Connecticut House Bill HB05096

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/7/15
• Refer: 1/7/15

Caption

An Act Increasing The Threshold Required For Passage Of Unfunded Mandates.

Impact

If passed, HB 05096 would structurally alter the lawmaking process concerning unfunded mandates, compelling a higher degree of legislative consensus. The requirement for a two-thirds majority signifies that any push for new mandates not met with budgetary backing would face substantial obstacles, thereby potentially reducing the frequency with which such mandates are introduced. This legislative adjustment is primarily aimed at protecting municipalities from unexpected fiscal pressures that can arise from state mandates without additional funding.

Summary

House Bill 05096 proposes to increase the threshold required for the passage of unfunded mandates on municipalities. Specifically, the bill aims to amend chapter 16 of the general statutes to mandate that any new or expanded unfunded mandate receive a two-thirds majority approval from both chambers of the General Assembly before it can be enacted. This legislative change is designed to provide local governments with greater financial autonomy by ensuring that they are not burdened with new mandates without accompanying funding support.

Contention

The bill may face contention, particularly from groups advocating for the expansion of state support to municipalities. Supporters may argue that the increased threshold would prevent hasty legislation that does not take local budgetary constraints into consideration. Conversely, opponents might contend that this requirement could stifle necessary legislation aimed at addressing urgent local issues, especially in times of economic challenge when mandates are critical for planning and resource allocation. The debates surrounding this bill will likely revolve around the balance between state oversight and local budgeting capabilities.