In addition to the 2020 testimony, view the 2019 testimony here.
ABSENTEE VOTING
Submitted 07-21-2020
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Flexer, Rep. Fox, and Distinguished Members of the Government Administration and Elections Committee From: Alexander Rodriguez, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
Dear Honorable Chairs Sen. Flexer, Rep. Fox, and Distinguished Members of the Government Administration and Elections Committee,
On behalf of the CT League of Conservation Voters, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony in support of LCO No. 3576 AAC Absentee Voting at the 2020 State Election and Election Day.
At the CT League of Conservation Voters, we traditionally promote strong, equitable environmental policy to ensure protection of our natural resources and the public health of CT residents.
No one said it better than Secretary Denise Merill when she said no voter should choose between their health and their vote. The COVID-19 pandemic has further aggravated the environmental and health conditions impacting marginalized communities in Connecticut and across the nation. That is why we have joined voting rights organizations in support of the expansion of absentee voting to protect our health and strengthen our democracy.
CT League of Conservation Voters supports an amended LCO No. 3576 AAC Absentee Voting at the 2020 State Election and Election Day with the following recommendations:
Align state statute with the state constitution to ensure voting rights are secured. Future legislatures should not have to continue to come back in for special sessions to protect voting rights.
While adding a one-time COVID-19 excuse to vote absentee (ONLY) for the 2020 general election, the draft bill still restricts voting rights beyond the language of Connecticut’s state constitution. Voting by absentee ballot must be guaranteed for the November elections and onward in Connecticut.
Beyond the November general election, the draft bill would allow voters to get absentee ballots because of “such elector's or person's illness.” If we remove these four words -- “such elector's or person's” - - from the draft bill regarding absentee ballot voting, it will ensure that as long as the pandemic remains in America eligible Connecticut voters will have access to voting rights – including any possible special elections early in 2021.
We urge the Committee to support an amended LCO No. 3576 AAC Absentee Voting with the recommendations mentioned above to ensure a strong democracy and a healthy Connecticut.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Cohen and Rep. Demicco and Distinguished Members of the Environment Committee
From: Lori Brown, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV), thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of HJ 1 to adopt the Long Island Sound Blue Plan.
Long Island Sound is the Northeast’s largest estuary and includes some of the Earth’s most productive natural habitats. The Sound is important to more than 20 million people who live within 50 miles and generates billions annually for local economies through tourism, fishing and other uses.
Without the Long Island Sound Blue Plan, the state has no authority to adequately plan for multiple future uses of the Sound, whether they be recreational, industrial, or developmental. The Blue Plan incorporates the contributions of nearly 2,000 individuals from conservation, business, recreation, government, Native American tribes and the public. It is imperative that the committee pass the Long Island Sound Blue Plan in order to proactively protect Long Island Sound while preserving traditional uses, maritime beauty, and environmental values.
We at CTLCV urge the committee to SUPPORT HJ 1, and adopt the Long Island Blue Plan. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Cohen and Rep. Demicco and Distinguished Members of the Environment Committee
From: Lori Brown, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of HB 5340 to address modernization of Connecticut’s Bottle Bill.
The Bottle Bill provides incentive for consumers to recycle their beverage containers, thereby reducing litter throughout the state and keeping recyclable bottle containers out of landfills. The Bottle Bill needs to be expanded to include non-carbonated beverages such as teas, soft drinks, energy drinks, and juices. The Bottle deposit has remained the same despite inflation and increased redemption facility costs. This has led to many redemption centers closing their doors. Four years ago, there were 21 redemption centers in the state, now there are only 16. Connecticut needs to increase the bottle redemption deposit in order to keep these vital recycling facilities open and running. Increasing the redemption price to 10 cents would mean that these redemption facilities could keep up with rising operation costs and continue to provide recycling services in Connecticut. In order to ensure a prosperous Bottle Bill in Connecticut, lawmakers need to implement a specific timeline. The timeline in the bill is too far out if we want to make progress in reducing pollution. Lawmakers need to increase the handling fee to 3.5 cents by July 1, 2020. By January 1, 2021, the deposit value needs to be increased to add more containers to the system. And by July 1, 2021 lawmakers need to expand the categories of acceptable containers to include wine and liquor bottles. An expansion of the bottle redemption program is popular among state voters. According to a poll conducted in January by Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research, 81% of voters in Connecticut support expanding the state’s bottle deposit program to include all recyclable containers, including 64% of voters who strongly support the expansion. Support of the bottle Bill reflects a commitment to Connecticut voters and a step towards a greener future for the state.
Other states have already implemented updated bottle redemption programs and have seen improvements in their recycling rates. In 2017, the state of Michigan boasted a return rate of over 91% after increasing their deposit fee to 10 cents. Passing the improved Bottle Bill would put Connecticut on par with neighboring states who have already transitioned to higher redemption fees.
CTLCV urges the committee to SUPPORT HB 5340 in order to keep vital recycling facilities operating and more recyclable materials out of landfills. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill. Sincerely,
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Cohen and Rep. Demicco and Distinguished Members of the Environment Committee
From: Lori Brown, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of SB 301 to address chlorpyrifos regulation in the state of Connecticut.
Chlorpyrifos is an organophosphate – a group of chemicals originally developed as a deteriorative nerve gas during World War II. Chlorpyrifos is used regularly as a pesticide on crops and food products. In Connecticut, chlorpyrifos is routinely sprayed on gold courses with little concern to patrons and nearby residents. Despite the increased awareness surrounding the detrimental effects of such chemicals on both the environment and humans, there is still no comprehensive legislation to ban the use of these chemicals entirely.
The use of chlorpyrifos is not only concerning to the status of Connecticut’s agriculture and ecosphere, but it also poses serious risks to the health of our most vulnerable residents. It is increasingly recognized that prenatal and early childhood exposure to chlorpyrifos contributes significantly to growing rates of neurodevelopmental disorders in children and adolescents. In fact, children aged 1-2 are exposed to chlorpyrifos levels that are 140 times what the EPA deems safe.
Columbia University conducted research within urban communities that determined that prenatal exposure negatively impacted brain development in children. The exposure to such toxic chemicals negatively affected brain functions related to attention, memory, language, and decision making in young children.
Chlorpyrifos is one of the most toxic chemicals sprayed on food in the United States. The EPA has banned the use of chlorpyrifos in residential settings because it recognized the chemicals effects on infants and children. And in 2015, the EPA went further to determine that there is no safe way to use the chemical. But due to administration change this proposal was never finalized.
