NH has a remarkably low rate of child poverty, this is something to be very proud of!! However: it has seen a rebound in 2022, according to the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute, and just because it is low, it does not mean there are not still children suffering from poverty. Malnutrition, neglect, underachievement academically, and internalizing/externalizing behaviors are commonly discussed issues associated with and caused by child poverty, but we don’t often consider the issue of female hygiene. Despite taxes that may state otherwise, female hygiene is NOT a luxury, it’s a human right to dignity and health— Toxic Shock Syndrome that results from (often rationed) prolonged use of a tampon is fatal, for instance. Lack of access to menstrual products harms girls’ academic performance, as the shame brought on by bleeding through clothes (in highly self-conscious adolescent environments, one must note) often prevents girls from attending school on the days that they are menstruating: that is nine critical weeks of schooling lost! Menstrual products are notably expensive, and for low-income kids, public schools are often the only source they have for this dignity and health-saving right. Poverty, let alone menstruation, is riddled with shame, and girls too often are too ashamed to approach the nurse to ask for menstrual products on a regularly-needed basis. Having these products available in bathrooms allows girls to comfortably access the hygiene products they need and have a right to. Before we publicly address the need for menstrual products in public schools, please consider eliminating child poverty (now, which sounds easier?) or proposing a program that makes period products free and accessible with dignity elsewhere. Truly, having free menstrual products in school bathrooms is a practical and vital solution to the dignity needs of struggling girls all over the state.
HB416
House · 2025 sessionBipartisanSigned into lawBan on dumping yard waste
AIProhibits intentionally dumping solid waste, including yard waste, into the state's surface waters, with escalating penalties ranging from a violation to a felony for repeat or knowing offenses.
prohibiting the intentional disposal of yard waste into the surface waters of the state.
Status
Signed into law · July 22, 2025- ✓Introduced
- ✓House
- ✓Senate
- ✓Governor
- ✓Law
Division of testimony
181 submissionsArgument digest · AI-generated
from 87 of 87 written submissionsHB416 would prohibit intentionally dumping yard waste such as leaves, grass clippings, and garden debris into New Hampshire's lakes, ponds, and other surface waters, with a penalty for violations. The overwhelming majority of submitters, many lakefront residents and lake association members, support the bill as a needed tool against worsening cyanobacteria blooms, while a small minority argue its terms are too vague to enforce fairly or that it is unnecessary regulation.
- Yard waste nutrients fuel harmful cyanobacteria and algae bloomsSupport41 of 87 reviewed
The dominant argument for the bill is that decomposing leaves, grass clippings, and garden debris release phosphorus and nitrogen into lakes, fueling the algae and cyanobacteria blooms that many submitters say have worsened at their own lakes in recent years.
“When leaves and other yard waste enter lake water, they begin to decay, releasing nitrogen, phosphorus and carbon into the water. The phosphorus eventually settles on top of the alum crust, and the cyanobacteria has it food source restored.”
— Kevin Kelly, Moultonborough · #339994 — read full submission →
“Yard debris dumped into lakes adds nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen) that fuel the excessive growth of plants, algae, and cyanobacteria.”
— John D. Sheehan, New London · #345818 — read full submission →
- A legal penalty is needed to change dumping behavior and raise awarenessSupport27 of 87 reviewed
Many supporters argue that education alone has not stopped landscapers and residents from blowing leaves or dumping clippings into the water, and that a fine would deter the behavior and heighten awareness of its consequences.
“People who would otherwise think nothing of blowing leaves or dumping grass clippings into a lake would likely not do so if they knew it was against the law and they could be fined.”
— John D. Sheehan, New London · #345818 — read full submission →
“There have been violations of shoreline protection regulations, but the fines are so low they don't deter people from behavior which compromises the health and cleanliness of the lake.”
— Elaine Mittell, Silver Lake · #344075 — read full submission →
“Education has not kept pace with need. We need to adopt penalties that will educate.”
— gloria villari, Center Ossipee · #343815 — read full submission →
- Healthy lakes are vital to NH's tourism economySupport12 of 87 reviewed
Supporters argue that clean lakes are a major economic resource for New Hampshire and that cyanobacteria outbreaks threaten tourism, property values, and local businesses.
“Our family is losing business over the cyanobacteria and it is ruining the tourism industry in the state of New Hampshire which has always been so beautiful.”
— Linda Skidmore, Chichester · #345839 — read full submission →
“Lakes provide a significant tourist industry. Unfortunately the health and therefor the safety of our lakes is diminishing.”
— Donald Wilson, Rindge · #343923 — read full submission →
- Personal observation of yard waste dumping by neighbors or contractorsSupport4 of 87 reviewed
Some supporters cite firsthand observations of neighbors, landscapers, or property managers blowing leaves or clippings into a lake as evidence the practice is common and needs a legal remedy.
“I own property on one of the islands on Lake Winnipesaukee. I have a neighbor who continues to blow his yard debris in the lake. It is unsettling knowing that this contributes to degrade our beautiful lake.”
— Lorrie Beaulieu, Stratham · #344627 — read full submission →
“I have witnessed shoreland owners using blowers to clear the leaves and pine needles from the area near the shore and much of it ends up in the lake.”
— James Mueller, Ossipee · #344871 — read full submission →
- Penalties or supporting programs should go furtherSupport3 of 87 reviewed
A few supporters back the bill's goal but suggest it should be strengthened further, such as by raising the fine amount or pairing it with funded municipal yard-waste disposal options.
“The fine should be similar to fines in HB 422 a minimum fine with a maximum at least ten times as much ($150,000).”
— Alfred LYONS, Dublin · #344696 — read full submission →
“This bill should include support for municipal DPWs to provide suitable yard wast disposal.”
— Charles DePuy, Lebanon · #345614 — read full submission →
“People who would otherwise think nothing of blowing leaves or dumping grass clippings into a lake would likely not do so if they knew it was against the law and they could be fined. While you're at it, please provide funds to educate shoreland landowners.”
— Laura Colcord, Salisbury · #342850 — read full submission →
- General common-sense endorsementSupport6 of 87 reviewed
A number of supporters offer brief, general statements of support, describing the bill as obvious common sense without elaborating on specific mechanisms of harm.
- Key terms like 'yard waste' and 'intentional' are too vagueOppose2 of 87 reviewed
Opponents argue the bill fails to define what counts as yard waste or what makes disposal 'intentional,' making enforcement subjective and risking penalties for common, harmless activities like raking leaves near a stream.
“The bill does not specify what constitutes "yard waste." Does this include grass clippings, leaves, or larger organic debris like tree branches? Without a clear definition, enforcement becomes subjective”
— Charles Lockwood, East Kingston · #353500 — read full submission →
“The term "intentional" is vague and open to interpretation. For example, would accidental spillage of grass clippings near a waterway be penalized?”
— Charles Lockwood, East Kingston · #353500 — read full submission →
- Law would encourage neighbor surveillance and is unnecessaryOppose2 of 87 reviewed
Opponents argue the bill invites neighbors to monitor and report one another over minor property maintenance, and question whether the problem is common enough to warrant a new law.
“bills like this encourage neighbors to monitor neighbors to ascertain if someone's property maintenance allows detritus to enter a lake and if it is intentional.”
— Kenneth DeLong, Hollis · #347929 — read full submission →
“Who will determine the amount of leaves or grass clippings is a violation? A passing motorist, a disgruntled neighbor, an envious visitor?”
— Richard Fulford, Merrimack · #344056 — read full submission →
- Bill singles out yard waste while ignoring other natural nutrient sourcesOppose1 of 87 reviewed
One opponent argues that wildlife already deposits organic matter in surface waters and that the bill does not identify a specific harm caused by biodegradable yard waste.
Generated by claude-sonnet-5 (claude code agent) on Jul 22, 2026. Quotes are verbatim excerpts, verified against the cited submission before publication. Summaries are AI interpretation of the record, not part of it.
I support this bill. Yard waste in our waterways contributes to the threat of Cyanobacteria blooms and the increase in blooms in recent years is a threat to health and safety for all who use our lakes and waterways. Stronger enforcement is critical to protection of our waterways. I have had experience with confrontation among neighbors after yard waste dumping occurs, and it is far better handled by officers of the peace.
Let us please take care of each other. Menstruating youth need menstrual products available to them at school.
This bill will not only educated people on the impact of dumping yard waste into lakes or streams that enter into lakes, it will also provide a much needed law to prohibit it. Yard waste in lakes is very detrimental to the lake water quality and can lead to cyanobacteria blooms.
We need to take steps to ensure that people who would otherwise think nothing of blowing leaves or dumping grass clippings into a lake know that it is against the law and they could be fined. The health of New Hampshire's lakes is deteriorating and action is needed to restore and preserve lake health before it's too late. Importantly, clean and healthy lakes are valuable to everyone who lives and visits New Hampshire, and they are are also very valuable to the state economy.
While I support the goal of protecting New Hampshire's water resources, HB 416-FN lacks sufficient clarity in its definitions and thresholds, which could lead to confusion and unintended consequences for residents. Lack of Definition for Yard Waste: The bill does not specify what constitutes "yard waste." Does this include grass clippings, leaves, or larger organic debris like tree branches? Without a clear definition, enforcement becomes subjective, potentially penalizing actions that are common and harmless, like raking leaves near a stream. Ambiguity Around "Intentional": The term "intentional" is vague and open to interpretation. For example, would accidental spillage of grass clippings near a waterway be penalized? A clear standard is needed to distinguish between deliberate pollution and unintentional acts. No Thresholds or Proportionality: The bill does not establish limits or thresholds for what volume of yard waste would trigger penalties. Minor, incidental amounts of organic material should not result in severe consequences, as this could place an unreasonable burden on residents engaging in routine yard care. Unclear Enforcement Mechanisms: The bill does not specify who determines violations, how violations are assessed, or what constitutes sufficient evidence. Without clear guidelines, enforcement could be inconsistent and potentially unfair. Potential for Disproportionate Punishment: The absence of thresholds or mitigating factors could lead to unreasonable punishments for minor infractions. This risks alienating residents and undermining support for important environmental protections. Impact on Rural and Suburban Residents: For many New Hampshire residents, especially those in rural areas, yard waste management can be challenging due to proximity to natural water sources. Without clear guidance and alternatives, the bill risks penalizing residents who lack practical means to comply. Recommendations: To make this bill effective and fair, the following changes should be considered: Define "yard waste" clearly, specifying what materials and quantities are covered. Clarify "intentional" to distinguish between deliberate pollution and accidental or incidental actions. Include thresholds for what constitutes a violation, avoiding penalties for trivial amounts of organic material. Outline enforcement mechanisms, ensuring transparent and consistent application. Provide education and resources to help residents comply, such as guidelines for yard waste management near waterways. Environmental protection is critical, but it must be balanced with fairness, clarity, and practicality. For these reasons, I oppose HB 416-FN in its current form and urge the committee to refine the bill before moving forward.
This is a complete injustice for women. As an American women I am horrified and disgusted that people, including clearly misguided women, would sign off on such a law. Our country is the world’s disgrace at this time and this is only the tip of the iceberg as to why.
I STRONGLY support passage of this bill.
There should be no such tolerance regarding pollution in our state. I support the prohibition of dumping yard waste in our surface waters. These wastes can contain forever chemicals that can alter the environment and the health of our bodies in terrible ways.
Our lakes are some of our most important economic resources. Yard waste adds significantly to the nutrient load of our lakes, and should remain on land not in our surface waters. It is important that our laws send a message that dumping yard waste in the lakes is harmful. I live on the shore of Little Squam Lake and am very concerned that we do everything we can to maintain good water quality.
We should absolutely not be dumping yard waste into any lakes. This increases nitrogen and phosphorous which creates cyanobacteria blooms. Our lakes are already struggling. If people knew there would be fine for dumping leaves and/or grass clippings into the lake, they might think twice before doing it. Please strongly consider passing this bill.
I have lived on Pawtuckaway Lake for 5 years and unfortunately the yearly water testing done here has reflected an ongoing increase of phosphorus. I believe one of the reasons is too many people use the lake as their dumping ground instead of hauling the debris away from the water. Additionally, there is a local farm that abuts the lake and there appears to be runoff from their property where there is always a higher concentration of phosphorus in that area. I believe that any type of repercussion for those behaviors would lessen the frequency of these actions.
