New Hampshire House Bill HB311

New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/23
• Refer: 1/9/23

Caption

Making an appropriation to the department of environmental services for eligible wastewater projects.

Impact

The passage of HB311 is expected to have a significant impact on state laws concerning environmental regulation and wastewater management. By appropriating funds to assist municipalities in improving their wastewater facilities, the bill seeks to support environmental sustainability efforts and public health by ensuring compliance with necessary sanitation standards. It sets forth a framework for future appropriations tied to the management and maintenance of state aid grants, thus further encouraging responsible environmental practices at the municipal level.

Summary

House Bill 311 (HB311), introduced in the 2023 session, aims to make an appropriation of $15 million for the Department of Environmental Services to fund eligible wastewater projects for the fiscal years ending June 30, 2024, and June 30, 2025. This funding is intended for projects that have been approved pursuant to RSA 486 prior to June 30, 2024. The bill is positioned as a means to enhance the state's infrastructure by addressing critical wastewater needs within various municipalities.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB311 has been largely positive, particularly among local governments and environmental advocates who view the funding as crucial for maintaining public health and complying with state environmental regulations. However, there may be some contention regarding the allocation of funds and the specific eligibility criteria for wastewater projects, as well as concerns about budget constraints impacting future fiscal years.

Contention

One notable point of contention regarding HB311 may arise from discussions on state versus local funding priorities and the effectiveness of the appropriated amounts. Stakeholders may debate whether the set funding levels will adequately address the vast requirements for upgrading aging infrastructure across different municipalities. This tension underscores the ongoing dialogue about how best to balance state oversight with local autonomy in environmental management efforts.