New Hampshire Senate Bill SB60

New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/23
• Refer: 1/12/23
• Report Pass: 3/8/23
• Engrossed: 3/21/23
• Refer: 3/21/23
• Report Pass: 5/10/23
• Enrolled: 7/28/23
• Chaptered: 8/10/23
• Passed: 8/10/23

Caption

Relative to water quality.

Impact

The bill also introduces specific timelines for processing certification requests. Within 50 days of receiving a request for certification, the DES must notify the applicant whether the request is complete or if additional information is required. If the DES fails to act within established timeframes, the certification request may be considered waived. This aspect of the bill could streamline the permitting process and enhance the efficiency of regulatory compliance, although it also raises concerns about the adequacy of environmental protection if the department is rushed in its evaluations.

Summary

Senate Bill 60 aims to amend and enhance regulations regarding the certification of activities that may lead to discharges into surface water bodies under the Clean Water Act. The proposed legislation requires that before any such activity can commence, the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES) must certify compliance with the state's surface water quality standards. This is meant to ensure that any potential impact on the quality of state waters is meticulously evaluated and mitigated before operations begin.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding SB60. Some stakeholders may argue that the streamlined processes and shorter timelines could compromise the thoroughness of environmental reviews, potentially allowing harmful discharges that affect public health and aquatic ecosystems. This raises questions about the balance between economic activity and environmental stewardship, as proponents of the bill may argue for the necessity of easier access to permits for development projects, while opponents may prioritize more stringent oversight to safeguard water quality.