(a) As used in this section, § 23-81a and § 16a-27, “Connecticut Heritage Area” means a place within the state that has been identified by the General Assembly as having significant historic, recreational, cultural, natural and scenic resources that form an important part of the state’s heritage.

(b) Each state agency, department, board and commission (1) shall consider Connecticut Heritage Areas when developing planning documents and processes, and (2) may partner with the managing entities of such areas on projects concerning, but not limited to, environmental protection, heritage resource preservation, recreation, tourism and trail development.