Connecticut House Bill HJ00050

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/19
• Refer: 1/24/19

Caption

Resolution Proposing A State Constitutional Amendment Concerning Municipal Mandates.

Impact

If enacted, HJ00050 would significantly affect the relationship between state and local governments in terms of financial responsibilities. Local governments often find themselves shouldering the costs of state mandates without adequate funding, leading to increased property taxes or budget cuts in other essential services. This proposed amendment would require more stringent legislative scrutiny and support for any new mandates that would add fiscal pressure on local entities, potentially providing some measure of financial relief and stability for municipalities.

Summary

HJ00050 is a proposed House Joint Resolution that aims to amend the state constitution regarding municipal mandates. Specifically, it seeks to establish that any new state mandate imposed on local governments that does not come with state reimbursement must receive a two-thirds vote from both chambers of the General Assembly for approval. This resolution reflects growing concerns about the financial burdens that unfunded mandates place on municipalities, particularly those affecting local property taxes.

Contention

The discussions surrounding HJ00050 highlight a divide among legislators regarding the responsibilities of the state versus local governments. Proponents argue that the measure is necessary to prevent unnecessary financial burdens on municipalities, supporting local governance and fiscal prudence. Opponents, however, may view this as an impediment to state action that could be necessary to address statewide issues, arguing that the requirement for a two-thirds vote could stifle legislative progress on important matters that benefit the broader community.