Sununu Bolsters NH Lakes, Forests with New Environmental Laws

CONCORD, N.H. — Gov. Chris Sununu signed two omnibus environmental bills into law Tuesday, fortifying safeguards for New Hampshire's lakes, forests and coastal waters as part of 30 measures from the 2021 legislative session. Senate Bill 146 establishes the New Hampshire Coastal Program to combat ocean plastic pollution, a growing threat to marine life in areas like Hampton Beach and Rye Harbor. Senate Bill 131 promotes electric vehicle adoption, clarifies municipal water maintenance rules critical for towns like Wolfeboro on Lake Winnipesaukee, and streamlines decals for firefighters and EMS personnel.

Additional laws target land and waste management to protect the state's 800,000 acres of conserved forestland. House Bill 413 creates a solid waste management planning working group, boosts composting initiatives and sets a statewide goal to reduce solid waste disposal, addressing landfill pressures in regions like the Monadnock Area. Senate Bill 129 mandates minimizing environmental impacts on habitats of endangered and threatened species, such as the rare Karner blue butterfly in southern New Hampshire pine barrens.

The signings reflect bipartisan momentum on conservation amid New Hampshire's ongoing efforts to preserve its natural assets. Sununu's action follows years of advocacy from groups like the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, which has conserved over 35,000 acres since 1901. These bills take effect immediately or by July 1, with first adjustments like inflation indexing slated for 2023, ensuring long-term resilience for beloved spots from the White Mountains to the Connecticut River valley.