Property owners would gain stated rights as workforce housing laws are repealed

The bill would establish rights for property owners and limits on municipal land-use rules. The proposed chapter applies to people or entities holding legal title to New Hampshire real estate and to New Hampshire municipalities. Owners' uses must not infringe on others' rights or violate clearly defined state public-safety standards. The chapter says property-tax rules are not changed. The act would take effect January 1, 2027.

The bill would repeal state laws specifically about workforce housing while revising several housing grant programs. The repeals cover specified state laws on workforce housing. The revised programs address housing the state considers important for economic development. InvestNH grants or loans could go to municipalities or developers if at least 20 percent of a project’s units will remain affordable for at least 10 years for households earning up to 80 percent of area median income. The housing planning grant program would depend on available funding. Housing champion communities could apply for production grants; the department would set eligibility and grant limits. The act would take effect January 1, 2027.