Connecticut Senate Bill SB00325

Connecticut 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/12
• Refer: 3/1/12

Caption

An Act Concerning The Failure To Comply With Mandatory Evacuation Orders.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts state laws related to public safety and emergency management. It creates a dual system of liability: criminal for noncompliance and civil for costs incurred during rescue operations resulting from noncompliance. If a person endangers themselves by failing to evacuate, they may be required to reimburse governmental or nonprofit agencies that assist in their rescue, which could serve as a deterrent for noncompliance in future emergency situations.

Summary

SB00325, titled 'An Act Concerning The Failure To Comply With Mandatory Evacuation Orders,' establishes legal consequences for individuals who willfully ignore mandatory evacuation orders. Specifically, the bill defines conditions under which a person can be charged with a class B misdemeanor if they knowingly fail to comply with such orders issued by the Governor or local officials, and have the reasonable ability to evacuate. This provision aims to enhance public safety during emergencies when evacuation is deemed necessary for the protection of residents.

Contention

Critics of SB00325 may argue that the law imposes undue penalties on individuals during already stressful situations, potentially leading to legal consequences that cause fear rather than compliance. There may also be concerns about the administrative burden of enforcing such penalties and the implications for vulnerable populations who may have limitations that hinder their ability to evacuate. Supporters, however, assert that this legislation is necessary to ensure prompt and widespread adherence to evacuation orders to protect public safety during disasters.