We urge the committee to SUPPORT SB 301 in order to restrict the use of chlorpyrifos in Connecticut. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
To: Honored Co-Chairs Sen. Needleman and Rep. Arconti and Distinguished Members of the Energy & Technology Committee
From: Emily Alexander, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of CTLCV, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of SB 10 An Act Concerning Certain Recommendations Regarding Climate Change.
This legislation is imperative to keep Connecticut on track to becoming a leader in effectively tackling the climate crisis. In 2019, Connecticut stepped up and made bold moves in clean energy procurement with 2000 Megawatts of offshore wind energy, and further moved the dial with Governor Lamont’s Executive Order 3 to secure a 100% carbon-free electric grid by 2040. SB 10 builds on these successes.
Not only does SB 10 codify into law Gov. Lamont’s Executive Order 3, the bill also addresses the need to reduce greenhousegas emissions from the transportation sector, the leading contributor of emissions in Connecticut. This bill would align Connecticut’s tailpipe emissions standards with those of California, which are the strongest in the nation.
SB 10 provides procurement authority for the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection for up to 300,000 Megawatt Hours of energy storage, demand response, and energy efficiency. Energy storage is arguably the most critical need for Connecticut to address as part of our transition to a clean energy future with increasing amounts of wind and solar power sources. And energy efficiency is clearly the easiest, most cost effective and equitable way to achieve our greenhouse gas reduction goals. The cheapest, cleanest energy is the energy we don’t use!
CTLCV would like to see this legislation go even further by committing to 100% carbon-free goals for transportation and buildings. We urge lawmakers to consider adding carbon-free goals for those sectors to more comprehensively address climate change in Connecticut. CTLCV strongly urges you to SUPPORT SB 10 and position Connecticut as a leader on clean energy in the region and the nation.
To: Honorable Co-Chairs Sen. Douglas McCrory, Rep. Robert Sanchez, and Distinguished Members of the Education Committee
From: Alex Rodriguez, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters, thank you for the opportunity to testify in SUPPORT of HB 5215 An Act Concerning the Inclusion of Climate Change Instruction in the Public School Curriculum.
In 2018, Connecticut passed Public Act 18-181, requiring the State Board of Education to encourage schools to include climate change in the Next Gen Science Standards (NGSS) curriculum. Unfortunately, many Connecticut schools still fail to teach their students about the climate crisis or its impacts. In order to equip our students with the tools and information they need to tackle the looming climate change catastrophe, we need to mandate action-oriented and creatively focused climate change education in all schools.
Climate change will be the biggest problem to face youth and families in our known history. The impacts of climate change are already resulting in floods, storms, loss of resources and the growing cost of access to energy. The health implications on low income communities, children, and vulnerable populations are terrifying. Lack of access to affordable clean water, food, and shelter from extreme elements will hit our low income and at-risk communities the hardest.
We urge you to take action toensure all Connecticut youth have equal access to climate change and energy education.This simple step is crucial to ensure all youth and families are informed about the impacts of burning fossil fuels for energy, and the implications of climate change on our daily lives, as well as introducing ways to lower energy waste, and energy costs.
We must do our part to ensure our next generation is armed with the skills and data to make wise choices. To develop a strong pipeline of skilled workers we must invest in our youth. Many low-income communities are going without access to information which could change their futures and provide access to a growing clean energy career field.
If we wish to save our planet and preserve it for future generations, climate change must be dealt with head on. According to a survey by the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication, only 58% of Americans believe climate change is caused by human activities. Nearly 30% of Americans don’t believe in climate change at all. This knowledge gap stands in sharp contrast to the broad scientific consensus. Climate change education can help close this knowledge gap and equip future generations with the tools to solve complex climate issues.
Some Connecticut towns are already demonstrating the impact climate change education has on young children. Hartford’s Environmental Sciences Magnet School (ESM) at Mary M. Hooker works to ensure that all students attain high academic achievement through theme-based instruction in a safe, responsive learning community. While ESM is focused on the theme of environmental sciences, they also have a strong STEM program. In fact, they have developed a unique e-STEAM (environmental sciences, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) program that offers discrete and integrated experiences for students. There is an emphasis to interconnect these subjects to help students solve and communicate their understanding of local and global problems and concepts.
In addition, through the Reforest the Tropics (RTT) initiative, and after a series of classes on climate change, sixth grade students at Clark Lane Middle School in Waterford voted to plant trees in Costa Rica to offset their school’s carbon dioxide emissions. Other groups of students in New London and Groton have voted to enact the same change. Overall, the RTT program has translated children’s passion for environmental stewardship into 4,000 metric tons of carbon sequestration annually. Thoughtful students like these will be front-line leaders in the fight against climate change, and we must prepare them adequately. Climate change education will equip future generations with the knowledge and skills they will need to tackle climate change and the associated impacts on humans and our environment. Taking this step is an investment in the future. We urge you to mandate climate change education in Connecticut’s curriculum and ensure equal access to the critical material.
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters, I urge you to VOTE YES on HB 5215 and support the required teaching of climate change in our schools. Thank you for your time and consideration.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Needleman and Rep. Arconti and Distinguished Members of the Energy & Technology Committee
From: Lori Brown, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of HB 5348 to study Community Choice Aggregation.
Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) programs allows local governments to procure more renewable energy while reducing ratepayer electric bills. Nationwide, CCA electric rate savings average between 2% and 20% depending on market conditions and power resources.
CCA would allow municipalities to choose their electricity provider, allowing them to purchase from cleaner, cheaper sources than the utility. Power continues to be delivered through the utility, and any ratepayer is free to opt out at any time.
CCA has the ability to make clean and renewable energy available to everyone, no matter where they live. By purchasing energy as a unit, consumers are able to power their home or business with clean energy, even if they are not necessarily able to install clean energy units in their home.
A study would determine whether or not Connecticut should consider allowing CCAs in the state. To date, nine states allow CCAs: California, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Rhode Island, and Virginia. In 2017, the CCAs in these states procured 42 million Megawatt hours of electricity on behalf of five million customers.
The completion date for the study should be before, not after the 2021 CT General Assembly session and critical stakeholders, such as municipalities, environmental organizations, CCA experts, and environmental justice groups should have a significant role in the study process.
The need for clean energy options is urgent. In order to facilitate the demand for clean energy, Connecticut needs to study the possibility of allowing CCAs in the state. We urge you to vote YES on HB 5348. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Needleman and Rep. Arconti and Distinguished Members of the Energy & Technology Committee
From: Lori Brown, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV), thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of HB 5228 to expand the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy program (C-PACE).
HB 5228 would expand the C-PACE program’s definition of “energy improvements” to include zero-emission vehicle charging infrastructure and resiliency measures. In the face of impending climate change impacts, these improvements are critical for Connecticut’s long-term success in reducing emissions.
