Connecticut House Bill HB05392

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/20
• Refer: 2/27/20

Caption

An Act Concerning The Imposition Of Penalties For Repeated Violations Of Municipal Regulations Or Ordinances.

Impact

If enacted, HB05392 will amend existing statutes surrounding municipal code enforcement, enabling local governments to impose heftier fines and a more structured regimen for penalizing repeat violations. This change could simplify local government operations by providing them with clearer enforcement powers. Municipalities will now have the authority to levy fines up to $5,500 for specific violations, particularly for those that are deemed willful or involve serious infractions. The reinforcement of these powers is expected to empower municipalities to maintain higher standards in compliance with local laws.

Summary

House Bill 05392, titled 'An Act Concerning The Imposition Of Penalties For Repeated Violations Of Municipal Regulations Or Ordinances', seeks to enhance the enforcement of municipal regulations by imposing stricter penalties on repeated violations. The bill specifically allows municipalities to impose civil penalties that can range significantly based on the nature of the violation, escalating for repeat offenders. This aims to deter continuous disregard for local regulations, promoting compliance among residents and businesses alike.

Contention

However, the bill has sparked some debate among legislators. Proponents argue that this act is necessary for maintaining order and ensuring that local laws are respected, thereby safeguarding public interests. On the other hand, critics raise concerns that the heightened penalties may disproportionately affect lower-income residents who may struggle to comply with municipal regulations. This divide highlights the potential socio-economic implications of such a bill, raising questions about fairness and equity in the enforcement of local laws.