Substitute House Bill No. 5013 seeks to enhance the regulation of invasive plants in Connecticut by expanding the list of prohibited species to include "star of Bethlehem" (Ornithogalum umbellatum) and introducing a phased timeline for adding additional invasive plants over the coming years. The bill repeals the previous version of Section 22a-381d and replaces it with updated language that reflects these changes. In total, ten new plants will be added to the list, with some being added immediately upon passage and others, such as Glossy buckthorn and Japanese barberry, scheduled for future dates.

Additionally, the bill prohibits municipalities from creating their own ordinances regarding the retail sale or purchase of invasive plants, which marks a significant shift from prior regulations. Individuals will be barred from importing, moving, selling, purchasing, transplanting, cultivating (with exceptions for research), or distributing these invasive plants and their reproductive parts. Violators will face fines of up to $100 per plant. The bill is expected to have no fiscal impact on the state or municipalities, as no violations are anticipated, and thus no revenue from fines is expected.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill:
ENV Joint Favorable:
File No. 137: