Committee advances proposed climate-change 'super fund' despite tax concerns

The Environment Committee voted March 4 to advance HB 5156, a bill creating a climate change super fund, after an extended debate over whether the measure effectively imposes a tax on fuels and whether fiscal review by the Finance Committee would be more appropriate.

Representative Callahan told colleagues he regards HB 5156 as a tax on fuels imposed on Connecticut residents and moved that the bill be referred to the Finance Committee. Several members, including Representative Pisco and Representative Disky, agreed it raises substantial fiscal issues and urged referral. Chair Rep. John Michael Parker said he understood the financial implications but preferred to move the bill forward now to continue debate and allow other committees to weigh in as the bill advances.

Supporters, including Representative Dylan, said the state has a responsibility to address the costs of increasingly intense storms and infrastructure damage associated with climate change. Representative Mashinsky cited August 2024 storm cleanup costs of roughly $30 million as an example of the financial consequences of severe weather.

Opponents warned the measure would increase energy costs for households and schools and expressed concern about the fairness of imposing new charges on residents. Despite the calls for referral and fiscal scrutiny, the clerk recorded a roll-call that the chair announced as sending HB 5156 to the floor (JF), with the committee noting several recorded corrections during the tally.

The committee’s action moves HB 5156 out of committee; members signaled the bill will attract additional financial review and debate as it proceeds.