Substitute Senate Bill No. 1377 aims to modernize the legal framework surrounding the Connecticut Plane Coordinate System (CPCS) and enhance transportation regulations in the state. The bill repeals Section 13a-255 of the general statutes and introduces new definitions, including "NSRS" (National Spatial Reference System) and "Metadata," while replacing outdated terms like "Connecticut Coordinate System of 1927" and "Connecticut Coordinate System of 1983" with the unified term "Connecticut Plane Coordinate System." It establishes that the CPCS will be based on the NSRS and mandates that any land surveys or deeds referencing coordinates must include metadata about the observations used to establish these coordinates. Additionally, the bill increases the parking prohibition distance from intersections and marked crosswalks from 25 to 30 feet, with certain provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and others on January 1, 2026.

The bill also introduces significant amendments to transportation funding and operational aspects, allowing the Department of Transportation (DOT) to accept federal surface transportation funding and clarifying its authority to manage property acquisition for transportation projects. It expands the definition of "specific service sign" to include electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and streamlines funding distribution to transit districts based on federal formulas. Furthermore, the bill repeals certain requirements, such as the governor's obligation to engage in regional commuter discussions and the establishment of an autonomous vehicle testing pilot program, thereby simplifying the state's transportation initiatives. Overall, sSB1377 aims to align Connecticut's transportation laws with current standards and practices while enhancing clarity and compliance for all road users.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 47-34a, 14-299, 14-251, 7-273l
TRA Joint Favorable Substitute: 47-34a, 14-299, 14-251, 7-273l
File No. 541: 47-34a, 14-299, 14-251, 7-273l