CHAPTER 578*
DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

      Sec. 32-1. Members. Section 32-1 is repealed.

      (1949 Rev., S. 3536; 1961, P.A. 226, S. 1; 1971, P.A. 10, S. 2; 1972, P.A. 195, S. 14; P.A. 73-177, S. 2, 4; 73-599, S. 39.)

      Sec. 32-1a. Short title: State Commerce Act. This chapter and chapter 579 shall be known as and may be cited as the "State Commerce Act".

      (P.A. 73-599, S. 1; P.A. 78-303, S. 104, 136; P.A. 79-631, S. 15, 111.)

      History: P.A. 78-303 removed Sec. 4-60a as part of state commerce act; P.A. 79-631 removed Secs. 4-5, 4-24a, 10-321(a) and 36-322(a)(9) as part of state commerce act.

      Sec. 32-1b. Department of Economic and Community Development established. (a) There is established a Department of Economic and Community Development. The department head shall be the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, who shall be appointed by the Governor in accordance with the provisions of sections 4-5 to 4-8, inclusive, with the powers and duties prescribed in said sections 4-5 to 4-8, inclusive.

      (b) Said department shall constitute a successor department to the Department of Housing in accordance with the provisions of sections 4-38d, 4-38e and 4-39.

      (c) Said department shall constitute a successor department to the Department of Economic Development in accordance with the provisions of sections 4-38d, 4-38e and 4-39.

      (d) Whenever the term "Commissioner of Housing" is used or referred to in the general statutes, the term "Commissioner of Economic and Community Development" shall be substituted in lieu thereof. Whenever the term "Department of Housing" is used or referred to in the general statutes, the term "Department of Economic and Community Development" shall be substituted in lieu thereof.

      (e) Whenever the term "Commissioner of Economic Development" is used or referred to in the general statutes, the term "Commissioner of Economic and Community Development" shall be substituted in lieu thereof. Whenever the term "Department of Economic Development" is used or referred to in the general statutes, the term "Department of Economic and Community Development" shall be substituted in lieu thereof.

      (f) If the term "Commissioner of Housing" or "Commissioner of Economic Development" is used or referred to in any public or special act of 1995 or 1996, or in any section of the general statutes which is amended in 1995 or 1996, it shall be deemed to mean or refer to the "Commissioner of Economic and Community Development".

      (g) If the term "Department of Housing" or "Department of Economic Development" is used or referred to in any public or special act of 1995 or 1996, or in any section of the general statutes which is amended in 1995 or 1996, it shall be deemed to mean or refer to the "Department of Economic and Community Development".

      (P.A. 73-599, S. 2; P.A. 77-614, S. 284, 610; P.A. 95-250, S. 1, 42; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6.)

      History: P.A. 77-614 replaced commissioner and department of commerce with commissioner and department of economic development, effective January 1, 1979; P.A. 95-250 created the Department of Economic and Community Development from the former Department of Housing and the former Department of Economic Development and directed the necessary name changes be made throughout the general statutes and in the public and special acts of 1995 and 1996; P.A. 96-211 entirely replaced prior provisions substituting provisions establishing a Department of Economic and Community Development as successor department to the Department of Housing and the Department of Economic Development, and requiring use of terms "Department of Economic and Community Development" and "Commissioner of Economic and Community Development" to be used in general statutes and 1995 and 1996 public and special acts, effective July 1, 1996.

      See Sec. 8-37i re establishment and general scope of powers and duties of the department.

      Sec. 32-1c. Powers and duties of commissioner. (a) In addition to any other powers, duties and responsibilities provided for in this chapter, chapter 131, chapter 579 and section 4-8 and subsection (a) of section 10-409, the commissioner shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities: (1) To administer and direct the operations of the Department of Economic and Community Development; (2) to report annually to the Governor, as provided in section 4-60; (3) to conduct and administer the research and planning functions necessary to carry out the purposes of said chapters and sections; (4) to encourage and promote the development of industry and business in the state and to investigate, study and undertake ways and means of promoting and encouraging the prosperous development and protection of the legitimate interest and welfare of Connecticut business, industry and commerce, within and outside the state; (5) to serve, ex officio as a director on the board of Connecticut Innovations, Incorporated; (6) to serve as a member of the Committee of Concern for Connecticut Jobs; (7) to promote and encourage the location and development of new business in the state as well as the maintenance and expansion of existing business and for that purpose to cooperate with state and local agencies and individuals both within and outside the state; (8) to plan and conduct a program of information and publicity designed to attract tourists, visitors and other interested persons from outside the state to this state and also to encourage and coordinate the efforts of other public and private organizations or groups of citizens to publicize the facilities and attractions of the state for the same purposes; (9) to advise and cooperate with municipalities, persons and local planning agencies within the state for the purpose of promoting coordination between the state and such municipalities as to plans and development; (10) to provide all necessary staff, services, accounting and office space and equipment required by the Connecticut Development Authority subject to the provisions of section 4b-23, where real estate acquisitions are involved; (11) to aid minority businesses in their development; (12) to appoint such assistants, experts, technicians and clerical staff, subject to the provisions of chapter 67, as are necessary to carry out the purposes of said chapters and sections; (13) to employ other consultants and assistants on a contract or other basis for rendering financial, technical or other assistance and advice, provided in implementing the Connecticut economic information system the commissioner shall to the maximum extent feasible contract with private vendors for software, certain data sets and data updating services; (14) to acquire or lease facilities located outside the state subject to the provisions of section 4b-23; (15) to advise and inform municipal officials concerning economic development and collect and disseminate information pertaining thereto, including information about federal, state and private assistance programs and services pertaining thereto; (16) to inquire into the utilization of state government resources and coordinate federal and state activities for assistance in and solution of problems of economic development and to inform and advise the Governor about and propose legislation concerning such problems; (17) to conduct, encourage and maintain research and studies relating to industrial and commercial development; (18) to prepare and review model ordinances and charters relating to these areas; (19) to maintain an inventory of data and information and act as a clearinghouse and referral agency for information on state and federal programs and services relative to the purpose set forth herein. The inventory shall include information on all federal programs of financial assistance for defense conversion projects and other projects consistent with a defense conversion strategy and shall identify businesses which would be eligible for such assistance and provide notification to such business of such programs; (20) to conduct, encourage and maintain research and studies and advise municipal officials about forms of cooperation between public and private agencies designed to advance economic development; (21) to promote and assist the formation of municipal and other agencies appropriate to the purposes of this chapter; (22) to require notice of the submission of all applications by municipalities and any agency thereof for federal and state financial assistance for economic development programs as relate to the purposes of this chapter; (23) with the approval of the Commissioner of Administrative Services, to reimburse any employee of the department, including the commissioner, for reasonable business expenses, including but not limited to, mileage, travel, lodging, and entertainment of business prospects and other persons to the extent necessary or advisable to carry out the purposes of subdivisions (4), (7), (8) and (11) of this subsection and other provisions of this chapter; (24) to assist in resolving solid waste management issues; and (25) to develop and implement the Connecticut economic information system, in consultation with the Connecticut Economic Information System Steering Committee established under section 32-6i.

      (b) The Commissioner of Economic and Community Development may make available technical and financial assistance and advisory services to any appropriate agency, authority or commission for planning and other functions pertinent to economic development provided any financial assistance to a regional planning agency or a regional council of elected officials shall have the prior approval of the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management or his designee. Financial assistance shall be rendered upon such contractual arrangements as may be agreed upon by the commissioner and any such agency, authority or commission in accordance with their respective needs, and the commissioner may determine the qualifications of personnel or consultants to be engaged for such assistance.

      (c) The Commissioner of Economic and Community Development is authorized to do all things necessary to apply for, qualify for and accept any federal funds made available or allotted under any federal act for planning or any other projects, programs or activities which may be established by federal law, for any of the purposes, or activities related thereto, of the Department of Economic and Community Development and said Commissioner of Economic and Community Development shall administer any such funds allotted to the department in accordance with federal law. The commissioner may enter into contracts with the federal government concerning the use and repayment of such funds under any such federal act, the prosecution of the work under any such contract and the establishment of any disbursement from a separate account in which federal and state funds estimated to be required for plan preparation or other eligible activities under such federal act shall be kept. Said account shall not be a part of the General Fund of the state or any subdivision of the state.

      (d) The powers and duties enumerated in this section shall be in addition to and shall not limit any other powers or duties of the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development contained in any other law.

