Connecticut Lawmakers Approve Local Lawsuit Protection Bill

A proposal to protect Connecticut cities and towns from lawsuits over injuries on lands owned by municipal authorities has passed a key legislative committee.

The Planning and Development Committee recently to approved a bill that would provide municipalities, metropolitan districts and similar entities with the liability protections given to private landowners who allow people to use their property for recreational activities.

The bill comes in the wake of a $2.9 million award last year to a bicyclist who was injured after hitting a gate on land owned by regional water authority. Her lawyer argues municipalities have a responsibility to keep public lands safe.