Connecticut House Bill HB05878

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/17
• Refer: 1/19/17

Caption

An Act Concerning Fines Associated With Violation Of The State's Running Bamboo Law.

Impact

By establishing a financial penalty for violations, HB 05878 ensures that there are consequences for individuals or entities that do not comply with the running bamboo law. The inclusion of local municipalities in the enforcement process promotes a collaborative approach to environmental management and empowers local governments. This could potentially lead to more proactive measures in controlling running bamboo growth, which is often considered a nuisance due to its invasive nature.

Summary

House Bill 05878 aims to amend the existing legislation surrounding the state's running bamboo law. The proposed changes stipulate a fine of one hundred dollars per day for those found in violation of this law. A significant aspect of this bill is its provision allowing municipalities to assess these fines independently and retain fifty percent of the collected amount. This modification seeks to bolster local enforcement mechanisms, enabling towns and cities to manage and regulate bamboo cultivation more effectively.

Contention

There may be varying opinions regarding the introduction of fines, especially concerning the appropriateness of local governments retaining a portion of the fines. Some may support this as a means of strengthening local governance and encouraging compliance with environmental laws. However, critics might argue it could unintentionally lead to overly aggressive fine assessments or revenue generation motives overshadowing genuine environmental concerns. As the bill progresses, these discussions are likely to continue among policymakers, stakeholders, and the public.