General Assembly Raised Bill No. 144 seeks to improve local representation and engagement in the Connecticut Siting Council by modifying its composition and procedures. The bill introduces a new nonvoting member from the municipality where a proposed facility is to be located, appointed by the chief elected official of that municipality. In instances where the facility spans multiple municipalities, an elector will be appointed by the regional council of governments. This change is designed to ensure that local perspectives are included in the decision-making process. The bill also maintains the requirement for public members to have no substantial financial interests in relevant industries and allows for the appointment of substitute members in cases of conflicts of interest or illness.

Additionally, the bill enhances the notification process for facility applications by requiring proof of service to various stakeholders, including municipalities and state departments, and mandates public notice through specific publication standards. It repeals and replaces subsection (b) of section 16-50l, adjusting the reference from (i) to (j) and detailing the requirements for public notice, including format and timing for notifications to electric distribution customers. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, and aims to ensure that local communities are well-informed and represented in the siting of new facilities.