      (P.A. 73-599, S. 3; P.A. 75-425, S. 43, 57; P.A. 77-614, S. 284, 610; P.A. 78-303, S. 105, 136; P.A. 79-598, S. 23; P.A. 80-483, S. 97, 186; P.A. 84-512, S. 16, 30; P.A. 86-258, S. 7, 8; P.A. 88-231, S. 5; P.A. 89-245, S. 4; May Sp. Sess. P.A. 92-4, S. 1, 5; P.A. 95-250, S. 1, 37, 42; 95-309, S. 11, 12; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6.)

      History: P.A. 75-425 specified that duties cited in Subdivs. (10) and (14) are subject to provisions of Sec. 4-26b; P.A. 77-614 replaced commissioner and department of commerce with commissioner and department of economic development, effective January 1, 1979; P.A. 78-303 deleted reference to Sec. 4-60a; P.A. 79-598 deleted reference to Sec. 4-5, added references to Sec. 4-8 and chapter 131, expanded commissioner's duties by adding Subdivs. (15) to (22) and Subsecs. (b) to (d); P.A. 80-483 made technical corrections in Subsec. (a); P.A. 84-512 deleted reference to repealed Sec. 4-24a in Subsec. (a), adding reference to Sec. 4-8; P.A. 86-258 added Subdiv. (23) to Subsec. (a), re reimbursement for reasonable business expenses; P.A. 88-231 added Subdiv. (24) concerning resolution of solid waste management issues; P.A. 89-245 amended Subsec. (a) to rename Connecticut Product Development Corporation as Connecticut Innovations, Incorporated; May Sp. Sess. P.A. 92-4 amended Subsec. (a) by adding provision in Subdiv. (13) re certain contracts implementing Connecticut economic information system and adding Subdiv. (25) re development and implementation of said system; (Revisor's note: In 1993 the obsolete reference in Subsec. (a) to repealed Sec. 36-322 was deleted editorially by the Revisors and the wording adjusted accordingly); P.A. 95-250 and P.A. 96-211 substituted Department and Commissioner of Economic and Community Development for Department and Commissioner of Economic Development and P.A. 95-250 also amended Subdiv. (19) of Subsec. (a) to require the inventory to include information on all federal defense conversion projects, identify eligible businesses and provide notification to such businesses, effective July 1, 1995; P.A. 95-309 changed effective date of P.A. 95-250 but did not affect this section.

      See Secs. 8-37i, 32-1b re establishment and general scope and duties of the department.

      Sec. 32-1d. Deputy commissioner, appointment and functions. The commissioner shall appoint a Deputy Commissioner of Economic and Community Development who shall be qualified by training and experience for the duties of the office of commissioner and shall, in the absence, disability or disqualification of the commissioner, perform all the functions and have all the powers and duties of said office. The position of the Deputy Commissioner of Economic and Community Development shall be exempt from the classified service.

      (P.A. 73-599, S. 4; P.A. 77-614, S. 284, 610; P.A. 95-250, S. 1; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6.)

      History: P.A. 77-614 replaced deputy commissioner of commerce with deputy commissioner of economic development, effective January 1, 1979; P.A. 95-250 and P.A. 96-211 replaced Commissioner and Department of Economic Development with Commissioner and Department of Economic and Community Development.

      See Sec. 4-8 re appointment of deputies.

      Sec. 32-1e. Plan for support and promotion of industries using recycled materials. (a) The Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, in consultation with the Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority and the Commissioner of Environmental Protection, shall prepare a plan for the support and promotion of industries that use, process or transport recycled materials. The plan shall outline ways existing programs of the Department of Economic and Community Development, the Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority and agencies such as the Department of Environmental Protection, the Connecticut Development Authority and Connecticut Innovations, Incorporated will be used to promote such industries.

      (b) Such plan shall be completed on or before July 1, 2007.

      (P.A. 88-231, S. 6; P.A. 89-130, S. 3, 4; 89-245, S. 5; P.A. 93-382, S. 18, 69; P.A. 95-250, S. 1; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6; P.A. 06-27, S. 1.)

      History: P.A. 89-130 extended time for completion of the plan from March 1, 1989, to July 1, 1989, and extended time for initial report to the municipal solid waste recycling advisory council from August 1, 1989, to December 1, 1989; P.A. 89-245 amended Subsec. (a) to rename Connecticut Product Development Corporation as Connecticut Innovations, Incorporated; P.A. 93-382 amended Subsec. (b) to delete requirement that reports be submitted to the environment committee, effective July 1, 1993; P.A. 95-250 and P.A. 96-211 replaced Commissioner and Department of Economic Development with Commissioner and Department of Economic and Community Development; P.A. 06-27 amended Subsec. (a) to add provisions re Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority, Commissioner and Department of Environmental Protection and Connecticut Development Authority, to delete provision re plan preparation deadline and update and to change provision re industries that use recycled materials to those that "use, process or transport recycled materials" and amended Subsec. (b) to extend time for completion of plan from July 1, 1989, to July 1, 2007, and to delete provision re implementation report, effective May 8, 2006.

      Sec. 32-1f. (Formerly Sec. 16a-35b). Duties of commissioner re Connecticut's future. The Commissioner of Economic and Community Development shall have the following duties and powers:

      (1) To carry out a futures program to study and forecast the quality of life in Connecticut in the future;

      (2) To build an awareness of, and concern for, Connecticut's future among residents of the state;

      (3) To identify the opportunities and constraints which may affect the quality of life in Connecticut in the future;

      (4) To study the effects of changing social, economic, technological and environmental conditions upon the quality of life in Connecticut in the future;

      (5) To analyze and interpret available information and data concerning Connecticut's future;

      (6) To develop alternatives for achieving the best possible future for Connecticut;

      (7) To offer members of the public the opportunity to voice their views, suggestions and ideas on future alternatives;

      (8) To monitor other public groups involved in research on the future of the state; and

      (9) To maintain a library containing all records from public and private sectors on the subject of Connecticut's future.

Each state agency and department shall cooperate with the commissioner in carrying out such duties and shall permit the Department of Economic and Community Development to have access to records and data needed for the performance of those duties.

      (P.A. 84-512, S. 2, 30; P.A. 89-362, S. 1, 5; P.A. 93-382, S. 9, 69; P.A. 95-250, S. 1; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6.)

      History: P.A. 89-362 transferred duties and powers of commission on Connecticut's future to commissioner of economic development due to elimination of commission; Sec. 16a-35b transferred to Sec. 32-1f in 1991; P.A. 93-382 deleted former Subdiv. (10) re annual report to governor and general assembly, effective July 1, 1993; P.A. 95-250 and P.A. 96-211 replaced Commissioner and Department of Economic Development with Commissioner and Department of Economic and Community Development.

      Sec. 32-1g. Connecticut competitiveness index. (a) The Connecticut Economic Conference Board, in consultation with the Department of Economic and Community Development and The University of Connecticut, shall establish a Connecticut competitiveness index to monitor the competitiveness of Connecticut as a place to do business, including, but not limited to, how programs and policies of the state government affect the economy and the business environment. The board shall use the Connecticut economic information system developed pursuant to section 32-6i and the Regional Economic Models, Inc. (REMI) system to establish and compile the scores for the index.

      (b) On or before January 1, 1994, the board shall publish a list of the proposed components of the index and the proposed methodology for compiling the score for the index. The board shall seek public comment on the list and methodology and shall publish a final list and methodology by February 15, 1994.

      (c) Not later than February 15, 1994, and annually thereafter, the board shall submit to the Governor and the General Assembly the score for the index for the preceding calendar year.

      (d) The expenses incurred by the board pursuant to this section shall be paid by the Department of Economic and Community Development and The University of Connecticut from existing budgetary resources.

      (P.A. 93-210, S. 1, 3; P.A. 95-250, S. 1; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6.)

      History: P.A. 93-210 effective June 23, 1993; P.A. 95-250 and P.A. 96-211 replaced Commissioner and Department of Economic Development with Commissioner and Department of Economic and Community Development.

      Secs. 32-1h to 32-1j. Reports re financial assistance programs administered by commissioner. Reports re program objectives, measures and standards; economic analysis of program performance. Reports re sectors of state economy. Sections 32-1h to 32-1j, inclusive, are repealed, effective October 1, 2005.

      (P.A. 93-382, S. 1, 6, 7, 69; P.A. 95-250, S. 1, 38, 42; 95-309, S. 11, 12; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6; P.A. 00-212, S. 3; P.A. 01-96, S. 1; P.A. 03-26, S. 1; 03-197, S. 1; P.A. 05-191, S. 12.)

