Bill > HB1621

This bill requires a comprehensive baseline environmental impact study (EIS) to be completed before issuing permits for manufacturing and storage facilities larger than 50,000 square feet in New Hampshire. The study must be conducted by a qualified environmental professional approved by the state's Department of Environmental Services and funded by the applicant. It must comprehensively assess existing environmental conditions, including data on water, air, soil, noise, and light, and analyze potential impacts in these areas. The EIS must include a cumulative impact assessment, evaluate alternative development options, identify mitigation measures, and be updated every five years or whenever there is a change in ownership or facility use. The department will not issue a permit unless it determines that the proposed development will not cause unreasonable environmental harm and that appropriate mitigation strategies are in place. Additionally, all environmental impact studies will be made publicly available, with a mandatory 30-day public comment period before final permit approval. The bill also requires the Department of Environmental Services to develop administrative rules for the EIS submission process and will take effect 60 days after passage. While the bill does not provide direct funding, the department anticipates needing to hire two additional environmental scientists to implement the new requirements, with estimated costs ranging from $150,000 to $200,000 annually.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_Status/billinfo.aspx?id=1722&inflect=2