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 impacts of proposed sites on public health, safety, and the environment, prioritizing the development of landfill capacity through expansions of existing facilities or brownfield sites rather than undeveloped greenfield sites. The committee will consist of seven members, including representatives from various state departments and experts in waste management and environmental protection. Key provisions include restrictions on members' affiliations with waste management entities to ensure impartiality, the establishment of an administrator, and the requirement for a majority quorum to conduct business.

The bill also outlines detailed procedures for obtaining certificates to construct and operate solid waste disposal facilities, including public hearings with a minimum notice of seven days, independent third-party reviews of assessments, and a fee structure for applications. It mandates that applications include ownership disclosures and financial statements, and it establishes a nonlapsing special fund for the committee's operating costs. Additionally, the bill suspends the issuance of new permits for major solid waste disposal facilities until new rules are adopted or until July 1, 2027. Overall, the bill aims to improve transparency, public involvement, and regulatory oversight in the solid waste disposal certification process while ensuring compliance and monitoring of facilities.

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
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 6:12