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HB 5195

AN ACT ESTABLISHING A TAX CREDIT FOR BUSINESSES THAT INSTALL A MEADOW IN LIEU OF A LAWN.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Anne Hughes and 1 co-sponsor

Connecticut business tax credit for replacing lawns with meadows to promote pollinator habitat and reduce environmental impact through native plantings.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON Finance, Revenue and Bonding
#corporationbusinesstaxcredits #lawns #plants
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Bill Summary · HB 5195

Legislative bill overview

HB 5195 would establish a tax credit for Connecticut businesses that replace traditional lawns with meadows on their properties. The bill incentivizes native plant landscaping by offering financial relief to participating businesses. This is part of a broader policy trend promoting pollinator-friendly and environmentally sustainable landscaping practices.

Why is this important

Meadows support pollinators, reduce maintenance costs, and improve stormwater management compared to traditional turf lawns. The tax credit could accelerate adoption of low-maintenance, ecologically beneficial landscaping among businesses while reducing mowing emissions and chemical inputs. However, the actual impact depends heavily on credit size, eligibility requirements, and uptake rates.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to state revenue: The fiscal impact on Connecticut's tax base is unclear without knowing credit amounts and expected participation rates
  • Definition and enforcement: "Meadow" and "in lieu of a lawn" require precise definitions to prevent misuse and ensure environmental standards are met
  • Equity concerns: The credit may primarily benefit larger businesses with more property, potentially excluding small businesses or those in dense urban areas
  • Environmental standards: The bill doesn't specify whether native species requirements, size thresholds, or maintenance standards are included to ensure ecological value
  • Administrative burden: Verification that meadows are properly established and maintained would require government oversight

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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