General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5222 aims to enhance consumer protection in Connecticut by implementing recommendations from the Department of Consumer Protection. The bill introduces significant changes, including the repeal of certain sections of the general statutes and the enhancement of the Department's powers, allowing it to issue subpoenas and compel testimony while providing immunity from personal liability for actions taken in good faith. It also clarifies the board's authority to conduct hearings and seek judicial enforcement for violations. Additionally, the bill modifies licensing requirements for professional engineers and land surveyors, increasing initial application fees and extending license renewal periods from one year to two years.
Further amendments include new regulations for real estate license applicants, expanded definitions for plumbing work, and updated requirements for contractors and interior designers. The bill mandates that donation bins for clothing must have prior written consent from property owners and display specific information about the charitable purpose. It also introduces consumer protections for funeral service contracts, allowing for cancellation within three days of signing and requiring clear communication of cancellation rights. Lastly, the bill updates judicial district terminology and repeals outdated regulations, aiming to modernize and clarify consumer protection laws across various sectors.
Statutes affected: Raised Bill: 20-280b, 20-295b, 20-305, 20-306, 20-337, 20-377s, 42-207