Substitute Senate Bill No. 248, known as Public Act No. 24-60, establishes the Connecticut-Ireland Trade Commission as part of the Legislative Department, effective from passage. The commission is tasked with advancing bilateral trade and investment between Connecticut and Ireland, initiating joint policy actions, promoting business and academic exchanges, encouraging mutual economic support and investment in infrastructure, and addressing other issues as determined by the commission. It is authorized to obtain assistance and data from state agencies, accept gifts or donations for its duties, and perform acts necessary to carry out its responsibilities.
The commission will consist of members appointed by various legislative leaders, the Governor, and representatives from public higher education, chambers of commerce, and Irish-American communities in Connecticut. Members must have current or past involvement in organizations promoting Irish affairs or an interest in trade relations between Connecticut and Ireland. The commission will meet as necessary, and members serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses. A report on the commission's activities and recommendations is to be submitted annually to the Governor, the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, and the joint standing committee on commerce. The bill does not specify any insertions or deletions from current law.