Fiscal watchdog criticizes New Hampshire’s plan for a ‘paint tax’

(The Center Square) — Fiscal watchdog groups are slamming New Hampshire lawmakers for advancing a plan to set a new surcharge on paint sales, saying the move would damage the state’s tax-free reputation and drive up costs for consumers.

House Bill 451 would create a voluntary program allowing consumers to bring old paint and paint cans to Home Depot and other retailers for recycling. The costs would be covered by a new “fee” on paint cans ranging from around 30 cents to $2.45, according to the proposal. The bipartisan measure is awaiting action by Gov. Kelly Ayotte after House and Senate lawmakers approved the bill earlier this week.

Backers of the plan say the proposed paint can recycling program would help improve the environment and ease the cost of local governments for getting rid of unused paint, which can contaminate soil and bodies of water if improperly dumped.