Committee Summary for House Resources, Recreation and Development (01/22/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB332 00:05:43.600 - 9:04:29 AM	Public Hearing	allowing for the establishment of a village district to protect and remediate surface waters.	Rung, Rosemarie(D)[CT]2024
HB334 00:36:10.760 - 9:34:56 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the comprehensive state development plan.	Lovett, Peter(D)[CT]2024
HB422 03:03:32.200 - 12:02:18 PM	Public Hearing	increasing penalties for violations of the shoreland and water quality protection act.	Rung, Rosemarie(D)[CT]2024
HB449 03:47:45.239 - 12:46:31 PM	Public Hearing	requiring water districts to provide a water filtration system to residential customers in certain cases.	McGuire, Dan(R)[A+]2024
HB513 04:32:35.319 - 1:31:21 PM	Public Hearing	(New Title) allowing the department of transportation to execute a right-of-way use agreement, subject to Federal Highway Administration approval, for snowmobile operation along Interstate 89 in the town of Sutton, from NH Route 114, traveling south for one mile.	Schamberg, Thomas(D)[CT]2024

HB332: Representative Rosemarie Rung, Hillsborough - District 12 Support00:05:43.600 - 9:04:29 AM; Representative Rung introduced House Bill 332, aimed at addressing cyanobacteria blooms in New Hampshire lakes. She highlighted the necessity for local involvement due to the state's inability to solve the problem alone. The bill proposes empowering voters to establish village districts to protect and remediate surface waters, specifically useful for lakes that span multiple municipalities. She cited the example of Baboosic Lake, which lies between Merrimack and Amherst, and mentioned the previous bill HB1250, which failed by one vote. Rung emphasized the importance of local control, allowing communities to decide on forming such districts to manage and improve their local water quality.
HB332: Representative Don Information Only00:10:22.399 - 9:09:08 AM; Representative Don inquired if the bill would apply to any New Hampshire town, using the example of Canobie Lake, which spans Windham and Salem. Rung clarified that the bill would allow any town, including those with lakes that cross municipal boundaries, to establish a village district if their voters approve. She explained the process, including the establishment of a district with elected commissioners and annual meetings similar to town meetings.
HB332: Representative Taylor Information Only00:12:07.880 - 9:10:53 AM; Representative Taylor asked about the applicability of the bill to interstate waters, using the example of Province Lake, which spans Wakefield, Effingham, and Parsonsfield, Maine. Rung responded that the bill would only be available to New Hampshire municipalities and could not include communities from other states.
HB332: Representative Rosemarie Rung, Hillsborough - District 12 Information Only00:12:53.760 - 9:11:39 AM; Representative Rong discussed the potential benefits of forming a committee or board for cyanobacteria mitigation, using Babusa Lake as an example. The lake suffers from chronic cyanobacteria blooms and would likely benefit from an in-lake treatment costing hundreds of thousands of dollars. Rong highlighted that larger lakes with economic importance or those supplying drinking water might be prioritized for state funding, leaving smaller lakes like Babusa Lake to fund treatments through village districts or local efforts. Additional measures, such as mandatory septic system pumping every three years or rebuilding culverts to prevent nutrient runoff, were also mentioned as potential local actions.
HB332: Representative Suzanne Vail Hillsborough - District 6 Information Only00:15:52.560 - 9:14:38 AM; Representative N inquired about the process for disbanding a village district if it does not function well. It was clarified that disbanding a district would require a warrant article vote by the towns, similar to the process of forming one.
HB332: Representative V Information Only00:16:20.920 - 9:15:06 AM; Representative V asked about the scope of 'remediation' in the bill, specifically whether it covers prevention and technologies used for existing blooms. Representative Rong clarified that the term encompasses whatever is necessary to restore lake quality or prevent contamination, empowering the district to make decisions and seek funding.
