An act relating to funding brownfields redevelopment
Impact
The legislation aims to amend existing funding parameters by raising the maximum allowable grants, thereby providing enhanced financial support for environmental remediation projects. Grants will reach up to $500,000 for remediation purposes. The Secretary will consider various factors, such as community needs and local involvement, when awarding these grants. This shift is expected to stimulate economic development within impacted communities and ensure that funding reaches areas in need of significant environmental attention.
Summary
House Bill 0129 focuses on the redevelopment of brownfield sites, proposing an increase in grant amounts available through the Brownfield Revitalization Fund. Notably, the bill mandates that the Secretary of Commerce and Community Development provide annual funding to regional planning commissions, enhancing their capacity to conduct site characterization and assessments. The overarching goal of the bill is to facilitate the cleanup and redevelopment of contaminated properties to promote safety and community well-being.
Contention
While proponents argue that HB 0129 is a positive step towards environmental restoration and community development, there may be points of contention regarding the oversight and allocation of funds. Critics might raise concerns about how effectively these funds are administered and whether they reach the most needy communities. Transparency in the evaluation process for projects selected for funding will be crucial to mitigate skepticism and enhance trust from local governments and community organizations involved in brownfield redevelopment.
An Act Concerning The Creation Of Connecticut Brownfield Land Banks, Certain Lender Responsibility For Releases At Brownfields And Revisions To Brownfield Remediation And Development Programs.
An Act Concerning The Remedial Action And Redevelopment Municipal Grant Program, The Targeted Brownfield Development Loan Program And The Remediation Of State-owned And Formerly State-owned Brownfields.
An Act Concerning The Creation Of Connecticut Brownfield Land Banks, Revisions To The Brownfield Remediation And Revitalization Program And Authorizing Bonds Of The State For Brownfield Remediation And Development Programs.
Use tax: other; reference to the brownfield redevelopment financing act; update. Amends sec. 4dd of 1937 PA 94 (MCL 205.94dd). TIE BAR WITH: SB 0129'23
Relating to the administration of the Voluntary Remediation and Redevelopment Act to provide new liability protections for persons and companies who wish to purchase and redevelop former industrial properties.
Authorizes DEQ to once again grant transferable credits for the investigation or remediation of hazardous waste "brownfields" sites on and after July 1, 2011 through December 31, 2013, clarifies that the credit may be granted to any public or private "entity" whether taxable or non-taxable, and specifically authorizes credits for the remediation of public parks, playgrounds and other recreational areas. (7/1/11) (EN DECREASE GF RV See Note)