Connecticut House Bill HB07391

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/20/19
• Refer: 3/20/19
• Report Pass: 3/29/19
• Refer: 4/5/19
• Report Pass: 4/11/19

Caption

An Act Concerning The Secretary Of The State.

Impact

The proposed changes would streamline the appointment of town clerks and their assistants, ensuring that local officials are more accountable and that the Secretary of State is promptly informed of any changes in these critical positions. By amending the notification timeline from 'within' to 'not later than ten days', the bill seeks to enforce a timelier and uniform reporting practice across towns, which could enhance the overall functionality of local government operations. This measure reflects an intent to strengthen oversight and management of election processes, which are intrinsically linked to the duties of town clerks.

Summary

House Bill 7391, titled 'An Act Concerning The Secretary Of The State', aims to amend existing statutes related to the responsibilities and appointment processes concerning town clerks in Connecticut. The bill proposes repealing and replacing certain sections of the general statutes that govern how town clerks are appointed, detailing the notification processes to the Secretary of the State when appointments or vacancies occur. This legislation is rooted in improving the structure of local recruitment for these positions and ensuring appropriate communication with state authorities.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 7391 is generally favorable among proponents who regard it as a necessary update to ensure the proper functioning of local governments. The unanimous vote of 16 in favor after committee discussions indicates a strong bipartisan support for the measures proposed. This consensus suggests that the bill is seen as enhancing governmental efficiency without significant opposition or controversy.

Contention

While the legislative discussions surrounding the bill appear to be largely supportive, any contention likely arises from broader discussions about local versus state control within governmental administrative processes. Critics of state-level intervention often express concerns that such legislative measures could lead to overregulation or that they might overlook the unique needs of local communities in managing their affairs. As such, ongoing discussions about the balance of power between state and local government are relevant contexts for understanding the potential implications of the bill.