Connecticut House Bill HB05097

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/13
• Refer: 1/9/13

Caption

An Act Requiring A Two-thirds Vote To Enact New Municipal Mandates.

Impact

Should HB 05097 be enacted, it would primarily impact the way in which new regulations are introduced and approved within the framework of state and local governance. By requiring a higher threshold for voting on unfunded mandates, the bill could lead to fewer new mandates being put in place, thereby potentially allowing local governments to maintain a better control over their finances. This could be particularly beneficial during economic downturns or times when local budgets are strained, as it would allow them to focus resources where they are most needed without the pressure of unanticipated obligations.

Summary

House Bill 05097 aims to amend existing legislation by necessitating a two-thirds majority vote in both houses of the General Assembly before any new unfunded mandates can be enacted upon local governments. The intent behind this bill is to alleviate the financial burden that such mandates impose on municipalities that are often required to comply without sufficient funding from the state. By creating a more stringent voting requirement for these regulations, the bill seeks to ensure local governments have a voice in matters that significantly affect their fiscal responsibilities.

Contention

While the bill is presented as a way to protect local governments from unfunded mandates, it has also sparked discussions about the balance of power between state and local governance. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to prevent the imposition of financial responsibilities on localities without consideration of their fiscal capabilities. However, opponents might voice concerns that such a law might hinder the state's ability to respond swiftly to emerging needs at the local level, particularly in areas that may require immediate attention, such as public health or safety.