CT HB05516

Authorizes Commission on Human Rights legal counsel to intervene in civil rights suits as a matter of right and represent the state's interests without requiring party permission or court approval.

Allows Commission legal counsel to bring civil actions in Superior Court as an alternative to administrative hearings when the executive director determines it serves the public interest and both parties agree in writing.

Grants Superior Court authority to award the Commission fees, costs, and civil penalties up to $10,000 when discrimination is found in actions brought under this provision.

Adds discovery procedures allowing parties to inspect and copy relevant documents, with authority for presiding officers to impose sanctions including adverse inferences for noncompliance within 30 days.

Exempts Commission on Human Rights appropriations from gubernatorial reduction by requiring budget estimates and adjustments to be based solely on executive director submissions to the Office of Policy and Management.