Laws Effective October First
Several new laws will be taking effect Friday, October 1st. I have highlighted a handful of the changes to public policy below and I encourage you to review all the newly effective laws as they may have a direct impact on you, your family, or business.
You can access a complete list of them by clicking here.
October’s New Laws…
AN ACT CONCERNING THE DEFINITION OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
This new law was enacted to expand the definition of domestic violence to include coercive behavior. Additionally, the law makes changes to existing statutes so that victims of heinous acts of domestic violence will have greater protections and resources needed for recovery.
AN ACT CONCERNING PEDESTRIAN SAFETY
This new law was enacted to protect the safety of Connecticut’s pedestrians. The law states that if a pedestrian indicates their intention to cross a road in a cross walk, then motorists must stop and allow that individual the right-of-way to safely cross. It also strengthens existing laws to provide a safe environment for those walking on foot or traveling on a bicycle.
AN ACT CONCERNING AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES EFFECTS ON LAKES AND RELATED FUNDING
This new law was enacted to protect our state’s waterways. The Dept. of Energy and Environmental Protection will be required to evaluate aquatic invasive species and report its resource allocations used to remove such species. This will make a profound impact on our local bodies of water, such as Candlewood Lake.
AN ACT REQUIRING BACKGROUND CHECKS FOR CERTAIN EMPLOYEES OF YOUTH CAMPS AND YOUTH SPORTS COACHES
This new law was enacted to protect our children. All applicants over the age of 18 who are interested in camp counseling or coaching sports will need to apply for and pass a background check. This added layer of protection will help keep kids safe.