CT HB05494

Establishes requirements for ballot designations on municipal charter and home rule ordinance amendments, effective July 1, 2024, using simple, precise, clear, unambiguous and plain language that neither advocates for nor against the amendments.

Requires amendments addressing multiple distinct subjects to be submitted as separate ballot designations, with only related changes to a single subject permitted on one designation.

Allows electors (at least 1% of registered voters) to petition the municipal clerk and Secretary of State within 30 days of ballot preparation to contest designations as violating the language and clarity requirements.

Grants the Secretary of the State authority to review, approve, or reject ballot designations, with municipalities able to appeal rejections to superior court where the court may alter designations or modify ballot dates.

Permits municipalities to provide concise summaries of arguments for and against proposed charter and home rule ordinance amendments, which must comply with specified procedures and be approved by the legislative body.