CT HB05344

Authorizes the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection to issue general permits for categories of discharges, including stormwater discharges, as an alternative to individual permits.

Allows the commissioner to require qualified professional certifications for general permits, with specifications for professional qualifications, independence, inspection standards, and document retention.

Empowers the commissioner to require an individual permit for a discharge previously covered by a general permit if conditions change, the discharger is non-compliant, or better water protection is needed.

Requires qualified professionals to notify the commissioner within 15 days if they learn of information that would significantly affect their certification, and allows the commissioner to audit certifications and require independent verification at the permittee's expense.

Mandates the commissioner submit a report by January 1, 2014 on certification compliance, audit results, and recommendations for general permits to the joint standing committees on commerce and the environment.