The proposed General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5334 seeks to enhance the protection of riparian areas, wetlands, and watercourses in Connecticut by introducing new legal language and repealing existing provisions. The bill emphasizes the ecological importance of these natural resources and mandates the maintenance and improvement of riparian vegetated areas to filter pollutants and regulate temperature. It defines key terms such as "riparian area" and "natural vegetative cover," while clarifying what constitutes "regulated activity." Additionally, the bill modifies Section 22a-40 to allow certain agricultural activities that do not significantly harm the environment, and it sets new regulations for minimum residential lot sizes, prohibiting the removal of significant amounts of material from wetlands or watercourses.

Moreover, the bill amends the criteria for regulating activities affecting wetlands and watercourses, requiring consideration of impacts on public drinking water and resilience to severe weather. It establishes that no regulated activity can proceed without a valid certificate of approval, and permits can be suspended or revoked for non-compliance. The bill also introduces provisions for issuing permits with specific riparian buffer gradations and expands the definition of "material" to include vegetation. These changes aim to strengthen the regulatory framework for wetlands and watercourses, ensuring their protection and sustainability for future generations, with the new regulations set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 12-63g