Dear Committee Members, I live on Province Lake in East Wakefield, N. H. We have had an increasing problem with cyanobacteria in the lake over the last several years despite our lake associations efforts to reduce the amount of phosphorous and nitrogen entering the lake. This bill prohibits the intentional disposal of yard waste into the surface waters of the state and provides a penalty for doing so. I walk Bonnyman Road which runs along side the lake on a regular basis. There is a steep embankment on one side of the road which ends at the water's edge. Every year I witness leaves and brush that has been thrown over the side of the embankment or pushed to the side of the road to the top of the embankment. I believe it is in hope of stopping water flow from rains from eroding the small strips of land contained there. However, there is no place for that debris to go, but to eventually wash into the lake. Whether it is through ignorance or lack of concern, this practice needs to be stopped. Please pass this bill. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Paula M.
Increased education and penalties could be a deterrent to those who currently simply dump their yard waste into our lakes. Having substantive penalties would make a big difference and could curtail the waste that goes to the lake. Thank you for your consideration.
I support more efforts to keep damaging yard waste out of our watershed. The public needs to understand the negative consequences and be held accountable as their laziness impacts all of us. I find it disheartening when I'm in my kayak and have to paddle through grass clippings and leaves from properties on lakes and rivers.
Yard debris dumped into lakes adds nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen) that fuel the excessive growth of plants, algae, and cyanobacteria. As you know Cyanobacteria blooms have been increasing every year. I had 3 that affected me at Bow Lake this summer. This would remind people and heighten their awareness along with those who manage yards around lakes. People who would otherwise think nothing of blowing leaves or dumping grass clippings into a lake would likely not do so if they knew it was against the law and they could be fined.
People need to be educated that you do not dump organic material in our lakes. This nutrient material speeds up the eutrophication process and supports excessive growth of plants...and cyanobacteria blooms.
I urge you not to approve this bill. Is this a common enough problem that it rises to the level of needing a law passed? Furthermore, bills like this encourage neighbors to monitor neighbors to ascertain if someone's property maintenance allows detritus to enter a lake and if it is intentional.
While monitoring and enforcement is typically impossible in such routine site specific behavior -- this legislation will increase education re. the consquences of yard waste disposal in lakes. It is this education which will have a significant impact over time.
Considering the escalating issue of cyanobacteria in NH lakes, including Lake Winnipesaukee, this bill prohibits the intentional disposal of yard waste (leaves, grass clippings, garden debris) into the surface waters of the state and provides a penalty for doing so. The prohibition will heighten awareness of the consequences, legal and environmental, of disposing leaves, garden materials and grass clippings into a lake.
As president of the Contoocook Lake Area Preservation Association (CLAPA), I am writing on behalf of our organization in support of this bill. CLAPA is a 150-member voluntary association dedicated to preserving and protecting the health and beauty of our lake. As with many lakes in New Hampshire, Contoocook has been experiencing increased incidences of cyanobacteria blooms in recent years. We are aware that decomposition of yard debris dumped into the lake adds undesirable nutrients to the lake and promotes growth of cyanobacteria and other harmful organisms. For this reason we urge you to vote in support of this bill.
I support this Bill to allow discourage disposal of yard waste into lakes.
Too many people and yard contractors blow leaves into the lake. Last fall we had a huge amount of leaves wash up onto our shore from across the lake. We knew who the culprits were, but other than talk to them to scold their yard service, there was nothing that could be done. People need to be educated that this harms our lakes by increasing nutrients and knowing there is a penalty certainly would help.
Ducks, fish, birds ... all crap in surface water, but this bill says biodegradable grass clippings are bad? This bill does not even identify the supposed "evil" result from yard waste. Get real.
Disposal of yard debris into NH surface water adds nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen) that fuel the excessive growth of plants, algae, and cyanobacteria. This action needs to be prohibited since the quality of NH's lakes is so important to the state's residents as well as the tourism industry. The only way to stop this practice is to make this practice subject to fines. Everyone needs to do their part to protect the water quality of NH's lakes.