This bill amends the existing law regarding the application of fertilizers on urban turf and lawns by changing the nature of penalties for violations. Specifically, it introduces a new paragraph to RSA 431:4-e, stating that any person who violates this section, either personally or through an agent, will be guilty of a violation. Importantly, the penalties outlined in RSA 431:18 will not apply to this section, effectively removing the criminal penalties and fines that were previously applicable.

The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and is expected to have an indeterminable impact on state and local expenditures, as it alters the criminal penalty framework. The fiscal note indicates that there will be no revenue generated from this bill, and while the exact costs associated with changes to the judicial and correctional systems are uncertain, they may affect prosecution, incarceration, probation, and parole costs for various levels of government.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 431:4-e