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.
Impact
The bill mandates the DES to adopt new rules concerning setbacks for landfills from perennial surface water bodies. It emphasizes a site-specific approach to determine setbacks, taking into account various environmental factors such as soil stratigraphy and groundwater travel time. Furthermore, it introduces procedural changes for implementing these new rules which will better align the state’s practices with contemporary environmental protection standards while providing accountability in landfill operations.
Summary
House Bill 211 aims to enhance the protection of surface water bodies in New Hampshire by amending regulations related to landfill siting and the system benefits charge report by the Department of Energy. Specifically, it changes the responsibilities of the Department of Environmental Services (DES) regarding the effectiveness of the system benefits charge and imposes new requirements for landfill setbacks to minimize contamination risks. The legislation reflects an effort to update and reinforce environmental safeguards in light of advancements in monitoring and mitigation technologies.
Contention
Despite its protective intentions, the bill might provoke debate among stakeholders concerning the balance between environmental regulations and the operational capabilities of waste management facilities. Proponents argue that the enhanced measures are necessary for preventing groundwater and surface water contamination, while critics may express concerns about potential increased costs and operational barriers for landfill operators. The delineation of authority between local and state regulations, particularly in the context of environmental safety, remains a possible point of contention as well.