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Committee sends limited leaf‑blower ban for state agencies to floor after broad debate
Summary
The committee voted to advance HB 6263 in its current substitute form, which requires state agencies to buy electric small‑equipment when gas units reach end of life (2027) and encourages electric use in state contracts by 2029; lawmakers debated noise, emissions, costs and impacts on contractors and farmers.
The Environment Committee moved House Bill 6263 to the floor after an extended debate about noise, air emissions, costs and the scope of any restriction on gas‑powered handheld and backpack leaf blowers.
Under the substitute language now before the legislature, the requirement applies only to state agencies: starting in 2027 state agencies must replace gas handheld or backpack blowers and similar small landscaping equipment with electric alternatives when the existing equipment reaches the end of its useful life. The language further envisions that state contracts and bidding practices in 2029 will favor—or specify—electric equipment for subcontractors working on state properties.
Senator Lopes, reading the substitute language, said, “this current JFS language, to be very clear, does not affect the ... resident of Connecticut. It only pertains to state agencies, and that's it.” Supporters said the measure would let the state “lead by example” and accelerate market adoption. Representative Steinberg cited prior successful lead‑by‑example state programs and private landscaping firms that have shifted to battery equipment.
Opponents warned the requirement could raise costs for contractors and have unintended consequences. Representative Callahan said backpack blowers can be “4 times more expensive” and noted battery packs can cost more than $1,000. Representative Dabitski and others urged recognition of technical differences between 2‑stroke and 4‑stroke engines and said 4‑stroke models produce far fewer emissions than 2‑stroke machines.
Municipal actions were discussed: Westport and Greenwich were cited as towns that have limited gas leaf blower use locally. Lawmakers also debated whether a state‑level start for agencies would inevitably become broader regulation; members acknowledged some legislators favor more expansive bans in future sessions.
After debate the committee recorded a roll call and moved HB 6263 JFS to the floor. Members said the substitute language is a beginning of a broader conversation and that additional technical and procurement questions should be addressed as the bill advances.
