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HB 5306

AN ACT CONCERNING SENTENCE REDUCTION OR RELIEF FOR SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, SEXUAL ASSAULT, STALKING OR HUMAN TRAFFICKING.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Raghib Allie-Brennan and 33 co-sponsors

Connecticut bill allows survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or trafficking to petition for sentence reduction based on their victimization during crime commission.

FILE NO. 598
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Bill Summary · HB 5306

Legislative bill overview

HB 5306 would allow individuals convicted of crimes to petition for sentence reduction or relief if they committed those crimes while being victimized by domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking. The bill creates a legal mechanism for courts to consider a survivor's victimization as grounds for sentence modification, acknowledging the coercive circumstances under which some crimes are committed.

Why is this important

This bill addresses a recognized gap in criminal justice: survivors of abuse are sometimes coerced or compelled to commit crimes (theft, assault, drug offenses) as a direct result of their victimization. Sentence relief for trauma survivors can reduce recidivism, align sentences with culpability, and prevent revictimization through incarceration. It recognizes the distinction between independent criminal choice and crime committed under duress or coercion from an abuser.

Potential points of contention

  • Victim safety concerns: Critics may worry that reducing sentences for crimes committed against third parties could undermine justice for those victims, even if the perpetrator was themselves victimized
  • Definitional boundaries: Determining what level of victimization qualifies and preventing the provision from being used too broadly to reduce sentences unrelated to the abuse
  • Implementation burden: Courts would need clear standards and training to evaluate claims, potentially creating litigation delays and inconsistent outcomes across judges

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

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