Connecticut House Bill HB05391

Connecticut 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/14
• Refer: 2/26/14

Caption

An Act Concerning Overtime And Fringe Benefits Of Resident State Troopers.

Impact

If enacted, this legislation would ease the financial burden on towns that rely on resident state troopers, particularly those without their own police forces. By lowering the reimbursement percentages that towns must pay for overtime and fringe benefits, the bill could incentivize more towns to employ state troopers, potentially increasing public safety by having more officers available in communities lacking organized police forces. This move might also encourage cost-sharing agreements between the state and towns, helping to streamline funding and resources for law enforcement.

Summary

House Bill 05391, also known as the Act Concerning Overtime And Fringe Benefits Of Resident State Troopers, proposes to change the financial responsibilities of towns regarding the reimbursement for overtime and fringe benefits associated with resident state troopers. The bill aims to reduce the reimbursement rate that municipalities need to pay for these expenses, specifically lowering the reimbursement for overtime costs from 100% to 70%. This change reflects a significant shift in the financial obligations that local governments carry concerning law enforcement funding.

Contention

The proposal has sparked discussions regarding its implications on local control and funding methodologies for public safety. Proponents argue that the financial relief provided by the bill would allow towns to allocate resources toward other community needs, while opponents raise concerns about the overall state and local funding balance for law enforcement. Critics are particularly wary about the potential long-term effects on the quality and availability of policing services once local responsibilities are lessened, emphasizing that consistent funding is necessary for effective community policing.