This bill establishes the Agricultural PFAS Remediation Fund to support New Hampshire farmers who have experienced losses or incurred costs due to the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in soil, water, or agricultural products, particularly as a result of standard agricultural practices like the application of sludge or biosolids. The bill introduces a new definition of PFAS and creates a new subdivision in the law that outlines civil immunity for farmers against lawsuits related to PFAS contamination resulting from these practices. Additionally, the bill mandates that the fund will be financed through various sources, including litigation recoveries, grants, and donations, and will be used for purposes such as testing for PFAS, providing water filtration systems, and supporting farmers in adapting to management changes due to PFAS presence.

Furthermore, the bill imposes a five-year moratorium on the land application of sludge and biosolids for agricultural use, aiming to mitigate further contamination. It also specifies that funds from the Agricultural PFAS Relief Fund cannot be distributed to entities that have operated solid waste management facilities or held permits for sludge or biosolid processing. The bill prioritizes funding based on criteria such as the historical application of sludge and current land use, ensuring that assistance is directed to those most affected by PFAS contamination. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 485-A:2, 6:12
HB1275 text: 485-A:2, 6:12