The bill HB 1189-FN establishes a Solid Waste Site Evaluation Committee (SWSEC) within the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services to evaluate the impacts of proposed major solid waste disposal facilities. The committee will assess factors such as noise, odor, aesthetics, and economic impacts, which are not fully addressed by current regulations. The bill emphasizes the need for environmentally protective disposal capacity and prefers expanding existing landfills or utilizing brownfield sites over developing new greenfield sites. The committee will consist of seven members with expertise in waste management and environmental protection, and it will have defined roles, responsibilities, and an administrative structure, including the appointment of an administrator.

Key provisions of the bill include detailed requirements for the application process for solid waste disposal facilities, such as public hearings, economic impact assessments, and independent peer reviews. The bill deletes the previous requirement for certificates for changes to existing facilities unless they propose a significant increase in throughput. It also introduces a non-lapsing Solid Waste Evaluation Committee Fund to cover operational costs and suspends the issuance of permits for new capacity until the committee adopts rules or until July 1, 2027. The bill aims to enhance regulatory oversight while ensuring public involvement and compliance with environmental standards, with provisions for monitoring, judicial review, and addressing violations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 6:12
As Amended by the House: 6:12
HB1189 text: 6:12