CT HB05152

Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection may prohibit open flames on any or all lands under the commissioner's control when deemed necessary for wildfire prevention, effective October 1, 2026

State Forest Fire Warden gains authority to assume direct control over forest fire extinguishing efforts and assign authority to state personnel upon Governor's declaration of a forest fire emergency

Governor may proclaim a ban on open air fires in any or all areas of the state during extreme drought or hazardous conditions, expanding beyond just periods of woodland closure

Penalties for violating the Governor's fire proclamation increase from a maximum fine of $100 to $1,000, while maintaining imprisonment of up to six months

State Forest Fire Warden may extend the one-month deadline for submitting firefighting service bills to up to four months due to emergency circumstances