      Sec. 32-1k. Definitions. As used in sections 8-244b to 8-244d, inclusive, this section and section 32-1l, the following terms shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates another meaning and intent:

      (1) "Department" means the Department of Economic and Community Development;

      (2) "Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development;

      (3) "CDA" means the Connecticut Development Authority, as created under chapter 579;

      (4) "CHFA" means the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority, as created under chapter 134;

      (5) "CII" means Connecticut Innovations, Incorporated, as created under chapter 581; and

      (6) "SHA" means the State Housing Authority as created under section 8-244b.

      (P.A. 95-250, S. 2, 42; 95-309, S. 11, 12.)

      History: P.A. 95-309 changed effective date of P.A. 95-250 but did not affect this section.

      Sec. 32-1l. Powers. In addition to his other powers and duties, the commissioner shall have the following powers and duties:

      (1) To utilize the department's resources for planning and developing an economic and community development reorganization plan which (A) sets forth policy goals for the department, (B) determines strategies to encourage economic and community development and the provision of housing in this state, including housing for very low, low and moderate income families, (C) determines the feasibility of dividing the operation of programs and resources of the state in support of economic and community development between and among the department and CDA, CHFA and CII, (D) identifies strategies to increase the leverage of resources of the state used in furtherance of the purposes of CDA, CHFA and CII, (E) identifies, if feasible, divisions and recommends a timetable and procedures for transferring resources and operations between and among the department and CDA, CHFA and CII and (F) recommends specific economic and community development objectives and administrative structures for the department and CDA, CHFA and CII. In developing such plan, the department shall be the lead agency, in collaboration with CDA, CHFA and CII, for research, planning and development of the plan and shall solicit community and regional input in the preparation of such plan in such a manner as will best help develop, clarify or further state policies for economic and community development. The commissioner shall submit a copy of the reorganization plan to the joint standing committees of the General Assembly having cognizance of matters relating to commerce and planning and development;

      (2) To propose to the Governor on or before January 1, 1996, legislation to implement the economic and community development reorganization plan described in subdivision (1) of this section;

      (3) Notwithstanding the provisions of the general statutes or any special act and with the approval of the Treasurer and the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management, to transfer to CDA, CHFA and CII: (A) Any revenues received by the department or the state in connection with any program or project of the department and the right to receive any such revenues; and (B) any loan assets or equity interests held by the department in connection with any program or project of the department; provided, no such transfer shall be approved by the Treasurer or the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management if either determines that such transfer could adversely affect the tax-exempt status of any bonds of the state, the substantial interests of third parties, the financial budget of the state or other essential rights, interests, or prerogatives of the state. The commissioner may impose such conditions as he deems necessary or appropriate with respect to the use by CDA, CHFA or CII of any revenues, rights, assets, interests or amounts transferred to it by the department under this subdivision; provided, the commissioner may waive any requirement under this subdivision for the adoption of written procedures until July 1, 1996;

      (4) To award to CDA, CHFA or CII financial, technical or other assistance. Financial assistance awarded by the department to CDA, CHFA or CII may take any of the following forms, subject to any conditions imposed by the department: (A) Grants; (B) loans; (C) guarantees; (D) contracts of insurance; and (E) investments. In addition, to the extent funds or resources are available to the department for such purposes, the commissioner may provide such further financial or other assistance to CDA, CHFA and CII as the commissioner in his sole discretion deems appropriate for any of the purposes of CDA, CHFA and CII respectively;

      (5) To enter into such agreements with CDA, CHFA and CII as may be appropriate for the purpose of performing its duties which agreements may include, but shall not be limited to, provisions for the delivery of services by CDA, CHFA and CII to third parties, provisions for payment by the department to CDA, CHFA or CII for the delivery of such services, provisions for advances and reimbursements to the department for any expenses incurred or to be incurred by it in delivery of any services, assistance, revenues, rights, assets and interests and provisions for the sharing with CDA, CHFA or CII of assistants, agents and other consultants, professionals and employees, and facilities and other real and personal property used in the conduct of the department's affairs; and

      (6) To provide financial assistance for economic development projects directly or in participation with the Connecticut Development Authority, to purchase participation interests in loans made by the Connecticut Development Authority and enter into any agreements or contracts it deems necessary or convenient in connection with such loans.

      (P.A. 95-250, S. 3, 42; 95-309, S. 11, 12; P.A. 96-68, S. 1; P.A. 97-211, S. 2, 7.)

      History: P.A. 95-309 changed effective date of P.A. 95-250 but did not affect this section (Revisor's note: In Subdiv. (4) numeric Subpara. indicators were replaced editorially by the Revisors with alphabetic indicators for consistency with customary statutory usage); P.A. 96-68 deleted Subdiv. (6) re establishment of separate bureaus of economic development and housing and community development; P.A. 97-211 added new Subdiv. (6) re financial assistance for economic development projects and participation of the commissioner in assistance provided by the Connecticut Development Authority, effective June 24, 1997.

      Sec. 32-1m. Annual report re activities of Department of Economic and Community Development. Not later than February 1, 2006, and annually thereafter, the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development shall submit a report to the Governor and the General Assembly, in accordance with the provisions of section 11-4a. Not later than thirty days after submission of the report to the Governor and the General Assembly, said commissioner shall post the report on the Department of Economic and Community Development's web site. Said report shall include, but not be limited to, the following information with regard to the activities of the Department of Economic and Community Development during the preceding state fiscal year:

      (1) A brief description and assessment of the state's economy during such year, utilizing the most recent and reasonably available data, and including:

      (A) Connecticut employment by industry;

      (B) Connecticut and national average unemployment;

      (C) Connecticut gross state product, by industry;

      (D) Connecticut productivity, by industry, compared to the national average;

      (E) Connecticut manufacturing activity;

      (F) Identification of economic and competitive conditions affecting Connecticut's industry sectors, problems resulting from these conditions and state efforts to address the problems; and

      (G) Any other economic information that the commissioner deems appropriate.

      (2) A statement of the department's economic and community development objectives, measures of program success and standards for granting financial and nonfinancial assistance under programs administered by the department.

      (3) An analysis of the economic development portfolio of the department, including:

      (A) A list of the names, addresses and locations of all recipients of the department's assistance;

      (B) The following information concerning each recipient of such assistance: (i) Business activities, (ii) standard industrial classification codes or North American industrial classification codes, (iii) number of full-time jobs and part-time jobs at the time of application, (iv) number of actual full-time jobs and actual part-time jobs at application during the preceding state fiscal year, (v) whether the recipient is a minority or woman-owned business, (vi) a summary of the terms and conditions for the assistance, including the type and amount of state financial assistance, job creation or retention requirements and anticipated wage rates, (vii) the amount of investments from private and other nonstate sources that have been leveraged by the assistance, (viii) the extent to which employees of the recipient participate in health benefit plans offered by such recipient, (ix) the extent to which the recipient offers unique economic, social, cultural or aesthetic attributes to the municipality in which the recipient is located or to the state, and (x) the amount of state investment;

      (C) A portfolio analysis, including (i) an analysis of the wages paid by recipients of financial assistance, (ii) the average portfolio wage, median portfolio wage, highest and lowest portfolio wage, (iii) portfolio wage data by industry, and (iv) portfolio wage data by municipality;

      (D) An investment analysis, including (i) total portfolio value, (ii) total investment by industry, (iii) portfolio dollar per job average, (iv) portfolio leverage ratio, and (v) percentage of financial assistance which was provided to high performance work organizations in the preceding state fiscal year; and

      (E) An analysis of the estimated economic effects of the department's economic development investments on the state's economy, including (i) contribution to gross state product for the total economic development portfolio and for any investment activity occurring in the preceding state fiscal year, (ii) direct and indirect employment created by the investments for the total portfolio and for any investment activity occurring in the preceding state fiscal year, (iii) productivity of recipients of financial assistance as a result of the department's investment occurring in the preceding state fiscal year, (iv) directly or indirectly increased property values in the municipalities in which the recipients of assistance are located, and (v) personal income.

