This bill establishes the Organic and Food Waste Diversion Commission within the Department of Environmental Services to assist in the development and implementation of an organic and food waste diversion program. The commission will provide feedback and advice on rule-making and timelines related to food waste management. The bill amends RSA 149-M by inserting a new section, 149-M:7-a, which outlines the composition of the commission, including members from the House of Representatives, Senate, various environmental organizations, and representatives from the business community and municipalities. The commission will also include the commissioner of the Department of Environmental Services or their designee, and any additional members deemed necessary by the commissioner.
The commission's responsibilities will encompass planning and enacting effective food waste management strategies, reviewing related legislation and policies, and providing technical assistance and educational outreach to various stakeholders. The commission is required to hold its organizational meeting by November 1, 2026, and submit its initial report by November 1, 2027, with subsequent annual reports. The bill specifies that the terms for state agency and legislative members will align with their terms in office, while other members will serve for the duration of the commission. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.