Frank Lombardi

This bill is crucial for protecting New Hampshire’s water resources, public health, and environment from potential contamination caused by landfill leaks or failures. By requiring site-specific setback distances, the legislation ensures that any new landfill is placed far enough from lakes, rivers, and coastal waters to prevent pollutants from reaching them within five years. This precaution allows time for detection and remediation before harmful substances threaten drinking water supplies or ecosystems. Additionally, the bill strengthens landfill permitting requirements, holding applicants to higher environmental standards and preventing those with a history of violations from operating landfills in the state.