Substitute Senate Bill No. 80 introduces stringent regulations for the incineration of hospital, medical, and infectious waste in Connecticut. It requires that any individual or facility incinerating such waste obtain a permit from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), which must comply with emission standards that are at least as strict as those set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as of January 1, 2025. The bill eliminates existing exemptions under federal regulations concerning emission standards for certain incinerators, ensuring that all facilities adhere to the same rigorous requirements.

Moreover, the bill mandates that within 180 days of its passage, all incineration facilities must implement continuous emissions monitoring for specific pollutants, including mercury and hydrochloric acid, and conduct continuous sampling for dioxins and furans. The data from these monitoring efforts must be publicly accessible on the facility's website, promoting transparency in waste management practices. The legislation aims to enhance environmental protection and public health by ensuring compliance with strict emission limits and providing the public with vital information regarding waste incineration practices. The Environment Committee has favorably reported the bill with a vote of 24 in favor and 6 against.