This bill mandates the completion of a baseline environmental impact study (EIS) before the development of manufacturing and storage facilities exceeding 50,000 square feet. The new section added to RSA 155-A outlines that the EIS must assess existing environmental conditions, including water, air, soil, noise, and light, and must be conducted by a qualified environmental professional approved by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES). The bill specifies that no permit will be issued unless the applicant provides proof of a completed EIS, which must also include an analysis of potential environmental impacts, reasonable alternatives, and feasible mitigation measures. Additionally, the EIS must be updated every five years and resubmitted upon any change in ownership or use of the facility.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new paragraph to RSA 21-O:3, requiring the commissioner to adopt administrative rules regarding the submission process for these environmental impact studies. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage. While the bill does not allocate funding or authorize new positions, it is estimated that the implementation will require additional expenditures for the DES, including the hiring of at least two full-time environmental scientists to manage the review of EIS submissions. The costs associated with the EIS preparation will be borne by the landowners, with no anticipated impact on municipalities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-O:3
HB1621 text: 21-O:3