Committee Summary for House Committee on Housing (01/20/2026)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB1196 00:12:10.959 - 8:07:47 AM	Public Hearing	repealing the state housing champion designation and grant program.	Drew, Matt(R)[A+]2025
HB1405 00:36:36.240 - 8:32:13 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the housing finance authority's affordable housing guarantee program.	Muns, Chris(D)[CT]2025
HB1499 01:09:39.198 - 9:05:16 AM	Public Hearing	relative to additional grounds for eviction under the landlord and tenant statute.	Alexander, Joe(R)[A+]2025
HB1523 removes section 5 02:23:57.200 - 10:19:34 AM	Public Hearing	relative to disclosure requirements for condominium associations.	Alexander, Joe(R)[A+]2025
HB1598 02:44:13.359 - 10:39:50 AM	Public Hearing	relative to notice for tenants and landlords engaged in eviction processes.	Dumont, Dillon(R)[A]2025
HB1612 03:29:12.399 - 11:24:49 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the use of price-fixing websites, algorithms, or other software by landlords.	Read, Ellen(D)[D]2025
HB1625 04:22:59.840 - 12:18:36 PM	Public Hearing	relative to annual reporting on accessory dwelling unit construction and use.	Boyd, Bill(R)[C]2025
HB1625 04:50:15.200 - 12:45:52 PM	Public Hearing	relative to annual reporting on accessory dwelling unit construction and use.	Boyd, Bill(R)[C]2025
HB1625 -	Executive Session	relative to annual reporting on accessory dwelling unit construction and use.	Boyd, Bill(R)[C]2025
HB1662 05:07:22.798 - 1:02:59 PM	Public Hearing	relative to providing loan guarantees for accessory dwelling unit financing.	Muns, Chris(D)[CT]2025
HB1662 05:30:42.400 - 1:26:19 PM	Executive Session	relative to providing loan guarantees for accessory dwelling unit financing.	Muns, Chris(D)[CT]2025
HB11732 05:37:36.000 - 1:33:13 PM	Public Hearing	relative to accessibility requirements for new multi-unit housing developments	Likely Text to Speech Error on Bill #
HB1814 06:12:24.638 - 2:08:01 PM	Public Hearing	establishing a 10-year strategic housing and infrastructure plan.	Muns, Chris(D)[CT]2025
HB1196 06:50:07.840 - 2:45:44 PM	Executive Session	repealing the state housing champion designation and grant program.	Drew, Matt(R)[A+]2025
HB1405 06:58:42.080 - 2:54:19 PM	Executive Session	relative to the housing finance authority's affordable housing guarantee program.	Muns, Chris(D)[CT]2025
HB1612 07:11:06.320 - 3:06:43 PM	Executive Session	relative to the use of price-fixing websites, algorithms, or other software by landlords.	Read, Ellen(D)[D]2025
HB1625 07:17:29.920 - 3:13:06 PM	Executive Session	relative to annual reporting on accessory dwelling unit construction and use.	Boyd, Bill(R)[C]2025
HB1661 07:23:58.320 - 3:19:35 PM	Executive Session	relative to expanding the housing finance authority's community heroes program and makes an appropriation therefor.	Muns, Chris(D)[CT]2025

HB1196: Representative Matt Drew (Hillsboro 19, Manchester Ward 10) Oppose00:12:10.959 - 8:07:47 AM; Representative Drew sponsors HB1196 to repeal the Housing Champion Program, arguing it is a flawed subsidy that distorts markets, fosters dependence, and favors politically connected interests. He clarifies it's not a direct subsidy but a state-funded incentive for cities and towns to subsidize favored projects, paid after completion. He criticizes media inaccuracies and the program's lack of clarity, noting it funded non-housing like Manchester's Marramac facility expansion using opioid funds. He points out violations of reporting requirements under RSA 12-071 and potential recovery of $3 million in obligated funds. He urges ending the program as it wasn't funded last year due to cost concerns. During Q&A, he defends his view that grants favor politically connected projects, disagrees with the incentive interpretation, and acknowledges grant processes but sees them as inherently favoring select applicants.
HB1196: Representative David Priest (Manchester) Oppose00:22:54.480 - 8:18:31 AM; Representative Priest opposes HB1196, describing the Housing Champion Program as a targeted tool to recognize municipalities and nonprofits addressing the affordable housing shortage. It provides modest grants and designation to attract resources and investment. Repealing it would hinder local solutions amid rising rents and limited inventory, sending a negative signal on housing innovation. He notes fiscal note uncertainties on existing funds, urging focus on strengthening housing collaboration. In Q&A, he agrees smaller towns like Newport benefit and compete with larger ones, receives bonus points under 10,000 population, and highlights how the designation spotlights smaller communities like Keene to developers.
HB1196: Nick Taylor (Director, Housing Action New Hampshire) Oppose00:27:21.120 - 8:22:58 AM; Nick Taylor opposes HB1196, viewing repeal as a step backward in addressing housing needs. The program, originating from Governor Sununu's bipartisan task force in 2019 and implemented in 2023, incentivizes pro-housing actions. Over 20 communities have been designated, leading to regulatory changes like pattern zoning in Lebanon, form-based code in Newmarket, easier duplexes in Boscawen, and cottage courts in Keene. He suggests monitoring building permits to assess effectiveness and supports continuing the framework, separating infrastructure grants as a budget issue. In Q&A, he affirms the rubric's best practices audit helps communities identify barriers to housing development regardless of grants.
HB1196: Karen Benfield, Executive Director, Staywork Play New Hampshire Oppose00:31:35.919 - 8:27:12 AM; Karen Benfield testified in opposition to HB1196, emphasizing the critical role of housing affordability for young people aged 18-40 based on their 2025 Quality of Life Survey. She noted that 85% of respondents view housing affordability as worse in New Hampshire compared to other places, a significant increase from 2023. Young people desire both multifamily housing in urban areas and pathways to rural living, with one-third idealizing rural New Hampshire. Additionally, 80% aspire to own single-family homes. Benfield highlighted that the Housing Champion Program supports homeownership goals and equips small and rural municipalities with tools to participate in statewide housing solutions, preventing urban centers from bearing the full burden. Repealing the program would reduce participation at a time when more is needed to retain young talent and achieve milestones like homeownership.
