Connecticut House Bill HB05300

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/20
• Refer: 2/26/20

Caption

An Act Establishing A Moratorium On The Installation Of Recycled Tire Rubber At Municipal And Public School Playgrounds.

Impact

The implications of HB 05300 are significant for local governments and educational institutions, as it prohibits them from implementing what has historically been a popular playground surface material. Proponents argue that the measure is necessary for ensuring child safety and preventing potential adverse health effects, while opponents may view the moratorium as a hindrance to choosing cost-effective and durable playground materials. This bill aligns with a growing trend among states and municipalities seeking to regulate or limit the use of crumb rubber in public spaces, driven by ongoing debates over its safety and health implications.

Summary

House Bill 05300 proposes a moratorium on the installation of recycled tire rubber, specifically crumb rubber, at municipal and public school playgrounds. The bill restricts municipalities and local boards of education from entering into new contracts for this type of ground cover beginning October 1, 2020. It stipulates that the moratorium will remain in effect until the release of findings from the Federal Research Action Plan which investigates the safety of recycled tire crumbs in playgrounds. This proactive approach reflects concerns regarding the potential health risks associated with crumb rubber used in play areas for children.

Contention

Debate surrounding the bill highlights tensions between public safety and traditional practices in community infrastructure. Some legislators express concern that the moratorium may lead to increased costs for municipalities looking for alternative playground surfacing, while others argue the need for a cautious approach to protect children's health based on the yet-to-be-released federal research findings. The bill manifests a larger legislative focus on environmental health and the safety of recreational areas, reflecting concerns about the unknown long-term effects of crumb rubber, which has been linked to various health discussions in recent years.