Bill Summary: HB 5359

• Requires the Connecticut Siting Council to include at least one public member with expertise in electric transmission infrastructure, in addition to the existing requirement for at least two members experienced in ecology.

• Prohibits council members appointed by the Governor from having past or present affiliations with utilities, governmental utility regulatory agencies, or entities owning, operating, or contracting with respect to facilities or hazardous waste disposal areas.

• Mandates that council staff include one or more individuals with experience in siting electric transmission lines, effective October 1, 2024.

• For electric transmission line applications, requires the council to employ independent consultants with expertise in electric transmission infrastructure if the council or its staff lacks necessary expertise to review the application.

• Makes technical revisions to governance procedures, including changes to how the council chairman is appointed with advice and consent of the House or Senate, and clarifies ad hoc member appointment and service terms.