Connecticut Senate Bill SB00337

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/19
• Refer: 1/23/19

Caption

An Act Providing For Optional Payment Of The Healthy Homes Fund Surcharge.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly impact the financial obligations of homeowners insured under specific policies by allowing them to choose whether or not to pay the Healthy Homes Fund surcharge. This change could lead to reduced insurance costs for consumers who opt out of paying the surcharge, thus easing some financial burdens and potentially increasing housing affordability. It may also impact the funding mechanism for the Healthy Homes Fund, which is designed to support various initiatives aimed at improving housing quality and safety.

Summary

SB00337 proposes an amendment to section 38a-331 of the general statutes that will eliminate the mandatory surcharge payment for insureds under certain homeowners insurance policies. The bill seeks to provide policyholders with the option to pay this surcharge rather than making it a compulsory aspect of their insurance premiums. This change is intended to offer more flexibility for homeowners, adding a layer of consumer choice to the insurance landscape.

Contention

There may be mixed reactions to SB00337, as some stakeholders might view the optional payment structure as a beneficial reform providing consumers with more control over their insurance expenses. However, opponents may argue that such changes could undermine the funding necessary for the Healthy Homes Fund, leading to adverse effects on public health and housing safety programs. The discussion surrounding the bill highlights the balance between consumer choice and the need for comprehensive funding to address housing quality concerns.