karen steuer | Support HB1648

I strongly support HB 1648 because it addresses two of the biggest concerns facing New Hampshire residents right now: the crushing burden of property taxes and the need to maintain stable, reliable funding for public education. For many families, seniors, and working homeowners, property taxes are becoming unsustainable. A $300,000 exemption on primary residences would provide meaningful, immediate relief for the majority of homeowners — especially those living in modest homes — without blowing a hole in school funding. That matters. What makes HB 1648 especially smart is that it doesn’t simply shift costs onto towns or classrooms. Instead, it fairly rebalances the tax burden: • Higher-value properties contribute more • Out-of-state and second-home owners pay their fair share • Total funding for public schools remains whole This is exactly the kind of thoughtful policy New Hampshire needs — one that recognizes residents are stretched thin while also acknowledging that strong schools are essential to our communities and our economy. We should not have to choose between keeping our homes and properly funding education. HB 1648 proves we don’t have to. This bill offers real tax relief where it’s needed most, protects school funding, and creates a fairer system overall. I urge the committee to support HB 1648.