Representative Jim Masland introduced H.291 and described it as a targeted change to the state’s use-value appraisal program that would reduce the financial benefit for owners who post current‑use land and exclude public recreational access.

Masland said his bill is modeled on a New Hampshire approach and is intended to address owners who enroll acreage in current use but then close the land to public hunting, fishing or other recreation. "If you want the full benefit, then you can open it for hunting or fishing," Masland said, explaining the proposal would reduce the net current‑use value by 25% for posted parcels.

Masland emphasized he supports current use generally and that the proposal is intended to balance taxpayer subsidy with public access: "My initiative is not meant to make things overly complicated, but to take advantage of what we're capable of doing," he told the committee. He said the change would not eliminate current use but would create a reduced benefit when owners deny customary public recreational access.

Committee members discussed nuances, including seasonal or limited closures (for example, closures to protect nesting peregrine falcons or to restrict access during mud season). Several legislators suggested the policy could be prorated for short closures or contain carve-outs for seasonal conservation or safety-related restrictions. Representative Charlie Kimball described a separate approach used in New Hampshire that offers a recreational discount (a carrot) tied to allowing public recreation rather than only penalizing posting.

Ending: Masland said the committee could refine details, including prorating for brief or conservation-related closures. The bill was introduced for committee consideration; no vote occurred during the hearing.