This bill requires that persons or entities conducting timber harvesting operations in wetlands verify compliance with and maintain in their records all permitting documents required for the work being done. It adds a new paragraph to RSA 227-J:6, stating that before commencing timber harvesting operations in wetlands, the person or entity must verify compliance with all permitting documents required by state law and municipal ordinances. They must also maintain records of these documents and make them available to state and local enforcement officials at all times while conducting tree harvesting work. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in penalties under RSA 482-A.

The fiscal impact of this bill is indeterminable. It may have an impact on the judicial and correctional systems, which could affect prosecution, incarceration, probation, and parole costs for the state, as well as county and local governments. The bill has been reviewed by the Judicial Branch, Judicial Council, Department of Justice, Department of Corrections, New Hampshire Association of Counties, and New Hampshire Municipal Association.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 227-J:6