Connecticut House Bill HB05594

Connecticut 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/16
• Refer: 3/3/16

Caption

An Act Imposing A Surcharge On Certain Personal Risk Insurance Policies To Fund Regional Fire Schools' Operating Budgets And Certain Firefighter Training Costs And Purchases Of Fire Equipment.

Impact

The bill establishes a dedicated account known as the Connecticut Fire Safety Fund. This fund will be utilized by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection to finance operational needs of regional fire schools and training fees for firefighter certification. Specifically, it mandates that municipalities requiring firefighter certification undergo criminal background checks, thereby promoting a standard of safety and integrity among emergency responders. Additionally, surplus funds may be allocated for other firefighter training programs and the bulk purchase of fire equipment.

Summary

House Bill 05594 aims to impose a one percent surcharge on the net direct premiums of homeowners and renters insurance policies in Connecticut. The revenue generated from this surcharge is intended to fund the operating budgets of regional fire schools and cover certain training costs for firefighters. This initiative reflects the state's commitment to enhancing fire safety and ensuring that both paid and volunteer firefighters are well-trained and equipped to respond to emergencies effectively.

Contention

While the bill has the backing of proponents who believe it will bolster fire safety in Connecticut, there could be opposition centered around the imposition of additional costs on homeowners and renters. Critics may argue that this surcharge could lead to higher overall insurance premiums, impacting the affordability of housing insurance for residents. The challenge will be to ensure that while funding for fire safety is enhanced, it does not unduly burden homeowners and renters in an already complex insurance landscape.