Substitute House Bill No. 5464, also known as Public Act No. 26-63, introduces a comprehensive set of regulations aimed at enhancing transportation infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and safety in Connecticut. Key provisions include a mandate that, starting July 1, 2026, at least 30% of all state-purchased or leased buses must be zero-emission, alongside a prohibition on procuring diesel-fueled transit buses. The bill also requires that new state facilities with parking spaces include at least 8% designated for electric vehicle (EV) charging. Additionally, municipalities are required to incorporate EV charging infrastructure in new commercial or multiunit residential buildings with 30 or more parking spaces, ensuring that at least 10% of these spaces support level two or direct current fast charging stations. The bill emphasizes the importance of public transparency in the approval process for district improvements and introduces new regulations for dynamic part-time lane control systems on highways, including penalties for violations.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing laws related to transportation network companies (TNCs), enhancing safety measures and driver qualifications, including annual criminal history checks and a service animal nondiscrimination policy. It establishes a working group to explore the use of alternative fuels in school bus fleets and mandates safety plans for zero-emission school buses. The bill also addresses the removal of encampments on state highway rights-of-way, requiring advance notice and establishing a joint study to identify best practices for managing such situations. Overall, Substitute House Bill No. 5464 aims to improve transportation safety, promote environmental sustainability, and enhance the accountability of transportation services in Connecticut.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 3-6a
TRA Joint Favorable Substitute: 3-6a
File No. 418: 3-6a
File No. 749: 3-6a, 14-80, 14-296aa
Public Act No. 26-63: 3-6a, 14-80, 14-296aa