Affordable Housing To Study The Elimination Of Municipal Design Review Processes.

CT SB00011

An Act Concerning Connecticut Resiliency Planning And Providing Municipal Options For Climate Resilience.

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