An Act Concerning Computer-assisted Mass Appraisal Systems.
Impact
With the proposed changes, municipalities will be allowed to use past real estate assessments and make necessary adjustments for new data until a new appraisal system can be installed. Additionally, these municipalities will not be subject to the Freedom of Information Act regarding assessment information until they have a functioning mass appraisal system in place. This provision allows municipalities to operate without immediate public accountability during transitional periods, which could be a point of concern for transparency advocates.
Summary
House Bill 06657, sponsored by Representative Serra, aims to amend section 12-62f of the general statutes concerning computer-assisted mass appraisal systems utilized by municipalities. The bill essentially outlines provisions for municipalities when their current computer-assisted mass appraisal system is removed by a vendor between mandated revaluation periods. It seeks to ensure that municipalities can continue to manage real estate assessments while facing potential disruptions in technology supports.
Contention
Notably, the bill includes measures that protect municipalities from losing essential software or licenses related to mass appraisal systems at critical times. This protection applies irrespective of existing contracts, although municipalities retain the right to terminate agreements for just cause. While this safeguard is intended to prevent disruptions in municipal appraisal processes, it may also lead to concerns among vendors that their contracts could be rendered ineffective during contractual periods, potentially stifling competitive practices.