Substitute House Bill No. 6971, known as the "Connecticut Uniform Mediation Act," establishes a structured framework for mediation practices in Connecticut, set to take effect on October 1, 2025. The bill defines essential terms such as "mediation," "mediator," and "mediation communication," and specifies the scope of the act, which includes mediations mandated by statute or court rules, those agreed upon in writing, and those conducted by recognized mediators. However, it excludes mediations related to collective bargaining, those conducted by judges, and those initiated prior to the effective date. The act introduces new provisions that ensure the confidentiality of mediation communications, generally protecting them from discovery or admissibility in court unless waived by the parties involved, while also outlining specific exceptions.

Additionally, the bill mandates that mediators disclose any potential conflicts of interest before accepting a case and prohibits them from reporting on the mediation process to courts or agencies, except for limited disclosures. It aligns international commercial mediation practices with the United Nations Model Law and modifies existing laws regarding electronic signatures to promote uniformity across states. The act also includes a severability clause, ensuring that if any section is found invalid, the remaining provisions will still be effective. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the mediation process by providing clearer guidelines and protections for all parties involved, fostering an environment conducive to open and honest discussions.