HB332: Steve Wolf, New London Oppose00:18:48.600 - 9:17:34 AM; Steve Wolf expressed opposition to the bill, arguing that it would allow the formation of village districts for lake management, which he believes is unnecessary as current state and local agencies adequately handle lakeshore development requirements. He criticized village districts as a bad idea, citing the Springfield-New London water precinct as an example where district boundaries are gerrymandered, and it imposes heavy taxes on properties without providing necessary services, such as water to new developments. Wolf highlighted the potential for districts to misuse their power and tax residents excessively.
HB332: Andrea Laro, New Hampshire Lakes Support00:23:38.320 - 9:22:24 AM; Andrea Laro, President and Policy Advocate of New Hampshire Lakes, expressed support for the bill. She emphasized the organization's mission to restore and preserve lake health and mentioned the support from numerous lake associations. Laro suggested a potential rewording of the bill to clarify the scope of protection and remediation to include watershed and lake management. She also shared a letter from Jack Cutner, who supports the bill but could not attend due to unforeseen circumstances, highlighting the need for specialized expertise in lake management that village districts could provide.
HB332: Chris Norwood, New Hampshire Association of Realtors Oppose00:27:47.159 - 9:26:33 AM; Chris Norwood, representing the New Hampshire Association of Realtors, opposed the bill and suggested a study bill on village districts might be more appropriate. He expressed concern over the expansion of village districts' powers beyond their original scope, citing examples like the lighting district in Kearsarge and Little Boar's Head in North Hampton, which have zoning and planning authority. Norwood argued that such expansions could be problematic and a study would help understand these issues better.
HB332: Elizabeth Harp, Lake Sunapee Protective Association Support00:31:42.080 - 9:30:28 AM; Elizabeth Harp, Executive Director of the Lake Sunapee Protective Association, supported the bill, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts among municipalities to address water quality issues, especially with increasing cyanobacteria blooms. She highlighted the limited resources and expertise at the state level and how village districts could provide an efficient mechanism for local action. Harp also addressed the groundwater contamination issue in New London, clarifying that it was not caused by a village district.
HB332: Unknown Speaker, Lake Sunapee Protective Association Support00:34:35.399 - 9:33:21 AM; The speaker addressed concerns about potential limitations on lake usage across the state due to the proposed bill. They firmly stated that the bill would not limit the use of lakes for recreation but would rather enhance the quality of lakes, which is crucial for the local economy. The speaker emphasized the community's understanding of lakes as economic drivers and noted widespread support for initiatives aimed at maintaining high-quality lakes to prevent issues like cyanobacteria blooms, which could negatively impact regional tourism and recreation.
HB334: Representative Wolf, Newbury Support00:36:10.760 - 9:34:56 AM; Representative Wolf spoke in support of HB334, emphasizing that it is not a control bill but rather a local control and assistance bill aimed at coordinating environmental regulations within the Lake Todd Village District. He highlighted the need for uniform regulation across multiple towns within a district, such as varying setback distances, and argued that the bill would enable consistent regulation, enforcement, and planning for environmental protection within the watershed. He stressed that the bill does not form a village district but enables those communities to enforce actions on themselves, and is open to modifications to address any concerns.
HB334: Representative Darby Support00:40:09.040 - 9:38:55 AM; Representative Darby addressed concerns about the potential for water districts to usurp zoning control from local municipalities. He clarified that whatever the town approves for the village district can be included, but if zoning or other elements are not desired, they can be excluded. He used the example of the Lake Todd Village District to illustrate how the bill enables local control and the ability to manage specific situations like dam maintenance and drawdowns without involving the entire town.
HB334: Representative Nav Support00:49:30.319 - 9:48:16 AM; Representative Nav supported HB334, emphasizing the need to update the state development plan to include environmental needs and threats. He highlighted the economic importance of tourism and outdoor recreation, which generate significant revenue for the state. He discussed the pervasive issue of PFAS contamination, particularly in southern New Hampshire, and the need for proactive environmental protection measures to safeguard water resources essential for both residents and the tourism industry. He stressed the importance of monitoring environmental threats to avoid reactive measures and mentioned other contaminants like MTBE, underscoring the need for a comprehensive state plan.
HB334: Andrea Laro, New Hampshire Lakes Support00:56:17.599 - 9:55:03 AM; Andrea Laro, representing New Hampshire Lakes, supported HB334, stating that a coordinated state plan would help regional and state agencies work together to preserve and restore the health of New Hampshire's lakes and rivers. She emphasized the importance of incorporating the bill's provisions into the state development plan, which has not been updated in some time, to address current and future threats to the state's water bodies.
HB334: Elizabeth Harper, Lake Sunapee Protective Association Support00:57:51.440 - 9:56:37 AM; Elizabeth Harper, from the Lake Sunapee Protective Association, supported HB334, advocating for a proactive approach to protecting natural resources, which are fundamental to the state's economy. She argued that proactive protection is much less costly than remediation efforts and emphasized the need for incorporating such an approach into the state development plan.
HB334: Tim Dunley, Department of Safety Marine Patrol Support01:32:42.119 - 10:31:28 AM; Tim Dunley from the Department of Safety Marine Patrol spoke in support of HB334. He explained that the bill aims to address a loophole in current New Hampshire law regarding the definition of a mooring. He highlighted that devices such as spuds and sea legs are being used to store boats without the necessary permits, particularly on seven specified inland bodies of water: Lake Sunapee, Winnipesaukee, Winnisquam, Squam, Newfound, Sunapee, and Pleasant Lake in Deerfield. He noted the issue of these devices being left overnight or for the season without a permit, which is currently legal due to the loophole. Dunley suggested an amendment to exempt marine construction workers using spuds during job operations, as their use does not fit the intent of the bill. He also mentioned the need for clarification in the law to differentiate between temporary use of these devices for daily activities and long-term storage, and proposed the term 'occupied' to clarify the situation.
HB334: Judith Ericson, Homeowner Support01:41:07.639 - 10:39:53 AM; Judith Ericson, a homeowner, spoke in favor of HB334. She and her husband own property at 60 DeCourcey Road in New Hampshire and are affected by neighbors using integral boat lifts and sea legs to park boats without permits. Ericson highlighted a case where a neighbor used these devices to circumvent mooring laws and expressed concerns about the potential for increased boat traffic and safety issues due to unregulated boat storage. She emphasized the need for the law to cover these situations to regulate and limit the number of boats, especially in areas with high property taxes where owners might rent out docks or beach access. Ericson supported amending the law to include these devices under the mooring regulations to maintain safety and control on the lakes.
HB334: Jody Grimmas, New Hampshire Marine Trades Association Support01:44:57.800 - 10:43:43 AM; Jody Grimmas, representing the New Hampshire Marine Trades Association, expressed support for HB334 but suggested an amendment to address concerns from marine contractors. She explained that these contractors use spuds on their barges for work on lakes and worry that the current bill might prohibit their operations. Grimmas requested that a carve-out be considered for commercial applications to ensure that marine contractors can continue their work without hindrance. She expressed willingness to work on the amendment to clarify the bill's intent and protect the marine industry's operations.
HB422: Rosemary Rang, Hillsborough 12, representing the town of Merrimack Support03:03:32.200 - 12:02:18 PM; Rosemary Rang introduced HB422 as a housekeeping bill aimed at updating the fines associated with the Shoreline Water Quality Protection Act. She noted that the original $5,000 fine from 1991 is no longer a significant deterrent, and based on CPI calculations, she proposed an increase to $15,000 to better reflect today's economic conditions. She argued that the higher fine would serve as a stronger deterrent and foster a culture of lake stewardship, emphasizing the importance of compliance with the act to prevent environmental degradation.
HB422: Elizabeth Harper, Executive Director, Lake Sunapee Protective Association Support03:10:27.000 - 12:09:13 PM; Elizabeth Harper expressed support for HB422, highlighting the importance of the Shoreland Water Quality Protection Act for preserving water quality. She shared anecdotes illustrating how the current $5,000 fine is often perceived as a mere cost of doing business, rather than a penalty. Harper believes that increasing the fine would aid in public education and underscore the seriousness of the law, thus supporting the bill's passage.
