Substitute House Bill No. 5013, now Public Act No. 25-126, amends Section 22a-381d of the general statutes to expand the list of invasive plants that are prohibited from being imported, moved, sold, purchased, transplanted, cultivated, or distributed. The bill adds "star of Bethlehem" (Ornithogalum umbellatum) to the existing list of invasive plants, which includes a variety of species such as curly leaved pondweed, Japanese knotweed, and common buckthorn. Additionally, the bill specifies that certain invasive plants will be prohibited in phases, with specific dates set for enforcement, including glossy buckthorn and European privet by October 1, 2028, and Norway maple by October 1, 2030.

The bill also clarifies that no municipality can adopt ordinances regarding the retail sale or purchase of invasive plants, ensuring uniformity in the enforcement of these regulations. It maintains that individuals who violate these provisions may face fines of up to one hundred dollars per plant. Furthermore, the bill allows for exceptions for the movement of invasive plants for eradication, research, or educational purposes, as well as for cultivating invasive plants for research. Overall, this legislation aims to strengthen the control of invasive plant species to protect local ecosystems.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill:
ENV Joint Favorable:
File No. 137:
Public Act No. 25-126: