This bill proposes an increase in annual mooring fees for both congregate and public mooring fields, raising the fee from $50 to $75, and for moorings not in these fields, from $25 to $50. Additionally, it stipulates that $25 from each mooring fee will be allocated to the cyanobacteria mitigation loan and grant fund, which is established under RSA 485-A:61. The remaining funds from the fees will continue to be deposited into the navigation safety fund established under RSA 270-E:6-a. The bill aims to enhance funding for projects aimed at mitigating cyanobacteria, a harmful algal bloom that can affect water quality.

The estimated fiscal impact of this bill is significant, with projections indicating an increase in revenue to the cyanobacteria mitigation fund of approximately $111,250 to $122,500 annually starting in FY 2027. This revenue is expected to be used for cyanobacteria mitigation projects, which typically cost between $250,000 and $500,000. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and aims to provide a sustainable funding source for addressing the challenges posed by cyanobacteria in New Hampshire's water bodies.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 270:62
As Amended by the House: 270:62
HB1301 text: 270:62