CT SB00122

Each electric distribution company must establish a municipal vegetation restoration fund by July 1, 2023, containing a minimum of $2 million (or $5 million if serving 18 or more towns), effective upon passage.

Electric distribution companies must notify municipalities by September 15, 2023, of available funds for replanting trees of the same types removed during vegetation management in public areas over the previous three years.

Municipal tree wardens have 60 days to contact the utility company with replacement estimates, and the parties must reach a written agreement within 90 days on tree types, quantities, and planting costs.

The utility company must provide grant funds to the municipality within 60 days of the written agreement, with both parties submitting documentation of the agreement and grant payment to the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection within 60 days.

The Commissioner must submit a report to the joint standing committee on the environment by January 1, 2025, detailing the number of municipalities funded, total funds distributed, approximate number of trees planted, and recommendations for additional funding needs.