Substitute House Bill No. 5004, also known as Public Act No. 25-125, sets forth ambitious greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets for Connecticut, mandating a 45% reduction from 2001 levels by 2030, a 65% reduction from 2001 levels by 2040, and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The bill requires state agencies to utilize only zero-carbon electricity by 2030 and allows for the consideration of the social cost of greenhouse gas emissions in project evaluations. It also introduces new reporting requirements, including annual emissions source reports and a triennial report from the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection on emissions reduction strategies. The bill repeals existing statutes related to greenhouse gas emissions and replaces them with updated provisions that emphasize sustainable practices and align state efforts with federal regulations.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Connecticut Clean Economy Council to advise on climate mitigation and clean energy strategies, particularly for vulnerable communities. It mandates the development of a structured career ladder for green jobs and a workforce training plan to meet emissions goals. The bill also includes provisions for energy efficiency retrofitting, the establishment of a protected open space and watershed land acquisition grant program, and the requirement for permanent conservation easements on grant-funded properties. Notably, it repeals certain definitions related to environmental justice communities and introduces new language to enhance public access and environmental conservation efforts. Overall, the bill aims to bolster Connecticut's climate initiatives and promote sustainable economic development.

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