Month: June 2025

Sen. Cohen Votes to Support Connecticut Farmers

Posted on by Devin James

Sen. Cohen Votes to Support Connecticut Farmers

HARTFORD – On Monday, State Senator Christine Cohen voted to pass expansive legislation that provides income and property tax credits for farmers, establishes a crop loss reimbursement grant program, permits use of drone for precision agriculture and more. Certain provisions legislation comes in large part from the advocacy of local farmers William DellaCamera of Cecarelli Farms in Northford and Keith Bishop of Bishop’s Orchards in Guilford.

William DellaCamera made headlines in 2024 when a hail storm decimated his crops and ability to make a living. Demanding federal assistance for his farm and farmers across the country, Willie drove his tractor to Washington D.C. to advocate for a $220 million federal block grant to support small and medium farms like his, as well as $21 billion to cover agriculture losses caused by natural disasters.

The block grant funding was approved in December of 2024 and included $23 million for Connecticut farms; the funding has yet to reach farmers.

With the status of federal support unknown and extreme weather events happening more frequently due to climate change, Connecticut legislators passed comprehensive legislation that includes a state-backed safety net for farmers facing crop losses due to extreme weather.

The legislation also:

-Provides a 20% income tax credit for farmers investing in machinery, buildings or equipment, supporting farmers struggling with costs and inflation

-Increases the local property tax exemption on farm machinery to $250,000, an increase from $100,000, with another $250,000 in savings if municipalities opt in; municipalities can also exempt up to $500,000 of farm buildings supporting barns, greenhouses and storage facilities

-Establishes a state-backed crop loss reimbursement grant program will help support farmers who face crop losses after extreme weather events, following increased flooding seen in recent years

-Provides civil liability protections for farms engaged in agritourism, like pick-your-own fruit

-Creates a Manure Management Grant Program, ensuring farms can better comply with environmental standards while protecting soil and water quality

-Permits the use of drones for precision application of fertilizers and pesticides

-Encourages schools and food pantries are to use container farming

“Farmers are the backbone of our nation and are already subject to so much volatility from the weather, to insects, to cold snaps and more, yet they remain adaptable, they persevere and they keep us fed,” said State Senator Christine Cohen. “I am so pleased to see this legislation passed, as it is a message to our farmers: We have your backs. I am grateful to Willie Dellacamera and Keith Bishop for their tireless advocacy and look forward to continuing to work together and ensuring Connecticut remains a strong partner to our local farmers.”

“After experiencing a devastating hailstorm during the 2024 growing season, I saw firsthand how vulnerable farmers are to extreme weather. Senator Christine Cohen not only listened, but took real action—helping to advance SB 1497 to support disaster recovery for farmers. This session, she has continued to stand up for agriculture, supporting key legislation on tax relief for farmers, the responsible use of drones in agriculture, and critical agritainment insurance measures. Her commitment to Connecticut’s farming community is unwavering, and I’m grateful for her leadership and genuine support,” said William DellaCamera, Northford Farmer

“This ‘CT Farm Sustainability Bill,’ with Senator Cohen and Representative Candelora as 2 of 11 co-sponsors, is the most comprehensive and supportive piece of agricultural legislation to emerge from the Connecticut legislature in decades,” says Keith Bishop, 5th generation farmer and President of Bishop’s Orchards in Guilford, CT. “It recognizes and addresses the critical needs of our farms, ensuring their long-term viability. Crucially, it incentivizes farm businesses to reinvest in our Connecticut farms for the long term through various avenues. This will directly support jobs, bolster our local food supply, promote agritourism, and contribute to the preservation of agricultural land and buildings.”

Senate to Pass Balanced Budget That Lowers Costs, Invests in Child Care and Public Schools

Posted on by Devin James

Senate to Pass Balanced Budget That Lowers Costs, Invests in Child Care and Public Schools

Connecticut Senate Democrats were expected to pass a balanced, $55.8 billion dollar budget Tuesday that has no new taxes, reduces costs, maintains fiscal responsibility, and makes transformative investments in child care and public education.

The Senate’s expected passage of the bill follows a Monday vote in the House of Represenatives and will send the budget to Gov. Ned Lamont for his signature.

