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 appointment process for ad hoc members and ensures that substitute members are appointed in cases of conflicts of interest due to residency or employment.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the requirements for applications to the council by repealing and replacing subsection (b) of section 16-50l, which now mandates that applicants provide proof of service of their application to various stakeholders, including municipalities and state departments, and notify the public through published summaries. The bill also updates the designation of state departments involved in the application process. It maintains the existing council composition of 13 members, ensuring that at least two public members have ecology experience and prohibiting any substantial financial interest or professional affiliation with utilities or facilities under the council's jurisdiction for three years prior to their appointment. Overall, these changes aim to improve local input and oversight in facility siting decisions while ensuring public awareness and engagement.

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