Connecticut Senate Bill SB00120

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/23
• Refer: 1/13/23
• Refer: 2/7/23
• Report Pass: 3/3/23
• Refer: 3/16/23
• Report Pass: 3/22/23

Caption

An Act Requiring The Connecticut Airport Authority To Comply With The Connecticut Environmental Protection Act For Any Historic Structures And Landmarks Under The Authority's Control.

Impact

The enactment of SB00120 would particularly influence initiatives related to historic preservation within the jurisdiction of the Connecticut Airport Authority. By aligning the Authority’s operations with CEPA, the bill seeks to ensure that any proposed development or structural changes are not detrimental to historic landmarks. This could mean more rigorous scrutiny of projects that might threaten significant historic resources, potentially implicating various stakeholders, including local governments, preservation groups, and the airport authorities in compliance discussions and approvals.

Summary

SB00120 is a legislative proposal that mandates the Connecticut Airport Authority's compliance with the Connecticut Environmental Protection Act (CEPA) concerning any historic structures and landmarks it controls. This bill aims to extend the environmental protections under CEPA to include properties that are essential for retaining the historical fabric of the state, particularly focusing on structures that are either listed or are under consideration for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The clear intention is to safeguard Connecticut's cultural heritage while allowing for the continued operation of the airport authority.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB00120 appears to be largely positive, particularly among advocates for historic preservation and environmental protection. Supporters argue that the bill effectively strengthens the legal protections for historic assets and represents a commitment to maintaining the state's cultural heritage. Nonetheless, there could be some contention among those concerned about the bureaucratic implications and potential limitations imposed on the Airport Authority's operational decisions, particularly regarding development projects that may now face additional regulatory hurdles.

Contention

Notably, there is an ongoing discussion about the balance between operational efficiency for the Connecticut Airport Authority and the imperatives of historic and environmental preservation. Critics of similar measures often highlight the risk of delay in necessary airport upgrades or expansions due to additional environmental review processes. The concerns focus on whether the bill will result in a productive dialogue between preservation objectives and economic development needs, potentially spotlighting a clash between cultural values and pragmatic development.