HB422: Andrea Laro, President and Policy Advocate, New Hampshire Lakes Support03:11:59.359 - 12:10:45 PM; Andrea Laro voiced her organization's support for HB422, emphasizing the need for increased fines to deter violations of the Shoreline Water Quality Protection Act. She acknowledged the Department of Environmental Services' preference for education over fines but noted that a higher fine could be useful in cases of non-cooperation. Laro stressed the importance of the bill as a deterrent and an educational tool, urging its support.
HB422: Darlene Force, Department of Environmental Services Information Only03:14:19.239 - 12:13:05 PM; Darlene Force provided information on the current enforcement practices of the Department of Environmental Services regarding the Shoreline Protection Act. She explained that fines are used as leverage rather than a direct solution to environmental issues, and that the department has not imposed a fine since 2013 due to legal constraints that were recently corrected. She clarified that fines are held in abeyance to encourage compliance and do not directly fund restoration efforts by the department.
HB422: Darlene Force, Department of Environmental Services Information Only03:14:19.239 - 12:13:05 PM; Darlene Force concluded her testimony regarding the enforcement of fines related to environmental violations. She mentioned that the last fine issued was in 2013 and clarified that increasing the fine amount would not enable more frequent fines but would provide greater leverage in future enforcement actions.
HB422: Representative Darby Information Only03:18:12.359 - 12:16:58 PM; Representative Darby asked for clarification on the scenarios where fines would be issued by the Department of Environmental Services, specifically in cases where property owners refuse restoration or cause irreparable damage. Darlene Force provided a hypothetical example involving steep slopes and unauthorized clearing, highlighting the need for increased enforcement leverage.
HB449: Dan McGuire, Town of Epsom Support03:47:45.239 - 12:46:31 PM; Representative Dan Maguire, representing Epsom, introduced HB449, which was prompted by a situation in Epsom but is written to apply to similar scenarios across New Hampshire. He explained that a small water district in Epsom, serving 300 households, has a well near a school that has been testing high for PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), exceeding the limit of 12 parts per trillion. The proposed solution from the Department of Environmental Services (DES) involves building a new pump house outside the floodplain and installing a filtration system, costing approximately $6 million, with DES offering to lend the money and forgive 60% of the loan. However, this would significantly increase water bills for residents. Maguire proposed an alternative where, if residents vote against the DES proposal, they could opt for individual household filtration systems for drinking water, reducing costs to under $1 million. He emphasized the importance of giving residents a choice and highlighted that many with individual wells already maintain similar systems at home.
HB449: Unnamed Representative Information Only03:57:19.720 - 12:56:05 PM; An unnamed representative raised concerns about the maintenance of individual filtration systems proposed in HB449. They questioned whether the water district could provide water that does not meet drinking standards, and whether the bill adequately addresses the ongoing maintenance required for the filtration systems. Maguire responded by acknowledging the need for maintenance but argued that it is manageable, similar to other household systems, and necessary to keep costs reasonable. He also mentioned that the bill would require the water district to inform customers that the water is not drinkable, ensuring transparency.
HB449: Unnamed Representative Information Only04:04:50.560 - 1:03:36 PM; Another unnamed representative asked about the implications of HB449 for new construction in Epsom, specifically whether new homes would need to install filtration systems. Maguire explained that the area is already built up, making new connections unlikely, but if new homes were to connect to the system, they would need to be informed about the water's non-potable status and would likely install their own filtration systems. He also clarified that commercial and municipal facilities would be responsible for their own filtration solutions.
HB449: Unnamed Representative Information Only04:04:50.560 - 1:03:36 PM; The representative concludes their testimony discussing the implications of mandating water filtration systems. They clarify that if a resident refuses to install a system provided by the water district, there is no penalty, but the responsibility would then be on the resident. The discussion touches on the broader implications of water quality and filtration, particularly in relation to Radon.
HB449: Representative McGuire Information Only04:05:52.239 - 1:04:38 PM; Representative McGuire elaborates on the bill's intent to create an alternative solution for water districts facing high costs for water treatment. They mention a conversation with the water district about the high costs and the possibility of implementing a less expensive solution where the water district would provide non-potable water and residents would be responsible for their own filtration. They also clarify that the bill applies to any water district across the state, not just their district.
