An Act Concerning A State Contracting Preference For Fish Landed In Connecticut.
If passed, HB 05084 would amend Section 4a-51 of the Connecticut General Statutes to establish this preference in state contracts. This change would mean that state agencies are compelled to consider local fish as a primary option when making purchasing decisions, ultimately contributing to the reduction of reliance on out-of-state fish imports. This shift could help to enhance the economic viability of local fishing businesses and promote sustainable fishing practices.
House Bill 05084 introduces a state contracting preference for fish that is landed in Connecticut. The bill aims to prioritize local fisheries by ensuring that state agencies give preference to fish sourced from within the state when making purchases. The intention behind this legislation is to bolster Connecticut's local economy and support local fishermen, by ensuring that state procurement processes favor locally landed fish over those from outside the state, as long as the prices are comparable.
While the bill presents potential economic benefits, it may face challenges from those who argue it could hinder competition by limiting the options available for state contracts. Critics may contend that a focus on local sourcing could lead to higher costs or reduced availability of certain fish species. Additionally, there may be concerns about the implications for suppliers outside Connecticut who could be disadvantaged by this preference, potentially raising legal questions regarding equal access in state contracting.