This bill designates Coos County as a distressed place-based economy, recognizing its economic difficulties, including high unemployment and financial losses. It requires state agency commissioners to consult with county commissioners before making regulatory decisions that could affect the county's economy, emphasizing the need for tailored regulatory approaches and encouraging public-private partnerships for economic sustainability. The bill introduces new definitions for "place-based economy" and "distressed," and highlights the importance of collaborative decision-making to safeguard the county's health, safety, and economic welfare. Additionally, it repeals the previous designation of Coos County as a distressed place-based economy, indicating a shift towards more localized governance.

Moreover, the bill mandates the Department of Environmental Services to revise landfill siting rules to enhance protection for human health and the environment. Key provisions include prohibiting new landfill permits near drinking water sources and establishing setback distances based on groundwater velocity. It also incorporates the "Ford Act" into landfill permitting, prohibiting municipal solid waste landfills within six miles of certain smaller public airports, and amends RSA 149-M:9, IX to require permit denial under specific conditions. The introductory paragraph of RSA 149-M:7 is repealed and reenacted to grant the commissioner authority to adopt necessary rules for public health and environmental protection. The fiscal impact of the bill is indeterminable, with potential costs for state departments related to increased staffing and regulatory compliance.

Statutes affected:
As Amended by the House: 149-M:7, 149-M:9