The proposed General Assembly Committee Bill No. 6040 seeks to enhance the preservation and representation of Connecticut's history by establishing a State Commission on Capitol Preservation and Restoration and a new State Historical Commission. The bill modifies Section 4b-60 of the general statutes, repealing the existing language and replacing it with provisions that require the Capitol Preservation Commission to develop a process for identifying and commissioning additional statues that reflect the state's diversity and accomplishments. The commission will also create a master plan for the Capitol's preservation and restoration, meet quarterly, and report its activities to the Joint Committee on Legislative Management. Additionally, the commission will have the authority to accept gifts and grants and will be tasked with overseeing capital expenditure programs related to new statues.

The bill also establishes the State Historical Commission, which will operate as an independent body within the Legislative Department, composed of members appointed by various legislative leaders. These members, who must be scholars from accredited institutions in Connecticut, will focus on memorialization and commemoration related to state and U.S. history. The commission will be responsible for developing plans for exterior placards and signage around the State Capitol, issuing reports and recommendations to government branches, and submitting an annual report to the Governor and the relevant joint standing committee of the General Assembly starting February 1, 2026. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes new legal language to amend existing statutes and introduce new sections for its implementation.

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