Connecticut Senate Bill SB00263

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/20
• Refer: 2/26/20

Caption

An Act Allowing An Emergency Contact Access To A Dwelling Unit Without The Tenant's Consent Under Certain Circumstances.

Impact

If enacted, SB00263 would significantly modify the current statutes concerning the rights of tenants and landlords. The bill will replace Section 47a-16 of the general statutes, thus providing a legal framework for emergency contacts to gain access to a tenant's unit without prior consent from the tenant. Supporters of the bill argue that this change balances the need for tenant privacy with the necessity of ensuring tenant safety in emergencies. It ultimately aims to provide additional peace of mind for families and friends who may be concerned about the welfare of tenants, particularly the elderly or those with health issues.

Summary

SB00263 is a legislative bill that seeks to amend existing laws regarding landlord access to dwelling units without the tenant's consent under specific circumstances, particularly in emergencies. The bill allows landlords to grant access to a designated emergency contact if the landlord is unable to reach the tenant after making reasonable attempts. This provision aims to ensure the well-being of tenants, especially in cases where they may be incapacitated or unresponsive. By allowing emergency contacts to assist in checking on tenants, the bill addresses potential health and safety issues that could arise from tenants being unable to respond to emergencies.

Contention

The proposed changes in SB00263 have generated discussions about tenant privacy rights. Critics of the bill may raise concerns regarding the potential for abuse by landlords, arguing that it could lead to unlawful entries and violations of tenant privacy if not carefully regulated. Participants in the legislative process will need to address these concerns to ensure that tenant rights are sufficiently protected while also enabling necessary access in emergency situations. The reactions to this bill are likely to vary significantly among different stakeholders, particularly advocacy groups focused on housing rights versus those prioritizing healthcare and emergency response.