General Assembly Raised Bill No. 1556 proposes the establishment of the Connecticut Appeals Board for Property Valuation, which will operate under the Office of Policy and Management. This board is designed to hear appeals from individuals who feel aggrieved by municipal assessors regarding property assessments, starting from the assessment year beginning October 1, 2025. The board will consist of five members appointed by the Governor, including a chairperson who is a member of the bar and has experience in property appraisal or assessment. The bill outlines the appointment process, terms of service, and conditions for removal of board members, as well as the procedures for handling appeals, which must be filed within two months of the municipal assessor's action.

The legislation also details the operational processes for the new board, including the initiation of proceedings, prehearing conferences, and the conduct of hearings. It allows the board to set and potentially waive filing fees based on good cause. Additionally, starting in 2027, the board is required to submit an annual report to legislative committees detailing the number of applications received and decisions issued. The bill provides a framework for individuals, including lessees responsible for property taxes, to appeal municipal assessor actions, with the superior court prioritizing these cases. If an assessment is reduced, municipalities must reimburse applicants for overpaid taxes, with interest, or provide a tax credit. The bill will take effect upon certification from the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management that the board is ready to accept applications.