House Bill No. 6250 mandates that the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) appoint conservation officers as necessary for the effective enforcement of environmental laws. A significant change introduced by this bill is the requirement for the commissioner to receive and consider staffing recommendations from the Connecticut Conservation Officers Association at least once every two years. These recommendations must be based on a review of the conservation officers' duties, including any enhancements since the last recommendation. Additionally, the commissioner is required to submit these recommendations to the Environment Committee of the General Assembly.

The bill also allows the commissioner to appoint special conservation officers, including employees of DEEP and certain federal law enforcement officers, to assist in enforcement duties. Special conservation officers must complete appropriate training and are entitled to the same benefits as regular conservation officers. The bill emphasizes the importance of regular staffing assessments to ensure that the conservation officer force is adequately equipped to handle their responsibilities, thereby enhancing the state's environmental protection efforts. The act is effective upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill: 26-5
ENV Joint Favorable: 26-5
File No. 393: 26-5