CT SB00455

Establishes the Connecticut Sports and Marketing Corporation as a nonprofit body to promote, attract, retain and market amateur, collegiate, semiprofessional and professional sports and sporting events in Connecticut.

Creates a self-perpetuating board of directors with up to 21 members including representatives from universities, sports venues, professional sports organizations, amateur sports associations, and state business organizations, plus ex-officio state officials.

Grants the corporation powers to develop bylaws, establish membership dues, manage sponsorships and fundraising, maintain a statewide inventory of sporting events, establish a nonprofit foundation, and raise funds from private sources.

Requires the corporation to submit annual reports to the Governor and General Assembly by January 1 of each year summarizing the budget, activities, and economic impact of sports and sporting events in Connecticut.

Prohibits distribution of net earnings to private individuals or directors and restricts the corporation from engaging in political campaigns or substantial lobbying activities; all assets upon dissolution must go to charitable, educational, religious or scientific organizations.