CT HB06444

Clarifies the definition of "major disaster" to include events determined by either the President under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act or by the Governor requiring a civil preparedness emergency declaration.

Revises the definition of "emergency" to allow either the Governor or the President to determine when state or federal assistance is needed to supplement efforts and protect lives, property, and public health.

Changes terminology throughout the statute from "civil preparedness director" to "emergency management director" for consistency in local emergency management roles.

Amends Section 28-9d to clarify that the Governor can make financial grants for "major disaster"-related expenses when a disaster is declared by the President, with state participation capped at 25 percent of assistance costs.

Updates property tax relief provisions to allow municipalities to offer tax abatement or exemptions for nonsalaried emergency management directors and volunteers in firefighting, emergency medical services, and civil preparedness roles.