CT SB00978

Requires regional economic development district boards to prepare and approve comprehensive economic development strategies addressing economic development, housing, transportation, workforce development, environmental protection, and responsible growth.

Comprehensive strategies must include analysis of economic problems and opportunities, district background and history, community participation discussion, goals and objectives, action plan with projects, and performance measures for evaluation.

Regional councils must review submitted strategies and report findings within 90 days; the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development and Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management have 60 days to approve or recommend modifications.

Regional economic development districts may submit approved strategies to the U.S. Department of Commerce Assistant Secretary for federal designation as economic development districts under 42 USC 3121 et seq.

Boards must submit annual progress reports and develop new or revised strategies at least once every five years using the same review and approval procedures.