Committee advances SB 110 to streamline large development permitting process

In a recent meeting of the New Hampshire House Ways and Means Committee, lawmakers convened to discuss Senate Bill 110, which aims to streamline the permitting process for large developments. The session began with a brief executive discussion, during which Representative Tierney introduced a motion to vote on the bill, emphasizing its potential to simplify and expedite the permitting process.

The bill proposes an increase in fees associated with the permitting process, a move that has garnered support from the Home Builders Association, indicating a consensus on the necessity of these changes to accommodate new personnel and cover additional expenses. However, not all committee members were in agreement. Representative Opel expressed concerns regarding the bill's clarity and potential for future litigation, stating that he could not support it in its current form.

Despite these reservations, the committee proceeded to a vote, which resulted in a significant majority in favor of the bill, passing with a vote of 15 to 1. The committee decided to place the bill on the consent agenda, indicating that it would likely move forward without further debate in the full House.

This decision reflects ongoing efforts within the New Hampshire legislature to address the challenges of development and housing in the state. By simplifying the permitting process, lawmakers hope to encourage growth and development while balancing the need for regulatory oversight. The next steps will involve the bill's presentation to the full House, where it will be subject to further discussion and potential approval.