The biennium plan falls under the spending cap in both years and maintains fiscal responsibility, resulting in a balanced budget, even as Congressional Republicans abandon budgetary discipline and endorse Donald Trump’s deficit-ballooning plan to cut taxes for the rich.

“While Republicans push a gimmick-laden budget that undercuts support for working families to fund windfalls for the ultra-wealthy, Connecticut Democrats have passed a responsible, balanced budget that does the opposite,” Senate President Martin Looney and Majority Leader Bob Duff. “We pay down debt instead of exploding it. We expand access to child care instead of slashing Head Start. We deliver record education aid to towns instead of dismantling the Department of Education. And we provide tax relief to lower-income working families — not billionaires. The contrast could not be more stark. Democrats are delivering for working people with smart, responsible investments. Republicans are on track to bankrupt the nation with heartless budget cuts to benefit those whose wealth is already unfathomable.”

 

Tax Relief for Struggling Families vs Handouts for the Rich

The Democratic budget creates a $250 tax refund for hundreds of thousands of lower-income workers with children through the Earned Income Tax Credit program. Meanwhile, Congressional Republicans have pushed through a budget that raises costs for Americans who can least afford it.

 

State Surplus vs National Debt

Connecticut Democrats’ budget will result in state surpluses and a flush Rainy Day Fund as the Republicans advance an irresponsible budget that relies on a historic increase in the national debt, totalling $3.8 trillion in additional federal deficit by 2034, according to the Congressional Budget Office.

 

Funding Schools vs Dismantling Education Department

The state budget includes $2.4 billion in Education Cost Sharing grants — historic funding levels of state education aid to towns that comes as Republicans try to claw back education grants and work to abolish the Department of Education. Connecticut Democrats also included an additional $40 million in each year of the budget to help towns cover the cost of special education services.

 

Expanding Child Care vs Closing Head Start

Connecticut’s budget will result in state surpluses, which will be used to support Senate Bill 1, a landmark expansion of child care, benefiting families across the state. Meanwhile, Republicans have shuttered Head Start offices around the nation and fired their staff.

 

Protecting Health Care vs Gutting Medicaid

The state budget fully funds Medicaid, including more than $400 million in increased funding to shore up the program on which 900,000 Connecticut residents rely, while Republicans attempt to cut hundreds of billions from the social safety net program, which supports Connecticut children, seniors, and persons with disabilities.

 

Funding Foodshare vs Cutting SNAP

Connecticut’s two-year budget plan invests $7 million in Foodshare, a nonprofit that helps to feed hungry families, while Republicans passed legislation cutting billions from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a food assistance program that more than 390,000 Connecticut families rely on.

 

Preserving Heating Assistance vs Eliminating LIHEAP

Republicans have proposed legislation to defund the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, a longstanding federal initiative that helps about 100,000 Connecticut families heat their homes during the winter. Democrats included an additional $3 million in the state budget to help the families Republicans deliberately left out in the cold.

SENATOR ANWAR VOTES FOR RATEPAYERS FIRST ACT TO CUT NEARLY $800 MILLION IN CONSUMER ELECTRIC CHARGES IN NEXT THREE YEARS

Posted on by Devin James

SENATOR ANWAR VOTES FOR RATEPAYERS FIRST ACT TO CUT NEARLY $800 MILLION IN CONSUMER ELECTRIC CHARGES IN NEXT THREE YEARS

Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) voted to advance the Ratepayers First Act, detailed, intensive energy legislation that seeks to enact short- and long-term improvements to consumer electric bills, delivering long-sought savings that can provide financial relief to residents. In its short-term focus, the legislation will cut consumer electric costs by nearly $800 million in the next three years by shifting charges and changing current investments while improving long-term review and reforms to increase consumer protections to control future fluctuations in energy costs.

Amid Connecticut’s energy costs, which have sparked controversy in recent years due to fluctuations in the state’s power grid, record-high summer temperatures, global pressures including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the state’s reliance on a volatile natural gas market causing sharp changes in electric bills, this bill is hoped to save electric ratepayers hundreds of millions in coming years. It is also designed to recommit state utilities to transparency and accessibility, review the state’s energy policies thoroughly and work toward reforms supporting consumers and the long-term reliability of the electric grid.

The bill passed the Senate 34-1 with one abstention and now heads to the House.

