Substitute Senate Bill No. 1529, also known as Public Act No. 25-175, introduces several amendments to existing laws concerning municipal referenda, education, and property tax exemptions. It allows voters in municipalities with populations of 16,000 or fewer to petition for a town referendum to reverse permit approvals or denials by the commissioner, effective September 30, 2025. The bill also modifies the rate increases for contracted services with the Department of Developmental Services, specifying a three and three-tenths percent increase, plus an additional three percent for residential service providers, effective July 1, 2027, and January 1, 2028. Additionally, it updates provisions related to the Commissioner of Education's network of schools, limiting the selection of new schools after July 1, 2025, while allowing existing schools to extend their participation.

Furthermore, the bill addresses property tax exemptions, allowing individuals in specific towns to retroactively file for exemptions if they missed the original deadline, provided they submit documentation within thirty days of the bill's effective date and pay a late fee. It mandates reimbursement for any overpaid taxes, interest, or penalties. The bill also permits towns like Newington and Trumbull to defer property revaluations scheduled for October 1, 2025, until the following year, contingent on legislative approval. The effective date for most provisions is July 1, 2025, while the deferral provisions take effect upon passage. The bill repeals certain sections of Public Act 25-93 to streamline the legislative framework surrounding property tax exemptions and revaluations.

Statutes affected:
Public Act No. 25-175: 10-248a