CT HB07326

Modifies Section 1-82(c) of the general statutes to change when the state must pay reasonable legal expenses for respondents in ethics code violations, effective October 1, 2019

State shall pay respondent's legal expenses only if the board determines a matter was brought without substantial justification, or if a court overturns the board's decision on appeal with such determination

Caps state payment of legal expenses at $25,000, regardless of actual reasonable legal costs incurred

Creates a civil cause of action for respondents against complainants who knowingly file unfounded ethics complaints, allowing recovery of double the damages caused plus court costs and reasonable attorneys' fees if the respondent prevails