BREAKING: Siting Council Bill Signed Into Law!

June 11, 2024


 
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Dear Neighbor,

I have wonderful breaking news that I just couldn't wait until Friday to share with you all: Governor Lamont just signed HB 5507, the Siting Council reform bill, into law!

As you know, over the past few months, United Illuminating had a transmission line proposal that would cut through the center of our district in Fairfield as well as Bridgeport, taking 19.5 acres of private and municipal property along the way.

Residents and ratepayers have been united in their opposition to this intrusive, destructive, and opaque plan, and have raised valid and specific concerns throughout the process. Nevertheless, the Siting Council has pushed the project forward, despite the concerns and the impacts this plan will have on residents.

We have unfortunately learned first hand the flaws and shortcomings of the Siting Council process. With the signing of HB 5507 into law, Connecticut has taken bold action to reform the Siting Council.

Some of these reforms include:

  • Improve public notice to the municipality and abutters
  • Municipalities will have automatic intervenor status
  • The applicants will need to submit more robust and transparent financial analysis for their proposal and also for alternatives
  • Make independent experts available to the Siting Council when evaluating applications
  • Allow municipalities to recoup their legal fees if they win their appeal
  • Enforce penalties on utilities for failing to meet the requirements
I cannot emphasize enough how much of a group effort this has been, and how inspired I am every day by the engaged residents of our district who continue to show up and represent our interests and the interests of our neighboring community. Thank you for your continued partnership - I could not have done this work without you.

These reforms to the Siting Council will help ensure the decisions they make regarding our utilities, electric transmission infrastructure, and transmission lines are more informed, comprehensive, transparent, and thoughtful. All communities deserve this. 
 
I'm committed to ensuring your voice is heard. Please don't hesitate to call my office at (860) 240-8585 or email me if there's anything I can do for you. Be sure to follow @LeeperForFairfield on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on everything I'm doing at the Capitol.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Leeper
State Representative
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