Article

A bill requiring property owners in carbon sequestration programs to submit management plans to New Hampshire's Division of Forest and Lands and Fish and Game, known as HB 1440, faced significant opposition during a hearing. Critics called the bill an overreach and an infringement on property rights, arguing it is premature given the state's ongoing study and a moratorium on new carbon projects until 2027.

State Rep. Mike Ouellet, the bill's sponsor, emphasized public safety concerns related to forest fires. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including foresters and landowners, expressed fears that the legislation would add bureaucracy and discourage land ownership.

Opponents, including the New Hampshire Timberland Owners Association and individual landowners, argued that existing regulations are sufficient and that the bill would undermine property rights and potentially lead to land conversion. The bill was described as unnecessary and a potential burden on landowners seeking to engage in carbon markets.