N.H. Rev. Stat. § 200:11-b

Current through Chapter 381 of the 2024 Legislative Session

Section 200:11-b - Water Bottle Filling Stations in Schools

I. [Repealed by 2023 amendment.]

II. All construction or renovation of public school buildings, including any approved project under RSA 198:15-c, shall be equipped with water bottle filling stations meeting the following requirements:

(a) A water bottle filling station shall mean a water dispenser accessible to all people in compliance with the American with Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.) that dispenses clean drinking water directly into a bottle or other drinking container.

(b) Water bottle filling stations may be touchless for sanitary reasons.

(c) Water bottle filling stations installed in public schools under this section shall:

(1) Be regularly cleaned to maintain sanitary conditions;

(2) Be maintained to ensure they function properly, including replacing filters as recommended by the manufacturers; and

(3) Dispense clean, filtered, cooled drinking water.

III. The local building inspection authority, pursuant to RSA 155-A, of school districts shall not approve the plans or specifications for a new public school building and for any addition or substantial renovation to an existing public school building unless the plans and specifications provide for:

(a) A minimum of one water bottle filling station for every 200 people projected to occupy the building upon completion of the proposed construction.

(b) A minimum of one water bottle filling station on each floor or wing of each building.

(c) A minimum of one water bottle filling station located near cafeterias, gymnasiums, or outdoor recreation spaces and other high-traffic areas.

(d) Water bottle filling stations may be integrated into drinking fountains, at a ratio of 1 combination unit for every 200 people.

IV. Schools shall permit students to bring to school water bottles that:

(a) Are made of a material that is not easily breakable;

(b) Have lids to prevent spills; and

(c) Are filled exclusively with water.

V. The school board may enact a disciplinary policy regarding the misuse of water bottles by students or employees.

RSA 200:11-b

Amended by 2023, 6:1, eff. 6/25/2023.

Added by 2022 , 149: 1, eff. 9/5/2022.