Substitute House Bill No. 7085, also known as Public Act No. 25-54, aims to enhance the release-based cleanup program in Connecticut by establishing a working group co-chaired by the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection and the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development. This group will consist of various stakeholders, including environmental professionals and advocacy representatives, and will meet monthly until regulations are adopted, followed by quarterly meetings until February 1, 2030. The bill mandates the working group to assess factors related to releases, such as their types, concentrations, and associated risks, while also providing opportunities for public comment and submitting reports by specified deadlines in 2028 and 2030. Key insertions include new provisions for reporting requirements, remediation procedures, and standards based on risk, while deletions involve modifications to existing legal language regarding the categorization and reporting of releases.

The bill further amends existing environmental remediation laws by introducing specific timelines for certifying parties involved in investigations and remediations, requiring them to submit schedules and public notices, and allowing for extensions under certain circumstances. It also clarifies the responsibilities of certifying parties, including the need for licensed environmental professionals to verify investigations and remediation efforts. Additionally, the bill establishes new definitions related to environmental remediation and outlines the conditions under which audits may be initiated or suspended. Overall, the amendments aim to streamline the remediation process, enhance compliance with environmental standards, and ensure effective management of pollution releases while balancing public health and financial considerations for homeowners.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
CE Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 559:
File No. 984:
Public Act No. 25-54: