Connecticut House Bill HB07154

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/21/19
• Refer: 2/21/19
• Report Pass: 3/19/19
• Refer: 3/29/19
• Report Pass: 4/4/19

Caption

An Act Concerning A Sustainable Construction Code And The Department Of Energy And Environmental Protection's Retention Of Consultants For Proceedings Before The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority.

Impact

The legislation aims to improve environmental outcomes by ensuring that state facilities adhere to rigorous construction standards. By mandating the adoption of high-performance green building codes, the bill is intended to reduce emissions and enhance occupant health and comfort while conserving water resources. Moreover, it empowers the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection to maintain oversight of these construction practices, reinforcing the state's commitment to sustainability and innovation in public infrastructure.

Summary

House Bill 07154, titled 'An Act Concerning a Sustainable Construction Code and the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection's Retention of Consultants for Proceedings before the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority,' focuses on enhancing sustainability in construction practices for state buildings. The bill mandates that new constructions and major renovations of state facilities that meet certain cost thresholds must comply with established sustainable building standards. These standards emphasize energy efficiency, incorporating electric vehicle charging stations, and promoting overall environmental sustainability within state-funded projects.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 07154 is largely positive among environmental advocates who view the bill as a significant step towards promoting sustainable practices in government-funded projects. Supporters argue that aligning state construction practices with modern environmental standards demonstrates responsible governance and proactive climate action. However, there are concerns about the additional regulatory burdens this may place on contractors, particularly smaller firms that may find compliance challenging.

Contention

Opposition to HB 07154 revolves predominantly around concerns regarding regulatory compliance costs and the potential slowdown of public construction projects. Critics argue that while the goals of sustainability are laudable, the financial implications of adhering to stringent environmental standards could delay or complicate public works initiatives. Additionally, the bill's provisions allowing the Commissioner to exempt certain facilities could lead to inconsistencies in the application of sustainability standards across state projects.