Senate Bill No. 272 seeks to amend the regulations governing municipal enforcement of blight conditions by repealing and replacing specific language in section 7-148 of the general statutes. The bill allows municipalities to take immediate enforcement action against properties deemed blighted after a second violation within a twelve-month period, rather than the previous threshold of a third violation. This enforcement can occur without prior notice or an opportunity for the property owner to remediate the issue. The definition of a second violation includes instances where the conditions leading to the initial violation reoccur or if 120 days pass without resolution. Additionally, the bill establishes a duty for property owners to maintain their properties and sets standards for determining neglect.

Furthermore, the legislation introduces civil penalties for blight violations that vary based on the number of dwelling units and occupancy status of the property. For example, properties with six or fewer units may incur fines of up to $1,000 per day for repeat violations, while commercial properties face penalties based on their square footage. The bill also requires municipalities to implement a citation hearing procedure for enforcement. While the fiscal impact on the state is expected to be minimal, municipalities may incur increased costs due to heightened enforcement actions, potentially leading to higher revenue from fines. The bill is scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 7-148
PD Joint Favorable: 7-148
File No. 152: 7-148