The proposed General Assembly Raised Bill No. 296 seeks to amend the Connecticut Unfair Trade Practices Act by enhancing the enforcement powers of the Commissioner of Consumer Protection. Key provisions include the ability for the Commissioner to issue subpoenas, conduct investigations, and require testimony and documentary material from individuals suspected of violating the Act. The bill also introduces a new provision allowing the Commissioner to serve investigative demands to individuals suspected of unlawful practices, with the ability to keep responses confidential during the investigation. Additionally, the maximum civil penalty for violations is increased from ten thousand dollars to twenty-five thousand dollars per consumer. The legislation also outlines the process for hearings related to alleged violations, ensuring proper notice and the opportunity for individuals to respond. Moreover, the bill modifies existing laws regarding record retention and online gaming. It allows the Commissioner to withhold records for a maximum of eighteen months after a complaint is filed and instead permits withholding only until the investigation is closed. The bill also Section 12-863a to prohibit underage participation in online casino gaming and sports wagering, establishing penalties for violations as a class C misdemeanor. Additionally, it updates the cheating statute in Section 53a-127d to include provisions related to sports wagering, expanding the definition of cheating and classifying violations as a class D felony or class B misdemeanor. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen consumer protection, ensure compliance with gaming regulations, and uphold the integrity of sports wagering.

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