Connecticut House Bill HB05586

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23

Caption

An Act Prohibiting The Department Of Energy And Environmental Protection From Modifying A Consent Order Without The Agreement Of The Other Parties To Such Agreement.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5586 would amend existing statutes to assert that any consent orders cannot be modified or revoked without the agreement of all parties involved. This could potentially change the dynamics of regulatory compliance significantly, as it would limit DEEP's ability to unilaterally adjust the terms of agreements previously established with enterprises or organizations, thereby affecting how environmental regulations are enforced in the state. Such a shift would ensure greater transparency and fairness in the regulatory process, aligning it more closely with the interests of all stakeholders involved.

Summary

House Bill 5586 aims to strengthen the legislative framework regarding consent orders between the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and its partners by prohibiting any alterations or revocations of these agreements without the explicit consent of all involved parties. This legislation is designed to ensure that stakeholders who enter into agreements with DEEP are safeguarded from unilateral changes that could affect compliance and operational expectations. By mandating mutual consent, the bill is intended to enhance the integrity of environmental agreements and foster more cooperative relationships between DEEP and other parties.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding this bill may arise from various stakeholders who could view the restrictions as either beneficial or burdensome. Proponents of the bill argue that it protects affected parties from abrupt regulatory changes that could disrupt their operations and ensure that all stakeholders have a voice in the management of consent orders. Conversely, opponents may contend that it could hinder the state's ability to act swiftly in situations that warrant operational adjustments due to unexpected environmental circumstances or the evolving nature of compliance requirements. This aspect of the consensus may need careful navigation to balance the need for environmental protection with regulatory agility.