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.
Establishing the housing champion business loan program and making appropriations to the department of business and economic affairs and the business finance authority.
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.
Establishing a scholarship fund for certain small businesses applying for loans from the capital access program administered by the New Hampshire business finance authority.
Establishing a scholarship fund for certain small businesses applying for loans from the capital access program administered by the New Hampshire business finance authority.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.