Connecticut House Bill HB06755

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/17
• Refer: 1/25/17

Caption

An Act Requiring Fiscal Notes To Include An Economic Impact Statement.

Impact

If enacted, HB06755 would amend section 2-24a of the general statutes, establishing a formal requirement for estimating the economic impact of proposed bills. This change is expected to lead to more informed legislative decisions as it compels legislators to consider financial outcomes against the backdrop of both state and local economic environments. By integrating economic assessments into the fiscal note process, proponents argue that the bill could help to prevent unintended negative consequences on businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, thereby fostering a more business-friendly environment.

Summary

House Bill HB06755 aims to enhance the legislative process by requiring that all fiscal notes prepared for proposed legislation include an economic impact statement. This mandate seeks to ensure that lawmakers and stakeholders have a clear understanding of the economic implications associated with new policies before they are enacted. The bill was introduced to improve transparency and accountability in state governance, particularly concerning how legislation affects businesses operating within the state.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HB06755 may evoke differing opinions among lawmakers. Supporters contend that requiring economic impact statements will enhance the legislative process by making it more data-driven and transparent. Critics, however, may argue that this requirement could slow down the legislative process or result in overly complex analyses that are difficult to interpret. Some lawmakers could express concern about the additional administrative burden that this may place on the Office of Fiscal Analysis, potentially diverting resources away from other critical legislative evaluations.

Notable_points

Overall, the introduction of HB06755 represents a significant shift toward prioritizing economic considerations in the legislative process. This focus on the economic dimension of public policies not only aims to align legislation with the goal of economic sustainability but also addresses the broader implications of law-making on the business sector. As legislators weigh the pros and cons of this bill, the discussions will likely reveal broader themes regarding the role of government in regulating economic activity and supporting business growth.