Connecticut House Bill HB06675

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/19
• Refer: 1/29/19

Caption

An Act Requiring Landlords To Provide Certain Information About Tenants To Certain Taxing Agencies.

Impact

The proposed bill could significantly impact the privacy of tenants as it requires landlords to divulge personal information to tax collecting agencies. While the aim is to assist local governments in improving property tax enforcement and ensuring compliance by identifying tenants living in rental units, it raises concerns about the confidentiality of tenant information. Proponents argue that such measures will lead to better tax compliance and lower the burden on municipalities to track rental properties without sufficient data.

Summary

House Bill 06675 aims to enhance the communication between landlords and municipal tax authorities by requiring landlords to provide specific information about their tenants. This legislation was introduced by Representative Cummings and is proposed to amend existing statutes. The bill mandates that landlords must provide, upon request from relevant tax agencies, a copy of their lease agreements as well as identifying information about the tenants residing at their properties, including the duration of their tenancy. This requirement is intended to facilitate more accurate tax assessments and contributions from rental properties within municipalities.

Contention

Nevertheless, the legislation has generated discussions among stakeholders regarding the potential consequences on landlord-tenant relationships. Critics may view it as an infringement on tenant privacy and an excessive burden on landlords, who might face challenges in complying with these regulations, particularly if tenants object to their information being disclosed. The balance between necessary taxation and the safeguarding of tenant rights will be a crucial point of contention in debates surrounding this bill. As the legislature considers these aspects, the implications for state law concerning housing and tax collection practices remain a significant area of focus.