New Hampshire Senate bill 19 targets outdated hotel booking regulations

During a recent meeting of the New Hampshire House Commerce and Consumer Affairs Committee, lawmakers discussed Senate Bill 19, aimed at modernizing outdated hotel regulations that have not been updated for decades. This bill seeks to repeal requirements that mandate hotels maintain physical guest registries and post room rates in specific locations, reflecting a shift towards digital record-keeping and contemporary pricing practices.

Senator Ennis introduced the bill, highlighting that the current laws, some dating back to the 1950s and 1970s, are no longer relevant in an era where travelers often check rates and book accommodations online. The proposed changes would eliminate the need for hotels to keep a physical booking card system and to display room rates in guest rooms and outside the property, which many establishments do not enforce or follow.

Mike Summers, president of the New Hampshire Lodging and Restaurant Association, supported the bill, emphasizing that the existing statutes are not only antiquated but also ineffective. He noted that the requirement to post minimum and maximum room rates is largely ignored and does not reflect the dynamic nature of hotel pricing today, which is influenced by demand and occupancy rates.

Committee members engaged in a robust discussion about the implications of these changes. Some expressed concerns about potential price gouging during peak seasons, while others argued that the market should dictate hotel rates without government intervention. The consensus among supporters of the bill is that the current regulations do not serve their intended purpose and that repealing them would allow hotels to operate more efficiently and competitively.

As the committee continues to review Senate Bill 19, the focus remains on ensuring that New Hampshire's hotel regulations align with modern business practices and consumer expectations. The outcome of this legislation could significantly impact how hotels manage their operations and interact with guests, ultimately benefiting travelers in the state.