Connecticut Senate Bill SB00095

Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/21
• Refer: 1/12/21

Caption

An Act Concerning The Imposition Of Line Charges For Certain Water Lines.

Impact

If enacted, SB00095 would significantly affect the financial responsibilities of municipalities regarding water infrastructure. By restricting the ability of water companies to levy charges for lines that do not serve a public function, municipalities will likely experience reduced expenditures related to water lines. This change aims to alleviate financial burdens on local governments and enhance their ability to allocate resources more effectively, potentially leading to improved local services.

Summary

SB00095 is a legislative proposal aimed at regulating the imposition of line charges by water companies on municipalities. The bill specifically prohibits water companies from charging municipalities for certain water lines that fall into specific categories: those located on private property, lines leading to nonserviceable fire hydrants, lines on dead-end roads without fire hydrants, and lines with no connections within the municipality. The intent is to protect municipalities from bearing the costs associated with water lines that do not provide any service or benefit to them.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding this bill may arise from the interests of water companies, which may argue that such restrictions could impact their revenue and operational frameworks. The bill challenges the traditional financial relationship between municipalities and water service providers, and there could be debates regarding the validity and enforceability of designating certain lines as non-chargeable. Stakeholders may express concerns about ensuring that water infrastructure meets public safety and accessibility standards, especially in relation to fire preparedness and emergency response.

Additional_notes

Overall, SB00095 represents a proactive step towards reforming how municipalities interact with water providers, promoting equitable financial obligations while considering community access and public safety. The bill is anticipated to stimulate discussions regarding water management and local government finance, further shaping the dynamics of resource distribution within local jurisdictions.