Connecticut House Bill HB05344

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/20
• Refer: 2/27/20

Caption

An Act Prohibiting Off-shore Drilling For Oil And Gas In Connecticut.

Impact

The passage of HB 05344 would have significant implications for state laws governing the exploration and extraction of oil and gas. By repealing previous provisions that allowed for exploratory drilling under state regulations, the bill would reinforce a strict policy against offshore drilling, reflecting a commitment to environmental conservation. The new regulations would also ensure that no state resources are allocated towards facilitating offshore oil and gas activities, steering state policy towards sustainable practices and the protection of coastal ecosystems.

Summary

House Bill 05344, introduced during the February 2020 session, is an act aimed at prohibiting offshore drilling for oil and gas in the coastal waters of Connecticut. The bill explicitly states that no person may engage in any form of drilling—exploratory or otherwise—in these waters, effectively shutting down the possibility of such activities. It also prohibits the issuance of any permits or contracts related to drilling or seismic mapping by state agencies, which includes the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

Contention

As with many environmental regulations, the bill is likely to face contention from stakeholders in the energy sector who may argue that prohibiting offshore drilling restricts economic development and job creation opportunities. Supporters of the bill argue that the environmental risks associated with drilling and seismic mapping far outweigh the economic benefits, especially considering the potential for oil spills and ecological damage. As such, the debate surrounding HB 05344 highlights a broader conflict between environmental sustainability and industrial interests.