Connecticut House Bill HB05410

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/13
• Refer: 1/18/13

Caption

An Act Prohibiting The Introduction Of Fracking By-products Onto Roads, Real Property Or In Wastewater Treatment Facilities Of The State And Prohibiting The Sale Of Such Fracking By-products In The State.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05410 would amend existing statutes to enhance protections against environmental contamination caused by fracking waste. The bill addresses concerns over the application of fracking by-products, which may include toxic chemicals and radioactive materials, thereby aiming to mitigate health risks associated with exposure. The prohibition would not only affect the use of such materials on roads but would also impact local waste management practices, leading to shifts in how municipalities deal with hazardous materials.

Summary

House Bill 05410 seeks to enforce stringent regulations on the handling of fracking by-products within the state. Specifically, the bill prohibits the introduction of these by-products into any wastewater treatment facilities and bans their sale within the state. Additionally, it mandates that any contracts related to the construction or maintenance of roads explicitly prohibit the use of products that contain fracking by-products. This legislative move is aimed at safeguarding public health and preserving environmental integrity by eliminating potentially hazardous materials from everyday infrastructures and residential areas.

Contention

The bill has raised notable points of contention, particularly among industry stakeholders. Advocates of the bill argue that the dangers posed by fracking by-products necessitate strict regulatory practices to protect community health and the environment. Conversely, opponents, which may include some members of the energy sector, express concerns that such prohibitions could hinder economic activities tied to the fracking industry. They argue that responsible management and technological advancements can safely mitigate the risks associated with fracking by-products, suggesting that a total prohibition may be unnecessarily restrictive.