NH
New Hampshire House Bill HB489

New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB489

Introduced
1/11/23  
Refer
1/11/23  
Report DNP
2/16/23  

Caption

Establishing a county tourism development fund administered by the department of business and economic affairs and making an appropriation therefor.

Impact

The bill will result in a nonlapsing fund that counties can utilize for tourism-related projects, with the intention of boosting local economies through increased tourism activity. Each county will be eligible to receive grants of up to $75,000 annually from the fund. Funding for these grants will be sourced from revenues generated by the meals and rooms tax, ensuring that the program is financially supported by local tourism-related activities. The oversight of grants and the fund will rest with the Director of the Division of Travel and Tourism Development.

Summary

House Bill 489 establishes a county tourism development fund that will be administered by the Department of Business and Economic Affairs. This bill represents a legislative effort to promote and enhance tourism at the county level by providing financial resources for various tourism initiatives and programs. An appropriation of $750,000 is earmarked for the fund during the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023, and is intended to support county tourism development efforts that may include creating tourism regions and enhancing recreation and business facilities.

Sentiment

Overall, sentiment around HB 489 appears to be supportive, as it aims to foster economic development through tourism initiatives. Many stakeholders, including local government representatives, may view the establishment of such a fund as a positive step towards enhancing the vibrancy and appeal of their counties. However, discussions may arise regarding the distribution criteria and the effectiveness of the funding in truly promoting sustainable tourism and economic growth.

Contention

A notable point of contention may come from the potential allocation of funds and decisions made by the director regarding which counties receive grants and for what purposes. Some may argue that this could lead to inequalities in tourism development opportunities, depending on the discretion exercised in fund distribution. Moreover, ensuring that the program effectively translates to tangible benefits for counties will likely be a critical area of scrutiny amongst stakeholders.

Latest HB489 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH SB451

Establishing a New Hampshire innovation program in the department of business and economic affairs and making an annual appropriation therefor.

NH SB279

Establishing the housing champion business loan program and making appropriations to the department of business and economic affairs and the business finance authority.

NH HB572

Establishing the "partners in housing" program, an initiative under the housing champions fund to assist municipalities, counties, and developers in building workforce housing, and making an appropriation therefor.

NH HB1656

Establishing a road usage registration fee and making an appropriation therefor.

NH HB1627

Establishing an education freedom account program administrator in the department of education and making an appropriation therefor.

NH SB143

Establishing a scholarship fund for certain small businesses applying for loans from the capital access program administered by the New Hampshire business finance authority.

NH SB428

Establishing a scholarship fund for certain small businesses applying for loans from the capital access program administered by the New Hampshire business finance authority.

NH SB582

Relating To The Department Of Business, Economic Development, And Tourism.

NH SB217

Establishing a rural and underserved area educator incentive program for higher education and making an appropriation therefor.

NH SB217

Establishing a rural and underserved area educator incentive program for higher education and making an appropriation therefor.

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