New Hampshire Senate Bill SB396

New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/23/21
• Refer: 12/23/21
• Report Pass: 2/10/22
• Report Pass: 2/22/22
• Engrossed: 3/23/22
• Refer: 3/23/22
• Report Pass: 4/13/22
• Enrolled: 5/13/22
• Chaptered: 5/24/22
• Passed: 5/24/22

Caption

Relative to solid waste management.

Impact

The law modifies existing statutes pertaining to solid waste management by introducing a requirement for technical evaluations in landfill permitting. By mandating that applicants cover the costs of hiring external professionals, SB396 aims to alleviate the administrative burden on the state while enhancing the review process. This could lead to better compliance with environmental standards and potentially minimize public health risks related to solid waste management.

Summary

Senate Bill 396 (SB396) aims to enhance the solid waste management framework within New Hampshire by requiring a more thorough evaluation process for landfill permit applications. Under this legislation, the Department of Environmental Services is mandated to contract with an independent licensed professional engineer or hydrogeologist to assist in evaluating applicants for landfill permits. This requirement seeks to ensure that applications meet technical standards and are processed efficiently, ultimately safeguarding environmental health and public safety.

Contention

While SB396 is designed to streamline the landfill permitting process, points of contention exist regarding the financial implications for applicants. Critics may argue that the costs associated with hiring licensed professionals could disproportionately impact smaller municipalities or entities seeking to establish waste disposal facilities. Concerned stakeholders might also voice apprehensions about potential conflicts of interest or the adequacy of local oversight when external professionals are hired to evaluate local landfill projects.