Sandra Crystall

The existing current use law/program supports New Hampshire's open space, which is essential to its tourist economy and public health of its residents. This proposed change via House Bill 1691 is overly restrictive and subjective, undermining the goals of Current Use, and ultimately reducing the public benefits supported by the existing Law. The language in the bill restricts a municipality's ability to approve Current Use in their communities. In addition, HB1691 arbitrarily restricts Current Use to 75 percent of rural zones, which limits the private property rights of landowners who seek to include their lands in Current Use. The definitions of the zones where restrictions apply are so complicated that the bill would be a burden on municipalities and appraisers. Section III contradicts the purpose of Current Use by requiring specific agriculture and forestry practices, again limiting private property rights of landowners. Enforcement of these requirement would be a burden on municipalities and landowners. Please vote Inexpedient to Legislate. Thank you