Requiring background checks for solid waste and hazardous waste facility owners, establishing a solid waste site evaluation committee and temporarily suspends the issuance of solid waste permits by the department of environmental services, relative to the confiscation of animals from persons suspected of or charged with abuse of animals, and establishing a committee to study the animal cruelty statutes.
If enacted, SB302 will amend existing laws related to the permitting of solid waste facilities in New Hampshire, specifically RSA 147-A. The re-enactment of specific provisions will require that permit applications include comprehensive performance history and criminal background information of applicants and their managerial staff. This change will affect the regulatory landscape by ensuring that only individuals deemed sound in terms of legal and operational reliability can manage or own solid waste operations, thereby hopefully reducing environmental and public health risks associated with improper waste management.
Senate Bill 302, known as SB302, is a legislative measure aimed at implementing mandatory background checks for owners of solid waste facilities in New Hampshire. The bill stipulates that all applicants, their partners, and managerial staff must undergo criminal background checks, including a New Hampshire criminal records check and a fingerprint-based check utilizing national crime databases. This measure is intended to ensure that individuals with criminal records, particularly felonies, do not operate solid waste facilities, thus improving public safety and trust in waste management operations.
One notable point of contention regarding SB302 may arise from the balance between public safety and the regulatory burden on those seeking to operate solid waste facilities. Opponents of stringent background checks might argue that such regulations could deter capable individuals from entering the field, particularly if they have minor legal infractions in their past. Supporters, however, contend that the potential risks tied to waste management necessitate stricter oversight and safeguards to prevent incidents that could harm communities or the environment. Overall, the bill represents a significant shift in the governance of waste management, emphasizing enhanced scrutiny of facility ownership and operations.