This bill amends the statute of limitations for civil actions related to damage caused by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Specifically, it modifies RSA 485-H:12 to allow such civil actions to be initiated within 20 years of the date the plaintiff discovers, or should have discovered, the harm or injury caused by PFAS exposure. The bill inserts the phrase "Notwithstanding RSA 508:4, a" at the beginning of the statute, indicating that this new provision takes precedence over the existing statute of limitations. Additionally, it removes the previous limitation of 6 years, significantly extending the time frame for plaintiffs to file claims.

The bill also clarifies that nothing within this section limits any actions that may be brought by the state regarding PFAS exposure. The effective date for this new law is set for January 1, 2026, allowing time for stakeholders to prepare for the changes in the legal landscape surrounding PFAS-related civil actions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 485-H:12