New Laws Starting October 1

September 23, 2021

Beginning October 1, several new laws will go into effect in Connecticut. These laws are a result of our efforts this past session as we worked tirelessly to push for change that would benefit all Connecticut residents.

Below is a partial list:

 

 

Pedestrian Safety 

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

"Bottle Bill"

  • PA 21-58 -Starting October 1, 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.

Marijuana and Smoking Restrictions

  • On October 1, a portion of Public Act No. 21-1 will go into effect.
  • Medical marijuana patients who are 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 the any door, window, or vent intake of any building open to the public.

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.

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.

Click here for the complete list.