Rep. Savet Constantine

Maddy summaryHB 5340 establishes a new program to expand access to residential renewable energy by requiring electric distribution companies to offer tariffs for purchasing energy from small-scale, on-premise renewable systems (under 25 kilowatts). It directly affects low-income residential customers and those in affordable housing developments (defined as households earning ≤60% of area median income or meeting specific housing affordability criteria). The bill mandates the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority to create this program by July 2027, setting rates and terms that consider grid reliability, installation costs, and benefits to both participants and non-participants. The program will allow residential customers to sell excess renewable energy back to utilities under standardized terms for up to 20 years.

Maddy summaryHB 5155 requires Connecticut's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection to create an online database tracking pesticide sales and use by December 2028, replacing older reporting methods. The database will make public access to historical pesticide data (from Chapter 441 of state law) and include pesticide-treated seed information collected with the Department of Agriculture. It allocates $100,000 for development in fiscal year 2027. This directly affects pesticide sellers and users (who must report through the new system) and provides the public with clearer access to where, what, and how much pesticides are used statewide.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the Department of Economic and Community Development to create a plan for an artificial intelligence small business program. The program aims to help small businesses adopt AI technology to improve productivity and product or service quality while fostering a competitive environment for AI development. The department must submit a report on the plan by January 1, 2027, including recommendations for any additional laws needed to implement it. The bill defines artificial intelligence as machine-based systems that make predictions or decisions affecting real or virtual environments.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a legal framework for supported decision-making, allowing adults to voluntarily choose supporters who help them understand and communicate their personal and financial decisions without removing their decision-making authority. The law requires a written agreement signed by the adult, their chosen supporters, and two witnesses, and mandates that businesses, government agencies, medical providers, and schools must recognize and respect these agreements. Supporters can assist with accessing information, making appointments, and advocating for the adult's wishes, but they are prohibited from making decisions on behalf of the adult or exerting undue influence. The Department of Aging and Disability Services will create a program to educate adults and families about this option, and third parties who rely on these agreements in good faith will be protected from liability.

Maddy summaryHB 5243 authorizes Connecticut to issue up to $8 million in state bonds for economic development in the greater Mystic area (Groton and Stonington). The funds will finance specific projects including dock/pier improvements, parking garage construction, shuttle boat service, and riverwalk enhancements. These projects aim to boost local economic activity and tourism infrastructure. The bonds are general state obligations, repaid through state appropriations, with funding effective July 1, 2026.

Maddy summarySB 307 creates a centralized permit system for film, television, and digital media productions seeking to use state-owned property (like parks, roads, universities, or airports). Producers must obtain a permit from the Department of Economic and Community Development, provide specific insurance coverage naming the state as additional insured, and submit detailed production plans. The bill also establishes a tax incentive program for data center developers, requiring minimum investments of $50 million in enterprise zones or $200 million elsewhere over 20 years to qualify for tax benefits. These provisions directly affect film producers and data center developers by streamlining permits and creating new investment incentives.

Maddy summarySB 306 requires Connecticut's Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection to develop a Comprehensive Energy Strategy every four years (starting October 1, 2020), which must address all state energy needs (electricity, heating, cooling, transportation), meet greenhouse gas reduction goals, and incorporate existing energy plans. The strategy must include cost assessments, public input through meetings and a 60-day comment period, and analyze natural gas expansion, efficiency goals, and rate impacts. It directly affects state agencies, utilities (via the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority's comments), and residents through potential energy cost and service changes. The bill mandates specific content and public engagement procedures but does not create new funding or impose direct costs on individuals.

Maddy summarySB 305 establishes a working group to study Connecticut's statewide tourism marketing and investment strategies, aiming to position the state as a top destination for leisure and business travelers. The group, composed of legislative leaders, state agency officials, tourism council members, and hospitality representatives, will review current efforts and make recommendations. It must submit a final report to the legislature by January 1, 2027, after which the group will terminate. This bill does not allocate funding or change existing tourism policies, but rather creates a structured review process.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a Human Trafficking Prevention Coordinator within the Office of Policy and Management to oversee state efforts to prevent human trafficking. The coordinator will work with various state agencies and law enforcement to develop prevention strategies, create a confidential database for reporting trafficking incidents, and maintain a directory of victim service providers. Additionally, the bill requires the coordinator to develop training programs for state agencies, healthcare facilities, and other organizations on identifying and responding to trafficking cases. A Trafficking in Persons Council will also be updated to include the new coordinator and representatives from multiple state departments to coordinate statewide response activities.

Maddy summarySB 132 establishes the Connecticut-Germany Trade Commission to strengthen economic ties between Connecticut and Germany. The commission, composed of 22 members including legislative leaders, trade representatives, higher education officials, and German community advocates, will promote bilateral trade, business exchanges, and investment opportunities. It must submit annual reports to the Governor and legislature starting in 2028, detailing activities and recommending policy changes to support these goals. The commission directly affects Connecticut businesses and German entities seeking to expand economic partnerships.