House Bill No. 5477, reported by the Committee on Planning and Development, introduces amendments to the general statutes concerning municipal powers, particularly in addressing blight on real property. The bill allows municipalities to enter properties to remediate blighted conditions during reasonable hours, with certain restrictions, and defines blight, requiring written notice to property owners before enforcement action is taken. It revises penalties for housing blight with a tiered system based on the number of dwelling units and whether the property is occupied, vacant, or commercial, with maximum penalties ranging from $150 to $1,000 per day. The bill also outlines a citation hearing procedure for imposing civil penalties and clarifies the definition of a "violation" for repeat offenses. Additionally, it regulates activities affecting public health, such as the consumption of tobacco and cannabis on municipal property, and sets fines for violations.

Furthermore, HB5477 File No. 421 proposes changes to municipal agreements and personal property tax exemptions. It extends the maximum duration of written agreements between municipalities and property owners from ten to thirty years, allowing for fixed assessments on property and improvements. The bill expands the types of uses for which these agreements can be made and increases the tangible personal property tax exemption for businesses from $250 to $1,000 for property owned for at least ten years. The fiscal impact includes potential revenue gains from increased blight penalties and a potential reduction in the grand list due to the expanded tax exemption. The bill is effective from October 1, 2024, with the tax exemption applicable to assessment years commencing on or after that date. The bill has been given a Joint Favorable outcome by the Planning and Development Committee.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 12-65b
PD Joint Favorable: 12-65b
File No. 421: 12-65b