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HB 5219

AN ACT CONCERNING THE ORDER OF GUBERNATORIAL SUCCESSION UNDER CERTAIN PERMANENT AND TEMPORARY CIRCUMSTANCES.

2026 Regular Session

HB 5219 restructures Connecticut's rules for replacing or temporarily replacing the governor during vacancies or incapacity to clarify succession procedures and governmental continuity.

FILE NO. 182
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Bill Summary · HB 5219

Legislative bill overview

HB 5219 modifies Connecticut's gubernatorial succession procedures for both permanent vacancies (such as death or resignation) and temporary incapacities (such as illness or extended absence). The bill establishes clearer protocols and potentially reorganizes the line of succession to ensure continuity of executive leadership under various contingencies.

Why is this important

Gubernatorial succession rules directly affect governmental stability during crises or unexpected leadership changes. Clear procedures prevent constitutional ambiguity, reduce legal disputes, and ensure the state maintains functioning executive leadership. This is particularly relevant given recent national focus on succession planning across state governments.

Potential points of contention

  • Who determines incapacity: Legislation must define what qualifies as temporary incapacity and which officials or bodies decide when a governor cannot perform duties, raising concerns about checks and balances
  • Line of succession changes: Any reordering of succession (lieutenant governor, secretary of state, etc.) could alter power distribution and may face opposition from affected offices or parties
  • Duration and restoration: Rules for how long temporary succession lasts and procedures for a governor to resume power may create disputes between the acting and returning governor

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

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