This bill amends the dam inspection authority for the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES) and revises the criteria for dam inspections. It specifies that dams classified as non-menace structures as of February 20, 1981, will retain their status unless the DES determines that downstream conditions have changed, warranting reclassification; an application for a permit to reconstruct the dam is received; or the DES determines that the dam does not meet current design criteria consistent with the hazard classification due to the impacts of dam failure. Additionally, the bill allows the DES to deposit revenue from the leasing, sale, or transfer of state-owned dams into the dam maintenance fund, which is used for the repair and reconstruction of other state-owned dams, with legislative and gubernatorial approval.

The bill also establishes a committee to study alternatives for funding the operation, maintenance, and repair of state-owned dams. The committee will consist of one senator and three members of the House of Representatives, with specific committee representation outlined. The committee is tasked with studying the need for dam operation, maintenance, and repair, examining existing funding sources, and developing recommendations for the continued operation, maintenance, and repair of state-owned dams, including options for funding the state dam maintenance fund. The committee must report its findings and any proposed legislation by November 1, 2024. The act is effective as of July 3, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 482:12, 481:32
As Amended by the Senate: 482:12, 481:32
Version adopted by both bodies: 482:12, 481:32
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 482:12, 481:32
SB549 text: 482:12, 481:32