The General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1185 aims to increase the maximum penalty for violations of certain municipal regulations and ordinances from $250 to $1,000. This new penalty amount will be adjusted annually based on changes in the consumer price index, as published by the U.S. Department of Labor, starting January 15, 2026. The bill also stipulates that municipal regulations and ordinances can be enforced through citations issued by designated municipal officers or employees, provided that a written warning is given prior to the citation, except for violations related to the operation of dirt bikes, all-terrain vehicles, or mini-motorcycles.

The bill repeals the existing language in subsection (c) of section 7-148 of the general statutes that set the penalty limit at $250 and replaces it with the new penalty structure. The effective date for this change is set for October 1, 2025. The purpose of this legislation is to enhance the enforcement of municipal regulations by imposing stricter penalties that can be adjusted for inflation, thereby ensuring that penalties remain relevant and effective over time.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 7-148