Joshua Hall

These laws are the result of the hard work of my colleagues and I during the 2021 legislative session. We worked tirelessly to push for change that would benefit all Connecticut residents.

 

Below is a selection of some of the laws that will go into effect on Friday, October 1st:

BREASTFEEDING IN THE WORKPLACE

• Public Act No. 21-27 – Requires employers to provide a private room or location with an electrical outlet for women to express milk. Employers must also provide a refrigerated space to store the breastmilk.
• The law also protects breastfeeding employees from workplace discrimination.

MARIJUANA AND SMOKING RESTRICTIONS

• On October 1, a portion of Public Act No. 21-1 takes effect.
• Medical marijuana patients 18 years of age or older can start growing mature and immature plants at home.
• Smoking of any kind (tobacco, vaping, marijuana) will be prohibited within 25 feet of any door, window, or vent intake of buildings open to the public.

PEDESTRIAN SAFETY

• PA 21-28 clarifies the rules for pedestrians in crosswalks
  
  • Starting October 1st, drivers must slow down or stop if a pedestrian is in the crosswalk or indicated that they are going to cross.

ADDRESSING GENDER DISCRIMINATION

• PA 21-30 – Requires employers to offer equal pay for "comparable” work regardless of gender.
• Also requires employers to offer prospective applicants and employees with a scale of pay among those with similar tasks.

"BOTTLE BILL"

• PA 21-58 -Starting October 1st, certain retailers will be required to have at least two reverse vending machines on their premises.
• It also increases the handling fee paid by the distributors to redemption centers from 2.5 cents per beverage container to 3.5 cents.

Click here for the complete list of laws effective on October 1st.

Although these laws are a compilation of our accomplishments this year in the legislature, you always have the opportunity to make your voice heard. Stay active in the legislative process and remain in touch.