Connecticut House Bill HB05320

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/15
• Refer: 1/13/15

Caption

An Act Requiring Notice And Public Hearing Of New Residential Facilities For Offenders.

Impact

The primary impact of HB 5320 will be on the transparency and community involvement in decisions regarding offender housing in local areas. By requiring advance notice and public hearings, the bill is set to empower communities, allowing them to engage in discussions regarding the implications of housing offenders in their neighborhoods. This change may also lead to increased scrutiny of the Department of Corrections’ plans and could foster dialogue on public safety and rehabilitation efforts.

Summary

House Bill 5320, introduced by Representative Tweedie, addresses the process for establishing new residential facilities for offenders. The bill aims to mandate that the Commissioner of Correction provides written notice to the chief executive officer of any affected municipality at least thirty days before entering into agreements for such residential programs. This legislation marks a significant shift in how new residential facilities for offenders are planned and communicated to the local communities involved.

Contention

There are potential points of contention surrounding HB 5320. Proponents of the bill argue that it is necessary for ensuring community voices are heard in the planning stages of residential facilities for offenders, emphasizing the importance of local input. However, critics may argue that this legislation could inadvertently delay the establishment of necessary rehabilitation services or complicate the corrections process by subjecting it to local political dynamics and opposition.