HB449: Representative Derby Information Only04:09:17.399 - 1:08:03 PM; Representative Derby questions why the water district cannot propose the solution as a warrant article instead of needing a statute. McGuire responds that without legislative support, the water district risks being shut down for not meeting standards, and this bill would allow them to operate below those standards at the point of entry to homes, with residents responsible for ensuring potable water at the point of consumption.
HB449: Senator Ryan Information Only04:10:50.359 - 1:09:36 PM; Senator Ryan inquires if the water district is responsible for providing potable water to the school. McGuire confirms that the water district currently supplies the school, but under the proposed bill, the school would be responsible for treating the water to meet standards.
HB449: Representative Davis Information Only04:11:48.560 - 1:10:34 PM; Representative Davis asks if the costs of the proposed solution would affect only those within the water district. McGuire confirms that the costs would be borne solely by the customers of the water district, and only indirectly affect the broader town through the school's water bill if the district opts for a more expensive solution.
HB449: Representative Taylor Information Only04:12:56.640 - 1:11:42 PM; Representative Taylor asks about the timing of the vote on the bill, to which McGuire responds that it will be part of the town elections in March.
HB449: Unnamed Representative Information Only04:13:20.960 - 1:12:06 PM; The representative expresses concern over the clarity of the term 'legislative body' in the bill, suggesting it could be interpreted as referring to the state rather than the district. They mention having paid for a system themselves but note that most of the cost was covered by Dees.
HB449: Brandon Kernan, New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services Information Only04:14:07.600 - 1:12:53 PM; Brandon Kernan, Administrator of the Drinking Water and Groundwater Bureau at the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES), testified on House Bill 449. He explained that his bureau regulates public water systems in New Hampshire under both federal and state Safe Drinking Water Acts. Kernan commended Representative Maguire's efforts to address the high costs associated with complying with the new EPA standard of four parts per trillion for certain contaminants, which could cost up to half a billion dollars across the state. However, he stated that the proposed bill is not feasible due to federal regulations that require drinking water to meet specific standards for all users, including regular testing and maintenance by certified operators. He noted that while the EPA allows point-of-use filters, the strict standards make compliance nearly impossible without legal agreements and regular access to all users' facilities. Kernan emphasized that these systems are only viable for very small water systems and highlighted the challenges and costs associated with them. He also mentioned that while the costs are high, water systems should act now due to available federal loan forgiveness, and that the proposed bill would not change how DES regulates water systems due to federal oversight.
HB449: Representative Donnelly Information Only04:20:24.800 - 1:19:10 PM; Representative Donnelly questioned who would make the decision on implementing the proposed filtration systems, either at the town level or by individual homeowners. Brandon Kernan responded that the decision ultimately lies with the water system, but they must comply with state and federal laws. He explained that DES would not approve a plan involving multiple separate filters without long-term plans, legal agreements, and testing, and stressed that non-compliance could lead to enforcement steps, though fines and receivership are rare.
HB449: Representative Derby Information Only04:21:59.439 - 1:20:45 PM; Representative Derby inquired about the implications of the bill's passage on DES's regulation of water systems, particularly in relation to potential receivership. Brandon Kernan clarified that the bill's provisions would not affect DES's administration of state and federal Safe Drinking Water Acts. He explained that enforcement steps, including fines and potential receivership, would still apply if systems failed to comply, but these actions are seldom used due to cooperation from ratepayers and water systems.
HB449: Representative Davis Information Only04:24:18.680 - 1:23:04 PM; Representative Davis asked about the possibility of cross-contamination if individual homes do not maintain their filtration systems. Brandon Kernan acknowledged the risk, explaining that an unmaintained system could release contaminants and serve as a breeding ground for bacteria. He also noted the potential for creating radioactive fields if filters are not replaced regularly, and highlighted the lack of licensing standards for water treatment system installers in the state.
