Connecticut Senate Bill SB00340

Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/18
• Refer: 3/1/18

Caption

An Act Concerning The Use Of Man-made Structures To Mark The Coastal Jurisdiction Line.

Impact

The enactment of SB00340 would significantly impact the legal framework regulating coastal areas in Connecticut. By allowing the use of pipes and culverts to mark the coastal jurisdiction line, local governments and environmental authorities can have clearer guidelines when managing coastal waters. This change is expected to streamline coastal management processes and reduce ambiguity in jurisdictional determinations, which can often lead to disputes over land use and environmental regulations.

Summary

SB00340, known as 'An Act Concerning the Use of Man-made Structures to Mark the Coastal Jurisdiction Line,' proposes amendments to the Connecticut General Statutes to clarify the use of artificial structures, such as pipes and culverts, in defining the coastal jurisdiction line. The bill specifies that for tidal, coastal, or navigable waters upstream of such structures, the coastal jurisdiction line will be determined based on the elevation of mean high water found downstream of these devices. This amendment is intended to enhance clarity for environmental management and local governance regarding coastal and waterway management.

Contention

While the bill aims to simplify coastal regulation, potential points of contention could arise from stakeholders concerned about the environment, specifically regarding how these man-made structures may affect natural habitats and ecosystems. Environmental advocates may argue that reliance on artificial structures might undermine natural processes and could have unintended consequences on marine and coastal environments. Thus, while the bill seeks to provide clarity, it may need to address environmental safeguards to ensure that coastal ecosystems are preserved.