Connecticut 2016 Regular Session

Connecticut Senate Bill SB00260

Introduced
2/24/16  
Introduced
2/24/16  

Caption

An Act Amending The Requirements Of The Assessment And Mediation Program.

Impact

If enacted, SB00260 will significantly impact state laws related to housing assistance and eviction prevention. By ensuring that families undergo assessment and mediation before any eviction proceedings, the bill seeks to address the root causes of housing insecurity. It raises the threshold of families eligible for assistance under the rent bank program, ensuring that more households can receive support. Additionally, the bill requires participation in mediation prior to eligibility for financial assistance, promoting proactive engagement in resolving housing disputes.

Summary

SB00260, titled 'An Act Amending The Requirements Of The Assessment And Mediation Program', is a piece of legislation aimed at improving the support for families at risk of becoming homeless or facing imminent eviction or foreclosure. The bill mandates the establishment of a program overseen by the Commissioner of Housing, which will offer assessment and mediation to families whose income is at or below sixty percent of the state's median income. The focus of the bill is to facilitate access to appropriate resources and support to prevent homelessness before it occurs.

Conclusion

Overall, SB00260 represents a structured approach to tackle homelessness and eviction threats by prioritizing mediation and assistance for at-risk families. While the intended goals align with the need for robust housing support systems, the actual efficacy of the bill will depend on execution and community engagement to ensure that it meets the diverse needs of families across the state.

Contention

There may be contentious points surrounding the implementation of the bill, particularly regarding the requirement that families must first participate in mediation before receiving financial grants. Some stakeholders may argue that this could delay urgent assistance for families in distress, potentially exacerbating their situation. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the mediation program will depend on the capacity and capability of local non-profit organizations to implement these initiatives successfully. If these entities lack sufficient resources or expertise, the program's objectives could be compromised, leading to debate over its practicality.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT SB00146

An Act Concerning The Administration Of The Rental Assistance Program And Other Housing Voucher Programs.

CT SB00283

An Act Concerning The Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program.

CT SB00381

An Act Concerning Revisions To The Mandated Reporter Requirements.

CT SB00311

An Act Concerning The Connecticut Home-care Program For The Elderly.

CT HB05336

An Act Implementing The Recommendations Of The Connecticut Housing And Segregation Study.

CT HB05239

An Act Establishing The Path Program And Amending The Connecticut Collegiate Awareness And Preparation Program.

CT HB05296

An Act Expanding The Connecticut Home-care Program For The Elderly.

CT HB05277

An Act Amending The Charter Of The South Central Connecticut Water Authority.

CT SB00501

An Act Concerning Motor Vehicle Assessments For Property Taxation, Innovation Banks, The Interest On Certain Tax Underpayments, The Assessment On Insurers, School Building Projects, The South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority Charter And Certain State Historic Preservation Officer Procedures.

CT SB00149

An Act Concerning Foreclosure, Assignment And Other Enforcement Actions For Unpaid Sewer Assessments And Other Fees And Charges.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.