Connecticut House Bill HB07040

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/19/15
• Refer: 3/19/15

Caption

An Act Concerning The Claim Against The State Of Lori Calvert.

Impact

The legislation aims to toll the time limitations provided for filing claims against the state in cases of compelling equitable circumstances. Specifically, it recognizes that Calvert had commenced a civil action in the superior court concerning injuries sustained that were allegedly inflicted in 2010, and it aims to provide her with a measure of justice by allowing her claim to be heard. By amending the usual procedural rules, the bill seeks to bolster access to legal recourse for individuals who might otherwise be barred due to technicalities in the claim filing process.

Summary

House Bill 7040 is an act concerning the claim against the state of Lori Calvert, which permits her to present her claim to the Claims Commissioner despite the failure to file a proper notice of claim within the designated time limitations. This bill underscores the legislature's recognition of the importance of allowing full adjudication of claims against the state, particularly when individuals allege injury due to the conduct of state actors. The General Assembly proposes this action to serve the public purpose by enabling accountability in state government relating to such claims.

Contention

The act asserts a bar against the state raising defenses based on the previously alleged failure to comply with the timelines for notice of claims, thereby streamlining the process for addressing claims. This could potentially prompt discussions surrounding the balance between protecting the state from unfounded claims and ensuring that individuals with legitimate grievances are afforded their legal rights. This aspect of the bill may raise concerns about potential increases in claims against the state and how such claims are adjudicated, reflecting ongoing tension between accountability and state resource management.