Conn. Gen. Stat. § 10-396: Duties of department re tourism.

With respect to tourism activities, the Department of Economic and Community Development shall:

(1) Develop, annually update and implement a strategic marketing plan for the national and international promotion of Connecticut as a tourism destination;

(2) Develop a Connecticut strategic plan for new tourism products and attractions;

(3) Provide marketing and other assistance to the tourism industry;

(4) Ensure cooperation among the regional tourism districts;

(5) Within available appropriations, maintain, operate and manage the visitor welcome centers in the state;

(6) Develop and administer a program of challenge grants to encourage innovation and job development, provide incentives for coordinated activity consistent with the strategic marketing plan and stimulate the development of private funds for tourism promotion; and

(7) Subject to available funds, assist municipalities to accommodate tourist attractions within such municipalities or within neighboring or adjoining municipalities.