Connecticut Senate Bill SB00709

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/15
• Refer: 1/23/15

Caption

An Act Requiring A Study Of Emergency Power Needs At Public Housing For Elderly Persons.

Impact

If passed, SB00709 could significantly impact state policies governing public housing and its emergency planning frameworks. By explicitly emphasizing the need for emergency power assessments in elderly housing, the bill may lead to improved safety standards and protocols tailored to the unique needs of older adults. This could ensure that elderly residents have adequate access to power during emergencies, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.

Summary

SB00709, introduced by Senator Kelly, aims to address the emergency power needs of residents in publicly financed housing for the elderly. This bill mandates the Commissioner of Housing to conduct a study in collaboration with the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority to assess the current emergency power systems and potential enhancements needed to ensure the safety and welfare of elderly residents. The initiative aims to identify and address vulnerabilities in emergency preparedness, particularly in the context of natural disasters and extended power outages.

Contention

While the bill seems focused on enhancing the safety of elderly residents, it may invite discussions regarding funding and resource allocation for such studies and subsequent implementations. Some stakeholders might raise concerns about potential additional costs to public housing authorities and whether those costs could divert funds from other critical services for the elderly population. Ensuring that adequate measures can be taken without compromising other essential resources or services will likely be a point of contention among legislators and community advocates.