Substitute Senate Bill No. 485 seeks to enhance the Address Confidentiality Program by introducing measures to better protect the personal information of participants, particularly concerning land records. Key provisions include the introduction of new definitions such as "shield" or "shielding," which refers to the removal of real property records from public inspection, and the inclusion of "financial institution" as defined in section 36a-2. The bill allows participants to request that their program address be used as their residential, work, or school address, thereby preventing the disclosure of their confidential address. It also prohibits agencies from requiring participants to disclose their confidential address unless absolutely necessary. Additionally, participants who acquire real property can request that their property records be shielded from public access, enhancing their privacy and security.

The bill amends section 54-240k of the general statutes, repealing existing subsection (d) and introducing new provisions that require the Secretary of the State to notify relevant agencies when a participant's certification is canceled. This includes notifying the registrar of vital statistics and the registrar of voters if the participant's marriage records or voter registry information were kept confidential. The bill establishes a process for participants to submit a confidentiality program notice to the town clerk to shield their real property records, with specific conditions for disclosure. It also mandates that SOTS respond to requests for disclosure of confidential property records within two business days, ensuring that the confidentiality of individuals, particularly those facing safety concerns, is maintained. The bill is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, with an estimated fiscal impact of approximately $79,550 in FY 27 and $106,000 annually starting in FY 28 due to staffing needs for the expanded program.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 4-38j
GAE Joint Favorable Substitute: 54-240, 54-240h
File No. 579: 54-240, 54-240h