Order for limitation on amount of rent. Suspension of rent payments. Cease and desist orders for retaliatory actions

(a) If a commission determines, after a hearing, that the rental charge or proposed increase in the rental charge for any housing accommodation is so excessive, based on the standards and criteria set forth in section 7-148c, as to be harsh and unconscionable, it may order that the rent be limited to such an amount as it determines to be fair and equitable. If a commission determines, after a hearing, that the housing accommodation in question fails to comply with any municipal ordinance or state statute or regulation relating to health and safety, it may order the suspension of further payment of rent by the tenant until such time as the landlord makes the necessary changes, repairs or installations so as to bring such housing accommodation into compliance with such ordinance, statute or regulation. The rent during said period shall be paid to the commission to be held in escrow subject to ordinances or provisions adopted by the town, city or borough. (b) If the commission determines, after a hearing, that a landlord has retaliated in any manner against a tenant because the tenant has complained to the commission, the commission may order the landlord to cease and desist from such conduct.