HB513: Representative Marac, House Ways and Means Committee, Sutton and New London Support04:32:35.319 - 1:31:21 PM; Representative Marac, representing Sutton and New London, testified in support of House Bill 513, which aims to address a 14-year blockage in the east-west landbridge connection on Trail 390. The Sutton Ridge Runners snowmobile club sought assistance to resolve this issue. Marac mentioned ongoing discussions with David Rodrigue from the Department of Transportation (DOT) and suggested that an amendment to the bill could resolve the issue. The club is concerned about having to redo measurements and applications that were previously approved, and they are seeking a way to use the existing right-of-way without further bureaucratic hurdles. The New Hampshire Snowmobile Association also supports the bill and any necessary amendments. Marac highlighted the urgency of the situation and the need for quick action.
HB513: Representative Ghoul Information Only04:36:37.639 - 1:35:23 PM; Representative Ghoul asked Representative Marac about the bill's focus on efficiency, to which Marac confirmed that the goal is to make the process more efficient, and the DOT is also supportive of this aim.
HB513: Representative Cluder, Sullivan County District 6 (Claremont and Cornish) Support04:37:23.359 - 1:36:09 PM; Representative Cluder expressed support for House Bill 513 and emphasized its importance for the snowmobile and tourism industries, particularly in rural areas like Sullivan County. He noted that the DOT needs legislative assistance to resolve the issue and praised the DOT for their flexibility and helpfulness. Cluder highlighted the potential economic benefits for local businesses and the importance of supporting such an efficient state agency.
HB513: Representative Na, Sullivan County District 6 (Claremont and Cornish) Information Only04:39:46.280 - 1:38:32 PM; Representative Na inquired about precedents for using a Right of Way in a similar manner on state highways. They noted the complexity of Right of Way issues and mentioned that the Department of Transportation (DOT) is responsible for maintaining these, not the federal government. They suggested that legislation might be necessary to enable DOT to assist snowmobile clubs effectively.
HB513: David Rodriguez, DOT Information Only04:40:59.798 - 1:39:45 PM; David Rodriguez from the DOT indicated willingness to work on an amendment to the bill. He mentioned exploring alternatives to legislation, such as direct permitting by DOT, and addressing issues related to federal highways and state-owned surplus land. He emphasized the need for careful consideration due to the trail being located on an interstate Right of Way.
HB513: Representative NB Information Only04:42:39.320 - 1:41:25 PM; Representative NB raised concerns about safety issues associated with snowmobiles running parallel to highways. David Rodriguez responded, acknowledging potential safety concerns and outlined measures DOT would take to mitigate these, such as maintaining continuous fencing and considering the impact of lights from snowmobiles on interstate traffic.
HB513: Representative Bridal Information Only04:43:25.920 - 1:42:11 PM; Representative Bridal asked about infrastructure needs for the proposed Right of Way section, specifically questioning if any bridges or other structures would be required. David Rodriguez mentioned that such details would be part of their review, and that the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) and snowmobile clubs typically handle such constructions.
HB513: Representative Derby Information Only04:44:53.560 - 1:43:39 PM; Representative Derby inquired about funding for potential changes like fencing and studies. David Rodriguez explained that such funding would typically come from DNCR grants to the snowmobile clubs.
HB513: Adam Schmid, Lobbyist for New Hampshire Snowmobile Association (Concord) Support04:46:07.000 - 1:44:53 PM; Adam Schmid expressed support for the bill on behalf of the New Hampshire Snowmobile Association. He mentioned that the association would provide written testimony and is open to adjustments based on DOT's needs to resolve the issue effectively.

Harb, Robert(Chairman)(R)[B+]2024	Dunn, Ron(Clerk)(R)[A-]2024	Davis, Arnold(V Chairman)(R)[B]2024
Buco, Thomas(D)[CT]2024	Vail, Suzanne(D)[CT]2024	Gould, Linda(R)[B-]2024
Ryan, Linda(D)[D+]2024	Darby, Will(D)[CT]2024	Donnelly, Tanya(R)[A-]2024
Knab, Allison(D)[CT]2024	Sargent, Gregory(D)	Baldwin, Heather(D)[CT]2024
Dupont, Pierre(R)	Lunney, Matthew(R)	Taylor, Brian(R)
Bridle, Nicholas(R)