House Bill No. 6883 aims to enhance the confidentiality protections for the locations of shelters and transitional housing for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. The bill repeals the existing language in Section 8-360 of the general statutes, which previously stated that certain sections of the law should not be construed to require public agencies to disclose information about these locations. Instead, the new language explicitly prohibits public agencies from disclosing any information that indicates the location of shelters or transitional housing for both domestic violence and sexual assault victims. Additionally, it allows portions of public agency meetings to be held in executive session if discussions would reveal the location of such shelters.

The bill's amendments also clarify that the protections apply regardless of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requirements. This means that public agencies are not obligated to disclose this sensitive information, thereby providing greater security for victims seeking refuge. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and is expected to have no fiscal impact on the state or municipalities.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 8-360
GOS Joint Favorable Substitute: 8-360
File No. 82: 8-360
File No. 923: 8-360