This bill establishes a prohibition against the intentional disposal of yard waste into the surface waters of the state, amending existing law to include yard waste as a type of solid waste that cannot be placed in these areas. Specifically, it modifies RSA 485-A:15 to include the insertion of "yard waste" and "trees or parts thereof" in the definition of prohibited materials. The bill also updates the enforcement provisions, allowing peace officers in New Hampshire to enforce this prohibition and authorizing the Department of Environmental Services to order the immediate removal of any materials involved in violations.

Additionally, the bill outlines penalties for violations, introducing a tiered system of consequences. For a first offense, individuals who purposely or recklessly violate the prohibition will be guilty of a violation, while second or subsequent offenses will result in a misdemeanor for individuals and a felony for entities. Furthermore, those who purposely or knowingly violate the prohibition will face a class B felony charge. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Amended by the House: 485-A:15
As Amended by the Senate: 485-A:15
Version adopted by both bodies: 485-A:15
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 485-A:15