Connecticut House Bill HB05244

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/20
• Refer: 2/20/20
• Report Pass: 3/5/20

Caption

An Act Concerning Additional Housing Protections For A Victim Of Family Violence Or Sexual Assault.

Impact

The implementation of HB 5244 is poised to significantly affect the landscape of landlord-tenant relationships, especially for those facing domestic violence or sexual assault. By granting tenants the right to request a lock change, the bill seeks to alleviate some of the hazards that victims may experience in their homes. Furthermore, it outlines the responsibilities of landlords and tenants regarding the changing of locks, thereby promoting a more structured approach to ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals within the housing system.

Summary

House Bill 5244 seeks to enhance housing protections for individuals who are victims of family violence or sexual assault. The bill mandates that landlords change the locks to a tenant's dwelling unit upon the request of a tenant who is named as a protected person in a court-issued protective or restraining order. This measure aims to provide victims with an additional layer of safety by ensuring that they can secure their living environment promptly. Under the bill, landlords are compelled to respond to a tenant's request within six hours and are required to change the locks within two business days if they agree.

Contention

While there is broad support for the intent of HB 5244, there are notable concerns about the practical implications of its enforcement. Critics may argue that the burden placed on landlords could lead to complications, especially in terms of the temporary nature of protective orders and the frequency of enforcement. Moreover, the provision that allows tenants to change the locks themselves adds a layer of responsibility that may lead to disputes regarding the quality of the work done and the condition of the property thereafter. Balancing the rights of victims with the responsibilities of landlords remains a contentious issue in the discussions surrounding this bill.