This bill proposes the establishment of a special nonlapsing fund, known as the Water Well Board Fund, to support the operations of the New Hampshire Water Well Board. The bill amends existing law by inserting new provisions that require all fees, fines, and civil penalties collected under RSA 482-B to be deposited into this newly created fund instead of the general fund. Specifically, it adds a new subparagraph to RSA 6:12, I (b) and a new section (482-B:4-a) that outlines the fund's purpose, which is to finance the Water Well Board's duties. The bill also deletes references to the general fund in RSA 284-B:14 and RSA 482-B:16, VI, replacing them with the Water Well Board Fund.
The fiscal impact of this bill is significant, as it is expected to generate approximately $242,600 in annual revenue starting July 1, 2026, due to a new $100 fee for well completion reports. This revenue will be used to cover the costs associated with the Water Well Board, including funding a full-time position currently supported by the general fund. The transition to the Water Well Board Fund is anticipated to streamline funding and ensure that all related revenues are dedicated to the board's operations, rather than being mixed with the general fund.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 6:12, 284-B:14, 482-B:16
HB1088 text: 6:12, 284-B:14, 482-B:16