May 3, 2010

REP. MUSHINSKY LAUDS PASSAGE OF TENANTS LEGISLATION

State Representative Mary Mushinsky today praised House passage of legislation that, if signed by the governor, will create a democratic process for the selection of a commissioner representing tenant's interests on local housing authorities. Senate Bill 320 passed the House of Representatives and now awaits the governor's signature.

"I am delighted to see this measure moving closer to becoming law," Mushinsky stated. "Wallingford tenants have indicated the need to have more tenant participation in the process and I am pleased to be able to make it happen."

The bill allows recognized tenant organizations to conduct elections by tenants residing within units owned or managed by the housing authority to choose tenant commissioners to serve on the housing authority.

In the case where no such organization exists, the bill allows an election if 10 percent of the tenants petition the authority. Finally, the bill allows the authority to select an appointee in the absence of a tenant organization or petition taking into account tenant suggestions.

Mary Mushinsky represents Wallingford's 85th Assembly District. She is House Chair of the Program Review and Investigation Committee and a member of the Select Committee on Children; the Environment; and the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committees.