The C-PACE program is a proven success. According to the CT Green Bank, in 2019 alone, C-PACE invested $7.2 million in clean energy choices for Connecticut’s commercial properties. Additionally, there have been more than 270 C-PACE contracts with more than $244 million in lifetime savings for commercial property owners since 2013.
Expanding the energy improvements definition to include electric vehicle charging stations and resiliency efforts would dramatically increase C-PACE contracts in Connecticut.
We at CTLCV urge the committee to SUPPORT HB 5228 to expand C-PACE to include zero-emission vehicle charging infrastructure and resiliency measures. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Needleman and Rep. Arconti and Distinguished Members of the Energy & Technology Committee
From: Lori Brown, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV), thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of HB 5226 to expand access to electric vehicle charging stations.
Most electric vehicle (EV) drivers “charge where they park,” with approximately 90% of EV charging taking place at home and work. The remaining 10% occurs at a variety of commercial locations. In order to ensure access to electric vehicles across all income levels, residents need to have the ability to charge at their home. Without home charging capabilities, the percentage of EV-owners decreases.
Electric, zero-emission vehicles reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 75% compared to traditional gasoline engines, and are necessary to combat climate change and improve public health. Pollution from traditional fossil fuel vehicles has rapidly increased asthma and other respiratory diseases in our children and elderly. Electrifying our vehicles and expanding access to electric vehicle charging stations will improve air quality and reduce health impacts.
Increasing access to charging stations to renters and condo associations ensures that electric vehicles can be widespread across the state. HB 5226 would give equitable access to charging stations to homeowners and renters alike.
We at CTLCV urge the committee to SUPPORT HB 5226 to ensure equitable access to electric vehicle charging across the state. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Needleman and Rep. Arconti and Distinguished Members of the Energy & Technology Committee
From: Lori Brown, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV), thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of SB 177 to ensure proper disclosure of energy costs.
At the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters, we are deeply committed to equitable energy options through our “Clean Energy For All” campaign, which garnered support from thousands of residents and over one hundred lawmakers in 2018. SB 177 ensures that everyone, no matter their income level, can choose an apartment where they won’t spend a majority of their income on the utility bill.
SB 177 would require that residential property owners disclose their energy costs upon request or publish an energy score in the rental/sale listing. This would be an effective step to ensure that Connecticut residents are not overburdened by unpredictable energy costs and are able to afford the places they call home.
In 2018, the Energy Information Administration found that 31% of U.S. households have trouble paying their energy bills. In Connecticut, 320,000 households have trouble paying these bills. SB 177 allows for more transparency for Connecticut residents when buying or renting a home to better plan for their energy expenses in advance.
We at CTLCV urge the committee to SUPPORT SB 177 to help avoid the burden of an over-the-top energy bill. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Needleman and Rep. Arconti and Distinguished Members of the Energy & Technology Committee
From: Lori Brown, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV), thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of SB 178 to expand energy and water efficiency standards.
SB 178 makes it easy to choose the right appliances to save water, energy, and money. Efficiency is the simplest way to save energy and end reliance on polluting fossil fuels. The more efficient your appliance is, the less energy you use and the more money you save.
SB 178 broadens the scope of appliances that are required to meet efficiency standards. The list of additional appliances will now include items such as air purifiers, air compressors, fluorescent lamps, commercial dishwashers, EV charging stations, air conditioners, showerheads, and water coolers.
SB 178 is a logical and much needed step in the right direction for Connecticut residents to make informed decisions on appliances that will help them lower their energy and water consumption and save money. We at CTLCV urge the committee to SUPPORT SB 178 to expand energy and water efficiency standards. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Cohen and Rep. Demicco and Distinguished Members of the Environment Committee
From: Alex Rodriguez, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
Thank you for the opportunity to testify IN SUPPORT of HB 5103, An Act Requiring an Evaluation of the State’s Environmental Justice Law.
Connecticut is known as a nationwide leader in the fight against climate change, however our state has not done enough to address environmental injustice. Low-income black and Latino communities in Hartford, Waterbury, New Haven, and Bridgeport are disproportionately impacted by climate change, pollution, and other environmental threats.
In 2008, Connecticut signed its first environmental justice legislation into law. Although imperfect, it was a step in the right direction. It recognized the unjust placement of “affecting facilities” (power plants, sewage treatment plants, waste incinerators, and landfills) near low-income and minority communities. These toxic sites are responsible for disproportionately high rates of asthma and other respiratory diseases among low-income residents and communities of color. The original law ensured that affecting facilities could not be placed near these communities without meaningful public participation and input.
The bill before you today, HB 5103, proposes a number of revisions to the existing law. It would strengthen the language and expand the scope of the bill in order to provide more opportunity for public participation and greater protections for environmental justice communities.
HB 5103 is necessary because environmental racism still impacts communities across our state. A study released in March 2019 by researchers at Clark University found that air pollution is disproportionately caused by white Americans' consumption of goods and services, but disproportionately inhaled by black and Hispanic Americans. The study found that, on average, Latinos inhale 63 percent more of the pollution that leads to heart and breathing deaths than they produce. For African-Americans, that figure is 56 percent.
Hartford is currently home to an aging, high-polluting trash incinerator that city residents would like to see closed. This state-run incinerator serves 70 Connecticut towns and is the county's second largest air polluter. A key piece of the solution would involve investment in multi-stream recycling and composting services. Only then can Hartford communities breathe easier.
Waterbury communities also face significant pollution threats. In 2017, F&G LLC expanded their waste hauling operations in Waterbury from 100 tons a day to 700 tons a day. This plan dramatically increased truck trips through the low-income, Hispanic communities in the South End—already one of the most polluted neighborhoods in Connecticut. Residents objected to the plan, but were overruled, despite the fact that F&G did not comply with environmental justice regulations stipulated in the 2008 law. Under state regulations, F&G and commercial entities looking to set up or expand business are required to post comprehensive notices of their intentions for industrial development. The state must do a better job of ensuring multilingual outreach to residents who may not speak English for fair inclusion of representation in these situations.
HB 5103 would expand the scope of the existing law and strengthen its language. Rather than suggesting that developers conduct public engagement activities like notifying neighborhood and environmental groups of their plans in writing, HB 5103 mandates these activities. Additionally, HB 5103 adds a new clause which automatically nullifies any application for an affecting facility if the applicant does not abide by the stated rules of public participation. This revision would have potentially stopped F&G’s application in Waterbury from being approved—and protected the vulnerable communities in the South End.
Under Connecticut’s original environmental justice law, municipalities, owners and developers are allowed to enter into a “community environmental benefit agreement” with affected communities to mitigate the adverse effects of pollution. The mitigation activities include environmental education, diesel pollution reduction, and support for open spaces. HB 5103 proposes additional activities such as the establishment of a wellness clinic, ongoing asthma screening, air monitoring performed by a licensed environmental professional, an ongoing traffic study and watercourse monitoring. Connecticut still wrestles with incidences of environmental racism and disproportionate health effects for low-income and minority communities. Strengthening the language and expanding the scope of our existing environmental justice legislation is a proactive, smart step towards achieving environmental justice. On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters, I urge you to VOTE YES ON HB 5103, and help position Connecticut as a national environmental justice leader.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Kushner and Rep. Porter and Distinguished Members of the Labor and Public Employees Committee
From: Emily Alexander, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of SB 354 to establish a Green New Deal for Connecticut.
SB 354 sets achievable targets for 100% clean and renewable electricity, transportation, and buildings. The bill sets emissions reduction targets to comply with our greenhouse gas reduction goals, ensuring accountability and follow through.
The Green New Deal establishes a Just Transition Office to assist workers and employers in the transition to a clean energy economy. In order to ensure that jobs are gained, not lost during this economic transition, the Office will conduct a study on growth areas and sector specific impacts, identify unmet training needs, and may establish workforce development, retraining and apprenticeship programs, including programs in and for environmental justice communities. The bill will require prevailing wage and project labor agreements in solicitations related to achieving zero-carbon electricity, transportation and buildings.
Additionally, SB 354 addresses environmental equity by establishing and convening an Environmental Equity Working Group to identify disadvantaged communities for clean energy investments. The bill requires 40% of the benefits of new policies be achieved in identified communities, and 40% of energy efficiency funds be spent serving low and moderate income residences. SB 354 would remove barriers that prevent low-income residents from accessing energy efficiency programs by making efficiency programs “fuel blind” and removing paperwork barriers.
It is time for Connecticut to get serious about climate change and commit to a Green New Deal. CTLCV urges the committee to SUPPORT SB 354. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
Sincerely,
Emily Alexander Energy & Climate Policy Assistant CTLCV
To: Honored Co-Chairs Sen. Cohen and Rep. Demicco and Distinguished Members of the Environment Committee
From: Lori Brown, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of CTLCV, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of SB 294 to prohibit the sale of ivory and rhinoceros horn in the state.
Elephant and rhinoceros poaching is a brutal practice in which tusks and horns are harvested off the faces of sometimes still-living animals. This violence is not only directed towards animals as the ivory industry has claimed the lives of over 1,000 park rangers across the globe. The international ivory trade has been linked to both organized crime and terrorist organizations.
Despite federal laws restricting wildlife trafficking, ivory and other illicit products continue to be smuggled into local and state markets. Therefore, we must have state laws to compliment federal laws and close loopholes.
In 2016, federal authorities inspected more than 183,000 shipments of wildlife products. Despite these efforts, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services believe a significant amount of elephant ivory continues to be illegally imported. They also noted that federal law does not regulate commercial activities that occur entirely within a state. SB 294 would close intrastate loopholes and make law enforcement’s job easier by complimenting federal action.
New York and New Jersey have passed laws to this effect, and Connecticut must join them in passing a state ban to stop ivory traffickers. As neighboring states take measures to combat wildlife trafficking, products like ivory inevitably move to states with weaker laws and regulations.
It is important to note that SB 294 would NOT criminalize possession of ivory currently owned by Connecticut residents nor prohibit inheritance or noncommercial gifts. It would also not restrict the sale of genuine antiques or musical instruments that meet specific requirements. It would simply make it harder for criminals to move illicit ivory through our state, and therefore we urge you to vote YES on SB 294. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
From: Lori Brown, Executive Director, CT League of Conservation Voters
Please accept these comments IN OPPOSITION to the proposed bulk discount rates. Residents in all the MDC towns are right to be extremely upset by the new water rate proposal. It is a huge injustice to provide discounts that are designed to apply to only one super-user of our state’s publicly-owned waters while residents’ rates go up.
The Niagara plastic water bottlers will get a 20% water rate discount PLUS a 75% Clean Water Project Charge discount. This could be as much as a $2.3 million dollar giveaway to an already highly profitable corporate operation.
No one else qualifies. Meanwhile resident rates climb by 13.5%
MDC HAS A POOR BUSINESS MODEL THAT FLIES IN THE FACE OF WATER CONSERVATION EFFORTS IN THE STATE:
These are not “Economic Development” rates. They only apply to Niagara.
Corporate subsidies aimed at plastic water bottlers should not be the centerpiece of MDC’s plan to raise money. The state of CT is trying to get away from this failed practice and it certainly does not do any good for ratepayers in this situation.
MDC is wasting our money by trying to increase water sales. The model should be based on conservation and charge HIGHER rates for super users.
Discounts to encourage more consumption of water would not lower our rates. Niagara would need to build an additional pipeline and run it at full capacity ---- lines that WE ultimately pay for.
Exempting Niagara from the Clean Water Project charge ignores the huge investment ratepayers make to keep our public waters clean.
MDC does not take into account a changing climate and the likelihood of drought. Abundance now is no guarantee for the future and is no reason to waste what we have.
Plastic water bottling is the wrong use of our precious water resources. It is also counter to our state’s waste reduction efforts to sell our local municipal water in order to be packaged in plastic bottles that leach chemicals, pollute our air, land and water, and immediately become our trash problem.
BOTTOM LINE: MDC’s independent decisions on water management are failing us. MDC should have their rates overseen by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) just like the private utilities. This would go a long way to treating our water as the public trust resource that it is, not just a corporate asset by MDC.
If the MDC continues to put profits before people, this will have to be fixed by the state Legislature. Lawmakers created the MDC, and we will call on them to put additional oversight on MDCs pricing policies.
Sincerely,
Lori Brown Executive Director CTLCV
ADDITIONAL BACKGROUND: The 20% water discount is bad enough, but where the real money is – and what the MDC avoids talking about – is the 75% Clean Water Project (CWP) discount for Niagara. After the recent 13.5% increase in the water rate, residents and businesses with both MDC water and sewer service pay a combined charge of $8.07 per ccf (100 cubic feet) of water used, but Niagara would pay only $4.20 per ccf for usage over 600,000 gallons per day. Niagara would get about a 50% discount for usage over 600,000 gallons per day. It’s unfair. Niagara already has 3 bottling lines. Their production exceeded the threshold requirement for these discounts 6 times in 2019 - without having the discounts. If their 2020 production matches that of 2019, giving Niagara discounts just means the MDC giving away $116,000 in revenue. If Niagara were to expand to 4 bottling lines the value of both water and Clean Water Project discounts could be as much as a $2.3 million annual corporate giveaway. Water bottling is already a very profitable business and requires no corporate subsidy.
