Committee Summary for House Municipal and County Government (03/03/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB471 00:06:56.199 - 8:05:52 AM	Public Hearing	establishing a commission to study issues related to growth, traffic, and planning and land use for certain towns.	Dunn, Ron(R)[A-]2024
HB373 00:30:42.519 - 8:29:38 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the management and regulation of town real property.	Pauer, Diane(R)[A]2024
HB413 00:58:56.680 - 8:57:52 AM	Public Hearing	relative to subdivision regulations on the completion of improvements and the regulation of building permits.	Pauer, Diane(R)[A]2024
HB229 01:29:35.920 - 9:28:31 AM	Public Hearing	repealing the alternative procedure for adoption of zoning ordinances.	Vose, Michael(R)[A]2024
HB372 01:42:29.159 - 9:41:25 AM	Public Hearing	relative to lease agreements of equipment for building or facility improvements.	Pauer, Diane(R)[A]2024
HB569 2025-0561h 04:14:12.040 - 12:13:08 PM	Executive Session	relative to the establishment of county-wide communication districts.	Howard, Heath(D)[F]2024
HB643 04:24:34.840 - 12:23:30 PM	Executive Session	expanding the number of Grafton County commissioners.	Barton, Joseph(R)
HB125 04:28:05.800 - 12:27:01 PM	Executive Session	relative to electing Strafford county commissioners at-large.	Horrigan, Timothy(D)[CT]2024
HB544 04:32:23.479 - 12:31:19 PM	Executive Session	relative to an optional local public safety assessment on certain room occupancies.	Paige, David(D)[CT]2024
HB247 2025-0652 04:35:20.561 - 12:34:16 PM	Executive Session	authorizing municipalities to hold a referendum on whether to allow historic horse racing.	Ohm, Bill(R)[B]2018
HB123 2025-0654h 04:42:54.360 - 12:41:50 PM	Executive Session	enabling municipalities to tax standing wood and timber on land used for carbon sequestration.	Davis, Arnold(R)[B]2024
HB554 2025-0570h 04:57:01.920 - 12:55:57 PM	Executive Session	enabling municipalities to choose whether or not to place political advertising on municipal property.	Andrus, Louise(R)[B+]2024
HB512 05:08:20.120 - 1:07:16 PM	Executive Session	relative to preventing municipal employees from being paid under multiple municipal contracts simultaneously.	Pearson, Stephen(R)[B]2024
HB562 05:11:39.320 - 1:10:35 PM	Executive Session	relative to the filling of vacant positions on elected municipal boards and school boards.	Alexander, Joe(R)[A]2024
HB490 05:16:09.680 - 1:15:05 PM	Executive Session	relative to indemnification for municipalities adopting policies to address homelessness.	Howard, Heath(D)[F]2024
HB668 05:21:18.760 - 1:20:14 PM	Executive Session	authorizing municipalities to hold a referendum to rescind the licenses of historic horse racing facilities.	Ohm, Bill(R)[B]2018
Unclear 05:23:15.280 - 1:22:11 PM	General Working Session	Unclear

HB471: Representative Perez representing Representative Ron Dunn Support00:06:56.199 - 8:05:52 AM; Representative Perez introduced House Bill 471, which aims to establish a commission to study issues related to growth, traffic, and planning and land use for certain towns. The bill focuses on 10 towns from different planning committees, particularly those dealing with similar growth and transportation issues. The commission would examine the purpose and direction of the nine existing regional planning commissions, potentially reconfiguring them to better serve the towns. The bill was requested by residents and officials from Londonderry, highlighting the need for a temporary commission to share best practices among towns with similar issues.
HB471: Unnamed Committee Member Information Only00:10:42.760 - 8:09:38 AM; An unnamed committee member asked Representative Perez about the type of legislation that might come out of the proposed commission. They questioned whether the commission's purposes could be accomplished at the local level through ordinances. Representative Perez responded that they were unsure about the specific legislation but suggested that if the planning commissions are established via legislation, changes might require legislative action.
HB471: Representative Jama Information Only00:12:05.399 - 8:11:01 AM; Representative Jama inquired about the selection of cities for the commission, noting the absence of western cities like Lebanon and Keene. They asked if there was a possibility for amendment to include such cities. Representative Perez explained that the selected towns share common locality issues, particularly related to access to major routes and ongoing growth and traffic issues, and were specifically chosen due to their similar circumstances.
HB471: Representative Frock Information Only00:13:19.760 - 8:12:15 AM; Representative Frock sought clarification on the purpose of the commission, asking if the intent was for the 10 towns to form a single regional planning commission. Representative Perez clarified that the commission would explore whether reconfiguring or redistricting the existing planning commissions could better serve the towns' needs, not necessarily forming a new single commission.
HB471: Eric Power, Brookline Support00:15:51.000 - 8:14:47 AM; Eric Power, a resident and member of the Brookline Planning Board, spoke in favor of HB471. He highlighted the necessity of the bill due to the shared needs of towns around Manchester and Nashua in south-central New Hampshire. These towns span across three different regional planning commissions, complicating regional impact assessments for development projects. Power suggested that a commission could facilitate cooperation among these towns, especially given the significant residential and commercial growth in the area. He proposed that the commission could influence the state highway plan and potentially lead to the reconfiguration of regional planning commissions. He also recommended flexibility in the commission's membership, including state representatives, town council members, select board members, or planning board members, and suggested a possible amendment to pass the bill.
HB471: Representative Gilman Information Only00:19:56.120 - 8:18:52 AM; Representative Gilman inquired if Eric Power had reviewed RSA 3646, which might already allow for what HB471 is proposing. Power admitted he had not looked at RSA 3646.
HB471: Representative J Information Only00:20:46.880 - 8:19:42 AM; Representative J asked if the bill could be made more broad to allow other cities in different locations to form similar commissions without needing repeated legislation. Power responded that other areas like the Upper Valley or Mount Washington Valley might benefit from such a mechanism, suggesting that while the current bill focuses on a specific area, broader application could be beneficial.
HB471: Representative Stavis Information Only00:21:43.960 - 8:20:39 AM; Representative Stavis questioned the necessity of HB471, pointing out that RSA 3646 already provides a mechanism for towns to create regional planning commissions. Power responded that he was not familiar with the specifics of RSA 3646 but suggested that if it could serve the same purpose, it might be a recommended solution.
HB471: Representative Colby Information Only00:23:13.559 - 8:22:09 AM; Representative Colby raised concerns about the exclusion of certain towns like Dunbarton and Plaistow from the list of towns involved in the bill. He questioned if these towns might feel marginalized or pressured by larger communities due to their exclusion. He suggested that towns like Dunbarton and Plaistow, which are geographically close to other involved towns and share similar traffic patterns, should be considered for inclusion. He mentioned the possibility of consulting state representatives to possibly expand the list to 12 communities, acknowledging the challenge of maintaining an effective size for the commission.
HB471: Representative Frock Information Only00:25:00.080 - 8:23:56 AM; Representative Frock pointed out the absence of representation from the three regional planning commissions on the list of members for the bill. He suggested that including at least one non-voting member from each of these commissions could enhance synergy and involvement across multiple planning areas.
HB471: Representative Gilman Information Only00:25:49.480 - 8:24:45 AM; Representative Gilman discussed the overlap between the Rockingham Planning Commission and the Southern District Planning Commission, referencing a proposal discussed at the Exeter Select Board. He questioned whether existing RSA 3646 already addressed the goals of the legislation and noted his limited knowledge about adjacent planning commissions. He suggested that if RSA 3646 could achieve the same goals, it might be considered instead.
HB471: Representative Gilman Information Only00:28:14.480 - 8:27:10 AM; Representative Gilman reported the results of the remote sign-ins and blue sheets for House Bill 471, indicating two in support and three opposed on remote sign-in, and one in support on the blue sheet.
HB373: Representative Diane Power, representing Brookline, Mason, and Greenville in Hillsboro County District 36 Support00:30:42.519 - 8:29:38 AM; Representative Diane Power, the prime sponsor of House Bill 373, introduced the bill which aims to address deficiencies in current law regarding the leasing of town property. She highlighted the limitations of RSA 41:11-a, which only allows leases of up to one year by selectmen without further authorization, and up to five years with a vote by the legislative body. She provided two examples illustrating the impracticality of the current law: the Hampton Beach Casino ballroom redevelopment project and a 13-year lease agreement in Brookline. Power argued for the need to allow leases longer than five years without the need for reauthorization every five years. She proposed that the bill would enable the legislative body to authorize the select board to lease unused town property for more than a year, with specific voting thresholds for different lease durations. She concluded by emphasizing that the bill maintains current leasing capabilities while providing more flexibility for longer leases.
HB373: Representative Diane Power, representing Brookline, Mason, and Greenville in Hillsboro County District 36 Support00:30:42.519 - 8:29:38 AM; Representative Diane Power supports HB373 and explains the changes it proposes. The bill allows a three-fifths majority vote to extend the leasing of town property to up to 99 years, rather than the current five years. It also maintains the select board's authority to lease town property for up to one year. The three-fifths majority is seen as necessary for long-term commitments, providing more certainty and stability for town property leases.
HB373: Representative Colby Information Only00:38:18.240 - 8:37:14 AM; Representative Colby asks Representative Power about the change from a simple majority to a three-fifths majority for leasing town property. Representative Power explains that the original statute required a simple majority, but the bill aims to increase the threshold to three-fifths for leases longer than five years to ensure greater support for long-term commitments.
HB373: Eric Power, from Brookline, representing himself and serving on the Brookline Planning Board Support00:41:36.319 - 8:40:32 AM; Eric Power supports HB373, highlighting its importance for long-term leases on town property. He discusses the challenges with annual renewals for leases, particularly in Brookline with Melandy Pond properties, and suggests that longer leases would provide certainty for development projects. He also mentions the need for three-fifths majority for long-term leases to align with other multi-year town decisions.
HB373: Representative Grund Information Only00:45:53.559 - 8:44:49 AM; Representative Grund asks Eric Power if current five-year leases would require a three-fifths majority to be renewed under the new bill. Eric Power explains that existing authorizations would remain in effect, but new authorizations would need the three-fifths vote. He also discusses the possibility of refining the policy to have different voting thresholds for different lease durations.
HB373: Representative Colby Information Only00:48:13.520 - 8:47:09 AM; Representative Colby expresses concern about the potential loss of revenue if a three-fifths majority is required for renewing leases longer than five years. Eric Power clarifies that the three-fifths vote would be a one-time vote for authorizing leases up to five years, and individual leases over five years would require their own vote.
HB373: Representative Murphy Information Only00:50:43.400 - 8:49:39 AM; Representative Murphy asks Eric Power why the bill proposes a three-fifths majority instead of a two-thirds majority. Eric Power explains that three-fifths is more commonly used in municipal and school district law for long-term agreements and debt, and while he would not be opposed to two-thirds, he believes three-fifths is a more achievable standard.
HB373: Birie Dees, representing the New Hampshire Municipal Association Oppose00:52:34.720 - 8:51:30 AM; Birie Dees opposes HB373, citing concerns about the bill's expansion of lease duration to 99 years and the change to a three-fifths super majority for voter approval. He highlights potential retroactive implications and the requirement for new votes, which could negatively impact municipalities' governance efficiency.
HB373: Representative Davis Information Only00:55:31.200 - 8:54:27 AM; Representative Davis asks Birie Dees about the rationale for changing from a simple majority to a super majority for certain decisions. Birie Dees explains that super majorities are typically required for long-term agreements and debt to ensure a higher level of voter consent.
HB413: Representative Diane Power, representing Brookline, Mason, and Greenville in Hillsboro County District 36 Support00:58:56.680 - 8:57:52 AM; Representative Diane Power, as the prime sponsor of HB413, supports the bill and explains its purpose to provide flexibility to developers for large projects. The bill extends the exemption period for subdivision plats from five to seven years and changes the appeals process for building and fire codes. It also ensures that approved development plans are subject to the codes and regulations in place at the time of approval, preventing escalating costs due to subsequent changes. She emphasizes the importance of these changes for addressing the housing crisis.
HB413: Representative Diane Power, representing Brookline, Mason, and Greenville in Hillsboro County District 36 Support00:58:56.680 - 8:57:52 AM; Representative Power supports HB413, explaining that it was filed at the request of a former representative who had identified a need for the bill. She highlighted that the bill aligns with the governor's plan to streamline building and development processes in New Hampshire to address the state's housing needs. She mentioned ongoing supply chain issues and a shortage of workers as reasons necessitating the bill, which aims to adjust development timelines. She expressed openness to amendments and further research on the issue.
HB413: Eric Power from Brookline Support01:12:23.800 - 9:11:19 AM; Eric Power, a member of the Brookline Planning Board, supports HB413, emphasizing the need for extended development timelines due to the aggressive nature of current ones. He cited the impact of the recent pandemic on supply chains and workforce availability, which caused delays in housing developments. He explained that the bill would provide developers with the flexibility needed to undertake larger projects without the risk of having to restart the approval process. He also discussed Brookline's move towards phase development to manage growth and school capacity, suggesting that a seven-year completion period would complement this strategy effectively.
HB413: Bro Dees, representing the New Hampshire Municipal Association Oppose01:20:18.400 - 9:19:14 AM; Bro Dees expressed opposition to HB413 as currently written, citing concerns over the proposed changes to building code appeals and the retroactive application of new vesting periods. He noted that the bill could bypass local building code boards of appeal, potentially slowing down the development process by requiring appeals to be heard at the state level. He raised questions about the legality of retroactive changes and their potential impact on ongoing and completed cases. He suggested that while the association is not opposed to extending vesting periods, they strongly recommend against making these changes retroactive.
HB413: Bro Dees, New Hampshire Municipal Association Information Only01:20:18.400 - 9:19:14 AM; Bro Dees concluded his testimony by discussing the costs associated with higher density housing developments in municipalities. He highlighted the impact on infrastructure, including water and sewer systems, the environment due to increased waste disposal, and the preservation of natural land. He also mentioned the increased wear and tear on roads, the potential need for more plows, police, and fire services, and the necessity for more municipal and public safety staff due to population growth. He emphasized that all development requires more tax money and resources, varying greatly by the size of the municipality, using Enfield, Wolfeboro, and Manchester as examples.
HB229: Sly Kosinski, Chesire District 10 Information Only01:29:35.920 - 9:28:31 AM; Sly Kosinski introduced House Bill 229, which aims to repeal the authority for non-charter towns, villages, districts, or counties with unincorporated places to adopt zoning ordinances through alternative procedures.
HB229: Eric Power, Brookline Support01:30:51.119 - 9:29:47 AM; Eric Power, representing himself and serving on the Brookline planning board, expressed support for HB229. He detailed the issues with the current law, which allows towns to vote to let the select board propose and approve zoning amendments by a simple majority after a single public hearing. He listed several concerns: the law strips away the planning board's responsibility to propose zoning amendments, disenfranchises town voters by removing their ability to vote on zoning amendments, concentrates power in the select boards, and creates numerous conflicts and ambiguities in land use statutes. He provided examples of these conflicts and noted that the enabling legislation lacks a provision to rescind it once adopted, advocating for the repeal of this law.
HB229: Eric Power, Brookline Information Only01:30:51.119 - 9:29:47 AM; The summary of Eric Power's testimony is not provided as the transcript snippet starts after his testimony concluded.
HB372: Representative Diane Power, representing Brooklyn, Mason, and Greenville in Hillsboro County District 36 Support01:42:29.159 - 9:41:25 AM; Representative Diane Power, as the prime sponsor, introduced House Bill 372, which is a refiling of 2024 House Bill 1187. She explained that the previous bill passed the House but was vetoed by the governor due to a misunderstanding of the legislation. The current bill aims to address the misuse of the statute RSA 33:7-e, which allows towns and school districts to fund capital improvement projects through high-cost, long-term lease agreements with escape clauses. These leases are being used for projects that involve fixtures, such as building materials, which cannot realistically be returned. Representative Power provided examples of misuse, including cases in Brookline, Thornton, and Timberlane Regional School Districts, where lease agreements were used for projects like energy conservation, classroom renovations, and facility repairs, resulting in higher costs for taxpayers. The bill seeks to close this loophole by preventing the financing of fixtures through lease agreements under RSA 33:7-e, while still allowing for the lease of non-fixture items like vehicles. She clarified that the bill does not prohibit energy improvement projects but requires them to be financed through bonds or leases under different statutes, which would require a 3/5 majority vote and be considered long-term debt. Representative Power urged the committee to recommend an 'ought to pass' on House Bill 372 to end the misuse of the lease agreements of equipment statute.
HB372: Representative Kobby Information Only01:52:05.440 - 9:51:01 AM; Representative Kobby asked Representative Power about the definition of 'fixtures' in the context of the bill, expressing concern about how municipalities and school districts might lease items like software, network upgrades, security cameras, and systems. He questioned at what point these items become fixtures of the building and how the project would be separated under the new legislation. Representative Power responded by explaining that the term 'fixture' is legally well-defined, referring to items that become permanent parts of a building once installed, unlike standalone equipment that can be returned. She used examples to illustrate the difference and emphasized that the statute was being abused for projects far beyond its intended scope. Representative Power confirmed that under the proposed legislation, items like leased security equipment and the necessary installations like wiring would need to be treated separately, highlighting the need to address the misuse of the statute for the benefit of taxpayers.
HB372: Natasha Shaw, National Association of Energy Service Companies (NESCO) Oppose01:55:46.639 - 9:54:42 AM; Natasha Shaw, representing the National Association of Energy Service Companies (NESCO), opposed HB372, arguing that the bill would severely restrict municipalities and schools from using tax-exempt lease agreements for infrastructure and building improvements. She highlighted the successful execution of energy savings performance contracts by their industry, which she claimed are respected and beneficial. Shaw criticized the bill for its potential to prevent local governments from addressing critical infrastructure needs and deferred maintenance, which could lead to costly new constructions. She mentioned similar legislation vetoed by Governor Sununu the previous year and suggested that the state also benefits from such lease agreements, pointing out Karen Ramaki from the Department of Administrative Services as an expert in the audience.
HB372: Eric Power, resident of Brookline, member of the Brookline Planning Board Support02:00:42.679 - 9:59:38 AM; Eric Power, from Brookline and a member of the Brookline Planning Board, supported HB372, arguing that lease agreements with escape clauses, originally meant for vehicles, are being misused for more permanent fixtures like boilers and energy-saving equipment. He provided an example from the Hollis Brookline Co-op School District, where a lease would have cost taxpayers significantly more than a bond. Power emphasized that the bill aims to close a loophole allowing lease agreements to pass with a simple majority rather than requiring a three-fifths majority, which he believes unfairly burdens taxpayers.
HB372: Tom D'Roa, Principal at Main Street Strategic, representing Energy Efficient Investments; Mike Davey, owner of Energy Efficient Investments, Manchester Oppose02:08:26.000 - 10:07:22 AM; Tom D'Roa and Mike Davey, representing Energy Efficient Investments, opposed HB372, arguing that it would limit municipalities' options to finance infrastructure improvements through leases, potentially increasing costs to taxpayers. They emphasized the flexibility of leases over bonds, which can be paid off early, and cited examples from various towns like Lisbon, Jaffrey, Ringe, Woodsville, and Candia. They also mentioned projects in Franklin, Nashua, Manchester, and Portsmouth, where leases were chosen to preserve bonding capacity for other projects, suggesting that HB372 could hinder energy efficiency and infrastructure development.
HB372: Brendan Flarity, DuPont Group, on behalf of Serius Oppose02:15:21.199 - 10:14:17 AM; Brendan Flarity, representing Serius, opposed HB372, stating that it undermines local control and efficiency by imposing a state-level restriction requiring a three-fifths majority for lease agreements. He argued that the bill prevents municipalities from making necessary capital improvements and addressing delayed maintenance, thus hindering infrastructure development and energy efficiency projects.
HB372: Lori Lane, Superintendent of Schools, Pittsfield School District Oppose02:17:42.959 - 10:16:38 AM; Lori Lane, Superintendent of Schools for the Pittsfield School District, testified against HB 372. She argued that the bill would limit school boards and municipalities from using lease agreements to finance equipment that becomes a fixture in buildings, specifically targeting performance lease agreements focused on energy efficiency. Lane emphasized the importance of these agreements as they provide an alternative funding source for capital improvements without raising taxes or issuing long-term bonds, allowing schools to maintain safety and efficiency. She cited her experience in the Somersworth School District, where performance leases were used for HVAC and lighting projects, offset entirely by energy savings, making them cost-neutral. Lane concluded that removing the performance lease option would hinder schools' ability to manage aging infrastructure cost-effectively.
HB372: Jenis Angelus, Johnson Controls Oppose02:26:34.960 - 10:25:30 AM; Jenis Angelus from Johnson Controls spoke in opposition to HB 372. He highlighted the benefits of energy performance contracts, which are designed to offset all project costs through guaranteed energy savings. Angelus emphasized the transparency of these contracts and their advantage over bonds, which could lead to tax increases. He shared an example from a New England school system where energy performance work reduced energy spending by half over ten years, saving over $5 million. Angelus argued that HB 372 would restrict energy service companies' ability to help municipalities manage their budgets effectively, urging the committee to vote against the bill.
HB372: Sam Evans Brown, Executive Director, Clean Energy New Hampshire Oppose02:30:55.319 - 10:29:51 AM; Sam Evans Brown, Executive Director of Clean Energy New Hampshire, opposed HB 372, stating that the organization represents many energy service companies and assists nearly 50 New Hampshire municipalities with clean energy projects. He argued that these lease arrangements save taxpayers money and that passing the bill would increase expenses for residents. Brown mentioned that the bill was vetoed by the governor the previous year and suggested that its passage last year was due to oversight. He recommended the committee find the bill inexpedient to legislate.
HB569 2025-0561h: Committee Chair Information Only04:14:12.040 - 12:13:08 PM; The committee chair opened the executive session on House Bill 569 and introduced amendment 2025-0561h. The amendment was developed in response to feedback received during the hearing and was worked on with the prime sponsor. It includes municipalities in the planning committee and changes the provision from opt-out to opt-in.
HB569 2025-0561h: Committee Chair Information Only04:16:40.920 - 12:15:36 PM; The Committee Chair proposed the amendment 2025-0561h to HB569, which allows municipalities to join the communications District planning committee at a later date if the district is established. The amendment was seconded by Representative Colby.
HB569 2025-0561h: Representative Grund Information Only04:17:47.800 - 12:16:43 PM; Expressed gratitude for the amendment being opt-in for further communication.
HB569 2025-0561h: Representative Walker Information Only04:19:10.439 - 12:18:06 PM; Pointed out a typographical error in the amendment, suggesting 'governing bodies of a county' should be changed to 'governing bodies of two or more municipalities' to align with existing statutes. Clarified the purpose of the bill to enable counties to initiate the study committee.
HB569 2025-0561h: Committee Chair Information Only04:20:25.560 - 12:19:21 PM; Called for a vote on the amendment 2025-0561h to HB569. The amendment was accepted with a unanimous vote of 18 to 0.
HB569 2025-0561h: Representative Colby Support04:21:01.960 - 12:19:57 PM; Moved for the bill to pass as amended, stating that the amendment would allow municipalities and counties to engage in planning discussions to pool resources for broadband and high-speed internet access.
HB569 2025-0561h: Representative Stavis Support04:22:31.080 - 12:21:27 PM; Seconded the motion to pass the bill as amended.
HB569 2025-0561h: Committee Chair Information Only04:23:21.560 - 12:22:17 PM; Called for a vote on the motion to pass HB569 as amended. The motion passed unanimously with a vote of 18 to 0, and the bill was recommended to pass with amendment to be placed on the consent calendar. Representative Colby agreed to author the committee report.
HB643: Representative Stavis Oppose04:24:34.840 - 12:23:30 PM; Moved for the bill to be found inexpedient to legislate (ITL), citing the absence of the bill sponsor and stating that the bill was unconstitutional as it levies a new charge and would cost the state money it does not have.
HB643: Representative Murphy Oppose04:25:46.520 - 12:24:42 PM; Seconded the motion to find the bill inexpedient to legislate.
