Connecticut Senate Bill SB00297

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/17
• Refer: 1/19/17

Caption

An Act Concerning Legislative Approval For New State Mandates.

Impact

The impact of SB00297 could be significant on how state legislation influences local governance and funding. By enforcing a two-thirds majority requirement for unfunded mandates, the bill would necessitate greater consensus among state legislators before new mandates are established. This change could lead to a more cautious approach to creating policies that add financial burdens to municipal governments, thereby maintaining a level of fiscal responsibility and oversight in state-level decision-making.

Summary

Senate Bill 00297 aims to amend state statutes concerning the enactment of new state mandates by requiring legislative approval in the form of a two-thirds majority vote from both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Specifically, the bill targets any new mandates that do not come with state reimbursement to local governments for the costs incurred from implementing these mandates. The primary goal of this initiative is to prevent the state from imposing unfunded mandates on municipalities, which could strain local budgets and resources.

Contention

Notable points of contention around this bill may include discussions about the balance of power between state and local governments. Proponents of SB00297 argue that it protects municipalities from undue financial strain imposed by the state, promoting local autonomy and financial health. Critics, however, might argue that such requirements could hinder the state's ability to respond swiftly to pressing issues that require immediate action through state mandates, potentially leaving local governments without necessary support in critical times.