Substitute House Bill No. 5004, also known as Public Act No. 25-125, sets forth comprehensive greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets for Connecticut, mandating a 45% reduction from 2001 levels by 2030, a 70% reduction from 2016 levels by 2040, and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The bill requires state agencies to use only zero-carbon electricity by 2030 and allows for the consideration of the social cost of greenhouse gas emissions in project evaluations. It also modifies existing emissions reduction targets, increasing the 2040 goal to at least 65% below 2001 levels and establishing an economy-wide net-zero target by 2050, with direct and indirect emissions needing to be at least 80% below 2001 levels. The Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection is tasked with publishing annual greenhouse gas emissions inventories starting in 2026 and producing a comprehensive report on emissions strategies every three years.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Connecticut Clean Economy Council to advise on climate mitigation and clean energy strategies, particularly for vulnerable communities, and mandates the development of a structured career ladder for green jobs. It includes provisions for energy efficiency retrofitting, the establishment of a protected open space and watershed land acquisition grant program, and the requirement for conservation easements on land purchased with grant funds. The bill also emphasizes the importance of public access to these lands for recreational purposes while allowing for exceptions to protect wildlife and agricultural activities. Furthermore, it mandates a study on renter participation in state energy efficiency programs to identify barriers and enhance access.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill: 31-3rr, 7-131d
ENV Joint Favorable Substitute: 31-3rr, 7-131d
File No. 449: 31-3rr, 7-131d
File No. 821: 31-3rr, 7-131d
Public Act No. 25-125: 31-3rr, 7-131d