Release-Based Regulations
Through Goal 1, DEEP developed new regulations to 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 January 1, 2026)
This goal is 100% complete.
We are thrilled to have achieved Goal 1! The Release-Based Cleanup Regulations (RBCRs) became effective on March 1, 2026. DEEP is hard at work standing up this new, modern clean-up program. Check in on the Release-Based Cleanup Program website and the Environmental Cleanup main page for implementation updates.
Beyond this goal, DEEP offers training on the Release-Based Cleanup Regulations and associated Release, Environmental Cleanup, and Assessment Tracker during the transition to the Release-Based Framework.
GOAL 1 PROGRESS FROM PREVIOUS QUARTERS
Summer 2025
We are thrilled to have achieved Goal 1! DEEP is working to stand up the new clean-up program. The Release-Based Cleanup Program website contains the latest implementation updates.
Winter 2025
DEEP submitted the draft regulations to the Legislative Regulation Review Committee 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 made the changes that LRRC requested and resubmitted the proposed regulations on April 1, 2025. The Release-Based Regulations passed unanimously on Earth Day, April 22, 2025.
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 April 2026.