Connecticut House Bill HB06550

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/19
• Refer: 1/28/19

Caption

An Act Increasing Municipal Authority To Impose Penalties For Illegal Dumping.

Impact

The passage of HB 06550 is expected to have significant implications for state laws regarding waste management and environmental enforcement. With increased penalties, municipalities will have stronger deterrents against illegal dumping, thereby promoting compliance with waste management guidelines. This shift could lead to a reduced incidence of litter and waste pollution, contributing to improved public health and service costs associated with cleanup efforts. The balance of power shifts towards local governments, which may enhance community participation in environmental stewardship.

Summary

House Bill 06550 proposes amendments to Connecticut's statutes that enhance the authority of municipalities to impose penalties on individuals who engage in illegal dumping of solid or other waste on both public and private properties. The main intent of the bill is to empower local governments to maintain cleaner environments and take more decisive actions against those who violate waste disposal regulations. The bill is introduced by Representative Fox and aims to mitigate the growing issues related to illegal waste disposal in urban and rural areas alike.

Contention

Despite the favorable view from proponents who see HB 06550 as a necessary step towards responsible waste management, some stakeholders may express concerns over the implications for individual rights and the fairness of imposed penalties. There are potential criticisms regarding the enforcement mechanisms associated with the bill, particularly in ensuring that penalties are applied fairly and consistently across different municipalities. Additionally, there could be apprehensions related to the potential for misuse of this authority by local governments, leading to disproportionate enforcement in certain communities.