The bill, HB 707-FN, establishes a Solid Waste Site Evaluation Committee in New Hampshire to enhance the evaluation process for major solid waste disposal facilities. This committee will assess the local, regional, and statewide impacts of proposed sites, focusing on public health, safety, economic implications, and environmental concerns. New legal language is inserted into RSA 149-M, creating a subdivision that defines the committee's purpose, structure, and the importance of evaluating impacts not fully addressed by existing regulations. The committee will consist of seven members, including representatives from state departments and experts in waste management, and will be administratively attached to the Department of Environmental Services. The bill emphasizes a preference for expanding existing landfills or utilizing brownfield sites over developing new greenfield sites.

Additionally, the bill outlines the powers and duties of the committee, including the requirement for a certificate to commence construction of solid waste facilities, with specific criteria for applications. Key insertions include provisions for public notice and hearings, the requirement for independent peer reviews of assessments, and detailed ownership disclosure requirements in applications. The bill also establishes a nonlapsing special fund for application fees and civil penalties for violations, while temporarily suspending the issuance of permits for new capacity at major solid waste disposal facilities until the committee adopts rules or until July 1, 2027. Overall, the bill aims to improve transparency, public engagement, and accountability in the solid waste disposal approval process, with an expected fiscal impact of increased state revenues and expenditures starting in FY 2028.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 149-M:7, 149-M:9
As Amended by the Senate: 149-M:4, 149-M:9, 149-M:11, 6:12
As Amended by the Senate (2nd): 6:12
Version adopted by both bodies: 6:12