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 regulation, and provides for the immediate removal of any materials involved in violations by authorized members of the Department of Environmental Services.

Additionally, the bill outlines penalties for violations, categorizing them based on the severity of the offense. A first offense will be classified as a violation, while a second or subsequent offense will be treated as a misdemeanor for individuals or a felony for entities other than natural persons. Furthermore, any person who purposely or knowingly violates the prohibition will be guilty of a class B felony. 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