Commission hears concerns about HB 1691 changes to current‑use program

Commissioners discussed HB 1691, a proposed state change to New Hampshire’s current‑use tax statutes that could restrict eligibility and reduce conservation incentives in some areas. Members noted the New Hampshire Association of Conservation Commissions has expressed strong opposition and is coordinating analysis and public comment guidance.

One commissioner summarized the bill’s intent as clarifying and limiting definitions of what land qualifies for current use and suggested the change could remove certain parcels from current‑use status, potentially affecting conservation incentives. "The current‑use legislation from 1972 was a hallmark bit of legislation...it's the reason we have so much open space," a commissioner said in urging awareness.

Commissioners discussed potential local impacts, including long‑term funding for commission activities (current‑use revenue has historically funded conservation accounts) and the possibility that changes would primarily affect more urbanized areas rather than Newfields. They agreed there is a public comment mechanism in the legislative process and that interested individuals should use the NH House public comment portal; the commission did not take an official vote at the meeting.

Members asked the chair to circulate the NHACC action sheet and links to the comment portal so individuals could register support or opposition. The commission noted the bill may be referred to a study committee, which would postpone immediate action but not eliminate the issue from the legislative process.