Connecticut House Bill HB05342

Connecticut 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/18/16
• Refer: 2/18/16

Caption

An Act Concerning Appeals To Fair Housing Procedures.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will impact state laws by providing more defined procedures and timeframes for filing housing discrimination complaints in Connecticut. By standardizing the complaints process and limiting the number of complaints that can be filed for each violation, the bill attempts to balance the interests of those facing discrimination with the need for a defined and manageable legal framework for such grievances. The changes also aim to clarify the financial responsibilities related to legal proceedings in housing cases, including attorney's fees, which may make the process less daunting for complainants.

Summary

House Bill 5342 seeks to amend current laws regarding appeals to fair housing procedures. Specifically, it revises the timeframe in which complaints regarding housing discrimination can be filed. The bill establishes a limit of one complaint per discriminatory housing practice, ensuring that individuals can only pursue a single legal recourse for each incident. These changes aim to streamline the complaints process, thus potentially making it easier for individuals to navigate issues of discrimination in housing settings, while also establishing clearer boundaries for complainants.

Contention

The bill sparks notable contention as it represents a shift in how housing complaints are handled. Proponents argue that it protects housing providers from undue legal burdens and creates a more orderly process for managing complaints, while opponents may view it as a potential barrier for victims of discrimination who may want to pursue multiple legal avenues for what they perceive as ongoing or systemic issues. Critics may also express concern that the limitations on complaints could disenfranchise those who have legitimate grievances and seek accountability through the legal system.