Senate Bill No. 289 (SB289 File No. 305) proposes the creation of the Beneficial Arbor Retention Commission within the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to manage trees, shrubs, and vegetation in state parks and campgrounds. The commission will consist of 11 members with expertise in various fields related to arboriculture and environmental protection, and will be responsible for appointing a licensed arborist for each state park and campground. The bill outlines procedures for tree and shrub removal or pruning, including public notice and the possibility for hearings, except in cases where immediate removal is necessary due to public hazard. The commission is also tasked with submitting annual reports on tree and shrub retention efforts and funding needs. The bill includes insertions that clarify the commission's roles and processes, and it is set to take effect on July 1, 2024, with certain sections effective from October 1, 2024.

Additionally, the bill introduces a tree replanting demonstration project at Housatonic Meadows State Park and a new requirement for obtaining a Certificate of Limited Effects for Arbor Non-Retainment before using land clearing or grinding machinery for DOT maintenance or construction projects. This certificate process will consider factors such as greenhouse gas emissions goals, particulate matter effects, and invasive species spread. The bill repeals and replaces Section 23-4c of the general statutes, removing the previous requirement for a hazardous tree mitigation policy. The fiscal impact statement indicates that the bill will result in costs exceeding $1 million annually. The Environment Committee has given the bill a Joint Favorable vote.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 23-4c
ENV Joint Favorable: 23-4c
File No. 305: 23-4c