New Hampshire House Bill HB1415

New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/6/23
• Refer: 12/6/23
• Report Pass: 2/27/24
• Engrossed: 3/13/24
• Refer: 3/13/24
• Report Pass: 5/15/24
• Enrolled: 6/25/24
• Vetoed: 8/6/24

Caption

Relative to PFAS facility liability.

Impact

This legislation is expected to tighten the regulatory framework surrounding hazardous waste and environmental protection in New Hampshire. Facilities that exceed a certain concentration of PFAS contaminants in groundwater or surface water will be mandated to adhere to specific federal regulations. This includes guidelines for the closure, removal, or decommissioning of equipment and infrastructure used in the handling of PFAS. As a result, the bill seeks to improve the management of hazardous materials and protect public health by ensuring that facilities take necessary precautions against contamination.

Summary

House Bill 1415 addresses the liability of facilities that handle perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are known to cause environmental contamination. The bill aims to amend existing hazardous waste regulations to clarify definitions related to PFAS and establish stricter liability for any facility that releases PFAS into the environment. It introduces comprehensive definitions of PFAS and outlines the responsibilities of facility owners or operators in managing these substances, thereby enhancing accountability for environmental harm.

Contention

There are potential points of contention surrounding HB 1415 related to its implications for businesses that use or manage PFAS. Supporters argue that this bill is crucial for safeguarding public health and the environment, especially given the increasing evidence of harm caused by PFAS. Conversely, critics may raise concerns about the financial and operational burdens placed on businesses due to stringent liability clauses. There may also be debates regarding the adequacy of existing regulations and whether further measures are necessary, with some advocating for more comprehensive strategies to manage hazardous substances sustainably.