HB1405: Representative Chris Muns, District 29, Rockingham County (Hampton) Support00:36:36.240 - 8:32:13 AM; Representative Chris Muns, the bill sponsor, introduced HB1405 as part of a series of housing bills to address New Hampshire's severe affordable housing shortage, citing a UNH poll where 29% of respondents identified housing as the top state issue and a 2023 needs assessment calling for 60,000 additional units by 2030. He expressed disappointment in prior legislative inaction and outlined the bill's focus on low-cost financing via state-backed loan guarantees up to 80% of principal (max $30M per lender/year, aggregate $300M) to reduce lender risk and interest rates for affordable housing projects. Muns noted the bill's similarity to last year's supported but failed SB86, emphasizing it as a low-cost public-private partnership backed by the state's full faith and credit, with no taxpayer funds expended unless default occurs. He urged passage to stimulate private investment and progress on housing needs. During Q&A, he clarified that such low-risk loans aren't currently offered without guarantees, defended the strategic use of state credit to lower developer costs, acknowledged existing federal programs, and deferred a question on mortgage sales to the Housing Finance Authority executive.
HB1405: Representative Bullio Information Only00:44:05.760 - 8:39:42 AM; Representative Bullio questioned Representative Muns on whether the proposed loan products are currently offered by banks or only with the subsidy, and if not, why taxpayers should bear the risk of higher-risk investments that private entities avoid. Muns responded that the guarantees reduce risk to enable lower rates, and no taxpayer money is spent absent default, positioning it as a strategic priority for economic future.
HB1405: Representative Reid Information Only00:46:36.960 - 8:42:13 AM; Representative Reid asked if Muns was aware of successful federal and state housing programs like the USDA Rural Development program that use similar mechanisms. Muns admitted unfamiliarity but affirmed the government's role in using credit for public interest goals.
HB1405: Representative Erin Information Only00:47:50.480 - 8:43:27 AM; Representative Erin sought clarification on whether 'lender default' meant borrower default and if lenders could sell guaranteed mortgages to third parties. Muns confirmed it was borrower default and deferred the sales question to the Housing Finance Authority executive.
HB1405: Unnamed Speaker (likely Tim Priest) Support00:49:13.599 - 8:44:50 AM; The speaker rose in strong support of HB1405, describing it as a common-sense measure to address the affordable housing shortage by authorizing state-backed loan guarantees to lenders for low- and moderate-income housing projects. They argued it breaks the cycle of families being priced out, where homes should cost no more than 30% of income, by reducing lender risk to enable better terms and encourage investment. Emphasizing it's not a handout but a strategic tool leveraging private capital without broad new spending, with modest administrative costs covered partly by fees, the bill empowers communities, boosts economic opportunity, and strengthens the tax base.
HB1405: Rob Dapis, Executive Director of New Hampshire Housing Support00:51:31.359 - 8:47:08 AM; Rob Dapis testified in support of HB1405, explaining New Hampshire Housing's role in financing home ownership, multifamily affordable rental housing, and administering the Section 8 program. He noted the bill would enable a collaborative rulemaking process with lenders to administer the loan guarantee program efficiently. He addressed concerns about moral hazard by ensuring guarantees are used only when normal debt couldn't achieve the benefit, drawing parallels to the successful federal 542C program with no defaults but more flexibility for smaller projects like multifamily conversions and manufactured housing parks. He managed expectations on rate benefits, emphasizing it would allow banks to allocate more balance sheet to community lending. All financed properties maintain affordability for at least 20 years, and he suggested removing the fiscal note as unnecessary.
HB1405: Ryan Hail, Vice President of Government Relations, New Hampshire Bankers Association Support00:57:44.880 - 8:53:21 AM; Ryan Hail supported HB1405, representing 40 member banks that employ 4,500 people and pay $127 million in taxes. He explained the housing crisis impacts customers and bank recruitment. The bill de-risks loans to developers via credit enhancement, expanding credit access while maintaining conservative underwriting. It guarantees up to 80% of loans, similar to New Hampshire Housing's track record. During Q&A, he clarified that underwriting remains conservative due to regulations, and interest rates depend on internal bank practices, not necessarily higher due to the guarantee. He noted it's not a silver bullet but adds a tool for lenders.
HB1405: Abby Bronson, Director of Policy and Advocacy, New Hampshire Community Loan Fund, Manchester Support01:04:41.440 - 9:00:18 AM; Abby Bronson supported HB1405, highlighting the Loan Fund's role in providing loans to those unable to access traditional financing, especially manufactured homeowners. She focused on the resident-owned community model pioneered in New Hampshire, now national, with 152 communities securing ownership for 9,000 households. Rising costs due to private equity buyers have increased prices exponentially, e.g., from $9 million for 145 homes in 2024 to $18 million for 144 homes previously, leading to higher lot rents. The loan guarantee would enable meeting this demand by providing security to investors, ensuring returns despite no failures in communities. She urged support, analogizing it to lending to family with a guarantee.
HB1499: Representative Joe Alexander, Goffstown Support01:09:39.198 - 9:05:16 AM; Representative Joe Alexander, prime sponsor, supported HB1499 to prioritize state citizens in housing amid shortages. The bill adds eviction grounds for: 1) unlawful presence in the US, 2) convictions within 3 years or during tenancy for crimes like murder, felonious assault, sexual assault, rape, kidnapping, stalking, controlled substance possession, robbery, domestic violence, criminal threatening, burglary, or violent crimes, and 3) sex offender status. It provides housing providers tools to remove undesirable residents fostering safer communities. During extensive Q&A, he clarified it applies to convictions within 3 years, not old non-violent ones; targets the individual, not necessarily the whole family; complements existing laws without mandating evictions; distinguishes controlled substances from prescriptions; and aids in situations not crossing health/safety lines but attracting issues like dealers.
HB1499: Representative Tim Priest Oppose01:30:28.080 - 9:26:05 AM; Representative Tim Priest opposed HB1499, arguing it expands eviction grounds based on immigration status, certain past criminal convictions, or registered sex offender status, regardless of direct impact on tenant behavior. He acknowledged public safety and law compliance goals but emphasized housing stability's importance.
HB1499: Unknown Speaker Oppose01:31:18.080 - 9:26:55 AM; The speaker argues that using immigration status as a basis for eviction harms law-abiding individuals and families contributing to communities, potentially forcing them into homelessness without addressing lease violations. Extending eviction to past criminal convictions ignores rehabilitation and individual circumstances, leading to unjust evictions that deepen housing insecurity rather than improving safety or landlord-tenant relations. Urges focus on fair, equitable tenancy practices and votes no on HB1499.
HB1499: Claudia Stell, Aworth, Economic Justice Mission Group of the United Church of Christ in New Hampshire Oppose01:33:59.840 - 9:29:36 AM; Housing is a right essential for shelter, personal needs, work, school, and community productivity. Opposes the bill due to rapid changes in immigration status that could lead to eviction of productive, tax-paying community members without wrongdoing. Also concerned about family units being evicted due to one member's criminal conviction, affecting innocents like elders and children, bordering on abuse. The bill is redundant to existing landlord protections; recommends inexpedient to legislate.
