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Bill > HB601


NH HB601

NH HB601
Relative to causes of action against companies that misstate the impacts of their business on the environment.


summary

Introduced
01/16/2025
In Committee
03/14/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

This bill: I. Creates a private cause of action against companies that misstate the impacts of their business on the environment. II. Creates criminal penalties for companies that misstate the impacts of their business on the environment.

AI Summary

This bill creates comprehensive legal mechanisms to hold companies accountable for misleading environmental claims and climate-related damages. It establishes new definitions for environmental marketing claims, including terms like "paltering" (using technically true statements to create a misleading impression) and "net zero claim" (representations about balancing greenhouse gas emissions). The bill allows private citizens to bring civil actions against companies that make untruthful or deceptive environmental claims, even without proving personal financial loss. Additionally, it creates a robust framework for individuals to sue fossil fuel companies for damages related to climate disasters, defining specific criteria for what constitutes a climate disaster and who can be considered a "responsible party." The legislation covers a period from 1965 to the present and allows plaintiffs to seek comprehensive damages, including compensation for property loss, medical expenses, and emotional distress. Notably, the bill limits traditional legal defenses that companies might use to avoid liability, such as reliance on previous court decisions or claims of constitutional rights. The law will take effect on January 1, 2026, and is designed to provide a strong legal tool for holding corporations accountable for environmental misrepresentations and climate-related harm.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (3)

Last Action

Inexpedient to Legislate: Motion Adopted Voice Vote 03/26/2025 House Journal 10 P. 38 (on 03/26/2025)

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