CT SB00995

Prohibits smoking on beaches located in state parks, effective July 1, 2017, with warnings issued for first violations and fines established for subsequent violations.

Defines "smoking" to include inhaling, exhaling, burning, carrying or possessing any lighted cigarette, cigar, pipe or other lighted tobacco or smoking product.

Authorizes the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection to enforce the smoking prohibition on state park beaches.

Directs the Recycle CT Foundation, Inc. to conduct public education programs about marine debris including beverage container caps, cigarette butts, and single-use plastics through informational signs and interactive videos with QR codes.

Requires all commercial fishing licenses to display a statement notifying licensees that intentionally discarding commercial fishing gear or litter in state waters or on public/private property is subject to fines, with an exception for approved habitat-building gear left in waters.