Release-Based Regulations
Through Goal 1, DEEP is developing new regulations that will ultimately replace the Property Transfer Act with a more effective and equitable release-based framework for cleaning up contaminated sites that is consistent with other states. Background on this goal is presented in DEEP’s 20BY26, Setting the Target: CT DEEP 2026 Goals (February 2024).
Latest Progress (as of Winter 2025)
DEEP has achieved Goal 1! DEEP submitted the draft regulations to the Legislative Regulation Review Committee (LRRC) in February 2025. On March 25, 2025, the LRRC met and recommended some substantive and technical edits to the regulations, rejecting them without prejudice. DEEP revised and resubmitted the proposed regulations on April 1, 2025. The Release-Based Regulations passed unanimously on Earth Day, April 22, 2025. In addition, separate legislation was adopted by the General Assembly that revises the effective date of the regulations to March 2026, to smooth the transition to the new program.
Up Next
DEEP looks forward to working to standing up this new, modern clean-up program. Check in on the Release-Based Clean Up Program website for implementation updates.
GOAL 1 PROGRESS FROM PREVIOUS QUARTERS
Fall 2024
The public comment period on the proposed Release-Based Cleanup Regulations closed on October 24, 2024. DEEP received more than 400 comments on specific provisions of the RBCRs, and dozens more comments on the regulations at a more general level. DEEP worked hard to review, consider, and respond to these comments.
Summer 2024
DEEP posted the draft regulations for 90-day public notice and comment on July 24, 2024. To ensure that the proposed regulations were clear for the various stakeholders, DEEP held and participated in various informational meetings, speaking engagements, and Q&A sessions (adding to the 50 Working Group meetings since the start of the regs development process). DEEP hosted 4 workshops and 7 presentations in August and September.
Winter and Spring 2024
The Release-Based Working Group, DECD, DEEP staff, and other stakeholders worked to prepare the draft regulations for public notice.
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Content last updated July 2025