Substitute House Bill No. 7078 proposes significant amendments to Connecticut's real estate laws, primarily focusing on the removal of unauthorized occupants from properties and updates to real estate licensing requirements. The bill allows property owners or their authorized agents to request police assistance for the immediate removal of unauthorized persons, defined as individuals unlawfully occupying a property without a valid lease or proof of residency. This process requires the submission of an affidavit to the police, detailing the circumstances of the unauthorized occupation, and mandates that police verify the affidavit before serving a notice to vacate. Additionally, the bill establishes a civil cause of action for wrongful removal, enabling individuals wrongfully evicted to seek restoration and damages.

In terms of real estate licensing, the bill introduces a minimum requirement of two hours of approved continuing education for license renewal and replaces the term "real estate salesperson" with "real estate agent" throughout the legislation. It also outlines new criteria for obtaining a real estate license, including a requirement for applicants to demonstrate active engagement in real estate transactions and complete specific educational courses. Furthermore, the bill mandates the Department of Consumer Protection to conduct a study on residential property wholesaling practices, with findings due by February 1, 2026. Overall, the bill aims to modernize the regulatory framework governing real estate transactions in Connecticut, enhancing clarity and efficiency while ensuring that real estate professionals maintain high standards of competency.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 20-319, 20-311, 20-312a, 20-314, 20-324l, 20-325l, 20-327b, 20-329a, 20-526, 31-222, 47-100
INS Joint Favorable Substitute: 20-319, 20-311, 20-312a, 20-314, 20-324l, 20-325l, 20-327b, 20-329a, 20-526, 31-222, 47-100
File No. 466: 20-319, 20-311, 20-312a, 20-314, 20-324l, 20-325l, 20-327b, 20-329a, 20-526, 31-222, 47-100