Bill > HB416

This bill amends existing New Hampshire environmental law to explicitly prohibit the intentional disposal of yard waste into surface waters of the state, expanding previous regulations that already banned the disposal of various solid and hazardous waste materials. The bill introduces new penalties for violations, establishing that a first offense is considered a violation, while second and subsequent offenses can be classified as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the offender type (individual or organization). The bill also expands enforcement authority to include all peace officers in the state, not just environmental services agents, who can now order immediate removal of improperly disposed materials. If the responsible party fails to remove the waste, the state may contract for removal and recover the costs through legal action. Violators who purposely or knowingly dispose of yard waste in surface waters could face a class B felony charge. The new law is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and aims to protect the state's water resources by preventing environmental contamination from yard waste disposal.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Justice

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=0181&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB416