Connecticut Senate Bill SB00711

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/21
• Refer: 1/29/21
• Refer: 3/2/21
• Report Pass: 3/11/21
• Refer: 3/22/21
• Report Pass: 3/29/21
• Refer: 5/12/21
• Report Pass: 5/19/21
• Engrossed: 6/2/21
• Report Pass: 6/3/21

Caption

An Act Concerning Covid-19 Relief For Small Businesses And Requiring Federal Regulatory Analysis For Proposed State Regulations.

Impact

The passage of SB00711 would amend existing laws related to unemployment benefits by clarifying that employers will not be charged for benefits paid to claimants whose unemployment is related to the pandemic. This change would alleviate some financial pressures on businesses as they navigate potential layoffs or closures resulting from ongoing operational challenges. By streamlining compliance for small employers, the bill aims to promote economic recovery and stability in the face of ongoing public health crises.

Summary

SB00711, titled 'An Act Concerning COVID-19 Relief For Small Businesses And Requiring Federal Regulatory Analysis For Proposed State Regulations', is aimed at providing support to small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. To do this, the bill introduces measures to exempt small businesses from certain regulatory burdens that could hinder their recovery and growth post-pandemic. The legislation mandates that state agencies conduct a regulatory flexibility analysis to understand how proposed regulations may affect small businesses, identifying alternative compliance methods to minimize adverse impacts.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB00711 has shown a strong bipartisan support highlighting the urgent need for legislative action to assist small businesses struggling under the weight of economic disruptions caused by COVID-19. Many legislators view the bill as a necessary intervention that prioritizes economic recovery, while also ensuring that regulations do not disproportionately burden small enterprises. However, there may be mixed views on the extent of regulatory flexibility it allows, with concerns that some may exploit these allowances.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the effectiveness of the proposed regulatory flexibility analysis and whether adequate measures are in place to prevent misuse of the provisions. Critics argue that regulatory exemptions could lead to inconsistent compliance standards, raising concerns about public health and safety. Proponents contend that these measures are essential for the survival of small businesses in a struggling economy and that the focus should be on facilitating recovery rather than imposing additional burdens.