The bill HB 1649-FN seeks to regulate the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in consumer products in New Hampshire. It defines PFAS and lists affected products, including mattresses, carpets, cosmetics, and food packaging, among others. The bill outlines manufacturer responsibilities, establishes a PFAS products control program, and exempts certain products from the restrictions. It also appropriates funds for the Department of Environmental Services to support an additional position and the PFAS control program, and directs funds from PFAS litigation settlements to the drinking water and groundwater trust fund to assist public water systems with PFAS contamination.

The bill further amends existing laws by defining new terms related to PFAS, expanding the scope of strict liability for PFAS facility owners in cases of contamination, and detailing the state's ability to recover costs for remediation. It introduces "Point of Entry Treatment" (POET) systems for affected property owners and mandates that facility owners cover the costs for providing safe drinking water. The bill also specifies the handling of funds from PFAS-related lawsuits, with an emphasis on supporting public water systems, and includes provisions for loan forgiveness related to PFAS contamination. Certain sections of the bill will become effective 60 days after passage, with the remainder effective on August 2, 2024.

Statutes affected:
As Amended by the Senate (2nd): 147-B:2, 147-B:10, 485:1-a, 485-H:6, 6:13-e
Version adopted by both bodies: 147-B:2, 147-B:10, 485:1-a, 485-H:6, 6:13-e
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 147-B:2, 147-B:10, 485:1-a, 485:58, 485-H:6, 6:13-e