New Hampshire lawmakers recently approved a series of bills addressing housing, carbon emissions, and energy policy, with several Democratic representatives raising concerns. Housing-related legislation, focused on zoning and housing density, received concurrence from the House after Senate approval. These changes could ease density restrictions, potentially increasing the housing supply to address affordability and shortages, though concerns exist regarding neighborhood impact and infrastructure capacity.

A bill establishing a carbon emissions moratorium also passed, drawing criticism from Democrats who believe it is unnecessary and could impede climate action. The House also approved a bill exploring New Hampshire’s potential withdrawal from ISO New England, the regional electricity grid operator, with the stated aim of lowering electricity costs and increasing control over energy policy. This measure faces significant criticism as New Hampshire is not a member of ISO New England, rendering withdrawal legally impossible. Funding for a study on this matter has been labeled a waste of taxpayer funds by some. Concerns have also been voiced about the potential benefits for private power operations and data centers without adequate community oversight.

Further energy policy changes include a bill permitting private, off-grid power generation, which has sparked debate. Democratic representatives worry this creates a system with unequal standards, potentially disadvantaging residents and lacking accountability. The legislative actions reveal differing approaches to addressing housing, climate action, and energy policy in New Hampshire, with Democratic representatives expressing reservations about the potential consequences of these decisions.