Connecticut House Bill HB05195

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/21
• Refer: 1/15/21

Caption

An Act Creating A Three Strikes Policy For Residential Renters And Owners Upon Whose Property Opioid Overdoses Have Occurred.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05195 would fundamentally alter the landscape of residential rental laws in the state by imposing strict legal consequences on property owners and renters. Specifically, it would create a framework for incremental penalties - which increase with each overdose incident - thereby holding landlords accountable for managing the risks associated with opioid use in their buildings. This measure aligns with broader state goals to mitigate the impact of drug use in communities and promote responsible rental practices that prioritize tenant welfare and safety.

Summary

House Bill 05195 proposes implementing a three strikes policy that establishes escalating criminal penalties for both renters and property owners regarding opioid overdoses that occur on their premises. The bill aims to tackle the ongoing opioid crisis by placing greater accountability on landlords and residents of residential properties where such overdoses take place. The legislative intent is to deter negligence and increase awareness of substance-related issues within rentals, while facilitating safer living conditions amid the rising opioid epidemic.

Contention

The introduction of a three strikes policy also raises concerns among various stakeholders about potential inequities in enforcement and the ramifications for responsible landlords. Critics may argue that this legislation could unfairly punish property owners for events beyond their control, such as tenants abusing drugs, without offering adequate support systems for addiction recovery. Furthermore, debates are expected about the effectiveness of penal consequences as a deterrent compared to alternative approaches that address the root causes of addiction, including access to treatment and education.