Bill > HB07174

This bill establishes a comprehensive working group within the legislative branch to explore and develop strategies for protecting vegetated riparian buffer zones (areas of vegetation adjacent to water bodies) in the state. The working group will include representatives from various sectors such as environmental agencies, transportation, homebuilders, environmental advocacy organizations, municipal commissions, planning associations, water utilities, farmers, and realtors. Their primary objectives are to review riparian buffer protections in other states, examine current environmental protection resources, analyze existing legal precedents, and make recommendations for improving water resource protection while balancing private property rights. The group is specifically tasked with addressing climate change impacts on watercourses and supporting the health of Long Island Sound. They must convene within 60 days of the bill's effective date and submit a detailed report with findings and recommendations to the environmental committee by January 15, 2026. After submitting their report, the working group will be dissolved, having completed its mission of identifying potential legislative and regulatory improvements for riparian buffer protection.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Housing and Urban Affairs

Environment Committee (J)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB07174&which_year=2025