Connecticut 2014 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB05059

Introduced
2/7/14  
Introduced
2/7/14  
Refer
2/7/14  

Caption

An Act Concerning Voter Turnout For Municipal Charter Revision.

Impact

The bill amends existing statutes related to municipal governance and significantly alters how charters and amendments are approved. Previously, the threshold for approval could be less restrictive, possibly allowing amendments to pass with minimal voter turnout. By requiring at least 15% participation, the bill intends to raise the bar for validity and encourage greater citizen engagement in local governance. The implications of this law could see fewer charter amendments being passed, necessitating more active participation from residents to affect change in their local governments.

Summary

House Bill 05059, titled 'An Act Concerning Voter Turnout For Municipal Charter Revision,' sets forth new guidelines for the approval process of proposed changes to municipal charters or home rule ordinances. The key provision stipulates that such amendments shall only be considered valid if at least 15% of the electors in the municipality participate in the voting process during a regular election. This aims to bolster the legitimacy of decisions made regarding municipal governance by ensuring a wider representation of the electorate's wishes.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB 05059 highlighted concerns over the potential for voter disenfranchisement versus the push for more democratic engagement. Proponents argue that the measure is essential for legitimizing significant changes to local governance structures, asserting that it reflects a more robust democratic process. Conversely, critics express concern that the bill could deter residents from attempting to amend charters altogether, particularly in municipalities with historically low voter turnout. The arguments underscore a tension between striving for increased voter participation and the practical challenges of achieving such turnout in local elections.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05494

An Act Concerning Referenda On Revisions To Municipal Charters And Home Rule Ordinances.

CT HB05472

An Act Concerning Municipal Finance And Audits.

CT SB00381

An Act Concerning Revisions To The Mandated Reporter Requirements.

CT SB00011

An Act Concerning Connecticut Resiliency Planning And Providing Municipal Options For Climate Resilience.

CT SB00333

An Act Concerning Local Charter Revisions.

CT HB05524

An Act Authorizing And Adjusting Bonds Of The State And Concerning Provisions Related To State And Municipal Tax Administration, General Government And School Building Projects.

CT HB05290

An Act Concerning Various Revisions To The Public Health Statutes.

CT SB00294

An Act Concerning The Taking Of Municipal Park Lands By Municipalities.

CT HB05223

An Act Concerning Minor Revisions To Agriculture Related Statutes And To Open Space Acquisition Related Statutes.

CT SB00262

An Act Concerning Municipal Campaign Finance Filings.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.