This bill establishes a prohibition against the intentional disposal of yard waste into the surface waters of the state, amending existing laws to include specific penalties for violations. The new legal language inserted into RSA 485-A:15 includes the addition of "yard waste" to the list of prohibited materials, which already encompasses various forms of solid and hazardous waste. The bill also modifies the enforcement provisions, allowing peace officers in New Hampshire to enforce this section and requiring immediate removal of the waste by the responsible party upon violation.

Furthermore, the bill outlines a tiered penalty system for violations. For a first offense, individuals who purposely or recklessly dispose of yard waste will be guilty of a violation, while a second or subsequent offense will result in a misdemeanor for individuals and a felony for organizations. Additionally, 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