Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB05021

Introduced
1/8/21  

Caption

An Act Eliminating The Requirement That A Real Estate Closing Be Conducted By An Attorney Who Is Licensed And In Good Standing In This State.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would significantly alter the way real estate transactions are conducted in the state. By removing the requirement for an attorney to be present at closing, it could open the market to a broader range of facilitators, such as brokers or online services, potentially increasing competition and lowering fees associated with real estate closings. Proponents of the bill believe it would make the process more accessible and efficient, ultimately benefiting consumers who may be deterred by legal fees. However, this change could also lead to concerns regarding the adequacy of legal protections for individuals involved in real estate transactions.

Summary

House Bill 05021 aims to eliminate the requirement that a real estate closing must be conducted by an attorney who is licensed and in good standing in the state. The bill proposes the repeal of section 51-88a of the general statutes, which currently mandates that an attorney must oversee real estate closings in order to ensure legal compliance and protection for all parties involved. This legislation reflects a growing trend towards deregulation in various professions, with advocates arguing that it could simplify real estate transactions and reduce costs for buyers and sellers alike.

Contention

Opponents of HB05021 express concern that eliminating the attorney requirement may lead to insufficient legal oversight during real estate closings, resulting in increased disputes and potential fraud. Critics argue that attorneys provide an essential service by ensuring compliance with legal obligations and protecting the interests of both buyers and sellers. The absence of attorney involvement could expose consumers to risks, particularly inexperienced buyers who may lack familiarity with the complexities of real estate transactions. Consequently, while the bill is positioned as a way to enhance consumer choice and reduce costs, it is met with substantial pushback from legal professionals and consumer advocates who fear the implications for transaction integrity.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT SB00399

An Act Requiring The Department Of Consumer Protection To Study Licensing And Regulatory Requirements For Individuals Who Perform Title Searches Of Real Property In This State.

CT SB00348

An Act Eliminating Service In Time Of War As An Eligibility Criterion For Certain State And Municipal Veterans' Benefits.

CT HB05037

An Act Eliminating The Personal Income Tax On Social Security Benefits And Pension Or Annuity Income And The Estate And Gift Taxes.

CT SB00048

An Act Eliminating Licensing Fees For Social Workers.

CT SB00074

An Act Eliminating Application Review Fees And Capping Licensure Fees For Health Care Professionals Licensed By The Department Of Public Health.

CT SB00403

An Act Concerning Insurance Market Conduct And Insurance Licensing.

CT SB00429

An Act Concerning A Study Of The Civil Procedure Laws In This State.

CT SB00121

An Act Concerning The Attorney General, The Banking Commissioner, The Dodd-frank Wall Street Reform And Consumer Protection Act And Telephonic Sales Calls For Soliciting Consumer Goods Or Services.

CT HB05276

An Act Eliminating Tax Exemptions For Certain Real Property Acquired By Independent Institutions Of Higher Education.

CT SB00205

An Act Eliminating Income And Asset Limits In The Med-connect Program For Employees With Disabilities.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.