With its 3 bottling lines, Niagara can produce 7.8 Million single-use plastic bottles daily, enough to fill three 2-story houses. While the rest of the world moves away from bottled water with its plastic pollution, mega-bottlers are the centerpiece of the MDC’s plan to attract new manufacturing. This is not the sustainable economy of the future we want for CT.
To: Honored Co-Chairs Sen. Cohen and Rep. Demicco and Distinguished Members of the Environment Committee
From: Lori Brown, Executive Director, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of CTLCV, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of HB 5341 to protect certain marine mammals.
Dolphins, porpoises, and whales are vital animals in our marine ecosystem. Without these keystone species, entire food webs and ecosystems can be thrown off, impacting every corner of the world.
After the public outcry surrounding the documentary, Blackfish, which broadcasted the abusive realities for many Orca whales in captivity, similar laws have been passed nationwide in support of these marine mammals. Connecticut must join the ongoing effort to keep these animals protected from abuse.
Connecticut has already shown commitment to the welfare of these species by including protections in the 2019 offshore wind legislation, now PA 19-71. We can now show leadership by continuing our support for these critical species with additional protective measures.
We urge you to vote YES on HB 5341 to ensure the ethical treatment of certain aquatic mammals in the state. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
To: Honored Co-Chairs Sen. Needleman and Rep. Arconti and Distinguished Members of the Energy & Technology Committee
From: Lori Brown, Executive Director, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of CTLCV, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of HB 5350 AN ACT CONCERNING NATURAL GAS INFRASTRUCTURE
The fossil fuel industry is pushing hard to build new gas fired power plants and gas pipelines throughout the nation, including here in Connecticut. If they succeed, we will be locked into dirty fuel for many years to come, making it harder to reduce our state’s greenhouse gas emissions and reach our clean energy goals.
We urge members of the Energy and Technology Committee to take new pipelines out of the picture by passing HB 5350. This bill would remove the authority of utilities to impose a tax on ratepayers for the purpose of building NEW pipelines. Passage of the bill also addresses the need for utilities to repair existing pipelines that continue to leak methane gas, the most damaging of all greenhouse gas emissions. Currently, the cost of lost methane fuel is merely passed on to the customer and so there is no incentive to make the needed repairs.
Connecticut must double down on its investment in renewable energy like wind and solar and not force ratepayers to invest in dirty fuels like fracked gas—which is bad for our health, our environment and pocketbooks.
To quote DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes, “Gas is not a bridge fuel, it is a fossil fuel.” It is time make good on our state’s commitments to reduce our carbon emissions. Removing the option to invest in new fossil fuel infrastructure sends a powerful signal that Connecticut is serious about tackling climate change and by extension encouraging investment in clean power sources. It is time to repeal Connecticut’s gas infrastructure tax.
CTLCV strongly urges you to vote for the environment and the ratepayers of Connecticut and send this bill to the House and Senate for consideration.
To: Honored Co-Chairs Sen. Cohen and Rep. Demicco and Distinguished Members of the Environment Committee
From: Lori Brown, Executive Director, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of CTLCV, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of HB 5344 to restrict offshore drilling of oil and gas in Connecticut.
Connecticut’s coastlines are an invaluable resource for the state and its residents, and must be protected from further degradation. Offshore drilling is one of the most extractive, energy intensive and environmentally-destructive industries in the nation. Offshore drilling sacrifices our ecosystem and increasingly endangered wildlife for the sole benefit of the fossil fuel industry—an industry that has no interest in our state’s environmental values and aggressively seeks to undermine our efforts to achieve Connecticut’s clean energy goals.
Connecticut has already begun the transition towards clean energy and has proven to be a leader with the 2019 offshore wind procurement legislation, PA 19-71. It’s time to simultaneously limit the growth of dirty fossil fuel industries that degrade our environment and endanger our public health. Our clean energy commitments will not make a difference in mitigating climate impacts if we continue to pollute in other areas. We cannot let offshore drilling stand in the way of a growing clean energy economy and we certainly don’t need to tolerate the risk of an oil spill disaster off our shores.
Long Island Sound is a key resource for Connecticut and the region. The Sound provides a robust economy through recreation, industry, and natural aesthetic. A ban on offshore drilling is critical to preserving the environmental and cultural aspects of the Sound.
We urge you to vote YES on HB 5344 to restrict the expansion of fossil fuels in the state. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Cohen and Rep. Demicco and Distinguished Members of the Environment Committee
From: Lori Brown, Executive Director, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN OPPOSITION of HB 5456 to exempt senior citizens, disabled veterans, and certain vehicle owners from the Passport to the Parks motor vehicle registration fee.
Connecticut’s state parks support thousands of jobs and a thriving outdoor recreation industry that generates over $1 billion in revenue annually. The Passport to Parks fee allows free access to clean, well-maintained parks to Connecticut residents. In past year, when Connecticut did not fund the Passport to Parks program, campgrounds and parks had to be closed.
More than 50% of revenue from the Passport to Parks program would be lost if we exempted these user groups. That is unacceptable. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Park and Recreation Administration showed that people who get outside and enjoy nature are happier and healthier. It is vital to our residents wellbeing and future prosperity.
In addition, the Passport to Parks works! According to a UConn economic study, 10 million people visited state parks in 2019, with 10% increases in attendance in both 2018 and 2019. In addition, our state parks support 9,000 private sector jobs. We cannot afford to lose these jobs.
We at CTLCV urge the committee to OPPOSE any exemptions to the Passport to the Parks fee. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
To: Honored Co-Chairs Sen. Cohen and Rep. Demicco and Distinguished Members of the Environment Committee
From: Lori Brown, Executive Director, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of CTLCV, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of SB 292 to expand the state’s pesticide tracking system.
The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) currently uses an outdated paper filing system for applicator certifications, which makes it impossible to get real-time updates and access to accurate information about pesticide use in our state.
It is increasingly acknowledged that pesticides and chemicals pose significant health threats to humans and wildlife. Yet, they are poorly monitored or regulated as the types and classes of these toxic chemical continue to increase. To protect public health we need to ensure complete, easily accessible documentation of these toxic chemicals.
SB 292 is a start, but we recommend the committee include additional steps. According to a 2017 report by the CT Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), enforcement and inspections for pesticide use in our state have fallen to a 15-year low. This is unacceptable. We must drastically reform our pesticide tracking system and ensure that DEEP has the resources to maintain it.