“For years, my constituents have contacted me with concerns about their energy bills. I’m proud that my colleagues and I are taking action today,” said Sen. Anwar. “I’m glad this bill isn’t limited to short-term fixes and is starting the work to enact long-term change. Hundreds of millions of dollars of cost-cutting represents a real difference for people. I’m excited to see this legislation pass the House and become law.”

Senate Bill 4 takes a variety of steps including cost savings with short- and long-term achievement goals and review and improvement to current policies.

Short-Term Cost Savings
The bill authorizes $250 million in general obligation bonds in the next two years to support hardship payment recovery, intended to reduce consumer debt accumulated due to hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic and the spike that all ratepayers incurred as a result of the invasion of Ukraine. Shifting that debt to bonding will enable direct savings for consumers.

It authorizes another $50 million in general obligation bonds in the next two years to support state electric vehicle charging programs, while also placing limitations on that program to further rein in costs.

The bill also lowers required percentages of electric power generation through renewable resources through 2030 to save customers money without sacrificing long-term investment on environmental friendliness. Lowering this percentage can represent $75 million in cost savings by omitting generating resources like landfill gas, biomass and some aspects of fuel cells.

By updating definitions used for rate reduction bonds, the state’s bonding process can support certain storm repair recovery costs, representing savings of just over $100 million.

Long-Term Cost Savings

In a long-term approach to energy efficiency, Senate Bill 4 also updates rate reduction bonds to support additional means such as smart meters. Smart metering being covered via bonding allows state utilities to pursue investment of up to $1 billion in future upgrades without those costs being applied to consumer electric bills, especially important as those investments would be recoverable if enacted by distribution companies.

A new provision adjusts the state’s energy procurement strategies, with electric purchasing direction focused on lowering costs, keeping customers’ delivery stable and electric companies being required to purchase some energy themselves based on market prices, delivering savings by protecting against a volatile energy market.

The bill also seeks to improve state collaboration with the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, allowing it to select third-party entities to implement clean or renewable energy programs, expanding the market in which it can operate for maximum efficiency. PURA will also evaluate time-varying electric rates to incentivize improved efficiency, seeing if such a model works in Connecticut.

Additionally, PURA will study renewable tariffs and the state’s low-income discount rate program for means of savings, with further study of time-varying rates and grid-enhancement technologies seeking further improvements.

Reviewing And Improving Current Practices

Under this legislation, the Office of Consumer Counsel will prepare an explanatory report about public benefits charges for consumers, while electric distribution companies will work alongside it to design an education and engagement program aimed toward the public.

The low-income discount rate program will also undergo review at the end of a three-year period starting July 1, 2025 when its new form is enacted for the first time for Eversource and United Illuminating customers.

Senate Bill 4 also protects lineworkers, who perform important tasks to keep the grid operational, and addresses direct concerns they raised with legislators. Lineworkers will be made part of an emergency service restoration planning committee that delineates training, safety and health measures, and electric distribution companies will be prohibited from requiring crews to work in unsafe conditions.

Among additional elements of the bill, there is a review of possibilities for new nuclear capabilities in the state and a reduction of required use of renewable energy in some instances, specifically where renewable sources are more costly than efficient for state needs.

Senator Hochadel Votes for Ratepayers First Act to Provide Electric Bill Relief

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Hochadel Votes for Ratepayers First Act to Provide Electric Bill Relief

Senator Jan Hochadel, D-Meriden, voted Monday to advance the Ratepayers First Act, energy legislation that will deliver long-sought financial relief to residents. The legislation will cut consumer electric costs by nearly $800 million in the next three years, increase consumer protections, and control future fluctuations in energy costs.

Connecticut’s energy costs have sparked controversy in recent years due to fluctuations in the state’s power grid, record-high summer temperatures, global pressures including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the state’s reliance on a volatile natural gas market.

The Ratepayers First Act aims to provide relief by saving electric ratepayers hundreds of millions in coming years. It is also designed to recommit state utilities to transparency and accessibility, review the state’s energy policies and work toward reforms supporting consumers and the long-term reliability of the electric grid.

“Too many people I’ve spoken with are struggling to keep up with utility bills that climb higher each year without fail,” Senator Hochadel said. “This bill responds to the concerns of working people and begins to shift the system back in their favor. That means fairer rates, more accountability, and the transparency consumers deserve from their utility providers.”

