Committee Summary for House Resources, Recreation and Development (01/29/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB113 00:04:52.800 - 9:18:33 AM	Executive Session	relative to OHRV operation on certain highways within the town of Windsor.	Colcombe, Riché(R)[B+]2025
HB127 00:06:49.000 - 9:20:30 AM	Executive Session	(New Title) extending the closing date of the OHRV trails on the Connecticut Lakes headwaters working forest property.	Ouellet, Mike(R)[B]2025
HB174 00:15:23.959 - 9:29:04 AM	Executive Session	increasing the maximum weight of a utility terrain vehicle to 3,500 pounds unladen dry weight.	Ouellet, Mike(R)[B]2025
HB203 00:22:18.000 - 9:35:59 AM	Executive Session	relative to coast guard approved personal flotation devices while on New Hampshire state waters.	MacDonald, John(R)[B+]2025
HB332 00:26:58.799 - 9:40:39 AM	Executive Session	allowing for the establishment of a village district to protect and remediate surface waters.	Rung, Rosemarie(D)[CT]2025
HB334 00:34:49.639 - 9:48:30 AM	Executive Session	relative to the comprehensive state development plan.	Lovett, Peter(D)[D-]2025
HB393 2025-the 00:38:37.760 - 9:52:18 AM	Executive Session	prohibiting mooring of boats without a permit.	Smith, Jonathan(R)[B+]2025
HB393 2025-0126h 00:39:21.839 - 9:53:02 AM	Executive Session	prohibiting mooring of boats without a permit.	Smith, Jonathan(R)[B+]2025
HB422 00:43:23.160 - 9:57:04 AM	Executive Session	increasing penalties for violations of the shoreland and water quality protection act.	Rung, Rosemarie(D)[CT]2025
HB449 00:48:28.640 - 10:02:09 AM	Executive Session	requiring water districts to provide a water filtration system to residential customers in certain cases.	McGuire, Dan(R)[A]2025
HB513 2025-0085h 00:50:54.280 - 10:04:35 AM	Executive Session	(New Title) allowing the department of transportation to execute a right-of-way use agreement, subject to Federal Highway Administration approval, for snowmobile operation along Interstate 89 in the town of Sutton, from NH Route 114, traveling south for one mile.	Schamberg, Thomas(D)[CT]2025

HB113: Attorney Bridal Information Only00:04:52.800 - 9:18:33 AM; Attorney Bridal moved to retain HB113. The motion was seconded by Representative Donnelly. The prime sponsor of the bill requested retention as they believe the issue can be handled at the local level.
HB127: Representative Davis Support00:06:49.000 - 9:20:30 AM; Representative Davis supported HB127 FN, viewing it as an economic development bill beneficial for the town of Pittsburg. He argued that extending the trail season would provide essential business for the last two weeks without affecting locals negatively, as opposition came from non-local individuals and there were no noise or dust complaints. He noted that the extension would not interfere with hunting as trails are busy after leaves drop, which is after Columbus Day.
HB127: Representative Darby Oppose00:09:06.399 - 9:22:47 AM; Representative Darby opposed HB127 FN, expressing concerns about the bill usurping local control. He highlighted that the local Citizens Council had recently worked with DNCR on a Five-Year Plan without requesting an extension. He mentioned that DNCR would be open to evaluating the request by April 1st of the following year, suggesting that legislation might not be necessary. He also noted opposition from New Hampshire Fish and Game and hunters who felt the extension would interfere with bird hunting seasons and the safety of their dogs.
HB127: Representative Ryan Oppose00:11:33.120 - 9:25:14 AM; Representative Ryan opposed the bill, arguing against the tourism argument by stating that tourists do not come from the local area. He expressed concerns about the impact of motorized vehicles on hunting, particularly bird hunting, and the noise deterring birds. He also believed that recreation should not rely solely on motorized vehicles.
HB127: Representative Veale Oppose00:12:56.079 - 9:26:37 AM; Representative Veale opposed HB127 FN, citing the importance of the Five-Year Plan and the need for the Commission on Resources to evaluate the issue further. He warned against overlooking non-legislative solutions and the expertise of the commission.
HB174: Representative Davis Information Only00:15:23.959 - 9:29:04 AM; Representative Davis mentioned the next bill to be discussed, HB174, which aims to increase the maximum weight of a utility terrain vehicle to 3500 lbs.
HB174: Representative Davis Oppose00:16:11.279 - 9:29:52 AM; Representative Davis opposed the bill, arguing that it would pave the way for electric OHVs with heavier batteries, potentially solving noise complaints but also noting that many vehicles, including those used by law enforcement, are already overweight and not enforced. He believes the bill is a moot point due to lack of enforcement.
HB174: Representative Dunn Oppose00:16:58.360 - 9:30:39 AM; Representative Dunn supported the motion to not pass the bill, echoing concerns about paving the way for electric vehicles with heavier batteries, which would reduce noise and address public complaints.
HB174: Representative Veale Oppose00:17:45.440 - 9:31:26 AM; Representative Veale expressed concerns about the use of the term 'unladen' in the bill, indicating a lack of clarity on what constitutes the weight of a vehicle. They were more focused on larger vehicles like six-seaters with additional amenities, rather than electric vehicles.
HB174: Representative NAB Oppose00:17:52.039 - 9:31:33 AM; Representative NAB argued that the bill should be considered by the 1188 commission due to many unanswered questions, including the enforcement of vehicle weights and the impact of electric vehicles. They also highlighted potential unintended consequences, such as the reaction from private landowners, which could lead to loss of access rights.
HB174: Representative Derby Oppose00:19:07.720 - 9:32:48 AM; Representative Derby shared a personal anecdote about a friend's side-by-side vehicle and its weight, suggesting that there is a need for increased weight limits for OHVs. They also mentioned opposition from various groups like the Timberland Owners Association, Farm Bureau, and National Wildlife Federation, due to the bill's impact on private lands and existing easements. They pointed out the lack of clarity on 'unladen' and 'dry weight' and the uncertainty surrounding electric vehicles.
HB203: Representative Donelly Oppose00:22:18.000 - 9:35:59 AM; Representative Donelly moved to find the bill inexpedient to legislate, citing that while well-intentioned, it might lead to confusion among residents due to existing laws that do not mandate helmets or seat belts. They emphasized personal responsibility and the potential for confusion due to changes in the law mid-year, suggesting education over legislation.
HB203: Representative Dupont Oppose00:23:15.720 - 9:36:56 AM; Representative Dupont seconded the motion to find the bill inexpedient to legislate, invoking the state's motto 'Live Free or Die' to support their stance against mandatory personal flotation devices.
HB203: Representative Vale Oppose00:24:36.039 - 9:38:17 AM; Representative Vale expressed opposition to the Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL) motion for HB203. They highlighted the importance of search and rescue operations by the Department of Safety and Marine Patrol, noting the reliance on volunteers and the challenges posed by weather conditions. They believe the bill could save lives and thus oppose the ITL.
HB203: Representative Davis Support00:25:22.600 - 9:39:03 AM; Representative Davis supported the ITL motion for HB203, aligning their view with the sentiment of living free and not mandating life jackets, similar to seat belts and motorcycle helmets. They mentioned that children under 12 must wear life jackets and that having one available is sufficient, suggesting this aligns with the state's philosophy.
HB332: Representative Dupont Support00:26:58.799 - 9:40:39 AM; Representative Dupont moved to recommend HB332 as Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL), viewing it as an unnecessary addition of government intrusion. They referenced the failure of House Bill 1250 as a precedent and saw no need for the bill.
HB332: Representative Donnelly Support00:27:48.840 - 9:41:29 AM; Representative Donnelly seconded the ITL motion for HB332, echoing concerns about government intrusion and adding that the bill might create an exclusionary environment within communities, not encompassing the entire community's use of water bodies.
HB332: Representative Vil Oppose00:28:26.480 - 9:42:07 AM; Representative Vil opposed the ITL motion for HB332, citing testimony from Representative Wolf that indicated the bill would not ban or regulate water-based activities but would empower cities and towns to control pollutants entering lakes and ponds. They emphasized the importance of community collaboration to protect natural resources and support tourism.
HB332: Representative Sergeant Oppose00:29:29.159 - 9:43:10 AM; Representative Sergeant, representing towns with waterfronts on Lake Sunapee, opposed the ITL motion for HB332. They argued that the bill would enable multiple towns to collaborate on preventing contamination of Lake Sunapee and other lakes, thus preventing economic harm. They suggested an amendment proposed by Representative Darby as a preferable alternative to ITL.
HB332: Representative NB Oppose00:30:31.960 - 9:44:12 AM; Representative NB opposed the ITL motion for HB332, stressing that the bill is enabling legislation that allows towns to create village districts to combat water contamination. They noted that the high bar for passing such measures at town meetings protects against unwanted impositions and highlighted the necessity for towns to address lake contamination issues.
HB332: Unidentified Speaker Oppose00:31:29.000 - 9:45:10 AM; The speaker expressed opposition to the Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL) motion on HB332. They highlighted that village districts, which have been in law for over 100 years, allow affected voters in towns to approve them and manage taxes for water quality improvements. They mentioned that voters can also vote to remove themselves from the village district. The speaker noted concerns about state-regulated waters and potential access restrictions but pointed out that an amendment was sent out to address these issues by limiting the controls that the village district can apply to protect and remediate surface water quality. They urged the committee to vote against the ITL motion to further discuss the amendment.
HB332: Representative Deont Information Only00:33:09.639 - 9:46:50 AM; Representative Deont mentioned the existence of the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, which already deals with water issues. They also spoke with Mr. Grant from SNHPC (Southern New Hampshire Planning Commission), who mentioned that a water district already exists, though this was stated as Mr. Grant's personal opinion and not an official stance.
HB334: Representative D Support00:34:49.639 - 9:48:30 AM; Representative D moved for an Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL) motion on HB334, arguing that the new language proposed in the bill is unnecessary and that the current version is sufficient. They highlighted the high cost of $500,000 to $1 million as unaffordable and not sustainable in the current economic climate, emphasizing the need to balance the budget.
HB334: Representative Darby Oppose00:35:37.079 - 9:49:18 AM; Representative Darby opposed the ITL motion for HB334, emphasizing the importance of New Hampshire's outdoor tourism economy and the need to protect the environment to maintain a desirable environment for tourists. They pointed out that the Department of Environmental Services often has to react to unforeseen environmental threats, leading to health impacts and costs to the state and residents. They argued that adding environmental recognition into the state development plan is crucial.
HB334: Representative NAB Oppose00:36:40.319 - 9:50:21 AM; Representative NAB opposed the ITL motion on HB334, discussing the changes in environmental conditions since the bill's enactment, particularly regarding drinking water quality. They stressed the importance of identifying aquifers and understanding water resources, noting that these are not unlimited or always clean. They also mentioned their experience in the Environment and Agriculture Committee, discussing landfills and the need to consider waste in the comprehensive state plan, arguing against a shortsighted approach.
HB393 2025-the: Representative Darby Support00:38:37.760 - 9:52:18 AM; Representative Darby moved for an Ought to Pass motion on HB393 and also moved to adopt amendment 2025-the, which was sent out the previous night. They did not provide further details on the amendment or the bill in the provided transcript snippet.
HB393 2025-0126h: Representative Bridal Support00:39:21.839 - 9:53:02 AM; Representative Bridal supported the amendment 2025-0126h to HB393. They agreed with the sentiments of their colleague, stating that the amendment clarifies some of the issues that were raised during the hearings. They believe this amendment helps in finding a version of the bill that all stakeholders can agree on.
HB393 2025-0126h: Chair Information Only00:39:45.200 - 9:53:26 AM; The Chair briefly described the differences between the amendment and the original bill, focusing on changes in paragraph 4 of the bill. The amendment added a sentence and three sub-clauses that addressed concerns raised during testimony. These changes were developed with the help of stakeholders to reach a consensus.
HB393 2025-0126h: Representative Darby Support00:41:58.240 - 9:55:39 AM; Representative Darby moved for the bill HB393 to pass as amended. They supported the amendment that was passed unanimously, and then proposed a motion for the bill to pass as amended, which was seconded by Representative Bridal.
