Several new state laws went into effect on Jan. 1 in Connecticut that can severely impact your life in 2023. From new truck taxes and criminal justice laws to legalizing cannabis, here are the most significant laws highlighted by CT Insider that residents need to know going into the new year.
2023 Connecticut Laws
Bottle Bill Expansion
Residents can get a 5-cent redemption on many new recyclable products according to the recently updated “Bottle Bill.” Previously designated only for specific bottles and cans, eligible products will now include hard seltzers, teas, ciders, energy drinks, coffee, and more.
Pesticide Ban
Connecticut golf courses will no longer be able to use the pesticide Chlorpyrifos to control foliage and greens. Civil penalties for using these dangerous chemicals could result in a fine up to $2,500!
Criminal Justice
In light of Connecticut's clean slate law effective Jan.1, nearly 280,000 residents will be eligible for clean criminal records. To be eligible, individuals must have maintained zero criminal convictions for seven to ten years (depending on their prior conviction), completed all prior sentencing, and meet other required criteria.
Cannabis
Connecticut residents previously convicted of cannabis possession could also have a chance at getting their records cleared! This new law stems from the previous 2021 law legalizing the adult use of recreational cannabis. Provisions of the law will include determining whether a license will be required to allow on-site or event use.
Truck Tax
Large commercial trucks will be subject to a new highway usage tax as of the first of the year. The new fees will go up to 17.5 cents for vehicles weighing at or more than 80,000 pounds or as low as 2.5 cents for vehicles weighing between 26,000 to 28,000. The state hopes to generate $90 million in revenue from the taxes to help improve road conditions.
Lead Poisoning
Connecticut officials will step up intervention efforts, including lead testing to reduce lead poisoning among children. The new law will also lower the blood lead level threshold that requires home inspections or parental notification to reduce the amount of lead exposure.
Health Insurance Coverage for Screenings
Diagnostic mammograms, MRIs, and ultrasounds will now be required under a new law to be covered by specific commercial health insurance policies. Routine ovarian cancer screenings will also be included.
Legislative Salary Increase
General Assembly annual base salaries are rising from $28,000 to $40,000. Other legislators are also expected to see a pay increase.
*Please note, this information is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute a lawyer/client relationship. For more in-depth information about each new Connecticut law, find the full legislation on the Connecticut General Assembly website.
Jacobs & Wallace Community Safety Advocates
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