SB 590 Summary

• Individuals renting state park venues are not required to use caterers with existing contracts with the commissioner, but may choose their own caterer.

• If a renter's chosen caterer lacks prior approval, the renter may submit the caterer's information up to 12 months before the rental date for commissioner review and approval.

• Commissioner may establish fees for public use of specific venues: Harkness Memorial State Park mansion in Waterford, Ellie Mitchell Pavilion at Rocky Neck State Park in East Lyme, and Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam.

• Nonprofit organizations exempt from fees under 26 USC 501(c)(3) that support parks or facilities qualify for free use of the specified venues.

• Effective date is October 1, 2019.