By Dale Girard
This week, I want to introduce my column, where I’ll provide updates on what’s happening in Concord throughout the legislative session. Starting next week, I’ll be sharing these updates on a biweekly basis.
I am honored to serve on the Municipal and County Government Committee, which handles legislation directly impacting local municipalities. This session, our committee has been assigned 59 bills by Speaker Sherman, covering a range of issues, including county commissioner seats, municipal fees, tax exemptions, noise concerns, warrant articles, welfare assistance and voter turnout requirements.
Every bill receives a public hearing where citizens can voice their support or opposition — an essential part of the legislative process. While some questioned the necessity of hearings for recurring bills, the majority agreed that public input remains vital. After hearings, our committee holds executive sessions to discuss amendments and vote on recommendations before bills advance to the full House.
As of Feb. 6, committees had sent enough bills to the full House, we will now meet weekly to vote as a body to keep legislation moving. Several bills from municipal and county are heading to the House floor, including:
HB 92: This bill addresses potential conflicts of interest for individuals serving on both zoning and planning boards. While recognizing the need for volunteers, the committee amended the bill to require recusal from the second board if the matter had already been heard by the first. This approach, rather than outright prohibiting dual service, helps mitigate bias concerns and reduces the risk of appeals. The bill was unanimously voted Ought to Pass.
HB 407: A proposal aimed to invalidate warrant articles if fewer than 15% of registered voters participated. While voter turnout is crucial, forcing participation isn’t the solution. This bill was unanimously recommended Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL).
HB 447: This bill was introduced as a property tax exemption for disabled veterans, initially presented as a measure to address veterans who may have been missed under HB 1154 from the previous legislative session. This bill’s sponsor argued that RSA 72:36-a should be expanded to include tax exemptions for any ADA-compliant home modifications. However, it was noted that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) primarily applies to commercial properties, not private residences. Concerns were raised that existing laws already provide substantial support for disabled veterans and that this bill would extend 100% property tax exemptions to individuals who may not otherwise qualify. Additionally, HB 1154 had previously been vetted and approved by the Deputy Adjutant General of the NH National Guard and the Director of the NH Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services. Ultimately, the committee unanimously recommended the bill as Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL), effectively rejecting its passage.
HB 173: This bill sought to prevent changes to warrant articles during deliberative sessions, requiring both the original and amended versions to appear on the ballot, with the version receiving the most votes passing. However, concerns arose over its similarity to ranked-choice voting and its impact on budgets if both versions failed. The committee voted to ITL 16-2, though the chairperson stated this will be debated on the House floor.
I look forward to keeping you informed on legislative developments. If there are specific bills, you’d like me to address, please reach out.
