Connecticut House Bill HB07277

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/17
• Refer: 3/14/17
• Report Pass: 3/27/17
• Refer: 4/7/17
• Report Pass: 4/13/17

Caption

An Act Concerning Government Administration.

Impact

By instituting the Commission on Equity and Opportunity, this bill aims to centralize efforts and resources dedicated to improving the conditions and addressing systemic inequities faced by the specified demographic groups. This consolidation is expected to streamline advocacy efforts and create a focused approach to legislation that affects these populations. Furthermore, the bill mandates state agencies to prioritize electronic formats for public applications and forms, thus modernizing government operations and improving access to public services.

Summary

House Bill 07277, titled 'An Act Concerning Government Administration,' primarily establishes a Commission on Equity and Opportunity within the Legislative Branch, aimed at addressing issues relevant to underrepresented and underserved populations, specifically African Americans, Asian Pacific Americans, and Latinos and Puerto Ricans. It consolidates existing commissions into a single commission that is tasked with focusing on policy development and advising on matters affecting these communities. This strategic reorganization underscores the state's commitment to enhancing equity and fostering opportunities for marginalized groups.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 07277 appears supportive among legislators and advocacy groups focused on social justice and equity. The establishment of a dedicated commission is viewed as a positive step towards ensuring that the voices of historically marginalized communities are heard in the legislative process. However, there may be some concerns about the effectiveness of the commission in overcoming existing institutional barriers and whether the new structure will truly enhance advocacy for equitable solutions.

Contention

While the bill is predominantly received positively, one point of contention may arise regarding the effectiveness of the new commission model compared to the individual commissions that previously operated. Critics could express concern that consolidating multiple commissions into one might dilute specific focus areas or reduce specialized advocacy efforts. Additionally, questions may be raised about the implementation of electronic filing systems, especially regarding accessibility for those without adequate technological resources.