Connecticut House Bill HB05390

Connecticut 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22
• Report Pass: 3/29/22
• Refer: 4/5/22
• Report Pass: 4/12/22
• Refer: 4/20/22
• Report Pass: 4/22/22

Caption

An Act Repealing Statutory Provisions That Impose Liability On An Individual For Repayment Of Costs Incurred When The Individual Was Incarcerated.

Impact

The legislative discussions surrounding HB05390 indicate its potential to significantly amend current state laws regarding how costs associated with incarceration are addressed. By repealing sections of the law that impose financial responsibilities on individuals for payment of their incarceration costs, it paves the way for a more supportive framework for those who have been incarcerated, thereby encouraging rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. The bill is applicable to costs incurred both before and after its enactment, reflecting a comprehensive approach to address these liabilities.

Summary

House Bill 05390 seeks to repeal various statutory provisions that currently hold individuals liable for repaying costs incurred during their incarceration. This bill aims to alleviate the financial burden on individuals who have served time in prison and were previously saddled with repayment obligations that could arise post-release. By removing these financial liabilities, the bill intends to support the reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals into society and mitigate some challenges they face in establishing stable financial and social conditions following reentry.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB05390 is largely positive among advocates of criminal justice reform. Supporters argue that the financial obligations placed on formerly incarcerated individuals serve as a barrier to successful reintegration into society. There is a consensus that dissolving these liabilities can provide individuals a better chance to recover and thrive post-incarceration. Nonetheless, some concerns were raised about the long-term fiscal implications for the state; critics of the bill worry about its impact on state resources and how the costs of incarceration should be fairly distributed.

Contention

The main points of contention regarding HB05390 relate to the economic implications of repealing liability for incarceration costs. Supporters emphasize the need for a just approach to reentry for formerly incarcerated individuals, highlighting the harsh realities they face, such as difficulty in finding employment and housing due to past convictions. Conversely, opponents express concerns regarding the state’s responsibility to recover costs associated with incarceration and whether the bill could create an unintended precedent that might lead to increased financial strain on state resources required for maintaining correctional facilities.