The proposed General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5525 aims to establish a rapid response program for the management of certain aquatic invasive species, particularly hydrilla, in Connecticut. Effective October 1, 2026, the bill defines "rapid response" as a systematic effort to control or eradicate invasive nonnative plant species while their presence remains localized. It mandates the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to expedite permitting for rapid response actions, especially for hydrilla, and allows the Office of Aquatic Invasive Species to identify new introductions and coordinate response efforts. The bill also eliminates the requirement for two individual notices to waterfront property owners before herbicide treatments for rapid response actions.

Additionally, the bill establishes an Interagency Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force to develop a state rapid response protocol and a statewide management plan for aquatic invasive species. This task force will include various stakeholders and will focus on public education, containment strategies, and treatment methods. The DEEP is tasked with installing educational signs at waterbodies and developing a plan for boat washing stations at state boat ramps to prevent the spread of invasive species. The bill emphasizes the importance of timely action, particularly for hydrilla and newly introduced species, to minimize their establishment and spread.