Senate Bill 4 takes a variety of steps including cost savings with short- and long-term achievement goals and reviews of current policies.

Short-Term Cost Savings

The bill authorizes $250 million in general obligation bonds in the next two years to support hardship payment recovery, intended to reduce consumer debt accumulated due to hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic and the spike that all ratepayers incurred as a result of the invasion of Ukraine. Shifting that debt to bonding will enable direct savings for consumers.

It authorizes another $50 million in general obligation bonds in the next two years to support state electric vehicle charging programs, while also placing limitations on that program to further rein in costs.

The bill also lowers required percentages of electric power generation through renewable resources through 2030 to save customers money without sacrificing long-term investment on environmental goals. Lowering this percentage can represent $75 million in cost savings by omitting generating resources like landfill gas, biomass and some aspects of fuel cells.

By updating definitions used for rate reduction bonds, the state’s bonding process can support certain storm repair recovery costs, representing savings of just over $100 million.

Long-Term Cost Savings

In a long-term approach to energy efficiency, Senate Bill 4 also updates rate reduction bonds to support additional initiatives such as smart meters. Covering smart metering via bonding allows state utilities to pursue investment of up to $1 billion in future upgrades without applying those costs to consumer electric bills.

A new provision adjusts the state’s energy procurement strategies, with electric purchasing direction focused on lowering costs, keeping customers’ delivery stable and electric companies being required to purchase some energy themselves based on market prices, delivering savings by protecting against a volatile energy market.

The bill also seeks to improve state collaboration with the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, allowing it to select third-party entities to implement clean or renewable energy programs, expanding the market in which it can operate for maximum efficiency. PURA will also evaluate time-varying electric rates to incentivize improved efficiency, seeing if such a model works in Connecticut.

Additionally, PURA will study renewable tariffs and the state’s low-income discount rate program for means of savings, with further study of time-varying rates and grid-enhancement technologies seeking further improvements.

Reviewing and Improving Current Practices

Under this legislation, the Office of Consumer Counsel will prepare an explanatory report about public benefits charges for consumers, while electric distribution companies will work alongside it to design an education and engagement program aimed toward the public.

The low-income discount rate program will also undergo review at the end of a three-year period starting July 1, 2025 when its new form is enacted for the first time for Eversource and United Illuminating customers.

Senate Bill 4 also protects lineworkers, who perform important tasks to keep the grid operational, and addresses direct concerns they raised with legislators. Lineworkers will be made part of an emergency service restoration planning committee that delineates training, safety and health measures, and electric distribution companies will be prohibited from requiring crews to work in unsafe conditions.
Among additional elements of the bill, there is a review of possibilities for new nuclear capabilities in the state and a reduction of required use of renewable energy in some instances, specifically where renewable sources are more costly than efficient for state needs.

Sen. Slap Leads Final Passage of Bill to Increase Oversight in CSCU Systems

Posted on by Devin James

Sen. Slap Leads Final Passage of Bill to Increase Oversight in CSCU Systems

HARTFORD – Today, State Senator Derek Slap, co-chair of the Higher Education and Employment Advancement Committee, led final passage of legislation that increases fiscal transparency and accountability in our state higher education systems.

This bill requires the Board of Regents for Higher Education (BOR) and UConn Board of Trustees to adopt or update their management and fiscal accountability policies surrounding:

-Use of purchasing cards and state vehicles

-Residency requirements for certain executive positions

-Training on business functions and compliance practices

The legislation requires the BOR to appoint a compliance officer to conduct regular audits and report its findings back to the BOR. The bill also specifies that constituent units of higher education, as currently required of budgeted agencies and quasi-public agencies, must submit expense information for inclusion on the comptroller’s online database of expenditures. This includes data related to contracts, grants, payroll, and pensions.

This bill is a result of an investigation done by the Office of the State Comptroller (OSC) that found questionable spending patterns and controls, mishandled reporting and a general lack of training and accountability surrounding spending in the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system.

“Connecticut students and taxpayers deserve accountability and the assurance that every dollar allocated to these systems is being spent to support the mission of higher education,” said Sen. Slap. “This bill will ensure resources go toward students and enhancing their education. We must continue to invest in higher education and the passage of this bill will help us do that by restoring public trust.”