Last year, HB 5999 An Act Concerning Pesticide Regulation was voted out of the Environment Committee as well as the Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee without any adjustments. HB 5999 would have dedicated certain funds specifically for use by the pesticide program as well as establish a “Pesticide Enforcement Account” to support inspection and enforcement activities.
SB 292 should include the CEQ recommendations that failed to make it over the finish line in 2019. This legislation needs to create a dedicated pesticide program fund, establish an electronic filing system, reinstate the environmental monitoring program, and close online purchasing loopholes for restricted-use pesticides. If taken, these steps will ensure protection for our most vulnerable residents and wildlife.
It is time for Connecticut to put public health before chemical industry interests. CTLCV urges the committee to SUPPORT SB 292. Thank you for your consideration.
To: Honored Co-Chairs Sen. Abrams and Rep. Steinberg and Distinguished Members of the Public Health Committee
From: Lori Brown, Executive Director, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of CTLCV, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony in support of HB 5288, AAC PERFLUOROALKYL AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—more commonly referred to as PFAS—are toxic chemicals found in an alarming number of everyday products, including Class B Firefighting Foam.
The horrific Bradley Airport plane crash in October 2019 used 25,000 gallons of Class B firefighting foam, which spilled PFAS chemicals into the Farmington River. The presence of these PFAs in firefighting foam poses serious risks to health and wildlife. Because the foam itself cannot be contained to a designated area once dispensed, the PFAs present in firefighting foam seep into and contaminate the surrounding environment. This chemical contamination is concerning not only to the natural environment, but also to the health and wellness of residents statewide.
PFAS have become a significant contaminant in our drinking water because of their continued use in firefighting foam and similar everyday materials. In 2015, a Harvard University determined the drinking water in 6 million households in America were contaminated with PFAS at levels exceeding federally recommendations. Additionally, PFAS chemicals have been found in 97% of human blood samples. This cannot stand.
Bill HB 5288 would prohibit the use of PFAs in firefighting foam and mandate that these chemicals not be used by any individual or government entity. This is crucial to discontinue the use of these harmful chemicals in our everyday safety products.
HB 5288 would also implement a plan to test our water supplies and bottled water for toxic PFA substances. The vital process would uphold a key health standard for all of Connecticut state residents and ensure that our water supplies are free from these harmful chemicals.
CTLCV strongly urges you to vote YES on Bill 5288 concerning the use of PFAs. This bill is crucial in protecting the natural environment and residents' health and safety throughout Connecticut.
On behalf of CTLCV, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony in response to HB 5291, AA LIMITING THE USE OF PERFLUOROALKYL AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES AND EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE IN FOOD PACKAGING.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—more commonly referred to as PFAS—are toxic chemicals found in an alarming number of everyday products. Many of these PFAs have also been found in plastic-based food packaging, and these chemicals pose a serious risk to consumers.
The extended use of chemicals such as Perfluoroalkyl, Polyfluoroalkyl, and Polystyrene in our everyday products is a serious threat to our health and wellness. These chemicals have been linked to serious health complications such as testicular and kidney cancer, liver damage, hormone disruption, increases in cholesterol, thyroid disruption, asthma, reproductive disorders including infertility, low birth weight and decreased response to vaccines.
As it stands, HB 5291 would call for an examination of 18 reasonable alternatives for PFAs in plastic packages. This bill needs to be amended to remove the expectations for the Department of Public Health to provide alternatives to expanded polystyrene food packaging. Alternatives already exist. Extra steps for the Department of Public Health to identify those alternatives is costly and unnecessary.
There is no safe use of PFAs in our household products. HB 5291 needs to mandate the removal of PFAs from plastic packaging immediately in order to protect the safety of consumers statewide.
Thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony in response to HB 5291.
To: Honored Co-Chairs Sen. Cohen and Rep. Demicco and Distinguished Members of the Environment Committee
From: Lori Brown, Executive Director, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of CTLCV, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of SB 297 to restrict the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
According to the Center for Disease Control, PFAS are strongly linked to testicular and kidney cancer, liver damage, hormone disruption, increases in cholesterol, thyroid disruption, asthma, reproductive disorders including infertility, low birth weight, and decreased response to vaccines. Despite these dangers, PFAS continues to be used in class B firefighting foam, nonstick cookware, water-repellent clothing, stain resistant fabrics and carpets, some cosmetics, products that resist grease, water and oil, food packaging and food service ware.
There are more than 4,700 PFAS in use today, and their prevalence has caused pollution at 1,398 sites in 49 states, including Connecticut. PFAS have been found in the tap water of millions of homes across the United States. Furthermore, the United States Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry (ATSDR) found that PFAS were more harmful than previously thought and that supposed “safe levels” were 10 times less than previously thought.
Additionally, PFAS are called “Forever Chemicals” because do not break down easily and remain in the environment and the human body for years. PFAS can leak out of landfills or industrial sites, endangering entire populations. As PFAS build up in the environment, future generations risk exposure at higher levels than today.
Furthermore, it is extremely difficult to effectively clean up spills or get it out of our water resources. It is time for Connecticut to stop contamination at the source and prohibit the use of PFAS in class B firefighting foam. CTLCV urges you to SUPPORT SB 297. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Cohen and Rep. Demicco and Distinguished Members of the Environment Committee
From: Lori Brown, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of SB 299 to restrict distribution of plastic straws.
SB 299 would prohibit full-service restaurant owners from automatically providing plastic straws to patrons. This bill is one step in further reducing plastic waste in the state and providing a cleaner future for Connecticut residents.
Plastic straws and other forms of plastic waste take up space in our landfills and litter our public spaces. Plastic debris travels through our waterways and finds itself in our streams, rivers, and oceans. This debris poses a direct threat to wildlife, who have been known to ingest small plastic bits, and can suffer from toxins released during the slow breakdown of plastic materials. Effectively limiting our consumption of unnecessary plastic materials is crucial to ensure a prosperous future for our open spaces and wildlife.
SB 299 mandates that if certain individuals need straws due to physical and mental disabilities, they would be able to request plastic straws from the restaurant management. Likewise, SB 299 would not apply to non-plastic straw options such as paper, metal, corn, and bamboo straws, as these alternative straws pose a cleaner, safer option to plastic.
Connecticut must join states like Hawaii and California in limiting the use of plastic straws and other single-use plastics in order to protect our biosphere and natural wildlife. Commitment to bills like SB 299 is crucial in shaping a future free from unnecessary plastic waste.
This bill would eliminate unnecessary waste from our daily routines and provide the foundation for a more comprehensive environmental zero-waste project. We urge you to vote YES on SB 299. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Cohen and Rep. Demicco and Distinguished Members of the Environment Committee
From: Lori Brown, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV), thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of SB 99 to restrict the use and distribution of polystyrene products across the state.
