Connecticut House Bill HB06749

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/19
• Refer: 1/29/19
• Refer: 2/21/19
• Report Pass: 3/25/19
• Refer: 4/4/19
• Report Pass: 4/10/19
• Refer: 4/17/19
• Report Pass: 4/24/19
• Engrossed: 5/14/19
• Report Pass: 5/16/19

Caption

An Act To Reorganize The Zoning Enabling Act And Promote Municipal Compliance.

Impact

The enactment of this bill is expected to significantly affect state zoning laws by integrating compliance reviews into regular municipal operations. The Commissioner of Housing is tasked with determining municipal compliance regarding their zoning regulations and these assessments will now influence the eligibility of municipalities for discretionary state funding. Should municipalities fail to comply with the provisions of the new zoning laws, they risk losing out on financial assistance for housing and development projects, thereby incentivizing adherence to state housing mandates.

Summary

House Bill 06749, titled 'An Act To Reorganize The Zoning Enabling Act And Promote Municipal Compliance,' primarily aims to enhance municipal compliance with state zoning regulations. It emphasizes the need for municipalities to align their zoning practices with state directives, particularly those related to the development of affordable housing. The bill mandates each municipality to prepare or amend its affordable housing plan at least once every five years, providing guidance on how to increase the number of affordable housing developments in their regions. This initiative seeks to address housing shortages in many areas, ensuring better access for low and moderate-income households.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 06749 has produced a mixed response. Proponents of the bill argue that it will provide necessary structure to local governance and push for essential housing developments that benefit communities. These supporters believe it will not only promote housing diversity but also ensure that municipalities are taking actionable steps towards equitable housing solutions. However, critics express concern that such mandates infringe on local control and the ability of municipalities to tailor zoning laws specific to their unique community needs.

Contention

The bill has drawn notable contention particularly around issues of local governance and autonomy. While its objective is to improve the housing landscape through structured zoning compliance, opponents worry that it undermines local decision-making powers. The ability for municipalities to opt-out of certain provisions, contingent upon adherence to a deliberative public hearing process, is seen as a potential loophole that could allow for evasion of the mandated regulations. Hence, while the bill aims to streamline efforts towards affordable housing, it ignites debates on the balance between state oversight and local discretion.