The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1266, mandates that any town, city, or borough that establishes a fair rent commission must make the commission's bylaws publicly accessible on the respective municipality's website. This requirement is part of a broader effort to enhance transparency and accountability in the management of rental charges and housing accommodations. The bill also outlines the responsibilities of fair rent commissions, including conducting studies, hearings, and investigations related to rental charges, and it empowers these commissions to compel attendance, issue subpoenas, and retain legal counsel.
Additionally, the bill repeals and replaces Section 7-148b of the general statutes, which previously governed the establishment and function of fair rent commissions. The new language clarifies the definitions of "seasonal basis" and "rental charge," and it specifies that towns with populations of 25,000 or more are required to create a fair rent commission by July 1, 2023. The legislation aims to control excessive rental charges and ensure that the bylaws of these commissions are readily available to the public, thereby promoting fair housing practices.
Statutes affected: Raised Bill: 7-148b