CT SB00357

Establishes the Aquaculture Coordinating Council composed of 11 members including two gubernatorial appointees, legislative leaders' appointees, the Commissioner of Agriculture, and a University of Connecticut Sea Grant Program representative, with at least three members representing the state's shellfish industry.

Council shall direct Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Aquaculture policies, develop a shellfish industry expansion plan, publish maps of state shellfish bed lessees, review and recommend changes to shellfish leases, assess health and safety standards, and coordinate with other states.

Council must submit annual reports beginning January 1, 2016, to the joint standing committee with cognizance of environmental matters regarding the shellfish industry status and recommendations.

Establishes Office of Business Ombudsman within the Department of Agriculture to provide business information on agricultural programs, permits, licenses, leases, and to receive and resolve complaints from permittees, licensees, and lessees.

Prohibits Department of Agriculture employees and the Commissioner from taking retaliatory action against any permittee, licensee, or lessee for filing complaints with the Office of Business Ombudsman; office must submit annual reports detailing complaints received, businesses assisted, and complaint resolutions beginning January 1, 2016.