Connecticut House Bill HB05786

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/15
• Refer: 1/21/15

Caption

An Act Permitting The Suspension Of Civil Penalties For First-time Violations.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5786 would significantly impact how state regulations are enforced against businesses in Connecticut. By allowing for the suspension of civil penalties, the bill aims to ease the financial burden on first-time offenders who may struggle to comply with complex regulations. This move is viewed as a positive step towards helping small businesses navigate the regulatory landscape without incurring heavy penalties that could jeopardize their operations. However, the bill specifically excludes penalties related to willful violations, gross negligence, bodily injury, or those mandated by federal law, ensuring that serious violations still result in penalties.

Summary

House Bill 5786 proposes an amendment to Title 4 of the General Statutes to allow state agencies the discretion to suspend civil penalties for businesses that commit a first-time violation of regulatory provisions. This suspension of penalties would be contingent on the business taking remedial measures to correct the violation within thirty days of the penalty assessment. The goal of this legislation is to provide businesses with a chance to comply without facing punitive measures, thereby facilitating a more supportive regulatory environment while encouraging timely remediation of infractions.

Contention

The key point of contention surrounding HB 5786 revolves around balancing regulatory enforcement with the need to support businesses. Proponents argue that the legislation fosters a more forgiving environment for startups and small enterprises, which may lack the resources to manage regulatory compliance effectively. Critics, however, may express concerns that such leniency could undermine the accountability of businesses and reduce the impetus for complying with essential regulations, potentially leading to repeated violations without sufficient deterrents. The bill's provisions signal a shift in policy towards a more remedial approach rather than punitive measures.