Substitute House Bill No. 7209 seeks to enhance legal protections in housing matters in Connecticut, particularly regarding the use of pricing algorithms and sensitive competitor data in determining rental prices. The bill empowers the Attorney General to investigate and take action against practices that infringe on individuals' rights, allowing for civil penalties and mandating the posting of complaint filing information with the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities. It also clarifies that the Attorney General cannot initiate actions against state agencies or employees in their official capacities. Additionally, the bill modifies the burden of proof in appeals related to affordable housing applications, requiring commissions to demonstrate that their decisions are backed by sufficient evidence and necessary to protect substantial public interests.

Moreover, the bill prohibits the use of algorithmic devices for setting rental rates or occupancy levels, categorizing such practices as unlawful under the Connecticut Antitrust Act, with potential civil penalties of up to $100,000 for individuals and $1 million for businesses. It also allows courts to award reasonable attorney's fees to individuals appealing zoning or planning decisions made in bad faith or to cause undue delay. The bill clarifies the definition of "nonpublic competitor data" and exempts certain reports and products from this prohibition. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen anti-discrimination measures in housing and regulate the use of technology in rental pricing, with an effective date set for October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 3-129g
JUD Joint Favorable Substitute: 3-129g
File No. 753: 3-129g