Environment

SB 306 requires Connecticut's Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection to develop a Comprehensive Energy Strategy every four years (starting October 1, 2020), which must address all state energy needs (electricity, heating, cooling, transportation), meet greenhouse gas reduction goals, and incorporate existing energy plans. The strategy must include cost assessments, public input through meetings and a 60-day comment period, and analyze natural gas expansion, efficiency goals, and rate impacts. It directly affects state agencies, utilities (via the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority's comments), and residents through potential energy cost and service changes. The bill mandates specific content and public engagement procedures but does not create new funding or impose direct costs on individuals.

SB 9 provides a tax credit for Connecticut businesses with 100 or more employees in federally designated "severe nonattainment" air quality areas (as defined by the Clean Air Act). The credit covers 50% of eligible spending on commuting programs that reduce single-occupancy vehicle trips, including public transportation, carpooling, or microtransit services, up to $250 per employee annually, with a total annual cap of $1.5 million. Businesses must submit a plan to the state transportation department detailing how they will implement these programs to qualify for the credit.

This bill directs the Commissioner of Administrative Services to transfer a 4-acre state-owned parcel in Torrington, including the Torrington Transfer Station, to the Northwest Resource Recovery Authority. The transfer will occur at no cost to the Authority, covering only administrative expenses, and requires approval from the State Properties Review Board. The Authority must use the land to operate a public waste and recycling transfer station, with the property reverting to the state if the Authority fails to use it, loses ownership, or leases it. The State Properties Review Board must complete its review within 30 days, and the Department of Administrative Services retains control of the land until the transfer is finalized.