House Bill No. 7004, also known as Public Act No. 25-169, introduces significant changes to the process by which municipalities in Connecticut can challenge certain permit approvals. The bill allows two or more municipalities to jointly perform functions through interlocal agreements, replacing the previous language that limited such actions. Additionally, it modifies the criteria for municipalities eligible to petition for a town referendum regarding permit approvals. Specifically, the population threshold for municipalities has been increased from ten thousand to sixteen thousand, based on the most recent decennial census.

Under the new provisions, any elector or voter in qualifying municipalities can petition for a referendum to reverse a permit approval or denial made by the commissioner, provided it is based on specific considerations outlined in the law. An affirmative vote from the electorate will result in the reversal of the commissioner's decision, regardless of the original approval or denial. This change aims to enhance local governance and empower residents in smaller municipalities to have a direct say in permit-related decisions.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 7-148cc
PD Joint Favorable: 7-148cc
File No. 238: 7-148cc
Public Act No. 25-169: 7-148cc