Senator Honig Votes for Ratepayers First Act to Reduce Electric Bills

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Honig Votes for Ratepayers First Act to Reduce Electric Bills

Senator Paul Honig, D-Harwinton, voted Monday to advance the Ratepayers First Act, energy legislation that will deliver long-sought financial relief to residents. The legislation will cut consumer electric costs by nearly $800 million in the next three years, increase consumer protections, and control future fluctuations in energy costs.

Connecticut’s energy costs have sparked controversy in recent years due to fluctuations in the state’s power grid, record-high summer temperatures, global pressures including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the state’s reliance on a volatile natural gas market.

The Ratepayers First Act aims to provide relief by saving electric ratepayers hundreds of millions in coming years. It is also designed to recommit state utilities to transparency and accessibility, review the state’s energy policies and work toward reforms supporting consumers and the long-term reliability of the electric grid.

“I’ve heard from constituents across my district who have struggled to keep up with rising electric bills, and this legislation responds directly to those concerns,” Senator Honig said. “The Ratepayers First Act delivers real savings in the short term while putting us on a smarter, more stable path forward. It’s a practical, balanced solution that prioritizes ratepayers while investing in long-term reliability and reform.”

Senate Bill 4 takes a variety of steps including cost savings with short- and long-term achievement goals and reviews of current policies.

 

Short-Term Cost Savings

The bill authorizes $250 million in general obligation bonds in the next two years to support hardship payment recovery, intended to reduce consumer debt accumulated due to hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic and the spike that all ratepayers incurred as a result of the invasion of Ukraine. Shifting that debt to bonding will enable direct savings for consumers.

It authorizes another $50 million in general obligation bonds in the next two years to support state electric vehicle charging programs, while also placing limitations on that program to further rein in costs.

The bill also lowers required percentages of electric power generation through renewable resources through 2030 to save customers money without sacrificing long-term investment on environmental goals. Lowering this percentage can represent $75 million in cost savings by omitting generating resources like landfill gas, biomass and some aspects of fuel cells.

By updating definitions used for rate reduction bonds, the state’s bonding process can support certain storm repair recovery costs, representing savings of just over $100 million.

 

Long-Term Cost Savings

In a long-term approach to energy efficiency, Senate Bill 4 also updates rate reduction bonds to support additional initiatives such as smart meters. Covering smart metering via bonding allows state utilities to pursue investment of up to $1 billion in future upgrades without applying those costs to consumer electric bills.

A new provision adjusts the state’s energy procurement strategies, with electric purchasing direction focused on lowering costs, keeping customers’ delivery stable and electric companies being required to purchase some energy themselves based on market prices, delivering savings by protecting against a volatile energy market.

The bill also seeks to improve state collaboration with the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, allowing it to select third-party entities to implement clean or renewable energy programs, expanding the market in which it can operate for maximum efficiency. PURA will also evaluate time-varying electric rates to incentivize improved efficiency, seeing if such a model works in Connecticut.

Additionally, PURA will study renewable tariffs and the state’s low-income discount rate program for means of savings, with further study of time-varying rates and grid-enhancement technologies seeking further improvements.

Reviewing And Improving Current Practices

 

Under this legislation, the Office of Consumer Counsel will prepare an explanatory report about public benefits charges for consumers, while electric distribution companies will work alongside it to design an education and engagement program aimed toward the public.

The low-income discount rate program will also undergo review at the end of a three-year period starting July 1, 2025 when its new form is enacted for the first time for Eversource and United Illuminating customers.

Senate Bill 4 also protects lineworkers, who perform important tasks to keep the grid operational, and addresses direct concerns they raised with legislators. Lineworkers will be made part of an emergency service restoration planning committee that delineates training, safety and health measures, and electric distribution companies will be prohibited from requiring crews to work in unsafe conditions.

Among additional elements of the bill, there is a review of possibilities for new nuclear capabilities in the state and a reduction of required use of renewable energy in some instances, specifically where renewable sources are more costly than efficient for state needs.

Senator Maroney Votes in Support of Ratepayers First Act

Posted on by Devin James

Senator Maroney Votes in Support of Ratepayers First Act

Today, the State Senate advanced the Ratepayers First Act, detailed, intensive energy legislation that seeks to enact short- and long-term improvements to consumer electric bills, delivering long-sought savings that can provide financial relief to residents. In its short-term focus, the legislation will cut consumer electric costs by nearly $800 million in the next three years by shifting charges and changing current investments while improving long-term review and reforms to increase consumer protections to control future fluctuations in energy costs.

