The bill, Substitute House Bill No. 6914, amends the Harbor Management Act by requiring municipal and state officials to consider written recommendations from harbor management commissions when making regulatory decisions or sponsoring development within the commission's jurisdiction. These recommendations must arise from content already included in an approved and adopted harbor management plan. The bill emphasizes that once a harbor management plan is adopted, its recommendations are binding unless an official can demonstrate a valid reason for taking a different action.

Additionally, the bill repeals subsection (b) of section 22a-113n and replaces it with new provisions that outline the responsibilities of the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection and the director of health regarding development areas, channels, boat basins, and vessel operations. The new language clarifies that any recommendations made by the commission in a written document, such as a comment letter, should be considered by officials when making decisions, thereby enhancing the influence of harbor management commissions in local governance. The bill is effective upon passage and is not expected to have any fiscal impact on the state or municipalities.

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Raised Bill: