Yes to Single-Use Packaging Reduction in New Hampshire!
The New Hampshire Chapter worked with our Northeast Regional Manager to amend and then support the passage of a law that would allow businesses to charge a fee for single-use items.
House Bill 1194 was introduced for the January 2020 session. The bill sought to establish a single-use plastic surcharge to encourage the use of reusable cups and bags.
As written, the bill would have allowed but not required a merchant to charge $0.05 per single-use plastic cup and single-use plastic bag. The merchant would keep the collected money, and single-use plastic bags that are used for bulk items, to prevent the leaking of food items, and packages of multiple bags or beverage containers would be exempt.
As written, this legislation would have authorized something already permitted by law. Merchants are already able to charge for any goods sold at their own stores, including bags and cups.
New Hampshire is an interesting state, as municipalities are limited in authority to pass local regulation.
Surfrider worked with the bill sponsor to amend HB1194 to require merchants to charge 10-cent fees on single-use plastics, paper and other point of sale packaging.
The bill came to hearing in the House on Thursday, 1/23/20 at 9:30AM before the House Commerce and Consumer Affairs Committee, Legislative Office Building, Room 302, 33 N State St, Concord, NH 03301.
Unfortunately, the Committee voted that HB1194 was inexpedient to legislate, and the House concurred on March 11, 2020, killing the bill.
YOU CAN HELP!
Write to your NH State House Representative asking for support of our recommendations on HB1194! Email for contact details and more information.
Thank you!