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HB 5189

AN ACT AUTHORIZING BONDS OF THE STATE FOR THE HOLY TRINITY GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH IN THE CITY OF NORWICH.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Cathy Osten and 2 co-sponsors

Connecticut bill authorizes state bonds to fund Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church capital projects in Norwich, raising church-state separation and fiscal equity concerns.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Finance, Revenue and Bonding
#clergy #norwich #statebondsforcommunitydevelopment
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Bill Summary · HB 5189

Legislative bill overview

HB 5189 authorizes Connecticut to issue state bonds to fund construction or renovation projects for the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church located in Norwich. The bill allows the state to provide financial support for the church's capital improvements through bonded debt.

Why is this important

This represents a direct state subsidy to a religious institution, raising questions about the appropriate use of public funds and the separation of church and state. The decision sets a precedent for whether Connecticut will use taxpayer money to support specific religious organizations' building projects.

Potential points of contention

  • Church-state separation concerns: Using state bonds (public funds backed by taxpayers) to support a specific religious institution may violate constitutional principles regarding government entanglement with religion
  • Equity and precedent issues: If approved, other religious organizations may seek similar bond authorization, creating questions about fair treatment across faiths and denominations
  • Fiscal priority questions: Whether capital improvements for a private religious institution should compete with public infrastructure needs during bond allocation discussions
  • Lack of clear public benefit: Unlike bonds for public facilities (schools, hospitals, roads), religious buildings primarily serve congregation members rather than the general public

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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