HB643: Committee Chair Information Only04:26:35.399 - 12:25:31 PM; Called for a vote on the motion to find HB643 FN inexpedient to legislate. The motion passed unanimously with a vote of 18 to 0. The bill was recommended to be placed on the regular calendar due to its fiscal note (FN), and Representative Stavis agreed to write the committee report.
HB125: Representative Frock Oppose04:28:05.800 - 12:27:01 PM; Moved for the bill to be found inexpedient to legislate, arguing that the method of electing Strafford County Commissioners at large is not consistent with the rest of the state's county commissioner elections.
HB125: Representative Walker Oppose04:28:05.800 - 12:27:01 PM; Seconded the motion to find the bill inexpedient to legislate.
HB125: Committee Information Only04:29:25.439 - 12:28:21 PM; The committee proceeded to vote on House Bill 125. The motion to find the bill inexpedient to legislate was put forward and passed unanimously with a vote of 18 to 0. The recommendation of inexpedient to legislate for HB125 will proceed to the consent calendar without objection. Representative Frock agreed to write the committee report.
HB544: Representative Gilman Information Only04:32:23.479 - 12:31:19 PM; Representative Gilman spoke in support of the motion to find HB544 inexpedient to legislate. Concerns were raised about the lack of clarity on how short-term rentals would be tracked and whether they would fall under the bill's provisions. There were also uncertainties about the impact of overnight stays on property taxes within towns and how the proposed $2 assessment would be divided among water and sewer enterprise funds.
HB544: Committee Information Only04:33:12.599 - 12:32:08 PM; Following Representative Gilman's comments, the committee voted on House Bill 544. The motion to find the bill inexpedient to legislate was put forward and the voting process began.
HB544: Committee Information Only04:34:05.160 - 12:33:01 PM; The committee concluded the executive session on HB544 with a vote of 18 to 0, recommending that the bill be found inexpedient to legislate. The recommendation will be placed on the House consent calendar, and Representative Gilman will write the committee report.
HB247 2025-0652: Chair Information Only04:35:20.561 - 12:34:16 PM; The chair opened the executive session on HB247 and introduced Amendment 2025-0652, which was seconded by Representative Majority. The amendment addresses feedback received during the public hearing, specifically inserting provisions for operations eligible for a license but not yet issued.
HB247 2025-0652: Committee Information Only04:37:21.599 - 12:36:17 PM; The committee voted on and accepted Amendment 2025-0652 to HB247 with a unanimous vote.
HB247 2025-0652: Representative Stavis Support04:39:23.278 - 12:38:19 PM; Representative Stavis supported the motion to pass HB247 as amended. He mentioned that a similar bill was unsuccessful in the last session and highlighted the relevance to communities like Lebanon, suggesting that the bill could have prevented a casino from being established. He emphasized the importance of giving residents the option through a referendum on historic horse racing establishments in their communities, comparing it to the opt-in provision for Keno.
HB247 2025-0652: Committee Information Only04:40:29.560 - 12:39:25 PM; Following Representative Stavis's support, the committee voted on the motion to pass HB247 as amended. The vote was unanimous in favor of the motion.
HB247 2025-0652: Committee Information Only04:41:18.878 - 12:40:14 PM; The committee conducted a vote on House Bill 247 with the amendment 2025-0652. The vote resulted in a unanimous decision of 18 to 0 in favor of the bill. The committee recommended that House Bill 247 ought to pass with the amendment, and this recommendation will be forwarded to the House calendar. Representative Davis was assigned to write the committee report.
HB123 2025-0654h: Chair Information Only04:42:54.360 - 12:41:50 PM; The chair opened the executive session on House Bill 123, which aims to enable municipalities to tax standing wood and timber on land used for carbon sequestration. The chair introduced Amendment 2025-0654h to the bill, which was seconded by Representative Kosinski. The amendment focuses on refining definitions and integrating provisions for carbon sequestration under section 79:3, along with setting additional parameters for the carbon sequestration of timber.
HB123 2025-0654h: Representative Majozi Support04:45:13.400 - 12:44:09 PM; Representative Majozi expressed support for Amendment 2025-0654h, emphasizing the importance of the issue of carbon sequestration and the need for local communities to capture the revenues from these activities. They mentioned the steep learning curve associated with the topic and suggested that the bill should also be reviewed by the Ways and Means Committee. Majozi argued that the revenues from carbon credits, which are currently being sold to other states like California, should be retained within New Hampshire to benefit the local communities that are managing the land.
HB123 2025-0654h: Unnamed Speaker Information Only04:46:16.440 - 12:45:12 PM; An unnamed speaker provided further comments on House Bill 123, clarifying that the proposed legislation involves the existing timber tax, which is assessed when timber is cut for sale. They argued that under the carbon sequestration program, timber is sold without being cut, thus it is not a new tax but a new method of selling timber. The speaker believes it is appropriate to extend the yield tax to trees sequestered for carbon credits, emphasizing the importance and novelty of the issue which has been under consideration for many years.
HB123 2025-0654h: Unnamed Speaker Information Only04:48:39.840 - 12:47:35 PM; The speaker discussed the establishment of a carbon registry and how it relates to the legislation at hand. They mentioned that during the hearings, it was heard that municipalities are losing revenue due to timber being locked up in carbon credit contracts, which affects the timber industry. They stressed the importance of addressing this issue promptly.
HB123 2025-0654h: Unnamed Speaker Support04:49:33.160 - 12:48:29 PM; The speaker highlighted the significance of the timber industry in New Hampshire, given that a large percentage of the state is forested. They expressed confidence in the language of the amendment and the bill after working closely with the prime sponsor and other representatives. They acknowledged that new legislation might require adjustments in subsequent years but remained supportive of the amendment.
HB123 2025-0654h: Representative Grund Support04:50:18.600 - 12:49:14 PM; Representative Grund expressed appreciation for the previous speaker's comments and shared their own struggle with the decision. They discussed the impact on the timber industry and how carbon sequestration triggers a taxable event under the yield tax. They ultimately supported the amendment and the bill.
HB123 2025-0654h: Representative Davis Support04:51:33.200 - 12:50:29 PM; Representative Davis thanked the speaker for presenting the bill to the committee, noting that it has broadened their perspectives and challenged them intellectually. They expressed appreciation for the opportunity to consider such legislation.
HB123 2025-0654h: Madam Chair Information Only04:52:32.280 - 12:51:28 PM; The Madam Chair facilitated the vote on the amendment, which passed unanimously with 18 votes in favor and none opposed. Following this, a motion was made and seconded to pass House Bill 123 with the amendment. The vote on this motion was also unanimous in favor.
HB123 2025-0654h: Madam Chair Information Only04:54:45.718 - 12:53:41 PM; Madam Chair announced the results of the vote on the motion for HB123, stating that the motion passed with a vote of 18 to zero. The committee recommended that House Bill 123 ought to pass with the amendment. Without objection, the committee recommendation will be added to the House consent calendar, and Representative Power will author the committee report. Following this, Madam Chair closed the executive session on House Bill 123.
HB554 2025-0570h: Representative Gerard Support04:57:01.920 - 12:55:57 PM; Representative Gerard introduced amendment number 2025-0570h to House Bill 554, which was seconded by Representative Murphy. The amendment aims to address concerns raised during the public hearing about the placement of political signs and electioneering. It proposes that municipalities should have the autonomy to decide through local ordinances whether to allow or disallow political signs on municipal property. The amendment also includes provisions to ensure compliance with electioneering rules.
HB554 2025-0570h: Representative Elward Oppose04:58:04.878 - 12:57:00 PM; Representative Elward expressed concerns about the amendment, specifically questioning the use of the term 'local sign ordinances.' Elward pointed out that typically, signs are regulated under zoning ordinances, which only apply to private real property and not municipal property. Therefore, Elward believed the amendment's language was incorrect and could not support it.
HB554 2025-0570h: Representative Walker Support04:59:12.080 - 12:58:08 PM; Representative Walker supported the amendment, explaining that in Rochester, signs are regulated through zoning ordinances and site plan reviews. Rochester currently does not allow signs on municipal property, but the amendment would change this. Walker believed the amendment aligns with state law and would allow municipalities to set their own rules regarding political signs.
HB554 2025-0570h: Representative Gilman Support04:59:12.080 - 12:58:08 PM; Representative Gilman supported the amendment, suggesting that the ordinance mentioned could be set by the governing body of a municipality. Gilman used the example of Exeter, which has ordinances for winter parking and dog regulations in parks, indicating that such ordinances could also cover where signs are allowed on municipal property.
HB554 2025-0570h: Representative Frock Support05:00:36.280 - 12:59:32 PM; Representative Frock supported the amendment, agreeing with Representative Elward's point about municipal governments being exempt from local zoning unless used for commercial purposes. Frock believed the amendment would codify the existing practice of municipalities determining where political signs can be placed, citing the example of their own town's ordinance.
HB554 2025-0570h: Representative Grund Support05:02:02.480 - 1:00:58 PM; Representative Grund supported the amendment, explaining that in their town, zoning ordinances include regulations on where signs can be placed on town property. Grund believed that the amendment would simply specify where political signs can and cannot be placed, without infringing on First Amendment rights.
HB554 2025-0570h: Chair Information Only05:05:09.920 - 1:04:05 PM; The chair announced the results of the vote on Amendment 2025-0570h to House Bill 554, which was accepted with a vote of 16-2. The chair then moved to a motion for ought to pass as amended (OTPA) for HB554, which was seconded by Representative Murphy. The chair called for a vote on the OTPA motion, which passed unanimously with a vote of 18-0. The committee recommendation for HB554 is to pass with the amendment, and the recommendation will be placed on the house consent calendar. Representative Gerard was assigned to write the committee report.
HB554 2025-0570h: Representative Gerard Support05:05:09.920 - 1:04:05 PM; Representative Gerard supported the motion for OTPA for House Bill 554, stating that the bill would help municipalities comply with the First Amendment. They mentioned that their community was cited by the AG's office for placing municipal signs on municipal property, and this bill aims to clarify existing practices.
