Connecticut House Bill HB06247

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/23
• Refer: 1/19/23

Caption

An Act Limiting The Governor's Emergency Powers.

Impact

The enactment of HB 06247 would effectively curtail the executive branch's ability to unilaterally manage emergencies, demanding greater involvement from the legislative body. This shift aims to balance power between the executive and legislative branches during times of crisis and reflects a growing concern among lawmakers about the extent of emergency powers exercised by governors. Proponents of the bill argue that such measures are necessary to prevent the overreach of executive authority and ensure that emergency declarations closely align with the consensus of elected representatives.

Summary

House Bill 06247, introduced by Representative Bolinsky, proposes significant limitations on the Governor's authority to declare a public health or civil preparedness emergency. The bill seeks to amend current provisions in the general statutes, particularly sections 19a-131a and 28-9. Under the proposed legislation, any initial declaration by the Governor would be restricted to a maximum duration of 60 days. Furthermore, subsequent extensions of such a declaration would be capped at 30 days and would require a two-thirds majority approval from both chambers of the General Assembly for any further continuations.

Contention

However, the bill has sparked a debate among legislators, with critics arguing that limiting the Governor's emergency powers could hinder timely and effective responses to urgent public health crises. Opponents worry that in situations where swift action is required, these limitations may delay necessary interventions. The discussions highlight a critical tension between ensuring democratic oversight and maintaining the agility needed to respond to emergencies as they arise, raising important questions about the balance of power in times of crisis.