David Preece | Support HB1065

RE: Strong Support for HB 1065 Dear Mr. Chair and Members of the Committee, I write in strong and unequivocal support of HB 1065, a necessary corrective to current law that restores clarity, predictability, and sound administrative practice where ambiguity has created confusion, inconsistency, and risk for municipalities and the public alike. HB 1065 addresses a structural deficiency in existing statute that has led to uneven interpretation and implementation across New Hampshire’s cities and towns. In its absence, municipal officials are forced to operate in a gray area—exercising discretion without clear statutory guardrails, exposing communities to avoidable disputes, administrative inefficiency, and potential litigation. HB 1065 resolves this by establishing a clear, uniform framework while preserving appropriate local discretion. Critically, this bill reinforces the principle of local control by enabling municipalities to make informed, context-specific decisions within a clearly defined legal structure. It does not impose a blanket mandate or substitute state judgment for local expertise. Instead, it restores balance by ensuring that local decision-making is both legally defensible and administratively workable. From a fiscal and operational standpoint, HB 1065 is sound policy. By clarifying statutory authority and procedure, it reduces compliance costs, minimizes staff time spent navigating uncertainty, and lowers the risk of legal challenges—costs that ultimately fall on local taxpayers. At a time when municipalities are facing sustained budgetary pressure, legislation that prevents unfunded mandates and administrative inefficiency should be advanced, not delayed. Equally important, HB 1065 promotes consistency and fairness. Residents and stakeholders deserve predictable rules applied evenly across jurisdictions, not outcomes dependent on conflicting interpretations of vague statutory language. This bill strengthens public confidence by ensuring that decisions are made transparently, according to clear standards adopted by the Legislature. In sum, HB 1065 represents responsible, technically sound governance. It corrects a statutory gap, respects municipal authority, protects taxpayers, and reduces legal exposure for local governments. For these reasons, I urge the Committee to recommend HB 1065 as Ought to Pass and to move this bill forward without amendment. Thank you for your careful consideration of this important legislation. Respectfully submitted, David Preece State Representative, Hillsborough 17