Authority. In the event of a statewide or regional health emergency, the governor may authorize the Public Health Commission to quarantine or isolate individuals reasonably suspected as being infected or exposed to a communicable disease. Any town, city, borough or district director of health can issue a quarantine or isolation order if necessary to protect public health.

Penalties. Anyone who violates the provisions of a quarantine order or obstructs those tasked with carrying it out shall be fined no more than $1,000 and/or imprisoned for no more than a year.

Conn. Gen. Stat. § 368a-19a-131b – 131d (2003)

Police Power and Limitations. Quarantine is only appropriate if it is the least restrictive option to protect public health and individuals in quarantine must be provided access to appropriate medical care and other basic needs. Individuals should be released from quarantine at such a point as they no longer pose a risk of contagion. Commissioners must write an order for quarantine. Those subject to quarantine can challenge this order in court. If an individual refuses to obey a quarantine order, they may be taken into custody and placed into quarantine.