This bill establishes new requirements for obtaining landfill permits in New Hampshire, focusing on environmental protection and groundwater safety. It mandates that the Department of Environmental Services (DES) set specific setback distances for proposed landfills from perennial rivers, lakes, and coastal waters, ensuring that contaminated groundwater does not reach these water bodies within a five-year timeframe. The setback distance will be determined based on the maximum seepage velocity of groundwater, calculated through independent hydrogeological studies funded by the applicant. Additionally, the bill stipulates that no permit will be issued if the proposed landfill does not meet these setback requirements, and it includes provisions for the maximum hydraulic conductivity of soils beneath the landfill footprint.

Furthermore, the bill requires that all landfill facilities maintain 24/7 staffing from the date they begin accepting waste until final closure is achieved. This staffing requirement is expected to increase local and county expenditures significantly, with estimates ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 annually starting in FY 2026. The bill also allows for the expansion or modification of existing landfills under certain conditions, while ensuring that environmental protections remain in place. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the safety and environmental standards associated with landfill operations in New Hampshire.