Connecticut House Bill HB06078

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

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

Caption

An Act Requiring The Legislative Approval Of Extensions Of Emergency Declarations And Limiting Their Duration.

Impact

If enacted, HB06078 would significantly alter existing state laws regarding the delegation of emergency powers. The bill seeks to restore legislative authority, thereby limiting the amount of time a governor can unilaterally extend emergency actions. Proponents argue that this ensures a system of checks and balances during public health crises, wherein the legislature can play a crucial role in decision-making related to public safety and health policies. Critics, however, may view this as a potential hindrance during urgent situations where quick decision-making is essential to protecting public safety.

Summary

House Bill HB06078 seeks to reform the process of extending emergency declarations made by the governor. Specifically, it mandates that any extensions of public health or civil preparedness emergencies must be approved by a majority vote of a joint legislative committee. This change aims to enhance legislative oversight during emergencies, ensuring that such extraordinary powers are not extended without proper approval from elected representatives. The bill also limits the duration of initial extensions to thirty days, with any subsequent extensions requiring a two-thirds vote from both the House and Senate and capped at sixty days.

Contention

The discussions around HB06078 highlight a significant tension between the legislative and executive branches of government. Supporters of the bill argue that it is a necessary measure to prevent potential abuse of power during emergencies and to uphold democratic processes. Opponents, however, argue that imposing stricter limits on emergency declarations could impede responsiveness during critical times, where swift action might be needed to address immediate threats to public health or safety. This debate emphasizes the challenges of balancing governmental authority and public accountability in times of crisis.