HB 5542 Connecticut House · 2026 Regular Session

AN ACT CONCERNING CRIMINAL AND SIMPLE TRESPASS ON SCHOOL GROUNDS OR IN SCHOOL BUILDINGS.

This bill updates Connecticut's trespass laws to specifically include school grounds, parking lots, athletic fields, and school buildings as protected areas. It creates three levels of criminal trespass offenses for unauthorized entry onto school property, ranging from first-degree criminal trespass for those who ignore direct orders to leave to third-degree for entering posted or fenced school areas. Additionally, it establishes simple trespass as a minor infraction for unauthorized entry onto school premises without intent to harm property. The changes apply to all individuals who enter or remain on school property without permission and take effect on October 1, 2026.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Mar 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Mar 11, 2026 Last action Apr 14, 2026
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Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
9
Key actions
1
Committee
2
Mar 30, 2026
Lower · Passed
Joint Favorable
lower
Mar 11, 2026
Committee
REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Judiciary
lower
0 primary · 0 co-sponsors

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