Connecticut House Bill HB06005

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/19
• Refer: 1/24/19

Caption

An Act Establishing An Appeal Process To The Environmental Justice Public Participation Process.

Impact

The introduction of this bill is poised to have a significant impact on the existing framework of environmental regulations in the state. By instituting an appeal process, HB06005 could enhance transparency and accountability within the environmental permitting system. It empowers communities by providing them with a formal channel to challenge decisions that may adversely affect their environment or health, thereby promoting greater equity in environmental governance.

Summary

House Bill 6005 aims to establish an appeal process specifically for the environmental justice public participation process in the state. This bill is introduced with the intention of adding a mechanism that allows individuals or groups to contest decisions made during the environmental justice public participation process before any permits are issued. The need for an appeal process is rooted in ensuring that all stakeholders, particularly those from marginalized communities, have the opportunity to voice their concerns and seek redress if they feel their participation rights have been overlooked or ignored.

Contention

While proponents of the bill argue that an appeal process is essential for safeguarding the interests of vulnerable communities, there may also be concerns about the potential for increased delays in the permitting process, which could hinder development projects. Critics might express fears that bureaucratic hurdles introduced by this appeal process could impede timely approvals necessary for economic growth and job creation. Balancing the needs of environmental justice with pragmatic considerations for development will likely be a point of contention as the bill progresses through the legislative process.