CT HB06505

Repeals and replaces Section 26-141b of the general statutes to extend the deadline for the Commissioner of Environmental Protection to adopt stream flow regulations from December 31, 2006 to October 31, 2011.

Expands scope of regulations to include groundwater in addition to river and stream systems throughout Connecticut.

Requires regulations to be based on best available science including aquatic habitat data, stream gages, flow data, dam locations, and withdrawal data from registered and permitted diversions.

Allows for special conditions and exemptions for extreme economic hardship, agricultural diversions, federal energy licensing requirements, and public water system obligations.

Preserves existing flow regulations adopted prior to October 1, 2005 until the Commissioner adopts new regulations under this amended section.