The bill, HB 707-FN, establishes the Solid Waste Facility Site Evaluation Committee in New Hampshire, which will evaluate applications for major solid waste disposal facilities that accept over 100,000 tons of waste annually. The committee is granted exclusive authority to approve landfill expansions, overriding local regulations, and is composed of seven members, including two commissioners and five governor-appointed experts. The bill emphasizes a preference for expanding existing landfills rather than developing new sites, and it mandates that landfill operators increase compensation to host municipalities to a minimum of $2.50 per ton for waste received during expansions. Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions related to solid waste management and outlines a fee structure for applications, with a base fee of $20,000 and potential adjustments based on throughput and the consumer price index.

Key provisions of the bill include requirements for public information sessions prior to application submission, detailed application requirements, and the establishment of a nonlapsing fund to manage application fees. The bill also outlines penalties for violations, including civil penalties of up to $10,000 for operating without a certificate, and mandates that the committee adopt operational rules by July 1, 2026. Furthermore, it suspends the issuance of new permit approvals for major solid waste disposal facilities until July 1, 2027, except for landfill expansions. Overall, HB 707-FN aims to enhance the transparency and thoroughness of the application process while ensuring public representation and financial accountability in solid waste management.

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