Connecticut House Bill HB05669

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/17
• Refer: 1/13/17

Caption

An Act Concerning Public Health Quarantine Laws.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05669 would significantly impact the framework of public health law in the state, empowering health officials to act swiftly in situations where individual quarantine or isolation is deemed necessary for the safety of the community. These changes would adapt the state's existing health regulations to better respond to contemporary public health challenges, potentially enhancing the state's capabilities in managing outbreaks efficiently.

Summary

House Bill 05669 seeks to amend the current laws governing public health quarantines, specifically within title 19a of the general statutes. The primary intent of the bill is to provide the Department of Public Health with the authority to issue specific public health orders that mandate the quarantine and isolation of individuals under defined circumstances. This proposed overhaul aims to create a structured response to public health emergencies that may arise due to contagious diseases or epidemics.

Contention

The bill may encounter resistance from various stakeholders who might argue that increased powers for health authorities could infringe upon personal liberties and rights. Concerns may be expressed regarding the lack of clarity about what conditions would trigger such orders, and debates could arise about ensuring that individuals' rights are protected while still maintaining public health safety. The balance between individual freedoms and community health imperatives could serve as a focal point for discussions around the bill.