This bill aims to prohibit the intentional disposal of yard waste into the surface waters of the state, amending existing law to include yard waste as a prohibited material. Specifically, it adds the term "yard waste" to the list of solid and hazardous wastes that cannot be placed in surface waters, ice over such waters, or on the banks of these waters. The bill also modifies the enforcement provisions, allowing peace officers in New Hampshire to enforce this section and requiring the immediate removal of any materials involved in violations.

Additionally, the bill establishes 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 subsequent offenses will escalate to a misdemeanor for individuals or a felony for entities. The bill also clarifies that knowingly violating the prohibition will result in a class B felony. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and its fiscal impact is indeterminable, potentially affecting the judicial and correctional systems due to changes in penalties and enforcement.

Statutes affected:
As Amended by the House: 485-A:15