Substitute House Bill No. 7209 aims to strengthen legal protections in housing matters by enhancing the authority of the Attorney General (AG) to investigate and take action against practices that infringe on individuals' rights, particularly in relation to housing discrimination. The bill allows the AG to seek judicial relief, including injunctive relief and civil penalties ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 for violations of housing laws. It also introduces provisions for awarding reasonable attorney's fees to individuals appealing decisions made by zoning or planning entities regarding affordable housing applications, contingent upon a court finding that such decisions were made in bad faith or intended to cause undue delay.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing statutes concerning the burden of proof in appeals related to affordable housing decisions, shifting the responsibility to the commission to justify its decisions. It explicitly prohibits the use of algorithmic devices to set rental rates or occupancy levels for residential units, categorizing these practices as unlawful under the Connecticut Antitrust Act. Violators could face significant civil penalties, with individuals liable for up to $100,000 and businesses for up to $1 million. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2025.

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