Connecticut Senate Bill SB00578

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/15
• Refer: 1/22/15

Caption

An Act Exempting The City Of Stamford From Stormwater Permit Requirements.

Impact

The potential impact of SB00578 on state laws is significant, as it sets a precedent for local municipalities to seek exemptions from state environmental regulations. This could lead to a reevaluation of how stormwater management is overseen in other cities, with the possibility of other municipalities pursuing similar exemptions. Supporters of the bill argue that it grants Stamford the flexibility needed to manage its unique environmental challenges without the bureaucracy of state requirements. On the other hand, opponents may view this as a step back from the efforts to maintain state-level oversight of environmental protections.

Summary

SB00578 is a legislative proposal that seeks to exempt the City of Stamford from the stormwater permit requirements imposed by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. This bill is introduced by Senator Leone and aims to modify general statutes accordingly. By removing the stormwater permit requirement for Stamford, the bill is intended to facilitate local governance and potentially streamline operations regarding stormwater management within the city.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding SB00578 is the balance between local control and state environmental standards. Proponents contend that local conditions can vary greatly and that Stamford is capable of managing its stormwater issues effectively without state intervention. Conversely, critics might argue that allowing such exemptions could lead to inadequate management of stormwater, potentially harming the environment and undermining broader state efforts to regulate water quality and prevent flooding. The debate is likely to reflect broader discussions about state vs. local authority in environmental governance.