Bill > HB629

This bill establishes a new funding mechanism for the operation, maintenance, and repair of state-owned dams through two primary revenue streams. First, the bill introduces a $5 registration fee for each boat registration, with these funds to be deposited into the dam maintenance fund. Second, the bill implements an annual assessment of $1.58 per linear foot of shoreline on taxable waterfronts maintained by state-owned dams, which will also be directed to the dam maintenance fund. Additionally, the bill establishes a tiered annual dam registration fee based on hazard potential classification: $400 for low hazard potential dams, $750 for significant hazard potential dams, and $1,500 for high hazard potential dams, with the fee based on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's classification. The bill is projected to generate approximately $8,030,000 annually, with the Department of Environmental Services estimating this will require three new staff positions to manage the invoicing and administration of the shoreline fee program. The new funding mechanism will take effect on July 1, 2025, and is designed to ensure consistent funding for the inspection, operation, maintenance, and repair of state-owned dams.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_status.aspx?lsr=0635&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB629