Raised Bill No. 1353 seeks to amend Connecticut's laws regarding public service companies and school building project approvals, with significant changes to the oversight of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. The bill repeals Section 16-11 and replaces it with new provisions that grant the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) the authority to regulate public service companies while explicitly prohibiting any programs that incentivize the installation of EV charging stations. Additionally, it modifies Section 10-291 by removing the requirement for new school construction projects to include level two EV charging stations, although it maintains other safety and environmental standards. The bill also repeals certain tax exemptions for EV charging stations on commercial and industrial properties, shifting the focus to refueling equipment for fuel cell electric vehicles.

Moreover, the bill introduces new eligibility criteria for customers replacing heating systems, requiring timely utility payments and compliance with federal Energy Star standards for replacement furnaces or boilers. It also outlines responsibilities for propane fuel tank purchases and inspections. The roles of various entities in renewable energy programs are modified, allowing PURA to select organizations like the Connecticut Green Bank to manage initiatives. The bill establishes a grant program for municipalities to acquire zero-emission school buses while removing references to EV charging infrastructure in this context. Overall, Raised Bill No. 1353 aims to enhance energy efficiency, promote renewable energy, and ensure community engagement in environmental decision-making, with changes set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 16-11, 16-244dd