Connecticut House Bill HB05498

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/20
• Refer: 3/10/20

Caption

An Act Concerning A Pilot Program For Large-scale Beneficial Reuse Of Certain Soil Projects.

Impact

If enacted, HB05498 would significantly impact existing statutes related to soil management and environmental sustainability. The Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection would be empowered to authorize the use of beneficially reclaimed materials at specified sites, thereby streamlining the permitting process for projects that aim to rehabilitate land. The introduction of this legislation also aligns with broader state goals for recycling and waste reduction, allowing for a more efficient use of materials that are currently disposed of as waste.

Summary

House Bill 05498 proposes a pilot program to facilitate the large-scale beneficial reuse of certain soil and related materials across Connecticut. This act aims to promote environmental sustainability by allowing for the effective redevelopment of sites using beneficially reclaimed materials. The bill defines the types of materials that can be used, such as soil, dewatered sediments, casting sand, and crushed recycled glass, explicitly excluding hazardous materials like asbestos and several toxic substances. Furthermore, the bill establishes criteria for locations eligible to participate in the program, ensuring that it aligns with environmental protection standards.

Contention

While the bill presents benefits in terms of environmental sustainability, it may also generate concerns from various stakeholders regarding health and safety. Critics could argue that permitting the use of certain reclaimed materials may pose risks if not properly monitored, especially in areas where groundwater quality is at stake. The 30-year monitoring requirement post-redevelopment is a measure aimed at addressing these concerns, but debates may arise regarding the adequacy of this monitoring and the responsibilities of project developers to ensure safe practices throughout the lifecycle of the reused materials.