Senate Bill No. 78 seeks to enhance local representation on the Connecticut Siting Council by modifying its composition and procedures, effective October 1, 2025. The bill repeals Section 16-50j of the general statutes and introduces new provisions that require the council to include one elector from the municipality where a proposed facility is to be located, appointed by the municipality's chief elected official. If the facility spans multiple municipalities, an elector will be appointed by the regional council of governments. These new members will serve as nonvoting participants and must adhere to confidentiality rules. Additionally, the bill clarifies the compensation structure for council members, ensuring that public and ad hoc members are compensated for their attendance at council-related activities, capped at $200 per day.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the application process for the council by repealing and replacing subsection (b) of section 16-50l, which now requires applicants to provide proof of service of their application to various stakeholders and to notify the public through published summaries. It also updates references within the statutes and introduces new regulations for public notice to ensure affected property owners and electric distribution customers are adequately informed about proposed high voltage electric transmission lines. The bill maintains the existing council composition while ensuring that public members have no substantial financial interest in any utility or facility under the council's jurisdiction for three years prior to their appointment, thereby promoting impartiality in decision-making regarding hazardous waste facility siting.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill: 16-50j
ENV Joint Favorable: 16-50j
File No. 95: 16-50j