Connecticut House Bill HB05134

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/20
• Refer: 2/13/20
• Report Pass: 2/28/20

Caption

An Act Validating The December 10, 2019, Referendum In Regional School District No. 19.

Impact

The bill, upon its passage, will serve to retroactively validate the actions taken by the district officials in relation to the referendum. Specifically, it will ensure that all decisions made and procedures followed concerning the funding and installation of renewable energy systems at the school stand valid, thereby reinforcing the district's commitment to sustainable practices. This validation provides a clear legal framework for all parties involved, reassuring stakeholders about the integrity of the procedural aspects tied to the referendum.

Summary

House Bill 05134, introduced in the February session of 2020, aims to validate a referendum conducted on December 10, 2019, concerning Regional School District No. 19. This referendum was pivotal as it pertained to the approval of an appropriation for the installation of a photovoltaic system and associated improvements at E.O. Smith High School. Although the referendum's outcomes were intended to stand, they were challenged due to a failure to publish the necessary notice in a timely manner, which cast doubt on the legality of the electorate's decision and the subsequent actions dependent on it.

Contention

There are notable considerations surrounding the bill, particularly regarding adherence to procedural norms in referenda. Critics may argue that the failure to publish the notice as required represents a lapse that should not be overlooked, raising questions about transparency and taxpayer rights. Proponents of the bill, on the other hand, would maintain that validating the referendum helps uphold the will of the voters and promotes investment in renewable energy technologies within education systems, which is an increasingly vital area of focus in today's legislative landscape.