HB422: Representative Donnelly Oppose00:43:23.160 - 9:57:04 AM; Representative Donnelly moved for an Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL) on HB422. They argued against increasing penalties for violations of the Shoreland and Water Quality Protection Act, citing that no violations or penalties have been pursued in the last 10 years. They live on a lake and believe that before increasing penalties, the effectiveness of a recently passed law allowing for a $5,000 penalty should be assessed to understand its impact on residents and their shoreline activities.
HB422: Representative Bridal Information Only00:43:33.839 - 9:57:14 AM; Representative Bridal seconded the motion for an ITL on HB422 but chose not to comment further on their second.
HB422: Representative [Unknown] Oppose00:44:52.280 - 9:58:33 AM; The speaker expressed opposition to the ITL (Inexpedient to Legislate) motion for HB422, citing personal experience with water quality violations near Lake Monomonac in Rindge. They mentioned a case where a lot was clear-cut and developed in violation of regulations, resulting in a fine that the violator considered a cost of doing business. The speaker believes that the penalties for such violations need to be more stringent to prevent them from being treated merely as business expenses. They will vote against the ITL to support the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services in enforcing stronger penalties.
HB422: Representative Vale Oppose00:46:08.880 - 9:59:49 AM; Representative Vale also opposes the ITL motion for HB422, arguing that the Department of Environmental Services (DES) has faced challenges in enforcing provisions related to shoreland septic and water quality. They believe the accumulation of evidence over time, including the work of the Shoreland Septic Commission, suggests that the bill is necessary. Therefore, they will vote against the ITL motion.
HB449: Representative NAB Support00:48:28.640 - 10:02:09 AM; Representative NAB supports the ITL motion for HB449, arguing that while the bill aims to address a problem with water districts, it would create more issues than it solves. They highlighted that the bill would require water districts to install filtration systems but not maintain them, which would burden individual residents with maintenance and potentially lead to contamination issues. Furthermore, they noted that the bill could violate the Federal Drinking Water Act, making it problematic and not a viable solution.
HB513 2025-0085h: Representative NAB Support00:50:54.280 - 10:04:35 AM; Representative NAB moved to pass HB513 and adopt amendment 2025-0085h. They explained that the underlying bill aims to reestablish a disabled trail connection in Sutton, and the amendment clarifies and specifies the location of the right of way.
HB513 2025-0085h: Representative Sergeant Support00:51:40.599 - 10:05:21 AM; Representative Sergeant seconded the motion to adopt the amendment and supported the bill as amended, stating that it makes the reestablishment of the trail connection in Sutton clearer and more specific.
HB513 2025-0085h: Representative Derby Information Only00:52:03.480 - 10:05:44 AM; Representative Derby requested input from the Department of Transportation regarding their position on the amendment to HB513. The Department confirmed they were involved in drafting the amendment and are comfortable with it.
HB513 2025-0085h: Department of Transportation Support00:52:48.839 - 10:06:29 AM; The Department of Transportation supported the amendment to HB513, having been consulted and involved in its drafting.
HB513 2025-0085h: Representative NAB Support00:53:35.240 - 10:07:16 AM; Representative NAB moved to pass HB513 as amended, and Representative Sergeant seconded the motion. No further comments were made on the motion.

Harb, Robert(Chairman)(R)[B+]2025	Taylor, Brian(Clerk)(R)[C]2025	Dunn, Ron(V Chairman)(R)[A]2025
Buco, Thomas(D)[D]2025	Vail, Suzanne(D)[CT]2025	Gould, Linda(R)[B+]2025
Tremblay, Marc(R)	Ryan, Linda(D)[D-]2025	Darby, Will(D)[CT]2025
Donnelly, Tanya(R)[B+]2025	Knab, Allison(D)[CT]2025	Sargent, Gregory(D)[D-]2025
Baldwin, Heather(D)[F]2025	Dupont, Pierre(R)[B]2025	Davis, Arnold(R)[B+]2025
Bridle, Nicholas(R)[C]2025