Public Act No. 24-144 - Summary

• Redefines "modification" of transmission facilities to include any change requiring eminent domain or expanding existing easements, effective October 1, 2024

• Expands Connecticut Siting Council membership requirements by requiring all five public members to have no substantial financial interest in utilities, facilities, or hazardous waste facilities, and no professional affiliation with such entities for three years preceding appointment

• Increases municipal participation fees from $25,000 to $40,000 for single-municipality facilities and to $80,000 for multi-municipality facilities, with maximum municipal reimbursement raised from $25,000 to $40,000

• Adds property owner notification requirements for condemnation proceedings, requiring utilities to notify residential property owners at least 60 days before intended condemnation date with specific notice formatting, and allowing owners to challenge necessity through the Siting Council

• Requires a comprehensive report on the Connecticut Siting Council due December 31, 2024, examining council jurisdiction, structure, processes, environmental protections, and public engagement, with public draft review and listening sessions required by November 30, 2024