Major 2025 Legislative Win: HB 5004 Passes in Connecticut
HB5004 – AN ACT CONCERNING THE PROTECTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES AND ASSOCIATED JOB SECTORS (LCO No. 4924)
Overview
After more than two years of sustained advocacy by the Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs (CRCJ) and our partners, HB 5004 passed in the 2025 legislative session—a pivotal step toward climate justice, clean energy growth, and economic resilience. While not a comprehensive climate mitigation bill, HB 5004 lays critical groundwork for transitioning Connecticut to a clean energy economy.
CRCJ was proud to lead advocacy efforts on this legislation alongside our coalition of labor, faith, environmental, and community partners. Our work included grassroots mobilization, direct lobbying, legislative testimony, and communications campaigns that centered the voices of workers and frontline communities.
Why It Matters
Connecticut must act now to protect ratepayers and capture the economic opportunity of the clean technology sector. This bill accelerates state-led action, strengthens workforce pathways, and expands equitable access to energy efficiency programs, particularly in communities overburdened by pollution and energy insecurity.
Key Provisions of HB 5004
Energy Efficiency to Reduce Costs
Incentivizes investment in energy-efficient infrastructure for homes and businesses Creates an Affordable Heat Pump Program and allows school districts to receive state construction reimbursements for installing heat pumps Updates efficiency standards for electrical appliances and water fixtures
Workforce Development & Green Jobs
Incentivizes investment in energy-efficient infrastructure for homes and businesses Creates an Affordable Heat Pump Program and allows school districts to receive state construction reimbursements for installing heat pumps Updates efficiency standards for electrical appliances and water fixtures
Fosters Clean, Affordable Energy Independence
Incentivizes investment in energy-efficient infrastructure for homes and businesses Creates an Affordable Heat Pump Program and allows school districts to receive state construction reimbursements for installing heat pumps Updates efficiency standards for electrical appliances and water fixtures
Environmental Justice & Public Health
Incentivizes investment in energy-efficient infrastructure for homes and businesses Creates an Affordable Heat Pump Program and allows school districts to receive state construction reimbursements for installing heat pumps Updates efficiency standards for electrical appliances and water fixtures
CRCJ’s Role
The Connecticut Roundtable on Climate and Jobs spent over two years building public support and legislative momentum for HB 5004. From organizing town halls and coalition briefings to amplifying community voices and coordinating direct advocacy at the Capitol, our team worked to ensure that the final bill reflected the values of equity, justice, and a just transition for workers.
This victory is a direct result of grassroots pressure and coordinated coalition building—and a testament to what’s possible when we unite across movements.
