New Hampshire Bill HB 1440 Faces Opposition Over Carbon Sequestration Management Plans
New Hampshire's HB 1440, which mandates property owners in carbon sequestration programs to submit management plans to state agencies, has encountered significant opposition during a hearing. Critics argue the bill infringes on property rights and is premature due to an ongoing study and a moratorium on new carbon projects until 2027, while supporters cite public safety concerns related to forest fires. Opponents, including the New Hampshire Timberland Owners Association, contend that existing regulations are adequate and warn that the legislation could discourage land ownership and hinder participation in carbon markets.
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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.
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