Connecticut House Bill HB05525

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23

Caption

An Act Appropriating Funds To The Department Of Public Health For Gun Violence Prevention.

Impact

The enactment of HB 05525 would significantly enhance the financial resources available to local health departments and community organizations dedicated to gun violence prevention initiatives. By funneling specific funding into these programs, the bill aims to create a more structured and potentially effective method for addressing the challenges posed by gun violence in communities. With a focus on evidence-based practices, the expectation is that these programs will not only reduce incidents of gun violence but also contribute positively to public health outcomes, making communities safer overall.

Summary

House Bill 05525 is a legislative proposal aimed at appropriating funds to the Department of Public Health specifically for the purpose of gun violence prevention. This bill seeks to allocate a total of ten million dollars from the General Fund over the fiscal years ending June 30, 2024, and June 30, 2025, to support community-based programs that are evidence-informed and geared towards reducing gun violence. The bill also earmarks an additional four hundred thousand dollars for administrative costs associated with the Office of Injury and Violence Prevention for the same period and each subsequent fiscal year thereafter.

Contention

While the bill has potential benefits, it may not be without contention. Discussions surrounding funding for public health initiatives often bring up debates over budget priorities and allocations. Critics may argue that existing funds could be better spent on other pressing areas of public health or safety. Furthermore, the effectiveness of community-based programs in reducing gun violence can be a point of contention, with some advocating for a broader approach that includes legislative reforms related to gun control, rather than focusing solely on funding prevention programs. As such, the reception of HB 05525 may vary significantly among different stakeholders and political entities.