Connecticut Senate Bill SB01073

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/18/21
• Refer: 3/18/21
• Report Pass: 3/31/21
• Refer: 4/12/21
• Report Pass: 4/19/21
• Refer: 5/26/21
• Report Pass: 5/28/21
• Report Pass: 6/1/21
• Engrossed: 6/7/21
• Report Pass: 6/7/21

Caption

An Act Concerning Equity And Opportunity In State Government.

Impact

The implementation of SB01073 is expected to lead to enhanced oversight of state agency practices to ensure that they do not disproportionately affect marginalized populations. Each department head is tasked with reviewing their agency’s policies by December 2021 to identify any barriers to access faced by underserved communities. This may result in proposed changes to existing policies, and new regulations aimed at increasing equity in state programs, procurement processes, and contracting opportunities for small, minority, or disadvantaged businesses.

Summary

SB01073, titled 'An Act Concerning Equity and Opportunity in State Government', is aimed at examining and addressing systemic barriers faced by underserved communities in accessing state programs and services. The bill mandates the Commissioner of Administrative Services, in consultation with various stakeholders, to conduct a comprehensive study of state agency policies and actions. The focus is on assessing whether these regulations inadvertently create or worsen barriers for individuals from diverse backgrounds including race, ethnicity, and disability, with the goal of promoting equity in state governance.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment around SB01073 appears to be cautiously optimistic, particularly from advocates of equity and social justice. There is an acknowledgment of the necessity to scrutinize and reform state practices to better serve all constituents. However, it is also met with skepticism from those concerned about the potential bureaucratic implications or ineffectiveness of the proposed studies and reviews.

Contention

While there is broad support for the objectives of the bill, points of contention may arise regarding the effectiveness of the proposed reviews and the potential for slow implementation of reforms. Some critics might argue that creating a framework for assessment does not guarantee meaningful changes in practice or enforcement. The discussions during the voting process highlight challenges in balancing administrative processes with the urgency of addressing the needs of underserved populations.