On January 22, 2025, the New Hampshire Legislature introduced Senate Bill 110, a significant piece of legislation aimed at reforming the state’s permitting process for certain environmental projects. The bill seeks to streamline the review process by exempting smaller applications from state oversight, thereby addressing ongoing challenges faced by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES) in meeting statutory review deadlines.

The primary provisions of Senate Bill 110 include the removal of approximately 79 projects from the state permitting process, which are expected to ease the workload on NHDES staff. However, the bill's impact on state expenditures remains indeterminable, with estimates suggesting potential reductions between $10,000 and $100,000 annually. The changes are set to take effect in fiscal year 2026.

While the bill aims to alleviate pressure on state resources, it raises concerns at the local level. Municipalities may incur increased costs as they will need to contract engineering firms for project reviews that were previously managed under state permits. NHDES estimates that 30-50% of the exempted projects will require local reviews, with an average cost of $20,000 per project. This could lead to an overall increase in local expenditures ranging from $500,000 to $1,000,000 annually, although the exact figure remains uncertain.

Debate surrounding Senate Bill 110 has highlighted the potential for unregulated stormwater runoff, which could necessitate additional restoration efforts by municipalities. Critics argue that the bill may lead to environmental risks if smaller projects are not adequately reviewed, while supporters contend that it will enhance efficiency and reduce bureaucratic delays.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for both state and local governments will be closely monitored. Stakeholders, including environmental advocates and municipal leaders, are expected to weigh in on the potential benefits and drawbacks of the proposed changes. The outcome of Senate Bill 110 could significantly reshape the landscape of environmental project permitting in New Hampshire, with lasting effects on both fiscal responsibilities and environmental stewardship.