Connecticut House Bill HB05580

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/19
• Refer: 1/18/19

Caption

An Act Requiring Electric Distribution Companies To Offer Certain Infrastructure For Sale To Certain Municipalities.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5580 would result in significant changes to the relationship between municipalities and electric distribution companies. Local governments would gain an opportunity to purchase street lighting infrastructure, thus increasing their autonomy in decision-making regarding public lighting. This could lead to enhancements in local infrastructure management and more tailored services for residents. It may also trigger changes in the budgeting processes for municipalities as they assess the financial implications of acquiring these assets.

Summary

House Bill 5580 is designed to require electric distribution companies operating within the state to offer for sale their streetlights and lighting infrastructure to the municipalities they serve. The intent of this bill is to enable local governments to take ownership of street lighting assets, which could empower them to better control their local lighting needs and potentially reduce costs associated with streetlight maintenance and operations. The bill specifies that the offer for sale must be made at a reasonable price, taking into consideration the age and depreciation of the infrastructure being transferred.

Contention

Despite potential benefits, the bill may face opposition from electric distribution companies or stakeholders who argue that such requirements could lead to financial burdens on these utilities. Concerns may also arise regarding the potential for inconsistent local ownership standards and maintenance practices, which could diminish the quality of service provided across regions. Furthermore, the negotiation over what constitutes a 'reasonable price' for the infrastructure could become a point of contention between local governments and electric companies.