Connecticut Senate Bill SB00302

Connecticut 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/24/10
• Refer: 2/24/10
• Report Pass: 3/17/10
• Refer: 3/29/10
• Report Pass: 4/6/10
• Refer: 4/14/10
• Report Pass: 4/20/10
• Report Pass: 4/21/10
• Refer: 4/22/10
• Report Pass: 4/27/10
• Engrossed: 5/3/10
• Report Pass: 5/4/10
• Chaptered: 5/20/10
• Enrolled: 5/26/10
• Passed: 6/7/10

Caption

An Act Concerning State Funding Of Affordable Housing Located In A Five-hundred-year Flood Plain.

Impact

The introduction of SB00302 leads to significant changes in how state funding is managed and administered for housing projects in flood-prone areas. State agencies must now provide evidence that their proposals will not obstruct flood flows or negatively impact flood control values. By doing so, the bill aims to ensure the safety of housing developments while simultaneously promoting non-intensive floodplain uses. The bill is seen as a precautionary measure to prevent future disasters in vulnerable regions, thereby attempting to safeguard public health and property.

Summary

SB00302, titled 'An Act Concerning State Funding Of Affordable Housing Located In A Five-Hundred-Year Flood Plain,' seeks to regulate state agency activities in floodplain regions, specifically when such activities involve affordable housing. The bill mandates that no state agency can undertake critical activities within or affecting the floodplain without proper certifications and approvals from the relevant commissioner. This is aimed at ensuring that such activities do not exacerbate flooding issues or pose hazards to life and property. The proposed regulations are effective from July 1, 2010, and replace previous statutes regarding floodplain management.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding SB00302 appears to be supportive among stakeholders advocating for safety and environmental protection. Legislators and environmental advocates likely view these regulations as essential to responsible land management in flood-prone areas. However, there may be contention from housing developers and certain agencies, who could perceive additional regulations as burdensome and potentially hindering the development of crucial affordable housing projects. This sentiment reflects a common tension between the need for safety measures and the urgency of addressing affordable housing shortages.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention regarding SB00302 arises from the exemptions provided to certain activities, such as housing reconstruction that does not increase dwelling units. While these exemptions aim to facilitate development, concerns may be raised about the potential for loopholes or inadequate protections for other critical floodplain issues. Furthermore, certain stakeholders may argue that the bill complicates the process of obtaining funding for housing projects, thus conflicting with the goal of expanding affordable housing options in a timely manner.