Environment (Public Lands)

HB 1297 prevents individuals from acquiring ownership of property held under the public trust doctrine (such as beaches, waterways, or public lands) through long-term occupation without permission. It amends New Hampshire law to explicitly include such public trust property in the prohibition against adverse possession, alongside existing protections for town houses, schoolhouses, and church lots. This clarifies that the public cannot lose access to these shared resources due to prolonged, unauthorized use by private individuals. The bill takes effect 60 days after enactment.

HB 1205 prohibits all state and county-owned lands in New Hampshire from enrolling in carbon sequestration projects, which are programs that capture and store carbon dioxide to reduce atmospheric emissions. This bill directly affects state and county governments, preventing them from participating in such initiatives on public lands they manage. The key provision adds a new section to state law (RSA 79:38) explicitly banning enrollment in carbon sequestration programs for public lands. The law takes effect 60 days after enactment.

This House Resolution (HR 44) expresses support for maintaining public ownership of New Hampshire's state and federal lands, including the White Mountain National Forest and other conserved areas. It specifically opposes efforts to rescind the federal Roadless Rule, which protects roadless areas from logging and development. The resolution urges New Hampshire's governor, attorney general, and congressional delegation to take action against any attempts to weaken these protections. As a non-binding resolution, it does not create new laws but formally states legislative support for preserving public lands.