New Hampshire House Bill HB556

New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/14/25
• Refer: 1/14/25
• Report DNP: 3/21/25

Caption

Relative to the sale of products labeled as biodegradable or compostable.

Impact

If enacted, HB 556 will amend the existing laws surrounding solid waste management to enhance the integrity of claims made by manufacturers and sellers of biodegradable and compostable products. This regulation aims to mitigate environmental degradation caused by non-compliant products that fail to decompose as advertised. The act will empower consumers with assurance that their purchases support genuine environmental efforts, reinforcing the importance of accountability in environmental marketing.

Summary

House Bill 556 aims to regulate the sale of products labeled as biodegradable or compostable in the state of New Hampshire. The bill prohibits the sale or offering for sale of any such products unless they meet specified third-party certification standards. This effectively ensures that products marketed under these labels adhere to rigorous criteria, thus protecting consumers from misleading claims about the environmental benefits of these products. The certification is to be conducted by established organizations that comply with the ASTM 6400 standard set by the American Society for Testing and Materials.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 556 is generally supportive as it addresses public concerns regarding greenwashing, where products are falsely marketed as environmentally friendly. Legislators and environmental advocates view it as a proactive move towards safeguarding both consumer interests and environmental health. However, manufacturers and sellers of such products may express contention due to potential financial burdens associated with obtaining third-party certification. This conflict suggests a balancing act between environmental accountability and the economic implications for businesses engaged in selling these products.

Contention

Notable points of contention include discussions around the practicality and potential costs for businesses required to obtain certification. Some businesses may argue that the requirements could lead to higher prices for consumers or limit the availability of environmentally friendly products in the marketplace. Furthermore, there may be debates regarding the adequacy of existing certification bodies and the standards used, raising questions about the fairness and accessibility of the certification process.