Public Act No. 23-135 Summary

• Establishes the Connecticut Airport Authority as an independent entity with an 11-member board to oversee state airports, including Bradley International Airport, and requires aircraft owners to maintain liability insurance.

• Creates transportation carbon dioxide reduction targets requiring the Commissioner of Transportation to develop a strategic plan ensuring transportation projects do not exceed maximum emissions by October 1, 2030, with annual reporting to the General Assembly.

• Expands the Connecticut Public Transportation Council (formerly Commuter Rail Council) to include public transit users and residents of Hartford rail line communities, with renamed focus on both commuter rail and public transit systems.

• Prohibits commercial motor vehicles on Merritt and Wilbur Cross Parkways with specified exceptions; prohibits street racing, takeovers, and motor vehicle stunts with penalties up to $20,000 and 2-20 years imprisonment for violations.

• Establishes a zero-emission truck voucher program supporting Class 2b through Class 8 vehicles and electric vehicle charging infrastructure with 40% of funding directed to environmental justice communities; designates multiple roads and bridges as memorial highways.