HB1499: Elliot Barry, Retired Tenant Representative Oppose01:38:19.840 - 9:33:56 AM; With 47 years representing tenants in eviction cases, compliments the chairman's affordable housing efforts but emphasizes respecting tenant rights. The bill appears simple but is complex; proving unlawful presence is burdensome and vague, even for immigration experts. Questions ability to evict only the offending person under current writ of possession. Existing laws (RSA 540:2D for health/safety impacts, other good cause, end-of-lease eviction) already cover issues. For convictions, focus on whether landlord knowingly rented to the person or if crime occurred during tenancy; lying about criminal status could be grounds. Suggests specific authorization for partial evictions if not killing the bill.
HB1499: Nick Norman, Housing Providers Advocate Support01:42:50.159 - 9:38:27 AM; Represents 3,500 housing providers statewide. Acknowledges bill's simplicity but notes changes post-leasing, like inviting sexual offenders or violent persons, causing neighbor concerns and potential tenant exodus. Current law requires court proof for issues like drug dealing, but tenants often won't testify due to retaliation fears, protecting bad actors. The bill provides clearer tools for removal without full proof burdens. Landlords avoid evictions as costly and disruptive. Determining unlawful presence is difficult; would rely on law enforcement. Primarily useful for problematic tenants as an easier, quicker eviction method that might not tarnish records as badly for future housing. Leases can include stipulations, but proving non-payment issues is easier; privacy respected unless problems arise from reports.
HB1499: Steve Tower, New Hampshire Legal Assistance Oppose01:59:28.159 - 9:55:05 AM; Managing attorney with 10 years in housing evictions. Bill fundamentally changes eviction process by allowing evictions based on pre-lease status (e.g., past convictions, immigration), unlike current action-based grounds. Existing laws cover dangers via health/safety threats or good cause; hearsay exceptions allow complaint evidence without live testimony, and excessive traffic often suffices for drug activity evictions. Landlords screen applications and can evict for lies. Bill enables bad landlords to evict over minor frictions using past status. 'Unlawfully present' undefined in federal law; district courts lack resources for immigration determinations, risking federal preemption. Suggests 540B or recent domestic violence bifurcation for partial removals. Ethically, completed sentences restore rights; ongoing punishment via eviction is unjust.
HB1499: David Holt, Somersworth, NH Oppose02:07:21.760 - 10:02:58 AM; David Holt opposes HB1499, stating it is unnecessary and harmful as it adds broad status-based eviction grounds unrelated to rental performance, creates legal uncertainty with undefined immigration terms, undermines housing stability, threatens families, and exacerbates the housing crisis. He adds that immigration status can change suddenly, as in cases of temporary protective status being revoked, turning documented individuals undocumented overnight. He notes being undocumented is a civil offense, not criminal, and compares it to minor infractions like speeding tickets, suggesting the bill could enable racist evictions. He criticizes terms like 'poisoning the community' as reminiscent of Nazi propaganda.
HB1499: Nick Taylor, Director, Housing Action New Hampshire Oppose02:10:32.560 - 10:06:09 AM; Nick Taylor opposes the bill, emphasizing the importance of stability and predictability for residents and housing builders. He argues landlords can screen applicants during the application process, including questions about history and immigration status, and enter contracts knowingly. If uncomfortable, they need not rent. Post-contract, evictions should be based on future behavior under existing health and safety statutes or good cause for dishonesty. He raises concerns about household impacts, where one member's issues affect the entire family. He notes working with landlords in challenging environments who use existing laws for evictions based on actions, not retroactive reasons.
HB1499: Jennifer Chisum, Executive Director, New Hampshire Coalition to End Homelessness Oppose02:15:51.119 - 10:11:28 AM; Jennifer Chisum expresses concern over the bill's potential to worsen New Hampshire's homelessness crisis, noting 6,281 residents experienced homelessness in 2024, comparable to the population of Hopkinton or Auburn, with nearly half being youth or seniors over 55. As a licensed social worker, she shares a non-hypothetical example of 'Bob,' a 20-year-old with foster care trauma, adopted by a retired teacher couple, who self-medicates with substances and has cognitive issues. Despite family support including counseling, the bill could evict the entire household—including two retirees, an adult child, and a toddler—due to Bob's status or actions, highlighting severe complications for innocent household members.
HB1499: Reverend Lorie Savic, Wesley United Methodist Church, Concord, NH Oppose02:19:26.718 - 10:15:03 AM; Reverend Lorie Savic shares a real example of a colleague pastor who underwent rigorous checks but had to leave the country due to a paperwork error from two years prior, notified amid visa backlog delays. She argues that in a country where hard work should allow opportunity regardless of birthright, arbitrary changes or slow processes compound family trauma by risking housing eviction. Responding to a question on explaining to constituents why those not legally present have housing rights amid shortages, she says it oversimplifies; immigration is complex for all, and speedy housing insecurity doesn't help when legal processes lag. She notes awareness of asylum seekers' one-year application window and their legal housing needs, and that undocumented individuals can legally buy homes.
HB1523 removes section 5: Representative Joe Alexander, Goffstown Support02:23:57.200 - 10:19:34 AM; Representative Joe Alexander, the prime sponsor, presents HB1523 to align disclosure requirements for condos and HOAs, noting he became aware of the discrepancy when condo disclosures differ from HOAs despite similar collective ownership structures. Inspired by Mark Prebble's experience in an HOA lacking vital document disclosure on spending, voting, and leadership, the bill streamlines and clarifies the law for consistency. He proposes an amendment removing section 5 to eliminate the fiscal note by dropping Department of Justice enforcement, allowing aggrieved parties to sue privately and build case law, potentially expediting passage without finance committee review.
HB1523 removes section 5: Representative David Priest Oppose02:25:58.960 - 10:21:35 AM; Representative David Priest opposes HB1523, arguing it contradicts the committee's goals of increasing housing stock, reducing barriers, and giving municipalities flexibility. The bill imposes new disclosure and administrative requirements without funding or staff, leading to longer review times, higher costs, and delays that drive up housing prices and discourage development. Small towns with volunteer or overworked staff lack resources, and the one-size-fits-all approach undercuts local decision-making. He urges finding the bill inexpedient to legislate (ITL).
HB1523 removes section 5: Gary Dario, Community Associations Institute Information Only02:29:18.240 - 10:24:55 AM; Gary Dario, a partner at Marcus, Errico, Emmer & Brooks and member of the New Hampshire legislative action committee for the Community Associations Institute, provides information on HB1523. He notes a potential typo in the analysis referring to condominiums instead of homeowners associations. He suggests creating a comprehensive Homeowners Associations Act to fill the legal gap, similar to existing acts for condominiums and time shares, mentioning a past draft. He recommends aligning HOA provisions with condominium provisions for consistency, such as extending record access timelines from 5 days to 15 days to account for real-life delays like vacations, to avoid unintended violations while ensuring access to records and minutes.
