Connecticut Senate Bill SB00283

Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/18
• Refer: 2/28/18

Caption

An Act Allowing Police Officers To Obtain Information To Be Furnished Relative To Fire Losses.

Impact

The legislation is projected to amend existing statutes to improve transparency and information sharing during fire investigations. Specifically, it will empower authorized agencies, which include police and fire marshals, to request and receive comprehensive data relating to fire losses. This change is expected to fortify the investigative framework within the state, enabling timely and thorough examinations of cases where fire damage is suspected to be caused by illegal activity. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2018, signaling the state’s commitment to public safety and efficient law enforcement practices.

Summary

SB00283 is a legislative act aimed at enhancing the ability of police officers and authorized agencies to access insurance information regarding fire losses, particularly those resulting from suspicious or incendiary origins. By allowing these agencies to obtain detailed information from insurance companies, the bill seeks to facilitate more efficient investigations into fires that may have been caused by criminal actions. The act would enhance the collaboration between law enforcement and insurance providers in tackling suspected fire-related crimes, potentially leading to better prevention measures and prosecution of offenders.

Contention

While the bill is largely intended to bolster investigative capabilities, it does raise some points of contention regarding privacy and the potential misuse of sensitive information obtained from insurance companies. Concerns were articulated during discussions that allowing law enforcement greater access to these records could infringe on personal privacy rights or result in the mishandling of sensitive data. Furthermore, the balance between public safety and individual rights will be a critical debate as the bill is considered, with advocates emphasizing the need for careful oversight to prevent abuses.