Senate Bill No. 192, known as Public Act No. 24-94, is an act concerning dam safety. The bill amends Section 22a-401 of the general statutes by repealing the existing language and substituting it with new provisions. The act mandates that all dams, dikes, reservoirs, and similar structures, which could pose a danger to life or property if compromised, fall under the jurisdiction of this chapter. It introduces a new legal requirement that no person shall maintain a dam in a condition that might endanger life or property. The Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection is tasked with formulating necessary rules and regulations and is granted the authority to enter private property for inspections and data gathering. The bill also specifies that the provisions do not apply to dams that only present a hazard to the property of the dam owner, as reasonably demonstrated to the commissioner.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 22a-402 by adding subsections (h) and (i), which provide the commissioner with the power to issue orders without prior hearing if a dam poses an imminent and substantial threat to public safety or the environment. The commissioner can take immediate action to mitigate such threats, including stabilizing or repairing the dam. The dam owner is liable for all costs incurred by the commissioner in addressing the threat and may face damages equal to twice the costs if the dam is not compliant with the chapter's requirements. Section 22a-407 is also amended to allow the commissioner to act immediately to address conditions caused by a dam that could result in imminent and substantial damage to public safety or the environment, especially during a state of emergency declared by the Governor. The act was approved on June 4, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
ENV Joint Favorable:
File No. 155:
JUD Joint Favorable:
Public Act No. 24-94: