2011 Adopted Legislative Agenda
Sales/Use Tax Exemption
State budget deficit will result in review of all exemptions. Repeal of our exemption will mean that Covanta Bristol, the operator of our waste-to-energy facility, will pass through to the citizens of the BRRFOC sales and use tax on all services and tangible personal property used at or otherwise consumed in the operating of the facility, increasing our tipping fees ($1-$2/ton) and increasing costs for area taxpayers.
Letter from BRRFOC Board President Mayor Art Ward to Honorable Ben Barnes, Secretary of OPM
Energy Legislation
Sweeping energy legislation was passed last year but vetoed by Governor Rell. Electricity sold to CL&P by the Covanta Bristol Waste-to-Energy Facility comprises over 35% of the BRRFOC's revenue stream. CEAB and the utilities want to revisit the state's Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS). Federal RPS legislation is pending.
Support legislation that continues to require utilities to enter into long term (>10- year) contracts with renewable energy generating facilities, including WTE, that serve Connecticut residents without cross-subsidization by electric ratepayers. Ensure that Electric Purchase Agreements are not compromised by new energy legislation.
Strategic Planning
The BRRFOC and TROC have embarked on a joint long-term strategic planning initiative to help determine the most efficient, effective and safe ways to manage the region’s recycling and solid waste stream for the next 20-plus years. Previously, Special Acts established the “Operating Committee” and permitted the Operating Committee to issue and refinance debt, saving area taxpayers millions of dollars. Technical corrections/modifications to these statutes may be required.
Support legislation that enables the BRRFOC/TROC region to continue to provide long- term, cost-effective and environmentally sound solid waste management services.
Product Stewardship
Legislation is required in Connecticut in order to move forward with industry funded end of life management and recycling programs. If successful, BRRFOC/TROC municipalities will save money and disposal of a variety of problem materials, such as paint, mattresses, fluorescent lamps, etc. will be easier for residents as well as environmentally sound (bill passed House unanimously in 2010).
Support Product Stewardship and EPR legislation if it does not have a fiscal note and does not burden the municipalities with unfunded mandates.
Recycling Legislation
Bill passed in 2010 requiring additional reporting and studies of ash reuse and MSW composting.
Monitor and support modifications to the 2010 bill that are beneficial to municipalities. Support increased stable state funding to assist local governments, regions and the business community increase recycling/diversion rates. A significant percentage (>50%) of any new funding should be directed to assist local governments increase recycling/diversion rates.
Regulatory Reform
Bill passed in 2010 to encourage quicker, more user-friendly permitting by DEP with consideration of economic impacts. Support modifications to the 2010 bill if beneficial to municipalities.
Health Insurance
CT legislation may be needed to implement the federal act. Ensure that BRRFOC can participate in new municipal/state insurance risk pools.
DEP Air Regulations
DEP may attempt to fast-track regulatory changes to satisfy SIP submittal deadlines. New policies and/or regulations may be proposed for air pollutants not previously regulated directly by regulation.
Ensure that stakeholders are provided ample time for review and comment, and that any new fees proposed by DEP for administering these activities are reasonable and necessary for protection of human health and the environment.
