CT HB05444

Establishes a Test Bed Technologies Advisory Board effective July 1, 2024, consisting of four members appointed by the Governor, Secretary of Office of Policy and Management, Treasurer, and Comptroller to meet at least twice annually.

Advisory Board evaluates technologies, products, and processes that reduce operational costs and recommends pilot test programs at state agencies lasting 30-60 days, contingent on safety demonstrations and commercial viability within two years.

Applicants must submit $5,000 application fee to Office of Policy and Management and provide an independent consulting firm assessment of pilot program viability; state agency commissioners have 30-90 days to review applications and request board recommendations.

Applicants bear all costs of acquiring and testing technologies; pilot test acquisitions are exempt from state procurement law requirements, and proprietary information is protected from public disclosure.

If successful, testing agencies may request Commissioner of Administrative Services to procure the technology under expedited procurement procedures, with procurement information shared to all state agencies; state agency commissioners may also request evaluation of technologies already tested by municipalities.