CT HB05575

Establishes the Connecticut Port Authority as a quasi-public agency effective July 1, 2016, with a seven-member board of directors appointed by the Governor with legislative advice and consent, including three ex-officio members from state agencies.

Grants the authority power to coordinate port development, pursue federal and state funding for infrastructure improvements, market Connecticut ports to the shipping industry, and manage state pier property and port operations.

Creates an Office of Maritime Development within the Department of Economic and Community Development to oversee transition of maritime functions to the Connecticut Port Authority and develop plans for eliminating the Connecticut Maritime Commission.

Exempts vessels with displacement exceeding 4,000 dead weight tons or primarily engaged in interstate commerce from fuel taxes when using bunker fuel oil, marine diesel oil, marine gas oil, or diesel fuel.

Repeals the Connecticut Maritime Commission effective July 1, 2016, and transfers its duties to the State Maritime Office and Connecticut Port Authority.