Amid Connecticut’s energy costs, which have sparked controversy in recent years due to fluctuations in the state’s power grid, record-high summer temperatures, global pressures including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the state’s reliance on a volatile natural gas market causing sharp changes in electric bills, this bill is hoped to save electric ratepayers hundreds of millions in coming years. It is also designed to recommit state utilities to transparency and accessibility, review the state’s energy policies thoroughly and work toward reforms supporting consumers and the long-term reliability of the electric grid.

“This legislation delivers real, measurable relief to Connecticut families and businesses who have struggled under the weight of volatile energy costs,” said Sen. Maroney. “By making smart, forward-looking reforms while delivering nearly $800 million in short-term savings, the Ratepayers First Act puts consumers first. It reflects a thoughtful, bipartisan approach to tackling one of the most pressing issues facing our state and ensures we’re building a more reliable, affordable energy future for everyone.”

Senate Bill 4 takes a variety of steps including cost savings with short- and long-term achievement goals and review and improvement to current policies.

Short-Term Cost Savings
The bill authorizes $250 million in general obligation bonds in the next two years to support hardship payment recovery, intended to reduce consumer debt accumulated due to hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic and the spike that all ratepayers incurred as a result of the invasion of Ukraine. Shifting that debt to bonding will enable direct savings for consumers.

It authorizes another $50 million in general obligation bonds in the next two years to support state electric vehicle charging programs, while also placing limitations on that program to further rein in costs.

The bill also lowers required percentages of electric power generation through renewable resources through 2030 to save customers money without sacrificing long-term investment on environmental friendliness. Lowering this percentage can represent $75 million in cost savings by omitting generating resources like landfill gas, biomass and some aspects of fuel cells.

By updating definitions used for rate reduction bonds, the state’s bonding process can support certain storm repair recovery costs, representing savings of just over $100 million.

Long-Term Cost Savings
In a long-term approach to energy efficiency, Senate Bill 4 also updates rate reduction bonds to support additional means such as smart meters. Smart metering being covered via bonding allows state utilities to pursue investment of up to $1 billion in future upgrades without those costs being applied to consumer electric bills, especially important as those investments would be recoverable if enacted by distribution companies.

A new provision adjusts the state’s energy procurement strategies, with electric purchasing direction focused on lowering costs, keeping customers’ delivery stable and electric companies being required to purchase some energy themselves based on market prices, delivering savings by protecting against a volatile energy market.

The bill also seeks to improve state collaboration with the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, allowing it to select third-party entities to implement clean or renewable energy programs, expanding the market in which it can operate for maximum efficiency. PURA will also evaluate time-varying electric rates to incentivize improved efficiency, seeing if such a model works in Connecticut.

Additionally, PURA will study renewable tariffs and the state’s low-income discount rate program for means of savings, with further study of time-varying rates and grid-enhancement technologies seeking further improvements.

Reviewing And Improving Current Practices
Under this legislation, the Office of Consumer Counsel will prepare an explanatory report about public benefits charges for consumers, while electric distribution companies will work alongside it to design an education and engagement program aimed toward the public.

The low-income discount rate program will also undergo review at the end of a three-year period starting July 1, 2025 when its new form is enacted for the first time for Eversource and United Illuminating customers.

Senate Bill 4 also protects lineworkers, who perform important tasks to keep the grid operational, and addresses direct concerns they raised with legislators. Lineworkers will be made part of an emergency service restoration planning committee that delineates training, safety and health measures, and electric distribution companies will be prohibited from requiring crews to work in unsafe conditions.

Among additional elements of the bill, there is a review of possibilities for new nuclear capabilities in the state and a reduction of required use of renewable energy in some instances, specifically where renewable sources are more costly than efficient for state needs.