      (4) An analysis of the community development portfolio of the department, including:

      (A) A list of the names, addresses and locations of all recipients of the department's assistance;

      (B) The following information concerning each recipient of such assistance: (i) Amount of state investment, (ii) a summary of the terms and conditions for the department's assistance, including the type and amount of state financial assistance, and (iii) the amount of investments from private and other nonstate sources that have been leveraged by such assistance;

      (C) An investment analysis, including (i) total active portfolio value, (ii) total investments made in the preceding state fiscal year, (iii) total portfolio by municipality, (iv) total investments made in the preceding state fiscal year categorized by municipality, (v) total portfolio leverage ratio, and (vi) leverage ratio of the total investments made in the preceding state fiscal year; and

      (D) An analysis of the estimated economic effects of the department's economic development investments on the state's economy, including (i) contribution to gross state product for the total portfolio and for any investment activity occurring in the preceding state fiscal year, (ii) direct and indirect employment created by the investments for the total portfolio and for any investment activity occurring in the preceding state fiscal year, (iii) productivity of recipients of financial assistance as a result of the department's investment occurring in the preceding state fiscal year, (iv) directly or indirectly increased property values in the municipalities in which the recipients are located, and (v) personal income.

      (5) A summary of the department's economic and community development marketing efforts in the preceding state fiscal year, a summary of the department's business recruitment strategies and activities in such year, and a summary of the department's efforts to assist small businesses and minority business enterprises in such year.

      (6) A summary of the department's international trade efforts in the preceding state fiscal year, and, to the extent possible, a summary of foreign direct investment that occurred in the state in such year.

      (7) Identification of existing economic clusters, the formation of new economic clusters and the measures taken by the commissioner during the preceding state fiscal year to encourage the growth of economic clusters.

      (8) (A) A summary of the department's brownfield-related efforts and activities within the Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development established pursuant to subsections (a) to (f), inclusive, of section 32-9cc in the preceding state fiscal year, except for activity under the Special Contaminated Property Remediation and Insurance Fund program. Such efforts shall include, but not be limited to, (i) total portfolio investment in brownfield remediation projects, (ii) total investment in brownfield remediation projects in the preceding state fiscal year, (iii) total number of brownfield remediation projects, (iv) total number of brownfield remediation projects in the preceding state fiscal year, (v) total of reclaimed and remediated acreage, (vi) total of reclaimed and remediated acreage in the preceding state fiscal year, (vii) leverage ratio for the total portfolio investment in brownfield remediation projects, and (viii) leverage ratio for the total portfolio investment in brownfield remediation projects in the preceding state fiscal year. Such summary shall include a list of such brownfield remediation projects and, for each such project, the name of the developer and the location by street address and municipality and a tracking of all funds administered through or by said office; and

      (B) A summary of the department's efforts with regard to the Special Contaminated Property Remediation and Insurance Fund, including, but not limited to, (i) the number of applications received in the preceding state fiscal year, (ii) the number and amounts of loans made in such year, (iii) the names of the applicants for such loans, (iv) the average time period between submission of application and the decision to grant or deny the loan, (v) a list of the applications approved and the applications denied and the reasons for such denials, and (vi) for each project, the location by street address and municipality.

      (9) The following concerning enterprise zones designated under section 32-70:

      (A) A statement of the current goals for enterprise zones;

      (B) A statement of the current performance standards to measure the progress of municipalities that have enterprise zones in attaining the goals for such zones;

      (C) A report from each municipality that has an enterprise zone, which evaluates the progress of the municipality in meeting the performance standards established under subsection (a) of section 32-70a; and

      (D) An assessment of the performance of each enterprise zone based on information collected under subparagraph (C) of this subdivision.

      (10) With regard to the department's housing-development-related functions and activities:

      (A) A brief description and assessment of the state's housing market during the preceding state fiscal year, utilizing the most recent and reasonably available data, and including, but not be limited to, (i) a brief description of the significant characteristics of such market, including supply, demand and condition and cost of housing, and (ii) any other information that the commissioner deems appropriate;

      (B) An analysis of the progress of the public and private sector toward meeting housing needs in the state, using building permit data from the United States Census Bureau and demolition data from Connecticut municipalities;

      (C) A list of municipalities that meet the affordable housing criteria set forth in subsection (k) of section 8-30g, pursuant to regulations that the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development shall adopt pursuant to the provisions of chapter 54. For the purpose of determining the percentage required by subsection (k) of said section 8-30g, the commissioner shall use as the denominator the number of dwelling units in the municipality, as reported in the most recent United States decennial census;

      (D) A statement of the department's housing development objectives, measures of program success and standards for granting financial and nonfinancial assistance under programs administered by said commissioner.

      (11) A presentation of the state-funded housing development portfolio of the department, including:

      (A) A list of the names, addresses and locations of all recipients of such assistance; and

      (B) For each such recipient, (i) a summary of the terms and conditions for the assistance, including the type and amount of state financial assistance, (ii) the amount of investments from private and other nonstate sources that have been leveraged by the assistance, (iii) the number of new units to be created and the number of units to be preserved at the time of the application, and (iv) the number of actual new units created and number of units preserved.

      (12) An analysis of the state-funded housing development portfolio of the department, including:

      (A) An investment analysis, including the (i) total active portfolio value, (ii) total investment made in the preceding state fiscal year, (iii) portfolio dollar per new unit created, (iv) estimated dollars per new unit created for projects receiving an assistance award in the preceding state fiscal year, (v) portfolio dollars per unit preserved, (vi) estimated dollar per unit preserved for projects receiving an assistance award in the preceding state fiscal year, (vii) portfolio leverage ratio, and (viii) leverage ratio for housing development investments made in the preceding state fiscal year; and

      (B) A production and preservation analysis, including (i) the total number of units created, itemized by municipality for the total portfolio and projects receiving an assistance award in the preceding state fiscal year, (ii) the total number of elderly units created for the total portfolio and for projects receiving an assistance award in the preceding state fiscal year, (iii) the total number of family units created for the total portfolio and for projects receiving an assistance award in the preceding state fiscal year, (iv) the total number of units preserved, itemized by municipality for the total portfolio and projects receiving an assistance award in the preceding state fiscal year, (v) the total number of elderly units preserved for the total portfolio and for projects receiving an assistance award in the preceding state fiscal year, (vi) the total number of family units preserved for the total portfolio and for projects receiving an assistance award in the preceding state fiscal year, (vii) an analysis by income group, of households served by the department's housing construction, substantial rehabilitation, purchase and rental assistance programs, for each housing development, if applicable, and for each program, including number of households served under each program by race and data for all households, and (viii) a summary of the department's efforts in promoting fair housing choice and racial and economic integration, including data on the racial composition of the occupants and persons on the waiting list of each housing project that is assisted under any housing program established by the general statutes or a special act or that is supervised by the department, provided no information shall be required to be disclosed by any occupant or person on a waiting list for the preparation of such summary. As used in this subparagraph, "elderly units" means dwelling units for which occupancy is restricted by age, and "family units" means dwelling units for which occupancy is not restricted by age.

      (13) An economic impact analysis of the department's housing development efforts and activities, including, but not limited to:

      (A) The contribution of such efforts and activities to the gross state product;

      (B) The direct and indirect employment created by the investments for the total housing development portfolio and for any investment activity for such portfolio occurring in the preceding state fiscal year; and

      (C) Personal income in the state.

      (14) With regard to the department's energy conservation loan program:

      (A) The number of loans or deferred loans made during the preceding fiscal year under each component of such program and the total amount of the loans or deferred loans made during such fiscal year under each such component;

      (B) A description of each step of the loan or deferred loan application and review process;

      (C) The location of each loan or deferred loan application intake site for such program;

      (D) The average period for the processing of loan or deferred loan applications during such fiscal year; and

      (E) The total administrative expenses of such program for such fiscal year.

      (15) A summary of the total social and economic impact of the department's efforts and activities in the areas of economic, community and housing development and an assessment of the department's performance in terms of meeting its stated goals and objectives.

      (P.A. 05-191, S. 1; P.A. 06-184, S. 2; 06-196, S. 265.)

      History: P.A. 06-184 amended Subdiv. (8) by making a technical change and adding reference to Office of Brownfield Remediation and Development and summary requirement re "tracking of all funds administered through or by said office" and made technical changes in Subdiv. (12)(B), effective July 1, 2006; P.A. 06-196 made technical changes in Subdiv. (12)(B), effective June 7, 2006.

      Sec. 32-1n. Reports re funding for economic and industry cluster initiatives. Not later than December 31, 2006, the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development shall prepare a report (1) indicating any amount of funds allocated by the Department of Economic and Community Development during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2006, for economic and industry cluster initiatives, and (2) including recommendations concerning the adequacy of such funds, and shall submit such report to the Governor and the joint standing committees of the General Assembly having cognizance of matters relating to commerce, finance, revenue and bonding and appropriations, in accordance with the provisions of section 11-4a.

