Connecticut Senate Bill SB01144

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/23
• Refer: 2/28/23

Caption

An Act Concerning The State's Property Acquisition And Condemnation Authority For Certain Flood Prevention, Climate Resilience And Erosion Control Systems.

Impact

The bill amends current statutes to enable more efficient property acquisition processes for projects aimed at reducing flooding impacts and enhancing climate resilience. This means that state agencies can take action to acquire lands crucial for flood control even in jurisdictions that have not enacted provisions for such measures. Moreover, it allows interim boards to be created when municipalities do not have their own boards established, thereby ensuring that flood prevention projects can proceed without delay, thus effectively centralizing efforts for statewide climate strategies.

Summary

SB01144, titled 'An Act Concerning The State's Property Acquisition And Condemnation Authority For Certain Flood Prevention, Climate Resilience And Erosion Control Systems,' seeks to enhance the state’s ability to address flood prevention and erosion control by granting specific powers to state agencies. This legislation provides authority to acquire real property through eminent domain for the construction and management of necessary infrastructure. It establishes a framework for state cooperation with local municipalities and federal agencies in implementing and maintaining these vital systems.

Contention

Despite its aimed benefits, SB01144 raises concerns regarding the potential overreach of state authority at the expense of local governance. Critics argue that the broad powers given for property acquisition could undermine local control and lead to conflicts over land rights. Those in favor of the bill believe that the measures are necessary to effectively combat the escalating threats posed by climate change and to ensure infrastructure resilience. The balance between state needs for rapid action in emergencies and local communities' rights represents a notable point of contention, as stakeholders weigh the implications of such centralization against community autonomy.