New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HR28

Introduced
12/6/23  
Refer
12/6/23  

Caption

Urging for the compensation for injuries from PFAS and for the closure and cleaning of sites affected by PFAS.

Impact

If enacted, HR28 will not only push for accountability from Saint-Gobain but will also likely shape future legislation related to environmental cleanup and public health standards in New Hampshire. By addressing the persistent contamination issues associated with PFAS, the resolution could pave the way for stricter regulatory measures aimed at preventing similar public health crises in the future. Additionally, it stresses the importance of monitoring the health of residents affected by PFAS, potentially influencing healthcare policies around environmental illnesses.

Summary

House Resolution 28 (HR28) urges for the compensation of injuries resulting from perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and calls for the closure and cleaning of contaminated sites. The bill highlights the alarming health consequences associated with PFAS exposure, which include kidney and liver damage, immune system disruption, and a higher incidence of cancers in affected communities. It emphasizes the role of Saint-Gobain, a company linked to severe contamination in areas like Merrimack, New Hampshire, and underscores the urgent need for remediation actions to protect public health.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HR28 appears to be one of concern and urgency. While many lawmakers seem to support the resolution as a necessary step towards justice for affected individuals, there may also be a level of frustration regarding the slow response to the PFAS crisis. The resolution captures a growing awareness among legislators concerning the impacts of industrial pollution and the need for effective environmental management strategies.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the accountability of Saint-Gobain for their role in the PFAS contamination and the adequacy of current environmental regulations to adequately safeguard public health. Critics of the bill may argue about the feasibility and financial implications of compensating individuals and communities, as well as concerns about regulatory overreach. However, proponents emphasize that the human cost of inaction, particularly regarding health impacts and economic burdens on affected towns, far outweighs these concerns. The ongoing environmental hazard posed by PFAS necessitates prompt legislative action.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB5893

Environmental protection: other; grant program for farmers affected by polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS); create. Amends 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.101 - 324.90106) by adding pt. 4. TIE BAR WITH: HB 5894'26

NH S2802

Protecting our soil, farms and food from PFAS contamination

NH H4853

Protecting our soil, farms and food from PFAS contamination

NH SB127

Exempting certain persons from PFAS enforcement actions under the spills law. (FE)

NH HCR200

Urging The United States Department Of Defense To Reassess Prior Determinations And Closure Decisions Under The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, And Liability Act In Light Of Evolving Scientific Understanding Of Per- And Polyfluoroalkyl Substances And Recent Federal Hazardous Substance Designations.

NH HR190

Urging The United States Department Of Defense To Reassess Prior Determinations And Closure Decisions Under The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, And Liability Act In Light Of Evolving Scientific Understanding Of Per- And Polyfluoroalkyl Substances And Recent Federal Hazardous Substance Designations.

NH LD130

An Act to Establish the PFAS Response Program and to Modify the Fund To Address PFAS Contamination

NH AB131

Programs and requirements to address PFAS.

NH SCR137

Urging The United States Department Of Defense To Reassess Prior Determinations And Closure Decisions Under The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, And Liability Act In Light Of Evolving Scientific Understanding Of Per- And Polyfluoroalkyl Substances And Recent Federal Hazardous Substance Designations.

NH SR129

Urging The United States Department Of Defense To Reassess Prior Determinations And Closure Decisions Under The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, And Liability Act In Light Of Evolving Scientific Understanding Of Per- And Polyfluoroalkyl Substances And Recent Federal Hazardous Substance Designations.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.