HB1523 removes section 5: Mark Brabble, Moultonborough, HOA homeowner Support02:34:06.160 - 10:29:43 AM; Mark Brabble from Moultonborough, who owns a home in an HOA, supports HB1523 for bringing transparency to standalone homeowners associations. He highlights the lack of specific requirements for HOAs under Chapter 292, unlike comprehensive condo laws, allowing boards to withhold basic information like spending details or make decisions in secret. The bill mirrors condo law provisions without new burdens, as records like budgets are already maintained, ensuring consistency across boards and protecting privacy. He shares an example of a failed court case for a voter list, which would succeed under condo law, emphasizing homeowners' investments and right to basic information.
HB1523 removes section 5: Chris Norwood, New Hampshire Association of Realtors Support02:39:08.800 - 10:34:45 AM; Chris Norwood represents the New Hampshire Association of Realtors, with an official position to monitor but favors transparency in HB1523. He compares it to strong condo disclosure laws and past support for manufactured housing parks. Concerns arise because many HOAs lack organized records, suggesting a longer lead time of 1-18 months for implementation to allow compilation and communication through realtors and title agencies. He responds to a question on agent access, noting the bill's language allows authorized agents but recommends mirroring explicit condo law provisions for stronger buyer protections during due diligence.
HB1598: Representative Dylan Dumont, Hudson/Hillsborough 13 Support02:44:13.359 - 10:39:50 AM; Representative Dylan Dumont, prime sponsor from Hudson/Hillsborough 13, strongly supports HB1598 to balance property rights and tenant responsibilities. He argues the current eviction process is too slow for clear cases like non-payment of rent or serious lease breaches affecting health, safety, or involving crime, causing hardship with unpaid rent accumulating and providers struggling with costs. The bill creates a targeted expedited procedure only for indisputable cases, streamlining notice and court timelines to recover owed rent, reduce burdens on small providers, encourage timely payments, keep units affordable, and maintain tenant protections. It upholds New Hampshire values of responsibility, property respect, and fairness. He disagrees with the fiscal note's $1 million biennial cost estimate, seeing no increase in evictions or costs, only efficiency gains, and clarifies non-payment typically after grace periods (5-10 days), with providers likely working with tenants first. He addresses appeals, affirming due process and openness to changes, and notes discrimination defenses are unrelated to non-payment or breaches.
HB1598: Representative David Priest Oppose02:56:19.600 - 10:51:56 AM; Representative David Priest opposes HB1598, stating it worsens New Hampshire's housing shortage by imposing legal risks, costs, and uncertainty on providers, reducing rental availability. In a market short thousands of units, such policies raise rents and limit options. Small landlords, without legal departments, respond by raising rents, deferring maintenance, or exiting the market, hurting tenants. The bill strains courts and services without adding housing supply, urging opposition for stability, predictability, and incentives to keep units available.
HB1598: Nick Norman and David Klein Information Only02:59:10.000 - 10:54:47 AM; Nick Norman and David Klein, representing landlords, testified together on concerns with HB1598. They advocated for expediting the eviction process to reduce financial losses for landlords, noting that no landlord wants to evict but the current system allows exploitation. Norman highlighted issues in the bill's drafting, including the potential elimination of payment plan agreements between landlords and tenants, which they previously championed with New Hampshire Legal Assistance. They offered to assist with language revisions and encouraged review of their written testimony.
HB1598: Judith Jones, New Futures and New Hampshire Alliance for Healthy Aging Oppose03:02:22.000 - 10:57:59 AM; Judith Jones from New Futures opposed HB1598, emphasizing its negative impact on older adults who are 20% of renters in New Hampshire on fixed incomes, where average Social Security does not cover living costs. She shared stories from listening sessions of struggling families and statistics from the New Hampshire Coalition to End Homelessness showing rising homelessness among older adults. Jones argued against eroding tenant protections during the housing crisis, urging the committee to consider the vulnerability of these populations.
HB1598: Steve Tower, HLA Oppose03:04:19.920 - 10:59:56 AM; Steve Tower from HLA expressed concerns that HB1598 restricts tenants' access to justice and due process. He explained that the bill's provisions, such as immediate writs of possession within 24 hours and elimination of various defenses, would moot appeals and deny procedural protections, including those for improper notice or domestic violence-related breaches. Tower noted that evictions rarely take six months unless landlords lack proper evidence or familiarity with the process, suggesting education for landlords as a better solution rather than speeding up the process at the expense of rights.
HB1598: Jennifer Chisum, New Hampshire Coalition to End Homelessness Oppose03:08:35.840 - 11:04:12 AM; Jennifer Chisum, executive director of the New Hampshire Coalition to End Homelessness, opposed HB1598 due to its potential to increase homelessness. She cited a 17% rise in chronic homelessness in 2024 and a 30% jump in preliminary 2025 data, with one in four first-time homeless individuals aged 55 or older. Chisum highlighted that 55% of low-income households are cost-burdened and stressed the need for time to access rental assistance and legal counsel. She discussed hidden costs like increased shelter waits, local welfare burdens, and municipal expenses if evictions rise.
HB1598: Elliot Berry Oppose03:15:20.560 - 11:10:57 AM; Elliot Berry opposed HB1598, arguing that evictions for non-payment should not take six months without an appeal, and current appeal processes require weekly rent payments into court. He noted the bill precludes important defenses, such as claims of property ownership in life estate cases, denies discretionary stays that allow tenants to pay forward while finding new housing, and eliminates discovery for bad behavior allegations, violating due process. Berry suggested low-hanging fruit for fair process improvements without the bill's extremes.
HB1598: Nick Taylor, Housing Action New Hampshire Oppose03:20:38.399 - 11:16:15 AM; Nick Taylor from Housing Action New Hampshire opposed HB1598, acknowledging the need for predictable processes but arguing the bill fails to balance landlord and tenant interests, raising due process concerns in complex cases. He noted impacts on nonprofit providers needing reliable rent and potential downstream costs to local communities, including welfare, shelters, law enforcement, and emergency services. Taylor advocated building more housing over facilitating evictions and offered collaboration to refine the process.
HB1598: Reverend Lorie Savic, West United Methodist Church in Concord Oppose03:22:19.680 - 11:17:56 AM; Reverend Lorie Savic opposed HB1598, stating it burdens tenants with solving broader economic issues like rising costs of groceries, healthcare, and housing driven by national conditions and high household debt. She described the challenges churches and nonprofits face in coordinating emergency aid for tenants and landlords, emphasizing that most Americans cannot cover sudden rent shortfalls and need time to seek support from various sources. Savic argued the bill would exacerbate housing insecurity without addressing root causes.
