Senate Bill No. 1555 seeks to combat concentrated poverty in specific census tracts within the state by instituting a comprehensive ten-year plan. The bill repeals Section 32-7z of the general statutes and replaces it with new provisions that recognize concentrated poverty as a significant issue impacting both impoverished and non-impoverished residents. It establishes the Office of Neighborhood Investment and Community Engagement within the Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) to oversee the plan's implementation, monitor progress, and facilitate stakeholder communication. The bill also introduces a pilot program for municipalities and community development corporations to apply for participation in addressing concentrated poverty, with a goal of reducing the percentage of households living below the federal poverty level to 20% or lower.

Additionally, the bill mandates collaboration with various state departments and agencies, requiring the DECD commissioner to report on the plan's progress to the General Assembly by specific deadlines, including a report by September 1, 2025, and a final plan by January 1, 2026. It eliminates a previously established seven-member working group that was intended to create best practices for the plan, as it never convened. The bill also introduces a right of action for certified community development corporations against state or municipal officials who fail to fulfill their responsibilities under the plan, starting July 1, 2027. This provision aims to ensure accountability and effective execution of the program, emphasizing measurable steps and educational benchmarks to improve outcomes in the targeted areas.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 32-7z
FIN Joint Favorable: 32-7z
File No. 881: 32-7z