Environmental Affairs

BIA works collaboratively with the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services and business members to advance business-friendly environmental policies and regulations that preserve and protect New Hampshire's natural resources.

To view the status of current legislation related to environmental affairs, click here.

Top Issues

Groundwater

Groundwater use and withdrawal remains at the forefront of debate in New Hampshire. BIA supports policies that ensure businesses reasonable and adequate access to groundwater, while adequately protecting the state's water resources.

Renewable Portfolio Standard

BIA supports the development of renewable energy sources in New Hampshire as a way to reduce energy cost and consumption. In 2007, Gov. John Lynch signed into law a renewable portfolio standard (RPS) for the state. A RPS aims to reduce dependence on imported energy sources; reduce the risk and volatility of energy costs; reduce air pollution, particularly greenhouse gas emissions; and foster new economic development opportunities.

The Economic Impact of a New Hampshire RPS

Other Issues

BIA monitors and responds to legislation addressing:

  • Air Emissions and Permitting
  • Waste Reduction and Disposal
  • Recycling
  • DES Rulemaking Processes

In evaluating public policy, legislation and rule-making, BIA relies on several guiding principles.

BIA favors:

  • Minimizing bureaucracy and other delays that impede existing or future business
  • Expediting permit reviews and approvals
  • Promoting environmental awareness, education, workforce training and job safety
  • Centralized air, water and waste rules and standards administered by the Department of Environmental Services (DES)
  • Fair and equitably applied rules, laws and legislation to all business
  • Opposing legislation that puts the business community at a competitive disadvantage, through more stringent environmental regulations relative to neighboring states
  • Adequate funding of DES
  • Ensuring DES fees are reasonable and that the agency is not disproportionately funded by the state’s businesses
  • Policies, laws, regulations and rules grounded in science
  • Preserving property rights associated land ownership
  • Fostering environmental stewardship, sustainability, and smart planning, growth and development.

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