      (P.A. 05-276, S. 1.)

      History: P.A. 05-276 effective July 13, 2005.

      Secs. 32-2 and 32-2a. Expenses; director. Bonding of commission members and employees. Sections 32-2 and 32-2a are repealed.

      (1949 Rev., S. 3537; 1972, P.A. 195, S. 12, 15; June, 1972, P.A. 1, S. 14; P.A. 73-599, S. 39; P.A. 74-338, S. 62, 94.)

      Sec. 32-3. Duties of department; Connecticut Development Authority. (a) The department shall:

      (1) Study and investigate conditions affecting Connecticut industry, business, commerce, agriculture and recreational and residential facilities and prepare and recommend plans for and promote and encourage the preservation, expansion and development of such industry, business, commerce, agriculture and recreational and residential facilities within and without the state;

      (2) Prepare and recommend plans for and promote and encourage the location and development of new industry, business, commerce, agriculture and recreational and residential facilities in the state;

      (3) Collect, compile and disseminate information relative to the natural and economic resources of the state;

      (4) Cooperate with promotional, planning and research groups and associations, with agencies of the state and its political subdivisions and with agencies of the federal government and other states, in the execution of its duties;

      (5) Furnish technical, secretarial and clerical assistance to organizations when it deems that the giving of such assistance will promote the objects of this chapter.

      (b) Each officer, board, commission or department of the state government shall assist said department and authority in the performance of their duties, and the department and the authority shall have access to all available information collected by any state agency. The department and authority shall assist, as appropriate, other state agencies in their duties upon request and shall make available to them all information collected by them.

      (1949 Rev., S. 3538; 1953, S. 1893d; February, 1965, P.A. 492, S. 1; 1972, P.A. 195, S. 16; P.A. 73-599, S. 19.)

      History: 1965 act required commission to prepare and recommend plans to promote and encourage established business and to promote and encourage new business, etc. and required commission to assist other state agencies and make information available to them; 1972 act required commission to carry out provisions of industrial assistance act; P.A. 73-599 replaced Connecticut development commission with department of commerce and Connecticut development authority and divided section into Subsecs., redesignating Subdivs. with numeric indicators accordingly.

      Cited. 150 C. 342.

      Secs. 32-3a, 32-3b and 32-4. Industrial modernization program; advisory committee. Advisory Committee on High Unemployment Areas; appointment; duties. Meetings; regulations; reports; audits. Sections 32-3a, 32-3b and 32-4 are repealed.

      (1949 Rev., S. 3539; September, 1957, P.A. 11, S. 13; 1972, P.A. 195, S. 17; 224, S. 1-3; P.A. 73-177, S. 3, 4; 73-599, S. 39; P.A. 75-542, S. 1, 2; P.A. 77-614, S. 284, 609, 610; P.A. 83-487, S. 32, 33.)

      Sec. 32-4a. Assistance to Connecticut Economic Resource Center, Incorporated. The state, acting through the Department of Economic and Community Development or any other state agency, governmental entity or the private sector, may, within available appropriations, provide financial assistance, lend staff or provide other in-kind contributions to the Connecticut Economic Resource Center, Incorporated.

      (P.A. 93-382, S. 54, 69; P.A. 95-250, S. 1; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6.)

      History: P.A. 93-382 effective July 1, 1993; P.A. 95-250 and P.A. 96-211 replaced Commissioner and Department of Economic Development with Commissioner and Department of Economic and Community Development.

      Sec. 32-4b. State Economic Development Advisory Board. The Commissioner of Economic and Community Development shall establish a State Economic Development Advisory Board consisting of executives of Connecticut utilities, other major industries and nonprofit organizations, the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development and other state, regional and municipal officials. The board shall advise the commissioner with regard to (1) marketing the state and its economic development programs and (2) business recruitment, expansion and retention activities. The board shall also develop a plan for raising and spending funds for such purposes.

      (P.A. 93-382, S. 55, 69; P.A. 95-250, S. 1; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6.)

      History: P.A. 93-382 effective July 1, 1993; P.A. 95-250 and P.A. 96-211 replaced Commissioner and Department of Economic Development with Commissioner and Department of Economic and Community Development.

      Secs. 32-4c and 32-4d. Reserved for future use.

      Sec. 32-4e. Definition of economic cluster. As used in sections 32-4f to 32-4h, inclusive, "economic cluster" means a grouping of industries linked together through customer, supplier or other relationships.

      (P.A. 96-252, S. 1, 8.)

      History: P.A. 96-252 effective July 1, 1996.

      Sec. 32-4f. (Formerly Sec. 4-70d). Connecticut Economic Conference Board. Economic cluster conference and report. (a) There is created a Connecticut Economic Conference Board. Said board shall consist of (1) the Governor, or his designee; (2) the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development; (3) the Commissioner of Higher Education and the commissioners of four state agencies in the executive department which have jurisdiction over matters of importance to economic clusters, who shall be appointed by the Governor; (4) the chairpersons and ranking members of the joint standing committees of the General Assembly having cognizance of matters relating to commerce, finance, revenue and bonding, and education; (5) a representative of each of the following areas: (A) Technology research, discovery or deployment, who shall be appointed by the president pro tempore of the Senate; (B) workforce training, job retention or human resources, who shall be appointed by the majority leader of the Senate; (C) financial or venture capital, who shall be appointed by the minority leader of the Senate; (D) telecommunications, energy, transportation or other physical infrastructure, who shall be appointed by the speaker of the House of Representatives; (E) regulatory, taxes or other financial services, who shall be appointed by the majority leader of the House of Representatives; (F) environmental, housing, the arts or any other aspect of quality of life, who shall be appointed by the minority leader of the House of Representatives; and (6) two economists, who shall be appointed by the Governor. Each member of the board described in subdivision (2), (3) or (4) of this subsection may designate a deputy to represent him as a member at meetings of the board, with full powers to act and vote in his behalf. All appointments under subdivisions (3), (5) and (6) of this subsection shall be made by October 1, 1996. The persons initially appointed under subparagraphs (A) and (D) of subdivision (5) of this subsection shall serve for a term of three years from October 1, 1996, the persons initially appointed under subparagraphs (B) and (E) of said subdivision shall serve for a term of two years from October 1, 1996, and the persons initially appointed under subparagraphs (C) and (F) of said subdivision shall serve for a term of one year from October 1, 1996. Thereafter all persons appointed under said subdivision (5) shall serve for terms of three years from October first in the year of their appointment. Any vacancy under said subdivision shall be filled by the appointing authority. Each member of the board shall serve without compensation. The board shall choose a chairman from among its members.

      (b) The Governor shall schedule and convene the first meeting of the board after the initial appointment of members under subdivisions (3), (5) and (6) of subsection (a) of this section. Such meeting shall be held no later than November 1, 1996.

      (c) Not later than January 1, 1998, and annually thereafter, the board shall submit a report to the Governor, the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development and the General Assembly on the state of economic clusters in the state and the nation. Such report shall include, but not be limited to, analyses of (1) the growth, maturity and decline of existing economic clusters and (2) the formation of new economic clusters which employ emerging technologies. The board shall annually hold an economic cluster conference for the purpose of gathering information for such report. The board shall invite to the conference, business leaders, government officials and higher education faculty who work in, support or study economic clusters.

      (June Sp. Sess. P.A. 91-3, S. 130, 168; P.A. 92-44, S. 1, 2; 92-65, S. 1, 2; P.A. 93-196, S. 1, 3; 93-210, S. 2, 3; P.A. 95-250, S. 1; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6; 96-252, S. 2, 8; P.A. 97-238, S. 6.)

      History: P.A. 92-44 added commissioner of economic development or his designee to board; P.A. 92-65 amended section to expand the one-month periods of November and February for the holding of conferences to two-month periods of November and December and of February and March; P.A. 93-196 amended Subsec. (b)(2) to eliminate specific time periods for holding conferences, effective June 23, 1993; P.A. 93-210 amended Subsec. (a) by adding two economists to board, appointed by majority leaders, effective June 23, 1993; P.A. 95-250 and P.A. 96-211 replaced Commissioner of Economic Development with Commissioner of Economic and Community Development; P.A. 96-252 entirely replaced previous provisions re board, effective July 1, 1996; Sec. 4-70d transferred to Sec. 32-4f in 1997; P.A. 97-238 amended Subsec. (a) to add to the board the Commissioner of Higher Education and the chairpersons and ranking members of the joint standing committee of the General Assembly having cognizance of matters relating to education.

