Connecticut House Bill HB05710

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/21
• Refer: 1/27/21

Caption

An Act Concerning The Recovery Of Attorney's Fees And Costs In Actions For Wrongful Property Tax Assessment.

Impact

This legislative change is expected to have a significant impact on how property tax disputes are resolved in the state, enhancing the ability of taxpayers to seek justice without fearing substantial legal costs. By allowing for the recovery of attorney's fees and costs, the bill promotes equity in access to legal resources for those fighting against potentially erroneous tax assessments. This could lead to an increase in lawsuits related to property assessments as individuals might feel more inclined to challenge their tax liabilities.

Summary

House Bill 05710 seeks to amend section 12-119 of the general statutes to allow individuals who prevail in an action concerning wrongful property tax assessments to recover reasonable attorney's fees and costs. The objective is to empower taxpayers who challenge wrongful assessments by reducing their financial burden of legal expenses if they win their case. This change aims to encourage more property owners to pursue legal remedies when they believe they have been improperly taxed.

Contention

There may be notable points of contention among stakeholders regarding HB 05710. While proponents argue it provides necessary support to taxpayers, critics may express concerns over the potential financial impact on municipalities that could face increased legal costs if more property tax disputes are litigated. Local governments may fear that the bill could encourage frivolous lawsuits, which might strain public resources. Balancing taxpayer rights with the financial implications for municipal budgets will likely be a focal point of the legislative debate surrounding this bill.