Early Friday, House Republicans tried, but failed, to amend a bill about municipal mandate relief to delay both the state’s in-school suspension law and the raise the age law until 2012. The amendment also would have required a two-thirds vote in the House and Senate to pass any future local mandates.
“This is much-needed mandate relief for our towns,” said Rep. Vincent Candelora, R-North Branford, of the amendment.
The in-school suspension law was passed in 2007, but its implementation has been delayed for various reasons. It is set to go into effect July 1, and the law’s proponents say it will help keep students in school and out of trouble. Out-of-school suspensions would still remain an option for students who are a danger to themselves or others.
Some people, however, argue that the in-school suspension law is an unfunded mandate. There are concerns over costs, space and staffing at schools.
The raise the age law, passed in 2007, has also been delayed. Many say the initiative will also be costly for cities and towns. The law would force local police departments and the state’s court system to treat 16- and 17-year olds as juveniles.
Rep. Brendan Sharkey, D-Hamden, said the Republican amendment, which was voted on at 12:45 a.m., was not well timed or well crafted.
The amendment was tacked on to a bill that would make state marshals responsible for removing and storing possessions from evicted tenants. Cities and towns currently are responsible for clearing such possessions.
The bill also includes a provision that gives public agencies the option of posting the minutes of meetings on municipal web sites. Currently, the agencies are required by law to post such minutes.
The bill passed 103-33, and the House adjourned shortly before 1 a.m.