HB1598: Claudia Stell, United Church of Christ in New Hampshire Oppose03:25:03.600 - 11:20:40 AM; Claudia Stell, from the economic justice mission team of the United Church of Christ in New Hampshire, opposed HB1598, raising scenarios where vulnerable individuals, such as those recovering from hospitalization, rehab, or fleeing domestic violence safe houses, might return to find themselves locked out without proper notice or recourse. She highlighted how the bill could leave people without homes during critical recovery periods.
HB1598: Kristen Evans, Able New Hampshire Oppose03:26:19.760 - 11:21:56 AM; Kristen Evans, director of policy for Able New Hampshire, strongly opposed HB1598, describing it as prioritizing speed over justice and stripping protections that prevent catastrophic housing loss, especially for people with disabilities. She criticized the elimination of judicial discretion for stays, which allow humanity in decisions, noting that homelessness leads to loss of medications, mobility aids, and care access. Evans argued the bill shifts burdens to emergency services and shelters, urging rejection to uphold fairness and dignity.
HB1612: Representative Ellen Reed Support03:29:12.399 - 11:24:49 AM; Representative Ellen Reed, prime sponsor of HB1612, supported the bill to explicitly prohibit price-fixing algorithms in residential rentals, emphasizing that price fixing corrupts the free market by preventing free negotiation between landlords and tenants, creating a collective monopoly. She addressed potential arguments against it, clarifying that the bill targets actual price-fixing software like Real Page, which settled with the federal government, and compared it to updating laws for digital crimes like online threats or stalking. Reed urged consistency in free market principles and skepticism of opposition motivated by financial gain.
HB1612: Nick Norman Oppose03:39:55.680 - 11:35:32 AM; Nick Norman opposed HB1612, stating that price fixing does not occur among landlords he knows, who set rents based on market comparisons, property conditions, and locations without software assistance. He clarified that tools like Real Page collect data and suggest rents but do not fix prices, and taking such suggestions alone would be unwise. Norman argued the bill is unnecessary as price fixing is already covered under existing RSAs, and its broad language could invite frivolous claims by NGOs, creating administrative nightmares.
HB1612: David Klein, small landlord Oppose03:42:39.439 - 11:38:16 AM; David Klein, a small landlord on the seacoast, opposed HB1612, asserting that price fixing is already illegal under existing statutes like RSA 356 (anti-monopoly) and RSA 358-A (unfair competition), which broadly prohibit contracts or conspiracies to fix prices, including via software, with civil and criminal penalties. He warned that the bill's addition creates ambiguity and opens doors to fraud, scams, and abusive complaints against small landlords, such as economic blackmail, and supported clarifying language if needed but not a new section.
HB1612: Representative Wheeler Support03:48:59.760 - 11:44:36 AM; Representative Wheeler, co-sponsor, supported HB1612, affirming that price-fixing algorithms like Real Page are recognized by the federal government as such, with a $3.8 billion impact. Drawing from experience on the criminal justice committee, he noted that many crimes required updates to include digital versions, suggesting HB1612 modernizes existing conspiracy and price-fixing laws to cover algorithmic methods effectively.
HB1625: Representative Bill Boyd, Hillsboro Information Only04:22:59.840 - 12:18:36 PM; Representative Bill Boyd introduces HB 1625, which requires an annual report on accessory dwelling units (ADUs) based on construction and use. The Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA) would collect and tabulate data on workforce housing and ADUs from cities and towns to track progress on housing commitments. He notes the bill is straightforward and offers to answer questions. During questioning, he clarifies that data would come from municipalities via planning or zoning boards, supports collecting broader rental data for informed policy decisions, and emphasizes the need for BEA to develop a tabulation process despite potential inconsistencies in municipal reporting.
HB1625: Representative David Priest Support04:24:09.040 - 12:19:46 PM; Representative David Priest states his support for HB 1625.
HB1625: Matt Mayberry, CEO, New Hampshire Homebuilders Association Oppose04:26:04.399 - 12:21:41 PM; Matt Mayberry opposes HB 1625, arguing it adds unnecessary red tape and bureaucracy. He contends the required data collection is onerous and prone to misleading self-reported information, such as occupancy, vacancy, short-term rental status, and rental amounts. He supports tracking building permits for ADUs as useful data but urges leaving out details on usage and rents, which would rely on unreliable landlord reports.
HB1625: Brody Dees, New Hampshire Municipal Association Support04:27:05.600 - 12:22:42 PM; Brody Dees supports HB 1625 to gather more robust data on how ADUs impact planning, development, and housing supply in New Hampshire. Municipalities issue building permits and can share data with the Office of Planning and Development (OPD). He emphasizes tracking to ensure ADUs achieve affordability goals, flags potential workload on OPD without approval contingencies, and suggests collaboration to refine reporting. He notes other states track similar data, like short-term rentals in Florida. During questions, he affirms the data's value for volunteer planning departments in small towns to inform zoning and housing policies, supports a self-reporting registry for rentals to avoid burdening OPD, and sees usefulness in broader rental data for planning despite NHMA's neutral stance on non-land-use impacts.
HB1625: Nick Taylor, Director, Housing Action New Hampshire Support04:34:16.639 - 12:29:53 PM; Nick Taylor supports the concept of HB 1625 for collecting data on ADUs to inform policy, starting with building permits. He warns that without data, barriers to ADU construction may persist despite laws, and notes inconsistencies in municipal logging processes require amendments or discussions with OPD. During questions, he indicates his organization is not opposed to collecting rental trends, especially if implementation is straightforward, but prioritizes feasible processes like municipal data collection over complicating with separate rental reporting.
HB1625: Representative Wheeler Support04:37:02.080 - 12:32:39 PM; Representative Wheeler, as co-sponsor, supports HB 1625 for collecting data on ADU growth and development statewide. He advocates collecting as much constitutional data as possible, including on rentals, to enable better legislative decisions on housing solutions.
HB1625: Representative Chris Muns, Hampton Information Only04:39:24.320 - 12:35:01 PM; Representative Chris Muns introduces HB 1661 to establish a permanent Community Heroes Home Buyer Initiative within the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority, providing closing cost credits to essential frontline workers. He highlights New Hampshire's housing crisis, with median home costs at $514,000 and annual ownership at $47,249, exceeding incomes of essential workers like healthcare staff ($35,000-$80,000), educators ($43,700-$68,600), police ($67,262), firefighters ($50,000-$60,000), and daycare workers ($32,500). The bill proposes $750,000 for FY2026 and $1.5 million annually thereafter to fund it, building on a successful 2021-2022 program that aided 184 workers. He argues it's a reasonable investment to retain essential workers and maintain community services. During questions, he notes the original program used $600,000 from authority income without appropriation, sees it as part of broader solutions to stabilize costs like hiring traveling nurses, and confirms the funding structure.