SENATE ADVANCES RATEPAYERS FIRST ACT CUTTING NEARLY $800 MILLION IN CONSUMER ELECTRIC CHARGES IN NEXT THREE YEARS

Posted on by Devin James

SENATE ADVANCES RATEPAYERS FIRST ACT CUTTING NEARLY $800 MILLION IN CONSUMER ELECTRIC CHARGES IN NEXT THREE YEARS

Today, the State Senate advanced the Ratepayers First Act, detailed, intensive energy legislation that seeks to enact short- and long-term improvements to consumer electric bills, delivering long-sought savings that can provide financial relief to residents. In its short-term focus, the legislation will cut consumer electric costs by nearly $800 million in the next three years by shifting charges and changing current investments while improving long-term review and reforms to increase consumer protections to control future fluctuations in energy costs.

Amid Connecticut’s energy costs, which have sparked controversy in recent years due to fluctuations in the state’s power grid, record-high summer temperatures, global pressures including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the state’s reliance on a volatile natural gas market causing sharp changes in electric bills, this bill is hoped to save electric ratepayers hundreds of millions in coming years. It is also designed to recommit state utilities to transparency and accessibility, review the state’s energy policies thoroughly and work toward reforms supporting consumers and the long-term reliability of the electric grid.

“The people of Connecticut demand and deserve relief on their energy bills. Today, we’re giving that to them. This is a Senate Democrats bill, but it’s a true bipartisan piece of legislation borne out of a desire to fix this problem,” said State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex), Senate Chair of the Energy and Technology Committee. “This is an extremely detailed and thorough piece of legislation looking at our energy present and our energy future with equal levels of importance. It will achieve hundreds of millions in cost savings for consumers while ensuring a better long-term environment for our state to achieve its power generation and sourcing goals. After months of intensive work, I’m proud of our results and know they will represent relieved pressure on many.”

“Senate Bill 4 listens to the people of Connecticut and makes a concerted effort to find reductions and savings for electric ratepayers,” said Senate President Martin M. Looney (D-New Haven). “I applaud the efforts of my colleagues to identify hundreds of millions of dollars in efficiency and cost improvements that will add to recently lowered rates and relieve the state’s ratepayers. It’s similarly important for the bill to protect state lineworkers from dangerous working environments, engage with studies of future strategies to achieve further electric rate efficiencies and delve into long-term investments to shore up the safety and security of our grid.”

“The people of Connecticut deserve a better power grid, and Senate Bill 4 works to deliver that,” said Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk). “We can invest state resources in a more efficient manner to achieve stronger long-term return while shifting costs to deliver short-term gain, all without losing sight of making sure people understand how the grid’s changes impact them. I’m encouraged to see this collaboration between so many stakeholders and grateful that we’re finding real benefits to support our communities.”

Senate Bill 4 takes a variety of steps including cost savings with short- and long-term achievement goals and review and improvement to current policies. The bill passed the Senate by a 34-1 margin with one recusal and now heads to the House.

 

Short-Term Cost Savings
The bill authorizes $250 million in general obligation bonds in the next two years to support hardship payment recovery, intended to reduce consumer debt accumulated due to hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic and the spike that all ratepayers incurred as a result of the invasion of Ukraine. Shifting that debt to bonding will enable direct savings for consumers.

It authorizes another $50 million in general obligation bonds in the next two years to support state electric vehicle charging programs, while also placing limitations on that program to further rein in costs.

The bill also lowers required percentages of electric power generation through renewable resources through 2030 to save customers money without sacrificing long-term investment on environmental friendliness. Lowering this percentage can represent $75 million in cost savings by omitting generating resources like landfill gas, biomass and some aspects of fuel cells.

By updating definitions used for rate reduction bonds, the state’s bonding process can support certain storm repair recovery costs, representing savings of just over $100 million.

Long-Term Cost Savings
In a long-term approach to energy efficiency, Senate Bill 4 also updates rate reduction bonds to support additional means such as smart meters. Smart metering being covered via bonding allows state utilities to pursue investment of up to $1 billion in future upgrades without those costs being applied to consumer electric bills, especially important as those investments would be recoverable if enacted by distribution companies.

A new provision adjusts the state’s energy procurement strategies, with electric purchasing direction focused on lowering costs, keeping customers’ delivery stable and electric companies being required to purchase some energy themselves based on market prices, delivering savings by protecting against a volatile energy market.

The bill also seeks to improve state collaboration with the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority, allowing it to select third-party entities to implement clean or renewable energy programs, expanding the market in which it can operate for maximum efficiency. PURA will also evaluate time-varying electric rates to incentivize improved efficiency, seeing if such a model works in Connecticut.

