May 27, 2009

REP. GODFREY APPLAUDS SENATE PASSAGE
OF MAJOR PROBATE COURT BILL
Governor expected to sign legislation into law

State Representative Bob Godfrey (D-Danbury) today hailed the Senate passage of legislation he co-authored that will bring considerable reform to probate courts within Connecticut.

The bill, which was approved in the House of Representatives last week, reduces the current 117 probate courts down to at least 50 and requires the creation of a 12-member bipartisan commission that will develop a plan of consolidation for the courts.

Godfrey led the negotiations on the bill, which gained support from Governor Rell and the state's probate court system.

"Senate passage of this bill today is a great victory and represents an impressive example of all three branches of government working together," Godfrey said. "The probate courts, some of which date back to the Colonial era, will now move forward towards much needed modernization."

He continued, "This consolidation will allow the probate courts to be more efficient, accessible, and help it stay financially afloat. I want to thank my colleagues for understanding the reasons why this reform is vitally important."

The legislation, HB 6385, will next move to the desk of Governor Rell for her approval. It is anticipated that she will sign it.