HB554 2025-0570h: Representative Murphy Support05:05:09.920 - 1:04:05 PM; Representative Murphy seconded the motion for OTPA for House Bill 554, indicating support for the bill.
HB512: Chair Information Only05:08:20.120 - 1:07:16 PM; The chair opened the executive session on House Bill 512 FN and called for a motion. Representative Murphy moved for the bill to be found inexpedient to legislate (ITL), which was seconded by Representative Stavis.
HB512: Representative Murphy Oppose05:08:20.120 - 1:07:16 PM; Representative Murphy supported the motion to find HB512 FN inexpedient to legislate, citing the absence of the prime sponsor as a significant concern. They also mentioned that the bill would limit school districts and towns from sharing personnel such as superintendents and town clerks, which they viewed as a negative impact.
HB512: Representative Stavis Support05:08:20.120 - 1:07:16 PM; Representative Stavis seconded the motion to find HB512 FN inexpedient to legislate, indicating support for the motion.
HB512: Committee Information Only05:09:38.200 - 1:08:34 PM; The committee conducted a roll call vote on the motion to find House Bill 512 FN inexpedient to legislate. The vote was unanimous with 18 votes in favor and none opposed. The committee's recommendation of inexpedient to legislate will go onto the regular calendar due to the bill having a fiscal note. Representative Murphy was assigned to write the report.
HB562: Representative Kazinski Oppose05:11:39.320 - 1:10:35 PM; Representative Kazinski moved to find House Bill 562 inexpedient to legislate, arguing that the bill would restrict the appointing board's ability to fill vacancies effectively. He expressed concern that the bill might force the board to consider less suitable candidates based on past election results rather than current needs.
HB562: Representative Grundt Oppose05:12:54.680 - 1:11:50 PM; Representative Grundt supported the motion to find the bill inexpedient to legislate, emphasizing that the will of the voter should be considered at the time of the vote, not years later. He also pointed out that the bill fails to address issues in cooperative school districts, using an example from his town where a vacancy on a school board could not be filled under the proposed rules.
HB562: Representative Majori Oppose05:13:31.638 - 1:12:27 PM; Representative Majori raised concerns about the mechanics of the bill, particularly what happens in the event of a tie in past elections, which the bill does not address. He agreed that the bill has too many technical issues to be ready for implementation and supported the motion for inexpedient to legislate.
HB562: Committee Information Only05:14:41.160 - 1:13:37 PM; The committee conducted a roll call vote on the motion to find House Bill 562 inexpedient to legislate. The vote was unanimous with 18 votes in favor and none opposed. The recommendation will go onto the house consent calendar, and Representative Kazinski was assigned to write the committee report.
HB490: Representative Ger Oppose05:16:09.680 - 1:15:05 PM; Representative Ger moved to find House Bill 490 inexpedient to legislate, stating that while the issue of homelessness is important, the bill goes too far by proposing no liability for municipalities. He highlighted concerns about the implications of such a policy on intentional actions.
HB490: Representative Walker Oppose05:17:11.558 - 1:16:07 PM; Representative Walker seconded the motion to find the bill inexpedient to legislate and expressed concerns about the bill's impact on public safety and health, suggesting that the legislation might go a step too far in removing liability.
HB490: Representative Stavis Oppose05:18:14.320 - 1:17:10 PM; Representative Stavis expressed concerns about the bill, questioning the fairness of preventing certain classes of people from suing municipalities if harmed, suggesting that the bill could be discriminatory. No further comments or discussion followed, leading directly to a vote on the motion to find the bill inexpedient to legislate.
HB668: Representative McDonald Information Only05:21:18.760 - 1:20:14 PM; Representative McDonald discussed the previous vote on HP 247 L, which outlines the approval process for horse racing. He suggested that once a company invests significantly in a facility, there should be clear guidelines on how to rescind their license, indicating a need for further consideration on the matter.
Unclear: Chair Information Only05:23:15.280 - 1:22:11 PM; The Chair announced the closure of the day's publicly noticed business, scheduled a House session for Thursday, March 6th, and reserved Monday, March 10th for executive sessions. The Chair also reminded members about the deadlines for committee reports and the protocol for requesting amendments from OLS to avoid duplication of efforts.

Pauer, Diane(Chairman)(R)[A]2024	Bjelobrk, Marie Louise(Clerk)(R)	MacDonald, John(V Chairman)(R)[B+]2024
Germana, Dylan(D)	Fracht, David(D)[F]2024	Guthrie, Joseph(R)[B-]2024
Gilman, Julie(D)[CT]2024	Grund, Stephanie(D)	Stavis, Laurel(D)[CT]2024
Karasinski, Sly(R)	Maggiore, Jim(D)[CT]2024	Dolan, Tom(R)[B+]2024
Aylward, Deborah(R)[A-]2024	Walker, David(R)	Colby, Eleana (D)
Girard, Dale(D)	Franz, Linda(R)	Murphy, Denis(R)