Howard: New Laws Effective January 1

Several new laws take effect January 1st that could have an impact on you, your business, or our community. New laws in Connecticut typically take effect on July 1, October 1, or January 1. Below is a brief overview of some of the laws becoming effective on January 1. To view a complete list, you can click here.

• Housing Legislation (H.B. 8002): Passed as part of the November special session and addressed as an “emergency,” this sweeping housing bill makes several changes to zoning requirements, eliminates certain parking mandates, and shifts more decision-making authority to regional boards.
• Work Zone Driver Education Requirement (H.B. 7160): An increase in work zone traffic accidents has led to serious injuries and, tragically, fatalities. This new law requires drivers found at fault in work zone crashes, as well as new drivers seeking a license, to complete a work zone driving education course.
• Minimum Wage Increase: Connecticut’s minimum wage will increase from $16.35 to $16.94, continuing to rank among the highest in the nation. While this aims to support workers, it also places additional pressure on small businesses and service providers already facing rising operating costs.
• Increases the mandatory property tax exemption for farm machinery, other than motor vehicles, from $100,000 to $250,000 in assessed value. It also creates a 20% refundable business tax credit for farmers’ investments in eligible machinery, equipment, and buildings that may be applied against the corporation business or personal property income taxes; sets eligibility criteria; requires all or part of the credit to be repaid under certain conditions for five years after the property is acquired.