Substitute Senate Bill No. 399 proposes significant amendments to the procedures governing the Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities (CHRO) in handling cases of alleged discriminatory practices. A key insertion in the bill allows for early legal intervention after a mandatory mediation conference but before a draft investigative report is issued, which can be requested by any party involved and must be determined by commission legal counsel within ninety days. The bill also modifies the appeal process for complainants aggrieved by final orders, enabling appeals to the Superior Court under specific conditions, and clarifies the criteria for reopening previously closed complaints, emphasizing the necessity of a material mistake of fact or law.

Additionally, the bill repeals certain outdated provisions and introduces new language that streamlines civil actions related to discriminatory practices. Notably, it eliminates the existing two-year statute of limitations for filing a civil action after a complaint is filed with CHRO, replacing it with a requirement to initiate actions within 90 days of receiving a release from the commission. The bill also expands CHRO's authority to reopen complaints on its own motion, even if the matter has been appealed to Superior Court, thereby enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the commission's processes. These changes are set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
JUD Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 565: