New Hampshire Senate Bill SB371

New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/17/21
• Refer: 12/17/21
• Report Pass: 1/26/22
• Engrossed: 3/23/22
• Refer: 3/23/22
• Report Pass: 4/26/22
• Enrolled: 5/27/22
• Chaptered: 6/8/22
• Passed: 6/8/22

Caption

Making an appropriation to the lead paint hazard remediation fund.

Impact

The appropriation reflects a significant commitment from the state to leverage resources for housing safety. The anticipated allocation of these funds is to support initiatives that reduce lead exposure within homes, particularly in older properties where lead-based paint is prevalent. By addressing these hazards, SB371 aims to mitigate the health risks associated with lead exposure, especially for vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women, thereby fostering a safer living environment across New Hampshire.

Summary

Senate Bill 371 (SB371) establishes an appropriation of $3,000,000 to the lead paint hazard remediation fund, aimed at addressing lead paint hazards in housing. This fund is administered by the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA) and is intended to aid in the remediation of properties affected by lead paint, thus improving housing safety and public health. The act will take effect on July 1, 2022, ensuring that funding is available for use in the specified biennium through June 30, 2023.

Contention

While there is a collective acknowledgment of the importance of addressing lead paint hazards, the implementation of SB371 could raise discussions about funding allocation priorities within the state budget. Some stakeholders may argue about the adequacy of this appropriation compared to the overall need for remediation efforts across various communities. Furthermore, the ongoing management and expenditure of these funds may bring transparency and effectiveness into question, ensuring that the targeted communities indeed benefit from the resources allocated.