Senator Heather Somers Applauds Passage of Senate Bill 59

HARTFORD, CT – Today, Senator Heather Somers (R-Groton) praised the Connecticut State Senate for the successful passage of Senate Bill 59, An Act Requiring a Plan for Beneficial Use Dredging, legislation aimed at advancing sustainable environmental practices in the state’s dredging operations. The bill, which passed unanimously, will require the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to develop a comprehensive plan for the beneficial use of dredged materials.

“Today marks an important victory for both Connecticut’s environment and its economy,” said Senator Somers. “This bill ensures that we’re not just dredging our waterways, but doing so in a way that maximizes the positive impacts on our communities and ecosystems. Through beneficial use dredging, we can restore habitats, combat coastal erosion, and reduce waste, all while minimizing costs and supporting sustainable development.”

The bill, which Senator Somers introduced in response to growing concerns over waste disposal and climate resilience, focuses on the “beneficial reuse” of dredged materials. This process involves repurposing materials removed from rivers, lakes, and harbors for productive and environmentally sound purposes, such as habitat restoration, beach nourishment, flood control infrastructure, and land reclamation.

Key Benefits of Beneficial Use Dredging:

• Environmental Benefits: Restores vital habitats, reduces coastal erosion, and promotes ecosystem recovery.
• Economic Benefits: Reduces the financial burden of waste disposal and creates sustainable economic opportunities.
• Sustainability: Promotes circular use of resources, ensuring minimal waste and maximum environmental benefit.
• Climate Resilience: Enhances community infrastructure, helping the state adapt to rising sea levels and climate change.

Senator Somers highlighted that the process involves testing dredged materials for contaminants, ensuring they meet environmental standards, and reusing them for approved projects, such as creating wetlands, rebuilding eroded beaches, and even improving agricultural soil.

“The state of Connecticut has an opportunity to set the standard for the entire nation when it comes to responsible dredging practices,” continued Somers. “We can follow in the footsteps of other states that have already successfully implemented beneficial use dredging programs, including California, Texas, Florida, and Louisiana. These efforts have proven to be beneficial for local economies, ecosystems, and communities.”

The passage of Senate Bill 59 comes as part of Senator Somers’ ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable infrastructure. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that Connecticut’s lakes, rivers, and coastlines are protected for future generations, while also promoting innovative solutions for climate change resilience.

“With DEEP’s resources already in place, this bill is not expected to have any fiscal impact,” said Somers. “This is about smart planning, leveraging our existing capabilities, and making sure that we’re using our natural resources in a responsible and sustainable way.”

Senator Somers concluded, “This is a step toward making Connecticut a leader in environmental innovation, ensuring that our waterways and ecosystems remain healthy and vibrant for generations to come.”

The bill now heads to the House of Representatives, and if passed, will go to the Governor for final approval.