Connecticut House Bill HB06911

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/25/15
• Refer: 2/25/15

Caption

An Act Requiring Verification To Reduce False Alarms.

Impact

If enacted, HB 06911 would bring significant changes to the existing protocol surrounding alarm systems in the state. The bill stipulates specific fines for subscribers whose alarm systems generate false alarms. While the first three alarms per calendar year are exempt from fines, subsequent alarms would incur escalating penalties, ultimately designed to encourage better monitoring and installation practices. The fines collected would support the Division of State Police's administrative costs, further integrating the bill's intent to streamline emergency responses.

Summary

House Bill 06911, titled 'An Act Requiring Verification To Reduce False Alarms', aims to mandate that alarm monitoring companies verify the legitimacy of alarm activations before prompting a response from police or fire departments. The intent of the bill is to decrease the number of false alarms requiring state and municipal resources, which can divert attention from real emergencies. Under the bill, monitoring companies must attempt to contact the alarm subscriber to confirm whether an activation is due to a legitimate threat or an act of nature, before requesting further assistance from emergency services.

Conclusion

Overall, HB 06911 reflects a growing emphasis on the verification of alarm systems before triggering emergency responses, aiming to alleviate the strain on police and fire resources. Its successful implementation might hinge on widespread adoption among alarm monitoring firms and public awareness regarding the responsibilities of alarm system subscribers. Should it pass, the bill could set a precedent for similar regulatory measures focused on refining emergency response protocols.

Contention

There exists potential contention surrounding how this bill could affect subscribers, particularly those who may struggle to verify every alarm activation quickly. While the intention behind the legislation is to reduce misuse of emergency services, critics may argue that premature fines could place an undue financial burden on residential and commercial subscribers. The outlined process for appeal in cases of fines will also be a point of discussion, determining how transparent and fair the appeals process can genuinely be, as it relies on a determination of whether circumstances justify a waiver.