Connecticut Senate Bill SB00560

Connecticut 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/13
• Refer: 1/24/13

Caption

An Act Revising The Boat Registration Revenue Sharing Program.

Impact

The proposed changes are expected to have a positive impact on municipalities, as a steady stream of revenue from boat registrations can enhance local budgets, particularly for those regions with substantial water bodies that attract boaters. This renewed funding can be utilized for local environmental conservation efforts, maintenance of waterfronts, and other community needs that arise from increased boating activities. Additionally, the state will benefit from a portion of the revenue, which can contribute to broader state-level environmental programs.

Summary

SB00560 aims to revise the existing boat registration revenue sharing program. The bill proposes a reinstatement of the prior policy wherein 50% of the revenue generated from boat registrations will be allocated to the state and the remaining 50% distributed to the respective municipalities. This initiative seeks to facilitate a more equitable distribution of resources generated through boat registrations, which have historically been a significant source of revenue for both state and local governments.

Contention

While the bill appears to be widely supported due to its potential benefits for communities, debates may arise surrounding the implications of reinstating the revenue sharing structure. Concerns might include the management of the funds, ensuring they are utilized effectively by municipalities and not absorbed into general funds without specific allocations for boating-related purposes. The impact of restoring this revenue sharing model on existing state budgetary allocations could also be scrutinized in legislative discussions.