      Sec. 32-4g. Economic cluster report by the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development. Section 32-4g is repealed, effective October 1, 2005.

      (P.A. 96-252, S. 3, 8; P.A. 05-191, S. 12.)

      Sec. 32-4h. Economic cluster bond funds report. Not later than August 1, 1997, and annually thereafter, the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, the chairperson of the board of directors of the Connecticut Development Authority and the chairperson of the board of directors of Connecticut Innovations, Incorporated shall submit a report to the joint standing committee of the General Assembly having cognizance of matters relating to the Department of Economic and Community Development, in accordance with the provisions of section 11-4a, which details the amount of bond funds expended during the previous fiscal year on each economic cluster in the state by the state agency or quasi-public agency administered by such commissioner or chairperson.

      (P.A. 96-252, S. 4, 8.)

      History: P.A. 96-252 effective July 1, 1996.

      Sec. 32-5. Receipts. The department is authorized to receive and to pay over to the State Treasurer any moneys from any source, including contributions made for the purposes of said department by individuals, corporations or associations, or any amounts from the sale of any printed matter or other material. Such receipts when so turned over to the State Treasurer shall become part of the General Fund of the state, provided any such contributions shall be deemed to be appropriated for the purposes designated by the contributors and shall be allotted in accordance with law. The department is further empowered to enter into a contract or contracts from time to time for the purposes of this chapter, such obligations to be met from any appropriation or other funds made available to it, as herein provided. No provision of this chapter shall be construed to restrict or prohibit the department from receiving or accepting funds from any source, including funds from federal, state or municipal governments or from private sources, for any of the purposes, or activities related thereto, of this chapter.

      (1949 Rev., S. 3540; 1959, P.A. 355, S. 1; February, 1965, P.A. 232, S. 1; 492, S. 2; P.A. 73-599, S. 20.)

      History: 1959 act removed power of commission to expend receipts and provided for appropriation of contributions and allotment in accordance with law; 1965 acts specified commission's right to receive and accept funds from any source; P.A. 73-599 replaced Connecticut development commission with department of commerce, here referred to simply as "department", (P.A. 77-614 replaced commerce department with department of economic development).

      See Sec. 32-8 re administration of federal funds.

      Sec. 32-5a. Conditions re relocation of certain businesses which received state financial assistance. The Commissioner of Economic and Community Development and the board of directors of the Connecticut Development Authority shall require, as a condition of any financial assistance provided on and after June 23, 1993, under any program administered by the Department of Economic and Community Development or such authority to any business organization, that such business organization: (1) Shall not relocate outside of the state for ten years after receiving such assistance or during the term of a loan or loan guarantee, whichever is longer, unless the full amount of the assistance is repaid to the state and a penalty equal to five per cent of the total assistance received is paid to the state and (2) shall, if the business organization relocates within the state during such period, offer employment at the new location to its employees from the original location if such employment is available. For the purposes of subdivision (1) of this section, the value of a guarantee shall be equal to the amount of the state's liability under the guarantee. As used in this section, "relocate" means the physical transfer of the operations of a business in its entirety or of any division of a business which independently receives any financial assistance from the state from the location such business or division occupied at the time it accepted the financial assistance to another location. Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development shall adopt regulations in accordance with chapter 54 to establish the terms and conditions of repayment, including specifying the conditions under which repayment may be deferred, following a determination by the commissioner of a legitimate hardship.

      (P.A. 88-146; P.A. 93-218, S. 1, 4; 93-360, S. 14, 19; P.A. 95-250, S. 1; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6.)

      History: P.A. 93-218 applied requirements of the section to any financial assistance, instead of loans and grants only, provided by Connecticut development authority and Connecticut Innovations, Incorporated, as well as commissioner of economic development, to any business organization instead of only those with twenty-five or more employees, extended period of time for condition on not relocating out of state from three to ten years, imposed penalty on relocating during such period and added provision specifying value of a guarantee for purposes of Subdiv. (1), effective June 23, 1993; P.A. 93-360 exempted financial assistance provided by Connecticut Innovations, Incorporated from requirements of the section, effective June 14, 1993; P.A. 95-250 and P.A. 96-211 replaced Commissioner and Department of Economic Development with Commissioner and Department of Economic and Community Development.

      Sec. 32-5b. Deadlines for approval or disapproval of applications for financial assistance. Not later than July 1, 1996, the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development shall adopt regulations in accordance with the provisions of chapter 54, establishing deadlines for the approval or disapproval of applications for financial assistance by the Department of Economic and Community Development.

      (P.A. 95-249, S. 1, 4; 95-250, S. 1; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6.)

      History: P.A. 95-249 effective July 1, 1995; P.A. 95-250 and P.A. 96-211 replaced Commissioner and Department of Economic Development with Commissioner and Department of Economic and Community Development.

      Sec. 32-6. Connecticut building at Eastern States Exposition. (a) The management and control of the operation and affairs of the Connecticut building at the Eastern States Exposition at West Springfield shall be in the charge of the Department of Economic and Community Development. Maintenance of the land and building shall be the responsibility of the Department of Public Works. Coverage by fire and casualty insurance shall be the responsibility of the Comptroller. The building and land shall be used by the Department of Economic and Community Development, in cooperation with public and private agencies, to conduct an educational exhibit which will promote the agricultural, industrial, recreational and other physical and natural resources of this state.

      (b) (1) There is established an account to be known as the Connecticut Eastern States Exposition account. The account shall contain any moneys required by law to be deposited in the account and shall be a separate, nonlapsing account of the General Fund. Investment earnings credited to the account shall become part of the assets of the account. Any balance remaining in said account at the end of any fiscal year shall be carried forward in the account for the next fiscal year.

      (2) There shall be deposited in the Connecticut Eastern States Exposition account any proceeds realized by the state from activities pursuant to this section.

      (3) Amounts in the Connecticut Eastern States Exposition account shall be available to fund the cost of any activities of the Department of Economic and Community Development pursuant to this section, including administrative costs related to such activities.

      (1949 Rev., S. 3541; 1949, 1953, S. 1894d; P.A. 73-599, S. 21; P.A. 77-614, S. 284, 610; P.A. 95-250, S. 1; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6; June 18 Sp. Sess. P.A. 97-11, S. 32, 65.)

      History: P.A. 73-599 replaced Connecticut development commission with department of commerce; P.A. 77-614 replaced department of commerce with department of economic development, effective January 1, 1979; P.A. 95-250 and P.A. 96-211 replaced Commissioner and Department of Economic Development with Commissioner and Department of Economic and Community Development; June 18 Sp. Sess. P.A. 97-11 designated existing provisions as Subsec. (a), amended Subsec. (a) by making Public Works Department responsible for maintenance of the Connecticut building and land and by making technical changes, and added new Subsec. (b) establishing the Connecticut Eastern States Exposition account, effective July 1, 1997.

      Sec. 32-6a. Committee for the Restoration of Historic Assets in Connecticut. Grants. Eligibility of greenways projects. Regulations. "Historical asset" defined. (a) For the purposes of encouraging quality tourism and contributing to an overall historic preservation program there is established a Committee for the Restoration of Historic Assets in Connecticut which shall consist of the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, the chairman of the Governor's Vacation Council, the chairman of the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism and two public members appointed by the Governor on or before December 1, 1977, for a term to expire on February 1, 1979. Thereafter terms of members appointed to succeed those whose terms expire shall be for two years and until successors are appointed. The Commissioner of Economic and Community Development may provide grants or loans as approved by the committee for projects of historic preservation and restoration from the Restoration of Historic Assets in Connecticut Fund established with the proceeds of the bonds issued pursuant to subdivision (2) of subsection (g) of section 2 of special act 77-47. For the purposes of this section, "historical asset" means any building, structure, object or site that is significant in American history, architecture, archaeology or culture or property used in connection therewith. Such grants and loans may be used, in part, for the installation or restoration of supportive improvements. Supportive improvements may include, but shall not be limited to, parking lots, office space, sanitary facilities, utilities necessary to make a building functional, information booths, provisions for the handicapped, improvements necessary to bring such asset into conformance with local ordinances, or any other improvements necessary to return the property to a state of utility provided that any such supportive improvement shall not alter, destroy or detract from the distinctive historical, aesthetic, archaeological, architectural, cultural or stylistic qualities or characteristics of the historic asset or its environment. The Commissioner of Economic and Community Development with the advice and consent of the committee shall promulgate such regulations as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this section.

