New Hampshire House Bill HB1622

New Hampshire 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/10/25
• Refer: 12/10/25
• Report Pass: 2/11/26
• Refer: 2/19/26
• Report Pass: 3/18/26
• Engrossed: 3/30/26
• Refer: 3/30/26
• Refer: 4/30/26

Caption

Requiring the state to develop additional solid waste disposal capacity.

Impact

The implications of HB 1622 are significant for state laws governing solid waste management. The bill mandates that the DES preference criteria for landfill capacity applications first favor the expansion of current landfill sites. This could streamline the permitting process and encourage efficiency in waste disposal practices, potentially alleviating the issues related to capacity shortfalls anticipated in the coming years. Additionally, the bill stipulates conditions for greenfield development, ensuring that waste disposal operations will only commence when a capacity shortfall is imminent, which could help in managing state resources more effectively.

Summary

House Bill 1622 focuses on the management of solid waste disposal capacity within the state. The bill emphasizes the need to develop new landfill capacity primarily through the expansion of existing, fully permitted landfills, rather than establishing entirely new landfills in undeveloped areas (greenfield sites). This approach is rooted in the understanding that existing sites have been thoroughly evaluated for environmental suitability and are deemed appropriate for expanded use. The Department of Environmental Services (DES) is directed to prioritize applications for landfill expansions when assessing waste management needs.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 1622 relate to environmental concerns and the management of existing land sites versus new developments. Critics may argue that prioritizing expansions at existing landfills could lead to localized environmental impacts and may overlook community preferences for alternatives such as brownfield development. Furthermore, questions may arise about the public benefit required for landfill expansions and how these expansions align with local needs and environmental assessments. Balancing the urgency of managing waste capacity and the environmental stewardship will be vital in the discussions surrounding this bill.