Jason Bugg

To: House Ways and Means Committee Re: Opposition to HB 1068, HB 1580, and HB 1707 Date: January 12, 2026 Dear Chairman and Members of the Committee, I am a property owner and short-term rental host with a property in Bradford, New Hampshire. I am writing today to express my strong opposition to HB 1068, HB 1580, and HB 1707. While I understand the state’s desire to address housing availability, these bills unfairly penalize responsible property owners and threaten the tourism economy that so many New Hampshire towns rely on. HB 1580 & HB 1707 (New Surcharges and Taxes): These bills would essentially double the tax burden on certain properties or add significant annual surcharges. As a host in Bradford, I already contribute to the local economy by bringing visitors who spend money at local shops, restaurants, and seasonal attractions. Punitive taxes like the "Supplemental Residence Tax" do not create more housing; they simply make it financially impossible for many families to maintain their second homes or small rental businesses. HB 1068 (Expanding Meals & Rooms Tax): Redefining private homes as "hotels" overlooks the unique nature of home-sharing. STRs provide a different experience than traditional hotels and are often the only way for visitors to stay in rural or lakefront areas where hotels do not exist. The cumulative effect of these three bills would be devastating for the state’s reputation as a welcoming place for property owners and vacationers alike. I urge the committee to vote Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL) on all three bills. Thank you for your time and for considering the impact these changes will have on hosts like myself.