Additionally, PURA will study renewable tariffs and the state’s low-income discount rate program for means of savings, with further study of time-varying rates and grid-enhancement technologies seeking further improvements.
Reviewing And Improving Current Practices

Under this legislation, the Office of Consumer Counsel will prepare an explanatory report about public benefits charges for consumers, while electric distribution companies will work alongside it to design an education and engagement program aimed toward the public.

The low-income discount rate program will also undergo review at the end of a three-year period starting July 1, 2025 when its new form is enacted for the first time for Eversource and United Illuminating customers.

Senate Bill 4 also protects lineworkers, who perform important tasks to keep the grid operational, and addresses direct concerns they raised with legislators. Lineworkers will be made part of an emergency service restoration planning committee that delineates training, safety and health measures, and electric distribution companies will be prohibited from requiring crews to work in unsafe conditions.

Among additional elements of the bill, there is a review of possibilities for new nuclear capabilities in the state and a reduction of required use of renewable energy in some instances, specifically where renewable sources are more costly than efficient for state needs.

Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Leads Passage of Bill to Protect Survivors of Sexual Assault

Posted on by Devin James

Sen. Gadkar-Wilcox Leads Passage of Bill to Protect Survivors of Sexual Assault

HARTFORD – Today, State Senator Sujata Gadkar-Wilcox, Senate Chair of the Government Oversight Committee, led final passage of legislation that expands and strengthens confidentiality protections for the locations of transitional housing for survivors of domestic violence or sexual assault.

Current law does not prohibit public agencies from disclosing any information indicating the location of a survivor of domestic violence’s transitional housing or shelter, regardless of Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). HB 6883 explicitly prohibits such a disclosure, and expands the protections to include survivors of sexual assault.

The bill also explicitly allows, regardless of FOIA’s requirements, portions of public agency meetings to be held in a private executive session if they would reveal the location of a shelter or transitional housing for domestic violence or sexual assault survivors.

“Having worked previously for a domestic violence legal service organization, I can tell you that for those who are able to leave an abusive relationship or press charges against their attacker, it takes incredible courage,” said Sen. Gadkar Wilcox. “Unfortunately, the subsequent weeks, months or even years after leaving your abuser are the most dangerous times for survivors. Keeping their locations confidential is a critical aspect of protecting survivors and keeping them safe, and I am proud to see this bill through to final passage.”

The legislation passed the House unanimously and passed the Senate 35-0. It now heads to the Governor’s desk for signing.

SENATOR ANWAR VOTES TO SUPPORT FARMERS WITH TAX RELIEF, GRANT PROGRAM

Posted on by Devin James

SENATOR ANWAR VOTES TO SUPPORT FARMERS WITH TAX RELIEF, GRANT PROGRAM

Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) voted to represent and support the many farmers he represents by joining the Senate to vote in support of Senate Bill 1497. This legislation will deliver a number of improvements and supports for agriculture around the state including stronger tax incentives, expanded tax exemptions and a reimbursement program, among other updates.

“Numerous farms in the 3rd Senate District represent decades if not centuries of hard work, family legacy and honor, and steadfast determination to support the community and the state,” said Sen. Anwar. “Increasing challenges standing in their way, from extreme weather to rising costs, require action. I’m proud that we’re acting to provide them with financial relief and important support that will bolster their resources and help them continue to operate for decades to come.”

Senate Bill 1497, “An Act Concerning Programming At The Department Of Agriculture,” takes the following steps to support farming in Connecticut:

-It provides a 20% income tax credit for farmers investing in machinery, buildings or equipment, supporting farmers struggling with costs and inflation

-It increases the local property tax exemption on farm machinery to $250,000, an increase from $100,000, with another $250,000 in savings if municipalities opt in; municipalities can also exempt up to $500,000 of farm buildings supporting barns, greenhouses and storage facilities

-A new state-backed crop loss reimbursement grant program will help support farmers who face crop losses after extreme weather events, following increased flooding seen in recent years

-Farms engaged in agritourism, like pick-your-own fruit or seasonal festivals, will receive civil liability protection

-Farms can better comply with environmental standards while protecting soil and water quality through a manure management grant program

-Drones can be used for precision application of fertilizers and pesticides

Schools and food pantries are encouraged to use container farming, supporting urbanized areas