Connecticut Senate Bill SB00365

Connecticut 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/25
• Refer: 1/9/25

Caption

An Act Exempting The Plans For Single-family Dwellings From Disclosure Under The Freedom Of Information Act.

Impact

If enacted, SB00365 would amend section 29-261 of the general statutes, significantly altering how building plans for single-family homes are treated in terms of public disclosure. By exempting these plans from FOIA, the legislation would shift the landscape of information accessibility, particularly concerning private property. This move could have implications on how local governments manage public records and provide access to information, potentially leading to debates around transparency and public safety.

Summary

SB00365 proposes an exemption for the plans of single-family dwellings from disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). The bill aims to enhance the security of residences by limiting access to these plans, which are often publicly available under FOIA. Under the proposed legislation, only local building officials, the owner of the plans, or law enforcement would have access to these documents. This measure is framed as a necessary step to protect the privacy and safety of homeowners against potential threats posed by the public availability of detailed dwelling plans.

Contention

The main point of contention surrounding SB00365 revolves around the balance between public access to information and individual privacy rights. Proponents of the bill argue that it is a needed measure to prevent potential security risks that could arise from having detailed information about residential properties available to the general public. On the other hand, opponents may raise concerns about the implications this exemption could have on transparency and the public's right to know about developments in their communities. The discussions may also include the potential for this exemption to set precedents for further restrictions on public information access.