Connecticut Senate Bill SB00281

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

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

Caption

An Act Concerning Various Revisions To The Property Transfer Law.

Impact

The bill modifies existing statutes surrounding property conveyance by repealing certain sections and introducing new mandates for financial assurance related to environmental remediation. This is particularly pertinent for establishments undergoing investigation and cleanup under the supervision of the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection. By mandating that residents and developers secure financial bonds to guarantee remediation, the law aims to protect public health and ensure that polluted sites are properly managed before new occupants assume their rights over the property.

Summary

SB00281, titled 'An Act Concerning Various Revisions To The Property Transfer Law', aims to streamline and clarify the legal framework governing the transfer of properties that may have environmental contamination. One of its key provisions is the introduction of standardized procedures for reporting and remediating hazardous waste releases that affect land and water. The bill is designed to ensure that appropriate measures are taken when properties are conveyed, especially within common interest communities, where the potential for contamination issues can arise during property transfers.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB00281 involves concerns regarding the balancing of property owner rights with the need for adequate environmental protections. Some stakeholders argue that the financial burden placed upon property sellers and developers may deter investment and development in certain areas. Others contend that the bill does not go far enough to hold responsible parties accountable for contamination, potentially leaving communities at risk. The inclusion of various forms of certification (Forms I through IV) for different scenarios of contamination and remediation further complicates the compliance framework, leading to questions about its practicality and effectiveness in real-world applications.