HB1625: Brian Re, President, Professional Firefighters of New Hampshire Support04:46:40.718 - 12:42:17 PM; Brian Re supports HB 1661, representing 2,000 firefighters, paramedics, and dispatchers. He emphasizes housing affordability's impact on first responders, with starting pay at $50,000-$60,000 leading to young members living with parents or commuting long distances, undermining community involvement and emergency recall needs. He thanks the sponsors and urges support to acknowledge their vital work and address the crisis.
HB1625: Jack Rutderman, Legislative Affairs Advisor, New Hampshire Housing Information Only04:50:15.200 - 12:45:52 PM; Jack Rutderman explains the funding source for the previous Community Heroes Program, which came from inflows due to low interest rates in 2020 leading to refinances, providing about $600,000. He notes that current conditions do not allow for similar funds, so state funding would be needed to reestablish the program. He recommends tweaks to the bill, clarifies that certain provisions like grants for interest rate reductions are not in the current version, and emphasizes that closing credits were used instead of grants to avoid tax issues. He highlights the program's past success in benefiting frontline workers and expresses excitement to expand it if funded, especially given housing affordability challenges.
HB1662: Representative Chris Muns, Representative from Rockingham County District 29, Hampton Support05:07:22.798 - 1:02:59 PM; Representative Muns introduces HB1662, explaining that it aims to increase housing supply by facilitating ADU construction through state-backed loan guarantees from the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority for loans with LTV ratios between 80% and 100%. He addresses concerns from the Housing Finance Authority about clarifying their administrative role and prioritizing lower-income borrowers, as well as the state treasurer's input on limiting the aggregate guarantee amount. He commits to working on amendments for an ought to pass recommendation.
HB1662: Representative Thaxton Oppose05:11:10.480 - 1:06:47 PM; Representative Thaxton expresses misgivings about the bill, arguing it would force the Housing Finance Authority to guarantee risky loans that no reasonable lender would make, potentially leading to losses for taxpayers in the next downturn. He references past housing crises and questions why the state should underwrite such risks when federal programs like FHA exist.
HB1662: Representative Reed Support05:14:26.798 - 1:10:03 PM; Representative Reed questions the sponsor on similarities to federal USDA rural development programs, which have successfully guaranteed loans for low to moderate income homeowners without issues. She also mentions Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac formulas incorporating rental income for loans with additional units, suggesting the bill could work similarly.
HB1662: Representative Aaron Information Only05:17:38.240 - 1:13:15 PM; Representative Aaron asks why a separate bill for ADU loan guarantees is needed instead of incorporating it into HB1405.
HB1662: Representative Duel Information Only05:18:35.840 - 1:14:12 PM; Representative Duel seeks clarification on 'low-cost financing' in the bill, distinguishing between low-income access and reduced financing costs like interest rates. The sponsor explains it enables lower-income individuals to access financing, with the Housing Finance Authority suggesting clearer language.
HB1662: Matt Mayberry, New Hampshire Home Builders Association Oppose05:19:35.760 - 1:15:12 PM; Matt Mayberry opposes the bill, arguing taxpayers should not fund home additions or remodels. He describes a scenario where borrowers could default intentionally, foreclose, and repurchase cheaply, leaving the state to cover losses, as seen in 2009. He distinguishes this from beneficial USDA programs for rural home purchases.
HB1662: Brian Hill, Vice President of Government Relations, New Hampshire Bankers Association Support05:22:05.360 - 1:17:42 PM; Brian Hill supports the bill as a way to enhance credit access for ADU construction, which has high costs. He acknowledges concerns from Representative Thaxton but offers to collaborate on amendments. He counters claims that banks don't care about foreclosures, noting they work with borrowers to avoid them.
HB1662: Jack Rutderman, New Hampshire Housing Support05:25:32.000 - 1:21:09 PM; Jack Rutderman supports the bill's goal of easing ADU financing to increase housing supply. He recommends state backing for guarantees rather than NH Housing directly, and authority to set income limits to align with their mission of serving low and moderate-income households. He notes existing guidebooks and lender lists for ADUs, and clarifies the bill aids loan approval rather than reducing rates.
HB1662: Dick Taylor, Director, Housing Action New Hampshire Support05:28:38.558 - 1:24:15 PM; Dick Taylor is conceptually supportive of creating a favorable lending environment for ADUs, noting shifts from refinancing due to high interest rates and emerging private ADU lending tools. He advocates for stable financing with taxpayer protections and guardrails.
HB1662: Representative Borass Information Only05:29:32.558 - 1:25:09 PM; Representative Borass asks if subsidized ADU loans might crowd out private products; Taylor responds that the program is supplementary, not competitive.
HB1662: Representative Thaxton Oppose05:30:42.400 - 1:26:19 PM; Representative Thaxton moves for inexpedient to legislate (ITL), arguing ADUs are good but this bill drags NH Housing into uncharted risky territory with state guarantees, offering too little benefit for the risk.
HB1662: Representative Paige Oppose05:32:07.840 - 1:27:44 PM; Representative Paige supports ADU goals but lacks confidence in this solution due to insufficient information on default rates, unlike HB1405.
HB1662: Representative Rinford Oppose05:33:09.360 - 1:28:46 PM; Representative Rinford agrees, emphasizing the need to protect taxpayers from unknown long-term financial implications.
HB1662: Representative Gibbs Support05:34:22.320 - 1:29:59 PM; Representative Gibbs understands concerns but supports OTP with income limits or rulemaking authority, as ADUs benefit low-income tenants.
HB1662: Representative Reed Support05:34:22.320 - 1:29:59 PM; Representative Reed supports ADUs and the bill in principle, suggesting amendments, integration with HB1405, or a direct loan program. She argues low default risk in rentals and votes against ITL.
HB11732: Representative Timothy Hannon, Durham Support05:37:36.000 - 1:33:13 PM; Representative Hannon, the prime sponsor, introduces HB11732, which imposes two new requirements on newly built multi-unit housing developments with six or more units to promote inclusivity for people with disabilities. First, 5% of units must be designated for individuals with mainstream housing vouchers, similar to Section 8 but for non-elderly disabled people and their families. Second, units must meet universal design standards as defined by the United States Access Board, encompassing seven principles like equitable use, flexibility, and low physical effort, benefiting everyone including the non-disabled who may become disabled over time. He notes that about 25% of adults have disabilities and explains application: rounding up to at least one unit for 6-19 units, and one per 20 for larger developments. He emphasizes that universal design makes housing more usable for all and invites questions.