      (b) The Commissioner of Economic and Community Development may provide grants to develop greenways from the Restoration of Historic Assets in Connecticut Fund established with the proceeds of the bonds issued pursuant to subdivision (2) of subsection (g) of section 2 of special act 77-47. Grants may be made to municipalities and other organizations to develop greenways, including, but not limited to, transportation-related greenways supported by the federal Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, as amended from time to time. The amount of any grant shall be as follows: (1) For transportation greenways projects that are part of interstate greenways, not more than twenty per cent of the project cost; (2) for transportation greenways projects that are local spurs from interstate greenways or that are intertown greenways projects, not more than ten per cent of the project cost; and (3) for greenways that are not transportation greenways, not more than half of the capital costs of the project.

      (S.A. 77-47, S. 8, 65; P.A. 77-614, S. 284, 587, 610; P.A. 78-303, S. 85, 136; P.A. 79-338, S. 1, 2; P.A. 95-250, S. 1; 95-335, S. 4, 26; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6; P.A. 00-148, S. 16; June 30 Sp. Sess. P.A. 03-6, S. 210(e); P.A. 04-20, S. 3; 04-205, S. 5; May Sp. Sess. P.A. 04-2, S. 30.)

      History: P.A. 77-614 and P.A. 78-303 replaced commissioner of commerce with commissioner of economic development, effective January 1, 1979; P.A. 79-338 defined "historical asset"; P.A. 95-250 and P.A. 96-211 replaced Commissioner and Department of Economic Development with Commissioner and Department of Economic and Community Development; P.A. 95-335 added Subsec. (b) making greenways projects eligible for grants and designated existing provisions as Subsec. (a), effective July 1, 1995; P.A. 00-148 amended Subsec. (b) by changing "Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991" to "Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century"; June 30 Sp. Sess. P.A. 03-6 and P.A. 04-20 replaced the Historical Commission with the Connecticut Commission on Arts, Tourism, Culture, History and Film, effective August 20, 2003; P.A. 04-205, effective June 3, 2004, and May Sp. Sess. P.A. 04-2, effective May 12, 2004, both replaced Connecticut Commission on Arts, Tourism, Culture, History and Film with Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism.

      See Sec. 4-9a for definition of "public member".

      See Sec. 23-100 re definition of "greenways".

      Secs. 32-6b to 32-6g. Reserved for future use.

      Sec. 32-6h. One-stop business licensing center. Section 32-6h is repealed, effective July 1, 1995.

      (P.A. 86-329, S. 1, 3; P.A. 93-382, S. 68, 69.)

      Sec. 32-6i. Connecticut Economic Information System Steering Committee. (a) There is established the Connecticut Economic Information System Steering Committee. The committee shall consist of the following members: (1) The Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management, the Secretary of the State, the executive director of the office of the Joint Committee on Legislative Management, the State Librarian, the Labor Commissioner and the Commissioners of Economic and Community Development, Revenue Services, Higher Education, and Education, or their designees, and (2) six members appointed as follows: One by the president pro tempore of the Senate, who shall represent regional planning organizations; one by the majority leader of the Senate, who shall represent academic institutions; one by the minority leader of the Senate, who shall represent private businesses; one by the speaker of the House of Representatives, who shall represent public libraries; one by the majority leader of the House of Representatives, who shall represent the staff of the State Occupational Information Coordinating Committee; and one by the minority leader of the House of Representatives, who shall represent municipalities. The cochairpersons of the committee shall be the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management and the Labor Commissioner until October 1, 1994. Thereafter, the cochairpersons shall be elected by the membership for terms of two years.

      (b) The committee shall establish policy and guidelines for the development and operation of an economic information system. Such policy and guidelines shall include provisions for the following: (1) Coordination with existing state databases and information systems; (2) improvement of access to and dissemination of economic data and information; (3) review of data sources for determination of inclusion in the system; (4) expansion of the scope of state data and research concerning the state economy; (5) establishment of linkages with other public and private information sources to improve the capacity of the Connecticut economic information system; (6) user surveys to determine levels of satisfaction with and use of the system, including, but not limited to, surveys of system content, support and training; (7) workshops for training on system use and forums for discussions on innovative research projects based on the system; (8) exploration and evaluation, in conjunction with the Department of Information Technology, of technical advances to improve the operation and usage of the system and (9) procedures to maintain the confidentiality of data pursuant to state law.

      (c) The members of the committee designated under subdivision (1) of subsection (a) of this section shall administer the committee pursuant to the provisions of an interagency agreement entered into by such members.

      (May Sp. Sess. P.A. 92-4, S. 2, 5; P.A. 95-250, S. 1; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6; June 18 Sp. Sess. P.A. 97-9, S. 28, 50.)

      History: P.A. 95-250 and P.A. 96-211 replaced Commissioner and Department of Economic Development with Commissioner and Department of Economic and Community Development (Revisor's note: References to "Commissioner of Labor" were changed editorially by the Revisors to "Labor Commissioner" for consistency with customary statutory usage); June 18 Sp. Sess. P.A. 97-9 amended Subsec. (b) by substituting "Department of Information Technology" for "Office of Information and Technology", effective July 1, 1997.

      Sec. 32-6j. Assistance of Labor Commissioner in job-training activities. In the assessment and provision of job training for employers, the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development and the executive director of the Connecticut Development Authority shall request the assistance of the Labor Commissioner. Upon receipt of a request for job training pursuant to this section, the Labor Commissioner shall notify the chancellor of the regional community-technical colleges, or his designee, of such request. The chancellor, or his designee, shall determine if a training program exists or can be designed at a regional community-technical college to meet such training need and shall notify the Labor Commissioner of such determination. The Labor Commissioner shall to the extent possible make arrangements for the participation of the regional community-technical colleges, the Connecticut State University system, other institutions of higher education, other postsecondary institutions, adult education programs and state regional vocational-technical schools in implementing the program. Nothing in this section shall preclude the Labor Commissioner from considering or choosing other providers to meet such training need.

      (P.A. 96-190, S. 3, 8.)

      History: P.A. 96-190 effective July 1, 1996.

      Sec. 32-6k. Impact statements submitted to the Connecticut Transportation Strategy Board. (a) Prior to entering into a grant, loan or assistance agreement for any project which is a major traffic generator within the meaning of section 14-311, the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development and the executive directors of the Connecticut Development Authority and Connecticut Innovations, Incorporated, as the case may be, shall submit an impact statement for each such project to the Connecticut Transportation Strategy Board, established pursuant to section 13b-57e. Each impact statement shall (1) describe the project and its expected impact on the transportation system, (2) summarize whether or not such project conforms to the strategy adopted in accordance with section 13b-57g, and (3) include any other information the board may require to discharge its responsibilities under this subsection including, but not limited to, (A) the size of any facility proposed in connection with the project, (B) the hours of operation of such facility, (C) a projection of whether or not an increase in daily vehicle trips including truck traffic is likely to occur as a result of such project, and (D) the availability of public transportation to and from such facility. The board shall evaluate each such impact statement to determine whether such project conforms to such strategy and shall submit to said commissioner and executive directors any findings and recommendations with respect to such project. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed as requiring any delay in the implementation of any such project.

      (b) The board shall, subject to the requirements of chapter 14, protect confidential information and trade secrets provided in connection with the review of any project pursuant to subsection (a) of this section.

      (June Sp. Sess. P.A. 01-5, S. 6, 18; P.A. 02-78, S. 1; P.A. 06-136, S. 26.)

      History: June Sp. Sess. P.A. 01-5 effective July 2, 2001; P.A. 02-78 amended Subsec. (a) to require submission of impact statement on or after January 15, 2003, prior to approval of funding from the Department of Economic and Community Development, the Connecticut Development Authority or Connecticut Innovations, Inc. for any project which is a major traffic generator within the meaning of Sec. 14-311, to delete reference to project new to the state or new construction, to specify requirements with respect to each impact statement, to require board to evaluate impact statement and to make technical changes, added new Subsec. (b) requiring board to protect confidential information and trade secrets provided in connection with project review and redesignated existing Subsec. (b) as Subsec. (c); P.A. 06-136 amended Subsec. (a) by deleting provision re on or after January 15, 2003, requiring impact statement prior to entering into a grant, loan or assistance agreement, rather than prior to approval of funding, replacing former provisions of Subdiv. (1) with requirement re description of project and its expected impact on transportation system, and rewording Subdiv. (2) to take into account the strategy adopted in accordance with Sec. 13b-57g, and deleted former Subsec. (c) re quarterly updates, effective July 1, 2006.

