Big Win for Housing: Three Pro-Housing Bills Pass NH House
CONCORD – Today, the New Hampshire House passed the final bill in a pro-housing package 603 Forward has been advocating for aimed at tackling the state's housing crisis. This series of legislative victories marks a significant step toward making housing more accessible and affordable for young people and working families across the Granite State.
The housing crisis is one of the most pressing issues facing young people and a top priority for New Hampshire voters. 603 Forward will continue to advocate for the following pro-housing policies:
HB382: Relative to authority for municipalities to regulate mandatory on-site parking requirements.
HB577: Modifying the definition of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
HB631: Permitting residential building in commercial zoning by right.
In addition, the New Hampshire Senate also passed SB84, a key bill aimed at expanding housing opportunities across the state by setting a maximum lot size.
"We are thrilled to see these pro-housing bills advancing," said Matt Mooshian, 603 Forward Advocacy & Engagement Director. "This is a huge win for everyone – young people, working families, seniors, and businesses across New Hampshire – who are struggling with the impacts of our state’s housing shortage. Now, we look to the Senate to continue this momentum and move these critical reforms from the House forward."
The passage of these bills comes amid growing bipartisan recognition that New Hampshire’s lack of affordable and accessible housing is a top economic and quality-of-life issue. By making it easier to build housing where it is needed most, these policies will help strengthen local economies, support workforce development, and ensure that New Hampshire remains an attractive place to live and work.
603 Forward will continue to advocate for these bills as they move through the legislative process and urges the Senate to take swift action in support of housing solutions that benefit all Granite Staters.
Background
HB382 – Parking Reform: As amended, this bill caps parking mandates at one spot per unit. By reducing excessive parking mandates, HB382 allows for more flexible and efficient land use, ultimately reducing costs for developers and making housing construction more feasible in high-demand areas.
HB577 – Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): This bill modifies the definition of ADUs to make it easier for homeowners to add small, independent living spaces to their properties. By simplifying the process for creating ADUs, HB577 expands housing options for seniors, young professionals, and families looking for more affordable living arrangements.
HB631 – Home Near Jobs: This bill permits residential units in commercially zoned areas by right, streamlining the approval process for mixed-use developments. HB631 encourages the transformation of underutilized commercial spaces into much-needed housing, helping communities adapt to changing economic and housing needs.
603 Forward envisions a thriving New Hampshire where people are free to live, work and raise a family. In our New Hampshire: democracy is protected above all else; young people have a voice in government at all levels; and policy changes to help build an inclusive, affordable and resilient state.
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