Single-use expanded polystyrene containers fill up our landfills, endanger our wildlife and are easily replaced by biodegradable alternatives. Polystyrene waste accounts for approximately 30% of landfill space in the US. Once thrown away, these containers sit in landfills for hundreds of years. Polystyrene that does not end up in landfills often litter and pollute our waterways, urban areas and parks.
Polystyrene has proven to be a headache for recycling centers. Unlike plastic bottles that are generally clean when disposed of, polystyrene is often contaminated with food waste, and in many cases cannot be reused or recycled. Due to these challenges, there is not a single recycling center which accepts polystyrene trays and containers of any kind in Connecticut. This means new polystyrene containers must be continually manufactured. Furthermore, polystyrene is made from petroleum—a dirty fossil fuel—and production involves significant greenhouse gas emissions.
As polystyrene eventually degrades, it often breaks into small pieces, posing a hazard to wildlife. Animals that ingest polystyrene can suffer significant internal damage, and may even starve if they swallow a large enough amount, as the material cannot be digested.
Styrene and benzene, chemicals found in polystyrene trays and containers, have been identified as possible carcinogens by the Department of Health and Human Services. These chemicals can leak from trays when exposed to heat, potentially harming children. Even a small degree of risk is unwarranted, particularly when safer alternatives exist.
There are numerous biodegradable alternatives to polystyrene. Outside of reusable containers and reduced consumption, a litany of ecologically friendly options exist to replace polystyrene containers and tray. Starch, bamboo, and other biodegradable materials can fill the void left by banning harmful polystyrene materials.
SB 99 would mandate that public school districts, institutes of higher education, and charter schools discontinue the use of polystyrene trays. This would ensure that students are not exposed to the harmful chemicals found in polystyrene products, and would force schools to find biodegradable, cleaner alternative food trays. Here in Connecticut, school districts such as Hamden and Guilford have already adopted bans on polystyrene products, citing both health and environmental concerns. SB 99 would ensure that all school districts in Connecticut be held to this same standard of student safety and environmental responsibility.
In recent years, large companies like IKEA and Dell have transitioned from polystyrene packaging to more sustainable, biodegradable options. In addition, dozens of cities across the country have successfully adopted bans on polystyrene. In San Francisco, independent studies observed a 41% decrease in polystyrene litter in the first three years of the ban.
It is important to note that cities that have implemented polystyrene container bans have not suffered negative economic impacts. A study of Seattle’s ban found that no store or vendor went out of business due to the ban. Additionally, SB 99 provides DEEP with the opportunity to create a hardship waiver, which would temporarily exempt certain businesses with a “demonstrated financial hardship” from the ban until they are able to transition away from polystyrene containers. Other municipalities, like Portland, Oregon, implemented this type of hardship waiver to great success.
It is time for Connecticut to join the growing wave of cities and communities saying no to polystyrene. We at CTLCV urge the committee to SUPPORT SB 99. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Needleman and Rep. Arconti and Distinguished Members of the Energy and Technology Committee
From: Lori Brown, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV), thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony concerning Tropical Storm Isaias Response and Electric Utility Rate Increases.
For too long, Connecticut’s electric grid has been in the hands of fossil fuel interests instead of ratepayers. If we really want to “Take Back the Grid” we need to de-monopolize our utilities and ensure that the interests of other stakeholders are heard. CT must demand that policies and investments of our public utilities align with our state’s climate goals.
Fortunately, legislation was being considered by the Energy and Technology Committee before the Covid 19 shutdown that would greatly benefit the “Take Back the Grid” initiative. CTLCV strongly endorses the following provisions as part of this effort:
Expand energy storage. The only way we can increase renewable energy procurement, including offshore wind, solar, hydropower etc. is to expand storage. Without it we will lack the necessary infrastructure to expand renewable energy to meet our goals.
Expand the Residential Solar Investment Program (RSIP) to provide more economical solar options to homeowners and lower the burden on the grid.
Keep solar net-metering until 2022. This will allow PURA to focus on other grid modification efforts instead of a rushed and unnecessary net-metering successor program.
Clarify the property tax exemption for solar and storage. Without this clarification, towns will continue to improperly assess property taxes on residential solar which will hurt the solar market.
Repeal the Pipeline Tax. Connecticut should require legislative approval for all new gas infrastructure to protect consumers from costly, polluting, and unnecessary fossil fuel infrastructure.
We can’t allow our utilities to continue to invest in dirty, polluting fossil fuels. We need to put the “public” back in public utilities and ensure that the utility works for the ratepayers, not the other way around. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this legislation.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Needleman and Rep. Arconti and Distinguished Members of the Energy and Technology Committee
From: Lori Brown, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV), thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony on LCO 3920 An Act Concerning Emergency Response by Electric Distribution Companies and Revising the Regulation of Other Public Utilities.
For too long, Connecticut’s electric grid has been in the hands of fossil fuel interests instead of ratepayers. If we really want to “Take Back the Grid” we need to de-monopolize our utilities and ensure that the interests of other stakeholders are heard. CT must demand that policies and investments of our public utilities align with our state’s climate goals.
We are in strong support of Section 19, calling for a review of the ISO-New England wholesale market. This provision is incredibly important to realizing ratepayer interests and keeping in concert with CT’s policy goals and environmental protection efforts. If CT wants to invest in renewable energy and cut out fossil fuels, we must get out of ISO-New England.
Fortunately, legislation was being considered by the Energy and Technology Committee before the COVID-19 shutdown that would greatly benefit the “Take Back the Grid” initiative. CTLCV strongly endorses the following provisions as part of this effort:
Expand energy storage. The only way we can increase renewable energy procurement, including offshore wind, solar, hydropower etc. is to expand storage. Without it we will lack the necessary infrastructure to expand renewable energy to meet our goals.
Expand the Residential Solar Investment Program (RSIP) to provide more economical solar options to homeowners and lower the burden on the grid.
Keep solar net-metering until 2022. This will allow PURA to focus on other grid modification efforts instead of a rushed and unnecessary net-metering successor program.
Clarify the property tax exemption for solar and storage. Without this clarification, towns will continue to improperly assess property taxes on residential solar which will hurt the solar market.
Repeal the Pipeline Tax. Connecticut should require legislative approval for all new gas infrastructure to protect consumers from costly, polluting, and unnecessary fossil fuel infrastructure.
