Bill > SB01187

This bill modifies existing Connecticut law to protect owner-occupied properties from aggressive enforcement actions for unpaid sewer-related assessments, fees, and charges. Specifically, the bill prohibits municipalities, water authorities, and regional sewer authorities from foreclosing or assigning liens against owner-occupied real estate if the total principal amount of unpaid liens is less than three thousand dollars, unless at least three years have passed since the original lien was filed and remains unpaid. The key exception to this protection is if a tax or other municipal lien is being foreclosed simultaneously in the same legal action. The bill applies to various types of sewer-related financial obligations, including benefit assessments, connection charges, use charges, and other fees. These restrictions will take effect on October 1, 2025, and will apply to all actions filed on or after that date. The legislation aims to provide homeowners with a safeguard against potentially aggressive collection practices for relatively small amounts of outstanding sewer-related debt, giving property owners more time and flexibility to resolve minor financial obligations without risking immediate foreclosure.