HB11732: Representative Heath Howard, Strafford and Barrington Support05:45:39.680 - 1:41:16 PM; Representative Howard supports HB11732, highlighting the housing struggles of the disability community due to a lack of suitable units. He argues that ADA standards are a bare minimum and often insufficient in practice. The bill requires new multi-unit developments with more than six units to have at least 5% of units built to universal design standards per the U.S. Access Board, ensuring true accessibility and dignity. Additionally, 5% must be designated for mainstream housing voucher holders. DHHS and NH Housing Finance Authority will provide guidance. He urges support for inclusive housing in New Hampshire.
HB11732: Matt Mayberry, CEO, New Hampshire Homebuilders Association Oppose05:48:34.400 - 1:44:11 PM; Matt Mayberry opposes HB11732, arguing it will increase rents by reserving units for specific uses, forcing other tenants to cover costs. He notes existing Fair Housing Act and ADA provisions allow modifications without mandates. Concerns include no deadline for holding units vacant for voucher holders, potentially leaving them empty indefinitely. Builders already incorporate ADA and aging-in-place features voluntarily. He questions scenarios like placing a voucher unit on an upper floor without an elevator, risking lawsuits and added costs like $100,000 elevators. Suggests incentives over mandates, as builders respond to market needs for stable, long-term tenants.
HB11732: Jack Rudman, New Hampshire Housing Information Only05:53:06.480 - 1:48:43 PM; Jack Rudman from New Hampshire Housing supports the bill's goals of accessible and inclusive housing but raises concerns. They administer 8,200 Section 8 vouchers, 80% for elderly/disabled, with 370 mainstream vouchers but only 298 in use due to funding shortfalls from HUD; no new issuances in over a year. The bill's 5% set-aside for mainstream vouchers may leave units vacant if holders aren't available, needing clarification on renting to others. Universal design standards lack a single definition; federal law already requires 5% accessibility in funded housing—unclear if this adds another 5%. Monitoring by municipal housing authorities may lack resources and expertise; no enforcement mechanism specified. Happy to collaborate on revisions.
HB11732: Louis Esposito, Executive Director, Able New Hampshire Support06:03:00.798 - 1:58:37 PM; Louis Esposito supports HB11732 as forward-thinking policy for housing that accommodates aging and changing needs, applying only to new multi-unit developments. Universal design includes practical features like step-free entrances and wider doorways, benefiting disabled, elderly, families, and those recovering from injuries at little to no extra cost during construction versus expensive retrofits. Fewer than 3% of homes have meaningful accessibility features, forcing costly renovations or moves. The bill promotes aging in place, maintaining community ties amid New Hampshire's aging population. Acknowledges issues to resolve and offers to answer questions.
HB11732: Rebecca Hoskins, Concord Support06:08:06.558 - 2:03:43 PM; Rebecca Hoskins, a lifelong New Hampshire resident with cerebral palsy, ardently supports HB11732 due to the desperate need for accessible housing. UNH Institute on Disability reports 166,073 disabled residents (1 in 8). She struggles with daily tasks like bathing and cooking in standard homes, relying on support. The bill's 5% voucher provision addresses long waitlists. Universal design aids independence for all, including families with strollers and the elderly, as disability can affect anyone. Current rentals are hard to modify; built-in accessibility would transform lives for disabled and aging populations, ensuring priority for those in need.
HB1814: Chris Muns, Representative from Rockingham District 29, Hampton Support06:12:24.638 - 2:08:01 PM; Representative Muns testified in strong support of HB1814, emphasizing the need for a 10-year statewide strategic housing and infrastructure development plan, modeled after the existing 10-year transportation plan. He explained that the plan would build on the Council on Housing Stability's work, identify infrastructure improvements like water and wastewater projects, incorporate regional planning commissions' priorities, and include all federal, state, and local housing projects. The process involves the Division of Planning and Community Development compiling data, the Council reviewing it with public hearings, and submission to the Governor and Legislature. He highlighted benefits like regular municipal master plan updates every 10 years with housing progress reviews, ensuring accountability and progress. Muns addressed concerns about funding, noting minimal additional costs and the importance of a cohesive statewide approach to address housing shortages without centralizing control, similar to transportation planning. He offered to amend the bill for improvements.
HB1814: Representative Priest Support06:30:45.040 - 2:26:22 PM; Representative Priest strongly supported HB1814, stating that the housing shortage is a daily crisis for municipalities, employers, and families. She argued the bill provides tools and flexibility for state, regional, and local levels to respond without rigid constraints. It identifies and removes barriers to housing development while respecting local control. Drawing from 21 years as a planner, she urged an ought to pass recommendation to promote more housing, predictability, and flexibility.
HB1814: Brody Deay, New Hampshire Municipal Association Information Only06:34:54.638 - 2:30:31 PM; Deay stated neutrality on HB1814 but raised technical concerns. He noted the bill's requirement for municipalities to update master plans every 10 years could burden small towns with limited resources, especially with reduced state funding to regional planning commissions. Section seven's housing progress review might require evaluating non-existent housing sections in master plans, potentially creating unfunded mandates and needing external contractors. He supported state-municipal partnerships for housing but emphasized funding infrastructure and avoiding mandates on specific master plan sections. He explained NHMA's process for appointing town managers to the Council on Housing Stability.
HB1814: Rob Dapis, Executive Director, New Hampshire Housing Information Only06:40:09.520 - 2:35:46 PM; Dapis appreciated the bill's intent and Representative Muns' leadership but expressed concerns about practicality. He noted ongoing coordination via the Council on Housing Stability among lead agencies handling most housing funds, with prescribed federal processes like the Consolidated Plan and Qualified Allocation Plan. Alignment streamlines administrative burdens rather than centralizing planning. Creating a comprehensive forward-looking plan including all projects would be tough and burdensome. He supported a feedback loop for master plans to align with regional housing goals, preventing disconnects between community needs and implementation.
HB1814: Lily Wellington, Executive Director, Commission on Aging Support06:43:44.000 - 2:39:21 PM; Wellington supported HB1814 by linking it to the AgeWell NH multi-sector plan for aging, used in 26 states to address demographic shifts. She advocated for the Commission's involvement in housing infrastructure planning, emphasizing independence and housing's inextricable link. A multi-sector approach avoids silos, ensures efficiency, and involves public, private, and state sectors to solve aging population needs without duplication.
HB1196: Representative Miles Oppose06:50:07.840 - 2:45:44 PM; Moved ought to pass, citing high taxpayer liability and no statutory requirement for measurable housing outcomes as reasons to repeal the program.
