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Members debate local representation on Siting Council as committee advances bill
Summary
The committee advanced SB 144 on local representation to the Connecticut Siting Council after members debated prior governor vetoes, potential access to privileged information, and options such as a Council of Governments seat to address concerns.
The Environment Committee voted March 4 to send SB 144, which would provide local representation on the Connecticut Siting Council, to the floor after members discussed concerns about privileged information and prior vetoes.
Representative Demo noted Governor Lamont had vetoed a nearly identical bill in a prior session and cited the governor’s veto message warning that the change could allow municipalities to participate from both sides and access sensitive materials. Demo questioned whether the committee had addressed the governor’s ex parte/privilege concerns.
Supporters said the subject merits continued work and suggested compromises, such as giving a seat to a Council of Governments (COG) designee or an expert in municipal management, to balance local input with protections for privileged information. Representative Dette said she is supportive of the concept as a possible work-in-progress and noted overlapping cognizance matters across committees.
After discussion, the clerk called the roll and the committee recorded votes that the chair announced as sending SB 144 to the floor (JF). Members said the bill may be refined further as it advances through other committees and the floor process.
