The bill introduces the creation of the State Environmental Adaptation, Resilience, and Innovation Advisory Council in New Hampshire, aimed at guiding the state in becoming more resilient to environmental changes. The council is designed to assist in preparing for environmental challenges that affect various sectors such as public health, infrastructure, tourism, and the economy, with a focus on comprehensive planning and equitable investments for at-risk populations and areas. The council will be composed of state officials and representatives from various sectors, including environmental organizations and climate science experts, and will meet at least twice a year. Its activities will include mapping vulnerable areas, reviewing existing activities, identifying gaps, and considering strategies for inclusion in state planning and budget development.

The bill also establishes the New Hampshire Environmental Adaptation, Resilience, and Innovation Fund within the state treasury to support the council's work, which will be non-lapsing and can receive federal grants, state appropriations, and donations. The council is mandated to report annually on its activities and recommendations, and the bill amends RSA 6:12, I(b) to include this new fund for the receipt of monies. The council's enabling statute is set to be repealed on June 30, 2027, but the rest of the act will take effect 30 days after its passage. The bill underscores the importance of economic studies to understand the financial impacts of environmental changes and directs the council to make recommendations on funding strategies to alleviate the financial burden on taxpayers and to explore innovative financing opportunities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 6:12
As Amended by the Senate: 6:12
Version adopted by both bodies: 6:12