Substitute House Bill No. 5766 proposes to enhance penalties for individuals who park in front of fire hydrants, particularly targeting repeat offenders. The bill amends Section 14-251 of the general statutes to establish a fine of up to $200 for individuals who violate the parking restriction within ten feet of a fire hydrant for a second or subsequent time, a significant change from the previous law that did not impose increased penalties for repeat violations. The bill also clarifies various parking regulations, ensuring that vehicles do not obstruct traffic near intersections, crosswalks, and bikeways, thereby promoting public safety.

In addition to the increased penalties for fire hydrant violations, the bill introduces new provisions regarding stationary vehicles on highways, including restrictions on parking at curves and turns, and specifies that vehicles must not obstruct traffic flow. It allows disabled vehicles to remain in place for a reasonable time for repairs and repeals certain existing language, replacing it with updated terms that reference the Federal Highway Administration's Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. The effective date for these new penalties is set for October 1, 2025, and the bill is expected to generate minimal revenue for municipalities, as indicated by the collection of $30,728 in fines from 758 recorded charges under the current law in FY 24. The Transportation Committee has reported the bill favorably with unanimous support.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill: 14-251
TRA Joint Favorable Substitute: 14-251
File No. 451: 14-251