General Assembly Raised Bill No. 7174 aims to strengthen the protection of riparian buffers and enhance environmental regulations in Connecticut. The bill introduces a new definition for "riparian buffer," extending at least one hundred feet from wetlands or watercourses, and expands the definition of "regulated activity" to include actions within these buffers. It establishes specific prohibitions on activities such as pesticide spraying and clear-cutting near public drinking water supply areas and cold water habitats. Additionally, the bill repeals and replaces several existing provisions, including Section 22a-41, to incorporate riparian buffers into the regulatory framework, requiring the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection to adopt regulations that collectively protect wetlands, watercourses, and riparian buffers.

The legislation also mandates municipalities to create regulations for activities affecting these natural resources and requires the establishment of inland wetlands agencies to oversee compliance. It emphasizes the need for public hearings before regulations take effect and allows for the delegation of authority for minor activities. Furthermore, the bill introduces a five percent surcharge on property or casualty insurance related to fossil fuel infrastructure, directing funds to a climate resilience account for initiatives aimed at flood risk awareness and climate-resilient infrastructure. Overall, Raised Bill No. 7174 seeks to enhance environmental protections while streamlining the regulatory process and addressing the financial implications of fossil fuel activities.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 26-136