Connecticut Senate Bill SB00454

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

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

Caption

An Act Concerning Unfunded State Mandates On Municipal Governments.

Impact

If enacted, SB00454 is expected to alter the legislative process regarding the introduction of new mandates on local governments. This legislation would effectively prevent the state from unilaterally imposing requirements on municipalities unless there is a clear financial plan in place to support them. The requirement for a two-thirds vote could make it significantly more challenging for the state to pass such mandates, thereby promoting fiscal responsibility and minimizing additional financial strain on local governments.

Summary

SB00454 aims to address the issue of unfunded state mandates imposed on municipal governments in Connecticut. Introduced by Senator Suzio, the bill stipulates that any new state mandate, which does not come with state financial reimbursement for the costs incurred by municipalities, would require a two-thirds majority vote in both chambers of the General Assembly for enactment. The purpose of the bill is to offer municipalities and taxpayers relief from financial burdens that arise from state-created mandates without corresponding state funding.

Contention

The potential for contention around SB00454 may arise from differing views on the responsibilities of state versus local governance. Proponents of the bill argue that it is a necessary measure to protect municipalities from being overwhelmed by costs that they cannot absorb, thereby safeguarding taxpayers' interests. However, opposition may come from those who believe that certain mandates are essential for uniformity across the state and that the bill could hinder necessary state efforts in areas like public health, safety, and environmental protections.