Relative to rules of the site evaluation committee.
Impact
The implications of HB176 on state laws are significant as it seeks to streamline the regulatory processes concerning the evaluation of energy facilities. By clearly delineating the authority of the Site Evaluation Committee, the bill aims to prevent overreach in terms of regulatory requirements that could complicate the approval process for energy projects. This could ultimately promote a more efficient and predictable framework for energy development in the state, supporting both regulatory clarity and industry progress.
Summary
House Bill 176 addresses the rules governing the Site Evaluation Committee in New Hampshire. The bill mandates that the committee must revise specific adopted rules to ensure they do not exceed the authority granted by existing state laws, specifically RSA 162-H. Notably, the bill emphasizes the need for the committee to initiate rule amendments within 60 days of the bill's effective date. This direct approach aims to align the committee's operations more closely with state legislative directives regarding energy facility evaluations.
Contention
Points of contention surrounding HB176 include its potential impact on the thoroughness of evaluations for energy projects. Critics may argue that by limiting the committee's authority and specifying requirements, the bill could overlook essential assessments that ensure environmental and public safety. Certain provisions within existing rules, such as conducting sound assessments and having comprehensive emergency response plans for all types of energy facilities, may be challenged under the bill's stipulations. These discussions highlight the tension between expediting energy projects and ensuring adequate environmental scrutiny.
Relative to least cost integrated resource plans of utilities; municipal hosts for purposes of limited electrical energy producers; the cost of compliance with disclosure of electric renewable portfolio standards; repealing the energy efficiency and sustainable energy board; and procedures for energy facility siting by the site evaluation committee.
Relative to a report by the department of energy on the effectiveness of the system benefits charge and relative to surface water setbacks for landfills and relative to water quality.
Relative to the filing and adoption of proposed administrative rules and relative to overpayment of unemployment compensation and relative to policies relating to nursing mothers.
Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; provision related to officeholders raising funds when facing a recall; modify, and require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.
Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; funds donated to a candidate for recall efforts; require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.
A concurrent resolution recognizing wild rice as sacred and central to the culture and health of Indigenous Peoples in Minnesota and critical to the health and identity of all Minnesota citizens and ecosystems and establishing a commitment to passing legislation to protect wild rice and the freshwater resources upon which it depends.