Connecticut Senate Bill SB00142

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/19/20
• Refer: 2/19/20

Caption

An Act Concerning Vital Records Search Fees.

Impact

One of the significant changes brought about by SB00142 is the establishment of a thirty-dollar fee for searching birth records and a twenty-dollar fee for searching other vital records. This amendment aims to streamline the process for obtaining vital records and ensure that costs incurred by the Department of Public Health are recovered. Furthermore, there is a provision to waive search fees for veterans' death records if requested by their immediate family members, which highlights a consideration for the families of service members.

Summary

SB00142, also known as the Act Concerning Vital Records Search Fees, aims to modify the fees associated with the search of vital records, specifically birth and death certificates. The proposed legislation seeks to empower the Department of Public Health to assess a search fee for vital records, with specific amounts designated for different types of vital records searched. The fees proposed are intended to cover the costs associated with searching for vital records and providing certified copies of findings.

Contention

There may be potential points of contention surrounding this bill, particularly regarding the increase in fees for searching vital records. While proponents may argue that these fees are necessary to maintain the operational capabilities of the Department of Public Health, opponents could view this as an additional burden on individuals seeking access to important personal records, especially for those who may face financial challenges. The implications for accessibility to vital records could raise concerns among advocacy groups and citizens, particularly regarding transparency and the bureaucratic hurdles in obtaining such essential documents.