HB1196: Representative Grant Oppose06:50:07.840 - 2:45:44 PM; Supported the motion, noting lack of financing behind the program.
HB1196: Representative Howland Support06:51:25.840 - 2:47:02 PM; Opposed repeal, arguing the program models best practices with a rubric for innovative land uses, financing, and infrastructure. Communities already received grants with 25% match; repealing sends a message of unreliability. No new money allocated this year, allowing data collection before future funding.
HB1196: Representative Gibbs Support06:51:25.840 - 2:47:02 PM; Opposed repeal, recalling thorough prior work and budget discussions. Repealing undermines the committee's goal of promoting affordable housing.
HB1196: Representative Paige Support06:53:31.040 - 2:49:08 PM; Opposed repeal, emphasizing investment in communities doing the work. Surprised by lack of OTPA motion to clarify $12.6 million obligated funds. Repealing feels like bad faith after municipalities' efforts; allow the program to succeed with measures for outcomes.
HB1196: Representative Reed (implied) Support06:55:44.478 - 2:51:21 PM; As a program originator, initially opposed repeal but now supports due to lack of legislative funding priority, administrative burdens, and greater impact from regulatory reforms without taxpayer costs.
HB1405: Representative Bolier Oppose06:58:42.080 - 2:54:19 PM; Moved inexpedient to legislate, calling it corporate welfare with 80% subsidy risking $300 million taxpayer default. Similar to subprime crisis roots; federal 542C program exists. Government shouldn't pick winners in housing/banking; unknown impact on loans.
HB1405: Representative Cole Oppose06:58:42.080 - 2:54:19 PM; Concurred, stating $300 million taxpayer liability is inappropriate; private sector already handles such activities.
HB1405: Representative Reed Support07:00:44.958 - 2:56:21 PM; Opposed ITL, arguing housing access isn't picking winners but enabling workers to live and work in-state. Suggested amending to direct state loans to break even, avoiding privatized profits. Every person deserves housing; rejects excuses for groups like immigrants or disabled.
HB1405: Representative Paige Support07:00:44.958 - 2:56:21 PM; Supported the bill as sound policy with low default risk, lowering affordable housing development costs; a no-brainer.
HB1405: Representative Howland Support07:03:00.160 - 2:58:37 PM; Supported, citing NH Housing's low default rates and bankers' testimony on enabling below-market funding. Creative use of bonding harnesses private capital without $100 million state outlay; low risk with underwriting protections.
HB1405: Representative Thaxton Oppose07:05:17.280 - 3:00:54 PM; Opposed, warning of past crises like Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac and S&L; state not equipped for banking risks. Banks send bad loans to government guarantees; failure rates high on similar programs.
HB1405: Representative Gibbs Support07:07:39.840 - 3:03:16 PM; Supported, noting NH Housing's near-zero defaults. State should support riskier loans for low-income citizens that private sector avoids, fulfilling its role.
HB1405: Representative Reed (follow-up) Support07:08:49.120 - 3:04:26 PM; Opposed speculation on defaults; federal USDA and state data show low rates with borrower support like training. Prefers direct state loans but affirms program's success.
HB1612: Chairman Alexander Oppose07:11:06.320 - 3:06:43 PM; Moved ITL, stating existing laws enforce proper use; bill unnecessary, unused in state, with unintended consequences like prosecuting simple tools (e.g., Excel). Adds burdensome regulations amid housing shortage.
HB1612: Representative Reed Support07:12:14.478 - 3:07:51 PM; Opposed ITL, clarifying algorithms are software formulas for generating info, not simple tools like Zillow. Providers oppose despite claiming non-use; explicit digital prohibition needed as in other crimes. Price fixing illegal, harms market capitalism.
HB1612: Representative Miner Oppose07:14:23.280 - 3:10:00 PM; Emphasized potential retaliation tool against small owners, like elderly couples, enabling bullying via charges.
HB1612: Representative Paige Support07:15:41.920 - 3:11:18 PM; Opposed ITL; suggested clarifying definitions from CA/CO statutes. Existing law unclear on software collusion; testimony showed need to explicitly criminalize digital price fixing.
HB1625: Representative Cole Oppose07:17:29.920 - 3:13:06 PM; Moved ITL, citing no appropriations for 256 municipalities (unfunded mandate, up to $500K cost per DBEA). Creates high state oversight of private home use.
HB1625: Representative Howland Support07:17:29.920 - 3:13:06 PM; Opposed as written for being overly complicated; suggested simplifying to track building permits, integrable with St. Anselm's data for ADU trends since HB577.
HB1625: Representative Reed Support07:19:30.718 - 3:15:07 PM; Opposed ITL; important for rental market data to understand crisis. Bill allows collecting useful info; suggest self-reporting website for rents instead of full report to ease burden.
HB1625: Representative Thaxton Oppose07:20:38.638 - 3:16:15 PM; As selectman, burden on small staff; not all towns require permits, leading to incomplete data. Rentals are private contracts outside state purview without taxation.
HB1625: Representative Gibbs Information Only07:21:56.080 - 3:17:33 PM; Would like state data for affordable housing direction but opposes without appropriation for staff burdens.
HB1625: Representative Paige Information Only07:21:56.080 - 3:17:33 PM; For future sessions; suggest holistic OPD discussion on data gathering, expanding beyond ADUs for comprehensive reporting.
HB1661: Representative Bolier Oppose07:23:58.320 - 3:19:35 PM; Moved ITL, sympathizing with purpose but arguing against subsidizing demand; focus on supply. Private orgs like Homes for Heroes provide similar rebates. No means testing; could benefit high-paid superintendents ($3K credit). Pursue via nonprofits/towns.
HB1661: Representative Paige Support07:26:03.200 - 3:21:40 PM; Opposed ITL; $750K cost modest compared to eviction bill. Moves critical workers (police, firefighters, teachers) into housing, unlike spending to remove people.
HB1661: Representative Howland Support07:27:01.280 - 3:22:38 PM; Opposed ITL; NH Housing can add means testing via rulemaking. Past $600K housed 138; modest with safeguards.
HB1661: Representative Dumont Oppose07:27:01.280 - 3:22:38 PM; State not positioned to fund; better local/nonprofit ways target middle class without high admin costs.
HB1661: Representative Miles Oppose07:27:52.798 - 3:23:29 PM; Great post-COVID but not now; $750K too much, admin up to 10% high. Regulatory reforms create more housing cheaper than 184 homeowners for $600K.
HB1661: Representative Reed Support07:29:57.680 - 3:25:34 PM; Challenged cheaper alternatives; $600K created 184 homeowners efficiently vs. buying one home.