Connecticut House Bill HB05163

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/18/20
• Refer: 2/18/20
• Report Pass: 3/5/20

Caption

An Act Eliminating Certain Inactive Advisory Groups.

Impact

The implications of HB 05163 touch on the spheres of state governance and community engagement. By removing these advisory bodies, the bill could affect the voices of various stakeholders who previously used these platforms to provide input on legislative matters that impact local businesses, culture, and historical preservation efforts. These changes may result in relegating specific cultural interests and businesses to lower priority within legislative discussions, as fewer advisory entities will be available to present their concerns.

Summary

House Bill 05163 aims to improve government efficiency by eliminating several inactive advisory groups related to culture and tourism in Connecticut. Specifically, the bill proposes the repeal of the Culture and Tourism Advisory Committee, the Commission on Connecticut's Future, and the Small Business Advisory Board, among others. The action is justified as a move towards streamlining state governance and reallocating resources towards more active and essential committees that contribute to the state's development goals.

Contention

The passage of this bill has stirred debate among legislators about the necessity and efficacy of such advisory groups. Proponents argue that the elimination of inactive groups is essential to avoid bureaucratic bloat and optimize the use of state resources. However, opponents suggest that dismantling these committees might diminish the critical oversight needed in areas like cultural affairs and small business regulations, potentially leading to a lack of support for local initiatives. The ongoing discussions highlight the importance of maintaining a balance between government efficiency and active public engagement in various sectors.