This bill establishes a committee to study mercury source reduction and recycling issues. Matter added to current law appears in bold italics. AN ACT establishing a committee to study mercury source reduction and recycling issues. The general court finds that mercury is a persistent, toxic pollutant that accumulates in the food chain and poses a significant adverse threat to the state's public health and welfare and to the natural environment, including fish and wildlife. The effects of mercury exposure on plants include decreased chlorophyll production, inhibited growth, root and leaf damage, accelerated aging, and death.
Reproductive problems are the primary concern for birds.
In response to the human health risk posed by mercury, the state of New Hampshire has issued a statewide advisory on the consumption of fresh water fish. This fish consumption advisory applies to all freshwater fish species collected from all inland waters. Consequently, mercury deposition may have an impact on New Hampshire's recreational economy. The general court further finds that deposition of mercury and mercury compounds is occurring in the state of New Hampshire. Approximately 98 percent of the mercury emitted by sources in New Hampshire comes from the incineration of municipal solid waste and medical waste, and from the combustion of fossil fuels, such as coal and oil.