New Hampshire House Bill HB399

New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/25
• Refer: 1/10/25
• Report Pass: 1/28/25
• Engrossed: 2/26/25
• Refer: 2/26/25
• Report Pass: 3/4/25
• Enrolled: 3/6/25
• Chaptered: 3/11/25
• Passed: 3/11/25

Caption

Establishing a commission to study the New Hampshire zoning enabling act and relative to the effective date of the C-PACER program.

Impact

The bill seeks to alter the effective date of the C-PACER program and also modifies the definition of 'municipality' in the chapter related to energy efficiency and clean energy districts. This change in definition could affect how local governments implement energy policies and may require them to align better with state laws. Ultimately, the bill is positioned to potentially impact regulatory frameworks at the state and local levels, consequently affecting urban planning and development practices throughout New Hampshire.

Summary

House Bill 399 aims to establish a commission that will study the historical evolution of New Hampshire's zoning enabling act as it marks its 100th anniversary. The purpose of the commission is to analyze how the act has evolved over the decades and to make recommendations regarding the balance of zoning powers between the state and municipalities. This comprehensive examination aims to ensure that zoning laws remain relevant and effective in addressing contemporary challenges faced by local governments and communities.

Contention

Given the complexities surrounding zoning laws and local governance, discussions regarding HB 399 may involve debates about the delegation of powers between state and municipal authorities. Proponents are likely to argue that the commission's establishment is a proactive measure to enhance local governance and ensure that zoning laws adapt to current realities. Conversely, concerns may arise regarding whether state-level interventions could diminish the autonomy of municipalities or whether the study might lead to recommendations that complicate local governance further.