Connecticut Senate Bill SB00867

Connecticut 2015 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/5/15
• Refer: 2/5/15
• Report Pass: 2/27/15
• Refer: 3/10/15
• Report Pass: 3/17/15
• Engrossed: 5/20/15
• Report Pass: 5/22/15
• Chaptered: 6/8/15
• Enrolled: 6/11/15
• Passed: 6/22/15

Caption

An Act Concerning The Enforcement Of Firewood Transport Restrictions By The Department Of Energy And Environmental Protection.

Impact

The enactment of SB 867 is expected to have significant implications on state laws regarding the control and transport of firewood. It empowers the director of the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station to implement measures for the inspection, seizure, and proper treatment of firewood that may harbor infectious pests or diseases. This legislative action aims to enhance the state's public health and environmental safety protocols, thereby ensuring that local agriculture remains resilient to potential threats posed by invasive species.

Summary

Senate Bill 867, also known as the Act Concerning the Enforcement of Firewood Transport Restrictions by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, aims to regulate the movement of firewood within and into the state. The bill underscores the importance of preventing the spread of invasive pests and diseases that can threaten local ecosystems and agriculture. By imposing specific regulations on the transportation of firewood, the state seeks to protect its natural resources from the introduction of harmful organisms that can adversely affect plant life.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment surrounding SB 867 appears to be supportive from environmental advocates and regulatory bodies, highlighting the necessity of stringent measures to combat the risks associated with firewood transport. Stakeholders recognize the potential benefits of limiting the spread of invasive species, framing the bill as an essential step towards safeguarding Connecticut's ecological integrity. However, some concerns have emerged regarding the practical implications of the bill for individuals and businesses who rely on transporting firewood.

Contention

One notable point of contention involves the balance between regulation and individual rights, particularly for those involved in the firewood trade. The penalties stipulated in the bill for non-compliance—ranging from warnings to fines—have raised discussions about the fairness of punitive measures against individuals who may inadvertently violate transport regulations. As provisions allow for first-time offenders to receive warnings, the bill attempts to address these concerns while still emphasizing the importance of compliance in protecting the environment.