Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB05518

Introduced
1/20/11  
Refer
1/20/11  
Refer
3/2/11  
Report Pass
3/18/11  
Report Pass
3/18/11  
Refer
3/28/11  
Refer
3/28/11  
Report Pass
4/4/11  
Refer
4/12/11  
Report Pass
4/19/11  

Caption

An Act Establishing A State-wide Water Use Plan.

Impact

Should HB 05518 be enacted, it would amend existing statutes concerning state water management, providing a clear framework for how water resources are utilized and allocated. This change is expected to lead to more coordinated efforts in addressing water scarcity and enhancing the sustainability of water usage across various sectors. The bill’s provisions could help prevent conflicts among water users and ensure that environmental considerations are taken into account in the planning process.

Summary

House Bill 05518, titled 'An Act Establishing a State-wide Water Use Plan,' aims to create a structured and comprehensive approach for managing and allocating water resources across the state. This initiative is particularly crucial given the varying demands placed on water resources by different sectors, including conservation, recreation, business, and agriculture. The bill mandates the Water Planning Council to supervise the plan's implementation, establish stream flow goals, prioritize water usage, and oversee a permitting process for water diversion, thereby promoting efficient management of this vital resource.

Sentiment

Reactions to HB 05518 have been generally supportive among environmental advocates and water resource managers who see this as a necessary step towards better management of water resources. The bill is perceived as proactive in addressing water-related challenges; however, it has also raised concerns among stakeholders worried about potential restrictions on water access for certain interests. The sentiment is thus mixed, with broad support for the bill's goals but also apprehension about its potential implications for specific users.

Contention

Notably, some contention arises from how the bill could impact individual rights and stakeholders who rely heavily on specific water sources, such as farmers and local businesses. Critics argue that state-level oversight might diminish localized decision-making capabilities and could impose unnecessary regulations. Balancing the needs of diverse user groups while ensuring environmental protection will likely be a significant challenge as discussions around the bill continue.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05092

An Act Authorizing Bonds Of The State For A Grant-in-aid To South Central Chiefs Of Police Association, Inc. For The Purchase Of Certain Tracking Technology.

CT HB05432

An Act Establishing A Working Group To Develop An Economic Development And Tourism Plan For The Greater Mystic Area Of The Towns Of Groton, New London And Stonington.

CT HB05119

An Act Authorizing Bonds Of The State For Early Intervention Programs For Certain Youths Disconnected From Education And Workforce Training.

CT SB00456

An Act Establishing A Pilot Program For The Development And Implementation Of Ten-year Plans To Eradicate Concentrated Poverty In The State.

CT HB05084

An Act Authorizing Bonds Of The State For Planning And Construction Of The Uss Groton Sail Monument.

CT HB05118

An Act Establishing A Capital Gains Surcharge And Concerning The Use Of The Revenue Generated From Such Surcharge.

CT HB05100

An Act Authorizing Bonds Of The State For Capital Improvements To The Waterfront And Marina In The City Of Norwich.

CT HB05433

An Act Establishing A Procedure For The State Historic Preservation Officer To Make Determinations Concerning Certain Environmental Effects.

CT HB05044

An Act Establishing A Child Tax Credit Against The Personal Income Tax.

CT HB05222

An Act Establishing A No-wake Zone On The Pawcatuck River And Authorizing The Purchase Of Certain Riparian Buffers.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.