CT HB05408

Expands the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority's review of electric distribution companies' tree trimming policies to include analysis of spending since the last rate case, system interruption data caused by falling trees, benefits and costs of expanding trim areas, and state vegetation management standards.

Requires utilities to provide written notice to property owners at least 15 business days before pruning or removing trees in utility protection zones (8 feet from electrical conductors), with options for owners to consent, object, or request modifications to proposed work.

Establishes a mediation process for resolving objections to vegetation management activities after the authority issues a final decision in the relevant docket, with appeals to the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority if mediation fails.

Requires utilities to obtain permits from tree wardens or the Commissioner of Transportation before conducting vegetation management on public roads or grounds, except for hazardous trees or trees in direct contact with energized electrical conductors.

Mandates that utilities operate an electronic mail account to receive objections, modification requests, inquiries, and complaints related to tree trimming activities, and allows utilities to recover reasonable incremental costs through federally mandated congestion charges.