Senate Clerk’s Office – Hartford, CT

Senate Clerk’s Office

Legislative Administration of the State Senate

The Senate Clerk’s Office is a constitutionally mandated office located within the Connecticut State Capitol at 210 Capitol Avenue. Serving as the administrative backbone of the Connecticut State Senate, the office is responsible for the orderly conduct of legislative business. The Senate Clerk is an officer of the General Assembly, elected by the Senate membership to oversee the processing of all legislation that comes before the chamber. This office acts as the official custodian of Senate records, ensuring that the legislative history of the state is accurately documented and preserved. The staff works tirelessly during the legislative session to prepare the daily Calendar, which lists bills ready for debate, and the Senate Journal, which records the official actions and votes taken by the body. The office is a non-partisan entity in its administrative capacity, serving all 36 Senators regardless of political affiliation, although it works closely with leadership to facilitate the flow of business.

Legislative Services and Public Access

The Senate Clerk’s Office provides essential services to legislators, staff, and the public.

• Bill Tracking: The office tracks the progress of every bill introduced in the Senate, from its initial filing to its final passage or rejection. They ensure that bills are properly certified and transmitted to the House of Representatives or the Governor.
• Official Publications: The Clerk’s staff is responsible for publishing the Senate Calendar, the Senate Journal, and the List of Bills, which are vital tools for anyone following the legislative process.
• Information Source: The office serves as a primary information hub for inquiries regarding the status of legislation. While they cannot offer legal advice, they can assist the public in locating specific bills and understanding the current stage of the legislative process.
• Chamber Operations: During session, the Clerk and Assistant Clerk are present at the dais in the Senate Chamber, reading bills, calling the roll, and recording votes.

Visiting the Capitol

The Senate Clerk’s Office is located in Room 305 of the historic State Capitol building. The Capitol is open to the public, but all visitors must pass through security screening at the Legislative Office Building (LOB) or the Capitol’s west entrance. The complex is fully accessible, with tunnels connecting the LOB and the Capitol. Public parking is available in the LOB garage, and the site is a major hub for public transportation.