Connecticut will see the implementation of over six dozen new laws starting July 1, addressing various aspects of life in the state, including housing growth, absentee ballot rules, and the availability of Artificial Intelligence (AI) resources.
Housing and Development
A significant portion of a wide-ranging housing bill signed into law by Governor Ned Lamont last year will go into effect. This includes the requirement for towns to allow the development of mixed-use or “transit community middle housing” on land zoned for mixed-use or commercial use. Additionally, towns can no longer reject proposed housing developments with up to 16 units due to a lack of off-street parking unless there is a documented adverse impact on public health.
Absentee Ballots and Voting
No-excuse absentee ballots will now be available for all elections starting July 1. Any voter, including those who are not yet 18 but will be by the day of an election, can request an automatic application for an absentee ballot. Furthermore, a person can only wear a mask or other covering within 250 feet of a polling place if doing so is “reasonable given the weather conditions” and the person is willing to remove it at request, or if it is for medical or religious purposes.
AI and Education
The Board of Regents for Higher Education must establish a “Connecticut AI Academy” through Charter Oak State College by December 31. The academy will offer online AI courses, promote digital literacy, prepare students for AI-related careers, offer community resources, and help develop workforce training programs.
Other Initiatives
Public school students in grades 9-12 are eligible for free bus passes through their local and regional boards of education starting July 1. The Department of Veterans Affairs is also launching a similar program for all veterans in the state. Moreover, the Commissioner of Correction can arrange breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment services for incarcerated women at any licensed healthcare institution that is closer to the correctional facility.
Original reporting: The Connecticut Mirror — read the source article.
