Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HB06725

Introduced
2/17/23  
Introduced
2/17/23  
Refer
2/17/23  
Report Pass
3/24/23  
Report Pass
3/24/23  
Refer
4/5/23  
Refer
4/5/23  
Report Pass
4/12/23  
Engrossed
6/5/23  
Engrossed
6/5/23  
Report Pass
6/5/23  
Report Pass
6/5/23  
Passed
6/7/23  
Passed
6/7/23  
Chaptered
6/21/23  
Chaptered
6/21/23  
Enrolled
6/22/23  
Enrolled
6/22/23  
Passed
6/28/23  

Caption

An Act Revising Certain Farming And Aquaculture Programs Of The Department Of Agriculture.

Impact

This legislation is poised to substantially impact Connecticut's farming landscape by promoting sustainable agriculture and farm management. The introduction of financial incentives is expected to encourage farmers to invest in climate resiliency measures that align with state and federal environmental goals. By enhancing support for local farmers, the bill aims to bolster Connecticut's agricultural economy and ensure the viability of farming as a critical industry in the state. The modifications to the definitions of 'Connecticut-Grown' products also aim to reinforce local produce markets.

Summary

House Bill 06725, titled 'An Act Revising Certain Farming And Aquaculture Programs Of The Department Of Agriculture,' aims to enhance state agricultural programs by establishing financial support for farmers to adopt climate-smart practices. The bill allows the Commissioner of Agriculture to reimburse farmers for up to 50% of costs associated with developing and implementing comprehensive farm management and climate resiliency plans. It acknowledges the financial challenges faced by farmers in adopting sustainable practices and seeks to facilitate the transition through state-backed grants.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 06725 tends to be largely positive among agricultural stakeholders who recognize the need for financial support in implementing sustainable practices. Farmers and environmental advocates generally view the bill as a progressive step towards addressing climate change challenges in agriculture. However, some skepticism persists regarding the effective allocation of funds and the administration of the grant programs. Concerns about potential bureaucracy and the precision of criteria for reimbursement may arise, reflecting a broader apprehension about government interventions and support.

Contention

While the primary focus of the bill is on improving farming and aquaculture programs, potential contention may emerge regarding the allocation of funds and the sustainability of these initiatives over the long term. Questions regarding the efficacy of reimbursement processes and the conditions tied to state grants may prompt discussions among stakeholders. Moreover, the balance between environmental responsibility and the economic pressures facing farmers will be crucial as the bill moves forward, as some may argue that strict adherence to sustainability requirements could be burdensome for smaller operations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT HB05228

An Act Concerning The Purchase Of Certain Lands At Agricultural Value.

CT HB05223

An Act Concerning Minor Revisions To Agriculture Related Statutes And To Open Space Acquisition Related Statutes.

CT SB00194

An Act Concerning Certain Farming Programs Of The Department Of Agriculture.

CT HB05004

An Act Concerning The Implementation Of Certain Climate Change Measures.

CT HB05299

An Act Concerning The Department Of Economic And Community Development's Recommendations For Revisions To The Jobsct Program And The Commerce And Related Statutes.

CT SB00011

An Act Concerning Connecticut Resiliency Planning And Providing Municipal Options For Climate Resilience.

CT HB05180

An Act Implementing The Recommendations Of The Department Of Education.

CT SB00400

An Act Concerning The Insurance Department's Technical Corrections And Other Revisions To The Insurance Statutes.

CT SB00014

An Act Assisting School Districts In Improving Educational Outcomes, Implementing The Recommendations Of The Department Of Education And The Technical Education And Career System And Establishing Early Start Ct.

CT HB05293

An Act Concerning The Department Of Developmental Services' Recommendations Regarding Various Revisions To Developmental Services Statutes.

Similar Bills

CT SB00840

An Act Concerning Connecticut's Shellfish Restoration Program, The Connecticut Seafood Council And The Taxation Of Certain Underwater Farmlands.

CT HB05228

An Act Concerning The Purchase Of Certain Lands At Agricultural Value.

CT HB06262

An Act Concerning The Performance Of Certain Federal Requirements By The Connecticut Milk Promotion Board.

CT HB06547

An Act Concerning A Connecticut Green Plan And Land Resource And Use Inventory For Energy Infrastructure.

CT HB06577

An Act Concerning The State Properties Review Board.

CT HB06316

An Act Concerning The State Purchase Of Development Rights For Agricultural Land Preservation And Certain Revisions To The Community Farms Program.

CT HB05295

An Act Concerning Agriculture Development And Innovation.

CT HB05411

An Act Concerning The State Properties Review Board.