Connecticut House Bill HB05158

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/17
• Refer: 1/4/17

Caption

An Act Increasing The Threshold Required For Passage Of Unfunded Municipal Mandates.

Impact

If enacted, HB05158 would significantly influence the legislative process surrounding local government funding. By requiring a two-thirds majority for unfunded mandates, the bill aims to limit the ability of the state to impose financial obligations on municipalities without providing the necessary funding. This change is expected to lead to more careful consideration of the costs associated with new municipal mandates and, theoretically, to reduce the financial strain on local governments.

Summary

House Bill 05158 seeks to amend existing legislation regarding unfunded municipal mandates. The bill proposes raising the threshold required for the passage of any new or expanded unfunded mandates on municipalities to a two-thirds majority vote in both chambers of the General Assembly. The intent is to ensure that any mandates imposed on municipalities are subjected to a higher level of scrutiny and agreement, reflecting a desire for greater local governance and discretion in fiscal matters.

Contention

The discussions surrounding HB05158 may center on the balance of power between the state and local governments. Proponents argue that the bill ensures municipalities are not burdened with unfunded mandates that they cannot financially handle, thereby promoting local control and responsibility. However, opponents may argue that a higher voting threshold could hinder necessary state initiatives aimed at standardized governance or reform, ultimately complicating legislative responses to pressing municipal needs.