CT HB05290

Repeals and replaces Section 23-4 of the general statutes, effective October 1, 2022, to establish new regulations for state parks and forests under the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection's control.

Authorizes the commissioner to adopt regulations for order, safety, sanitation, and property protection, with penalties not exceeding $90 for violations classified as infractions.

Permits the commissioner to prohibit individuals from entering any state park or forest for up to one year if they threaten, commit violence against any person, or vandalize property in a state park or forest.

Allows the commissioner to impose up to one-year bans on state park entry for persons convicted of violating park regulations or who forfeit bonds related to such violations.

Authorizes any person to take mushrooms from state-controlled lands for personal use only, with the state assuming no liability for injuries or harm resulting from mushroom foraging activities.