Senator Tony Hwang Applauds Passage of Landmark Environmental and Climate Legislation

HARTFORD, CT - State Senator Tony Hwang (R–Fairfield) participated in the signing of two major environmental bills, Senate Bill 9 and House Bill 5004, signed into law by Governor Ned Lamont in a CT State Capitol ceremony. These bipartisan measures strengthen Connecticut’s commitment to climate resiliency, biodiversity protection, and the clean energy economy.

Senator Hwang, who voted in favor of both bills, has long championed environmentally responsible policy throughout his legislative career. “Environmental protection is not a partisan issue, it’s a responsibility to future generations,” said Senator Hwang. “These bills reflect our shared commitment to clean air and water, sustainable land use, and innovative energy policy that also supports jobs and economic opportunity.”

Connecticut League of Conservation Voters (CTLCV) were strong advocates for both bills. Lori Brown, CTLCV Executive Director complimented Senator Hwang’s leadership, “Tony Hwang is a leading voice for the environment in the Connecticut State Senate. He has always been a champion for climate legislation and his principled leadership is reflected in his votes. We at the CT League of Conservation Voter know we can count on his unwavering support when it matters most. Senator Hwang doesn’t just vote, he shows up and leads the way.”

SB 9, An Act Concerning the Environment, Climate, and Sustainable Planning, responds to the urgent threats of sea level rise and extreme weather events by advancing coastal resilience strategies, limiting harmful pesticides and rodenticides, and encouraging sustainable municipal planning. The bill builds on the Long Island Sound Blue Plan, led by Senator Hwang, former State Senator Ted Kennedy, Jr. and former State Representative Lonnie Reed, which established a foundational framework for responsible marine and coastal management.

HB 5004, An Act Concerning the Protection of the Environment and the Development of Renewable Energy Sources, invests in clean energy innovation and expands green workforce development. It emphasizes the role of renewable energy in reducing emissions and modernizing infrastructure.

Robert LaFrance, CT Policy Director for National Audubon Society added, “The challenges we face in addressing coastal resilience and sea level rise do not recognize political affiliations. That is why we strive to work in a bipartisan way, allowing science to be our guide and enlisting the support of both sides of the political aisle. This bipartisan support results in common sense legislation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and incentivize plans for climate resilience.“

Senator Hwang has also led coastal resilience forums and educational outreach efforts in Fairfield and throughout the shoreline region, helping communities better understand and adapt to the impacts of climate change. (Watch a CT-N Costal Resiliency forum here) “We must plan proactively, act urgently, and govern responsibly when it comes to the environment,” Hwang added. “I’m proud to work across the aisle to protect Connecticut’s natural legacy and ensure a healthier, more resilient future.”