This bill introduces specific salt application requirements for the Town of Merrimack, New Hampshire, aiming to reduce the use of granular salt and chlorides within the Merrimack Village District wellhead protection area. It mandates that upon a written request from the Town of Merrimack, signed by the Town Council, Fire Chief, Police Chief, and School Board, the Department of Transportation (DOT) must consult with town officials to implement a low salt area on Continental Boulevard and Industrial Drive. The DOT is also instructed to pre-treat with liquid deicers and other deicing products to minimize hazards during winter weather events.

The fiscal impact of the bill is detailed, with no new state revenue and estimated expenditures of $12,480 in FY 2024, increasing to $435,396 in FY 2025, and then $183,241 and $183,931 in the subsequent years. These costs are associated with the purchase of a tanker truck, additional storage tank, hiring of a new employee, and other related expenses. The bill does not provide funding or authorize new positions, indicating that if turnpike funds are used to meet the bill's requirements, there would need to be a corresponding reduction in other DOT operations and maintenance activities. The bill is set to take effect upon its passage.