New Laws Taking Effect on Oct. 1
As we enter autumn, there are also new laws that will go into effect on Oct. 1 that could have an impact on you, your business, or our community. I have highlighted some of the major changes and new laws below.
A full list of those laws that take effect on Oct. 1, along with summaries, can be accessed here.
A summary of some of the major changes include:
Account Closure Notices – A new law requires Connecticut-chartered banks and credit unions to tell account holders why their deposit accounts (e.g., personal checking or savings accounts) are being closed. Among several exemptions, this requirement does not apply if the account closure is a result of a law enforcement investigation.
Protections for Domestic Violence Victims – This session, the legislature passed a law that addresses online dating, domestic violence protections, and employment discrimination. Among other things, the act requires operators of online dating services in the state to provide Connecticut users safety awareness notifications (e.g., whether the operator conducts criminal background screenings) before allowing them to use their online dating platforms. And it authorizes the consumer protection commissioner to penalize violators up to $25,000 per violation.
Various Revisions to Transportation Statute – Makes multiple changes to transportation laws in the state, including those concerning crosswalks, changes to speed limits during weather events or emergencies and the regulation of external speakers attached to motor vehicles.
Requiring the Online Posting of Certain State Contracts Online – This act requires the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) to post on its website any goods or services contract or extension entered into without competitive bidding or competitive negotiation, including through emergency procurement authority. In doing so, it expands upon provisions in prior law that required the department to post on its website information about specified contracts and purchases meeting these criteria. It allows DAS, when posting these contracts, to redact information that is not subject to disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.