CT HB05309

Establishes comprehensive procedures for identifying, reporting, and processing abandoned vessels in Connecticut, effective January 1, 2015.

Defines abandoned vessels as those left unattended for more than 24 hours on state waters without proper mooring, left on property without consent for 24+ hours, left at moorings 60+ days without payment, stored at commercial facilities 1+ year without payment, or improperly registered vessels found during emergencies.

Creates standing requirements for initiating abandonment procedures, limiting actions to property owners, harbormarks, municipalities, emergency responders, and licensed motor vehicle dealers or marine salvagers engaged by authorized parties.

Establishes a 45-day administrative process requiring filing a notarized notice ($20 fee) with the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection, certified notification to the vessel owner, and public posting online before the commissioner issues a notice of assumed ownership transferring vessel ownership to the party with standing.

Makes vessel abandonment a violation subject to fines of $300-$500, except when abandonment occurs during declared emergencies as a direct result of emergency conditions; waives filing fees and notarization requirements for vessels abandoned during widespread displacement emergencies.