Bill > HB179

This bill modifies the penalty structure for nonpayment of hazardous materials or waste accident expenses by establishing a $1,000 per day fine for responsible parties who fail to pay their required expenses within 90 days of incurrence. Specifically, the bill allows a claimant (likely a municipality or relevant government agency) to impose a daily penalty of up to $1,000 for each day beyond the 90-day payment window, with the cumulative penalty capped at 25 percent of the original established cost. However, if the responsible party agrees to and adheres to a mutually established payment plan with the claimant, they will not be subject to these additional daily penalties. The bill is designed to incentivize timely payment for expenses related to hazardous waste accidents and provide a mechanism for municipalities to recover emergency response, mitigation, and legal costs. The legislation is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and is expected to potentially generate indeterminable increases in local revenue depending on the number and nature of hazardous waste incidents.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=0160&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB179