This bill modifies the requirements for landfill permit applicants by mandating the submission of a report that assesses the potential harms and benefits of the proposed project. The Department of Environmental Services (DES) is responsible for determining if the landfill project provides a "net public benefit," defined as the benefits outweighing the harms. The bill repeals and reenacts RSA 149-M:11, III, stipulating that the application can only advance to a full technical review if the DES confirms a net public benefit. The assessment must be conducted by an independent third-party contractor, selected in consultation with both the host community and the applicant, with the applicant covering the costs of this assessment. Additionally, the bill introduces new subparagraphs to RSA 149-M:11, V, detailing conditions for landfill expansions or new projects to meet state capacity needs. It clarifies in RSA 149-M:11, VIII, that the applicant bears the burden of demonstrating a net public benefit, which must be project-specific. The term "substantial public benefit" is replaced with "net public benefit" in RSA 149-M:11, XI, ensuring compliance with permit application information. The bill also establishes extended review periods for the application process, which may lead to increased administrative costs and necessitate hiring two new full-time staff members at the DES. While the bill does not delete any existing legal language, it highlights the need for additional funding to accommodate the longer review times and increased consultations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 149-M:11
As Amended by the House: 149-M:11