This bill appropriates $28,870,000 from the General Fund to the Department of Environmental Services for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026. The funds are designated for regional drinking water infrastructure as part of Phase 2 of the Southern New Hampshire Regional Water Project, which aims to enhance water supply by over 2 million gallons per day to various towns affected by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance contamination and increasing water demands. The infrastructure improvements will encompass necessary ancillary projects, including booster pumping stations, pressure reducing stations, water storage tanks, and water mains, along with associated design, land acquisition, and construction permits. The bill ensures that no current public utility ratepayer will be adversely impacted by costs related to the provision of drinking water to communities benefiting from the funded projects.

The bill also stipulates that the appropriation is nonlapsing, meaning the funds will remain available for use beyond the fiscal year if not fully expended. Additionally, it includes a provision that allows the governor to draw a warrant for the appropriated sum from any unallocated treasury funds. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to address critical water infrastructure needs while safeguarding existing ratepayers from additional financial burdens.