      Sec. 32-6l. Promotion of market areas surrounding rail and bus terminals, airports and ports around the state. The Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, in consultation with the Commissioner of Transportation, shall collaborate with the towns and cities in the state to promote and market areas of retail sales and services surrounding rail, bus terminals, airports and ports around the state. The Commissioner of Economic and Community Development may use the services of the Connecticut Economic Resource Center and any other entity it deems necessary.

      (June Sp. Sess. P.A. 01-5, S. 7, 18.)

      History: June Sp. Sess. P.A. 01-5 effective July 2, 2001.

      Sec. 32-7. Financial and technical assistance to municipal and regional economic development agencies. Applications. (a) The department is authorized to (1) promote and assist the formation of municipal or regional economic development commissions under sections 7-136 and 7-137, or any other provision of the general statutes or any special act; and (2) make available technical and financial assistance to any municipal or regional economic development commission, regional economic development corporation, regional planning agency organized under the provisions of chapter 127, regional council of governments organized under sections 4-124i to 4-124p, inclusive, or any regional council of elected officials organized under the provisions of chapter 50 for planning and implementation of regional economic development. Such financial assistance may be provided to expand or establish the capacity for planning and implementation of regional economic development, including, but not limited to, business retention and recruitment, infrastructure enhancement, labor force development and financial credit availability. Financial assistance may be used for strategic economic development plans, establishment of regional economic databases, regional marketing for business retention and recruitment, coordination of economic development efforts with regional, local, state and federal agencies, surveys, land use studies, site development plans and for any other functions of economic development commissions as set forth in said sections 7-136 and 7-137 or any other provision of the general statutes or any special act.

      (b) Such financial assistance, if any, shall be rendered upon such contractual arrangements as may be agreed upon by the department and the eligible applicant in accordance with their respective needs.

      (c) Applications for financial assistance shall be submitted to the Commissioner of Economic and Community Development at such times and on such forms as the commissioner may prescribe. Each such application shall include, but not be limited to, the following: (1) Documentation that the applicant has staff with expertise in regional economic development to prepare an effective plan to market its services through such entities as chambers of commerce, industry trade associations, banks, local development corporations, community-based organizations and industrial development agencies; (2) a description of the applicant including its organization, membership, staff and sources of other funds, if any; (3) identification of the geographic region to be served; and (4) a description of the means for coordinating financial assistance available under this section with financial assistance available from other public and private funding sources within the region.

      (d) The commissioner shall approve financial assistance on the basis of: (1) The ability of the applicant to administer the financial assistance authorized under this section; (2) the extent of coordination with other publicly and privately supported financial assistance programs available within the region represented by the applicant; and (3) the degree of public and private support within the region for the applicant.

      (November, 1955, S. N178; 1959, P.A. 448; 1961, P.A. 27; February, 1965, P.A. 492, S. 3; 1967, P.A. 522, S. 33; 1969, P.A. 628, S. 17; 1971, P.A. 67, S. 1; P.A. 73-599, S. 22; 73-616, S. 32; P.A. 92-150; P.A. 95-250, S. 1; P.A. 96-211, S. 1, 5, 6.)

      History: 1959 act added "or redefine" to Subdiv. (a) and changed planning "authorities" to planning "agencies" in Subdiv. (b); 1961 act added capital improvement programming, renewal and development to purposes, changed "local" to "municipal" and added development and industrial or redevelopment agencies to Subdivs. (b) and (c); 1965 act specified commission's power to receive and accept funds from any source; 1967 act deleted authority to insure proper utilization of zoning police powers and renewal of substandard, obsolescent or blighted areas, to promote and assist formation of municipal planning, zoning or redevelopment agencies or commissions and other duties and powers re such agencies, substituting for these general reference to "sound state or interregional" planning, deleted references to chapters 124, 126 and 130 and deleted commission's power to adopt regulations re qualifications of community planners; 1969 act deleted commission's duty "to insure the economic and orderly development of the state" through specified means, deleted authority to define or redefine "logical economic and planning regions of the state", to provide assistance to regional agencies for regional plans of development and to prepare and recommend state-wide or interregional plans, deleted reference to chapter 127 and replaced references to regional planning or economic development agencies with references to municipal or regional economic development commissions; 1971 act included assistance to regional councils of elected officials in Subsec. (1)(b); P.A. 73-599 replaced Connecticut development commission with department of commerce, here referred to as "the department" (P.A. 77-614 replaced commerce department with department of economic development); P.A. 73-616 added reference to regional councils of elected officials in Subsec. (2) for consistency with change enacted in P.A. 73-599; P.A. 92-150 made technical changes replacing numeric Subsec. designations with alphabetical designations and amended Subsec. (a) by expanding agencies eligible for assistance, amended Subsec. (b) to make the commissioner solely responsible for determining contractual arrangements, and added Subsecs. (c) re applications and (d) establishing criteria for approval of financial assistance; P.A. 95-250 and P.A. 96-211 replaced Commissioner and Department of Economic Development with Commissioner and Department of Economic and Community Development.

      See Sec. 8-31a et seq. re regional planning agencies.

      See Sec. 8-154a et seq. re contracts for state financial assistance.

      See Sec. 8-161 re assistance toward preparation of capital improvements program.

      Cited. 150 C. 342.

      Secs. 32-7a to 32-7d. Transferred to Chapter 50, Secs. 4-124c to 4-124f, inclusive.

      Sec. 32-7e. Regional Economic Development Assistance Revolving Fund. (a) There is established a fund to be known as the "Regional Economic Development Assistance Revolving Fund". Repayment of principal and interest on loans made for regional economic development activities pursuant to chapters 130, 132, 588a and section 4-66c shall be credited to the fund and shall become part of the assets of the fund. The Regional Economic Development Assistance Revolving Fund may include other separate accounts. Any balance remaining in the fund at the end of any fiscal year shall be carried forward in the fund for the next fiscal year succeeding.

      (b) All moneys received in consideration of financial assistance for regional economic development activities, including payments of principal and interest on any loans, shall be credited to the fund. The Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, with the approval of the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management, may deposit any federal, private or other moneys received by the state in connection with regional economic development activities into the fund. The Commissioner of Economic and Community Development may allow funds to be retained by regional entities and not repaid to the fund.

      (c) The commissioner may provide financial assistance from the assets of the fund to regional entities in the form of individual loans or grants. Regional entities may provide loans to nonprofit businesses or communities, not to exceed two hundred fifty thousand dollars per individual loan, from a regional fund established by the entity. Notwithstanding any provision of the general statutes, payment of any administrative expenses or other costs incurred by the department in carrying out the purposes of chapters 130, 132, 588a and section 4-66c, with respect to regional economic development activities, may be paid from the fund established in this section.

      (P.A. 98-253, S. 11.)

      Sec. 32-8. Administration of federal funds. The department is authorized to accept any federal funds allotted to this state under any federal act for any projects which may be established by federal law for any of the purposes, or activities related thereto, of this chapter, and said department shall administer such funds in accordance with federal law. Said department may enter into contracts with the federal government concerning the use and repayment of such funds under such federal act and the prosecution of the work under any such contract.

      (1955, June, 1955, S. 1895d; November, 1955, S. N179; February, 1965, P.A. 232, S. 2; 492, S. 4; 1967, P.A. 522, S. 34; 1969, P.A. 628, S. 18; P.A. 73-599, S. 23.)

      History: 1965 acts deleted specific reference to funds allotted under Federal Housing Act of 1954, broadened reference to federal funds uses to include use for interregional and area planning, urban renewal or development, demonstration projects, etc. as well as for local and regional planning; 1967 act deleted reference to use of funds for local planning and for urban renewal or redevelopment and deleted reference to contracting power of municipal planning commissions, zoning commissions and planning and zoning commissions; 1969 act generalized use of funds for "any projects", replacing use for "state, regional, interregional or area planning, demonstration projects or any other projects", deleted provisions re separate account in which funds are to be deposited and re contracting powers of regional planning agencies; P.A. 73-599 replaced Connecticut development commission with department of commerce, here referred to as "the department" (P.A. 77-614 replaced commerce department with department of economic development).

      Sec. 32-8a. Registry of electronic commerce and information technology intensive companies. The Department of Economic and Community Development shall maintain a registry of qualifying electronic commerce or information technology intensive companies for the purposes of sections 10a-169a and 10a-169b. An updated registry shall be made available on the department's web page.

      (P.A. 00-