Connecticut House Bill HB05352

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/14/15
• Refer: 1/14/15

Caption

An Act Establishing A Public-private Partnership Commission.

Impact

The implementation of HB 05352 would notably amend Chapter 55d of the general statutes, easing restrictions on public-private partnerships. By removing limitations on the types and number of projects that can be considered, the bill encourages a wider array of collaboration between public entities and private organizations. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of prioritizing self-funded projects, which could alleviate financial burdens on the state while still promoting infrastructure development and innovative solutions. This means that projects that have a potential for self-sustainability may see expedited approval processes.

Summary

House Bill 05352 proposes the establishment of a bipartisan public-private partnership commission aimed at reviewing and approving all public-private partnership projects. This initiative would include members appointed from both the legislative and executive branches, ensuring a collaborative and transparent process. The intention is to empower this commission to approve projects alongside relevant finance committees, rather than requiring the Governor’s approval exclusively, which is currently the case. This change seeks to streamline the processes for public-private partnerships in the state, potentially leading to more efficient and effective project implementation.

Contention

There are potential points of contention surrounding HB 05352, particularly regarding the shift in approval power from the Governor to the new commission. Critics may argue that this shift could dilute accountability in managing state resources, as the collaborative approach might introduce complexities in decision-making. Additionally, concerns may be raised regarding the impact on smaller communities or local projects that may not receive prioritization compared to larger, self-funded initiatives. Stakeholders might also discuss the implications of this new commission on existing public oversight and the standards that govern public-private partnerships.