Connecticut has expanded its rental assistance program and introduced new laws to address the ongoing housing affordability crisis. Despite the veto of a broad housing bill by Gov. Ned Lamont, new legislative measures are set to improve access to affordable housing and address corporate ownership of apartment buildings.
Read: Los Angeles Bans Landlords from Evicting Tenants Over Major Renovations
Boost to Rental Assistance
The state’s Rental Assistance Program (RAP) has seen a significant funding increase. An $18 million bill passed earlier this year will provide 275 vouchers for families with young children, 100 for people with intellectual disabilities, and 325 for elderly and disabled individuals, prioritizing those at risk of homelessness.
Also read: Maryland Attorneys Oppose Trump’s Admin Proposal to Roll Back Fair Housing Regulations
More Funding for RAP
The new state budget allocates additional funds for RAP, including a 9% increase for the fiscal year 2025-26 and a 30% increase for 2026-27. This aims to further support Connecticut’s most vulnerable residents.
Also read: Only 2 Homes Repaired Despite $1M Funding for Mobile Parks in California
Small but Significant Wins
While the state’s legislative session focused on smaller, technical changes to improve housing, these measures are still seen as steps toward addressing the affordability crisis. Chelsea Ross, executive director of the Partnership for Strong Communities, noted that the changes were not major legislative wins but were necessary improvements.
Also read: Zohran Mamdani’s Affordable Housing, Rent Freeze Proposal Faces Mixed Reactions in NYC Poll
New Task Force on Corporate Landlords
In response to rising concerns over corporate ownership of rental properties, a task force has been established to study this issue. Lawmakers are scrutinizing the increasing influence of corporate landlords in Connecticut’s rental market.
Also read: California Lawmakers Reject Two-Week Grace Period for Rent Payments
Support for Workforce Housing
A bonding bill also includes $150 million annually for the next two years to support the state’s Housing Trust Fund. This fund will primarily focus on developing workforce housing for middle-income families and individuals.
Also read: Small Businesses Stand to Benefit from Mamdani’s Rent Stabilization
Future Legislation in the Pipeline
Looking ahead, lawmakers are considering revisiting failed measures such as just cause eviction protections, which would limit landlords’ ability to evict tenants without cause. The push for this law is expected to be renewed next year.
Next up:
President Trump Proposes Drastic Cuts to Historic Preservation Fund
Florida Governor DeSantis Vetoes Study on Property Tax Reforms
Lawmakers Raise SALT Cap to Provide Relief to Homeowners in High-Tax States
New Hampshire Bill May Allow Landlords to End Leases Without Cause