We can’t allow our utilities to continue to invest in dirty, polluting fossil fuels. We need to put the “public” back in public utilities and ensure that the utility works for the ratepayers, not the other way around. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this legislation.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Cassano and Rep. McCarthy Vahey and Distinguished Members of the Planning and Development Committee
From: Lori Brown, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of HB 5300 to restrict the use of tire rubber on playgrounds across the state.
We cannot ignore the threat rubber mulch poses to our children. A growing body of research indicates the presence of carcinogens and harmful toxins in this recycled rubber mulch. According to the EPA, tire mulch contains benzene, mercury, arsenic, heavy metals, and carcinogens like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Children can come into contact with these toxins through ingestion, prolonged touch, and even inhalation, as studies have found many of the chemicals become airborne at 77ºF. The EPA affirms that breathing air contaminated with PAHs may increase the risks of cancer. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry states that PAHs may also increase the chances of birth defects.
Because of these potential health risks, the EPA in collaboration with the Center for Disease Control has commissioned an in-depth study on the effects of rubber mulch. However, Connecticut must take steps NOW to preemptively protect our children, and not wait for another study. The smart, safe choice is to enact a moratorium on new rubber mulch playgrounds until the report is released.
The municipalities of Westport and Hartford have banned artificial turf, which utilizes crumb rubber, a material closely linked to rubber mulch. They understood the potential risks — and took steps to protect their residents. All of Connecticut should follow suit.
CTLCV urges the committee to SUPPORT HB 5300 to restrict the use of tire rubber on municipal and public school playgrounds. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
To: Honorable Commerce Committee Co-Chairs Sen. Hartley and Rep. Simmons Honorable Environment Committee Co-Chairs Sen. Cohen and Rep. Demicco Distinguished Members of the Commerce and Environment Committees
From: Lori Brown, Executive Director, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of CTLCV, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony in response to SB 281 and SB 293. Please note that CTLCV has signed on to testimony submitted by Connecticut Fund for the Environment/Save the Sound. However, we would like to further emphasize the critical need for DEEP resources to ensure LEP oversight, sufficient audits and actual cleanups. Our chief concern is that changes to the current law must actually increase the number of sites remediated.
1) The proposed release-based system must be well structured to efficiently conduct MORE cleanups. 2) DEEP must be provided with additional resources to implement the program with genuine oversight to ensure it is working.
We do not believe an effective transition or adequate audit program can be conducted with existing DEEP staff. If the legislature and administration are serious about making this program the best it can be for business and the environment, now is the time to seriously invest resources into DEEP to make that happen. Thank you for considering these comments as you deliberate these bills.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Leone and Rep. Lemar and Distinguished Members of the Transportation Committee
From: Emily Alexander, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV), thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT OF CHANGES to LCO #373 to address concerns of Connecticut’s transportation infrastructure.
We are pleased to see that each transportation project will include considerations relating to the environment, traffic congestion, transit-oriented development, access to employment, and more. As we work to ensure that our infrastructure is in a good state for years to come, we also need to consider the impact our current infrastructure is having on our environment and our most vulnerable communities.
Connecticut’s transportation sector contributes 38% of our total greenhouse gas emissions. Investments in active transportation, public transportation, and electric vehicle infrastructure are critical to meet our greenhouse gas reduction goals cited in the Global Warming Solutions Act, and to mitigate climate-related issues facing Connecticut.
In addition, the membership of the Transportation Policy Council should include a representative from the land-use and environmental advocacy community, public health community, and active transportation community. These voices in the room will be critical to ensuring a focus on reducing emissions.
We urge the committee to make these changes and SUPPORT LCO #373. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
Sincerely,
Emily Alexander Energy & Climate Policy Assistant CTLCV
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Cohen and Rep. Demicco and Distinguished Members of the Environment Committee
From: Megan Macomber, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters, thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of SB 419 to address vegetation management by the Department of Transportation and HB 5454 to establish a taskforce to study the Department of Transportation’s Vegetation Management Program.
Connecticut has a long history of protecting its diverse array of plant and animal species, yet every year, the Department of Transportation commissions large scale tree cutting projects along state highways. These trees provide habitats for birds and wildlife and sequester carbon from the air along highways where emissions are especially high.
According to the Center for Biological Diversity, the earth is currently experiencing its 6th mass extinction, with as many as 1 million species at risk of going extinct in coming decades. Connecticut, alone, has 23 species of animals and 133 species of plants listed as endangered and at risk of going extinct.
Habitat loss is the primary driver of extinction worldwide, and our public land should be a role model of thoughtful stewardship. Preserving trees not only protects habitat for our state’s plants and animals, but also contributes to climate change mitigation efforts, enhances property values, reduces erosion, and improves air quality. Therefore, any tree removal project should be subject to thorough review prior to implementation.
CTLCV urges the committee to SUPPORT SB 419 and HB 5454 in order to better protect plant and animal species and their habitats in Connecticut. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
To: Honored Chairs Sen. Cohen and Rep. Demicco and Distinguished Members of the Environment Committee
From: Lori Brown, Connecticut League of Conservation Voters
On behalf of the Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV), thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony IN SUPPORT of HB 5104 to prohibit the import, sale and possession of African Elephants, Lions, Leopards, Black Rhinoceros, White Rhinoceros, and Giraffes.
Poaching has decimated the population of African elephants, lions, leopards, black rhinoceros, white rhinoceros, and giraffes. These animals are critical to maintaining the ecological biodiversity of their regions.
While poaching has been made illegal in many African countries, many Westerners indulge in survivalist fantasies by participating in legal trophy hunting missions to kill endangered species and take home trophy hides. While many trophy hunters claim the money they spend goes towards local conservation efforts, a study found that only 3% of trophy hunting revenue is used for conservation related activities. Trophy hunting also enables illegal poaching by creating a legal market for poachers to sell their goods. Since South Africa began allowing trophy hunting in 2004, poaching has increased by over 5000%.
The majority of lions killed for sport can be attributed to American tourists. From 2005-2015, Connecticut residents killed thirty-nine lions and one giraffe, then proceeded to import their trophies. Additional permits were obtained by Connecticut residents to hunt and kill African elephants in Botswana, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. Not only does this relationship reflect an abuse of these animals, but it has also contributed to instability and economic dependency in many of these regions. Illegal poaching is also a major source of funding for criminal organizations and terrorist groups.
The United States currently has no protections in place for giraffes and insufficient protection in place for African elephants, lions, leopards and rhinoceros. Connecticut must step up and do its part to protect delicate ecosystems, thwart illegal poachers, stabilize local economies, and cut off funding to terrorist and criminal groups.
We at CTLCV urge the committee to SUPPORT HB 5104, and pass a statewide ban on the import, sale and possession of the “Big Six African species”. Thank you for your consideration as you deliberate on this bill.
