Housing (Homelessness)

HB 519 appropriates $500,000 annually from the General Fund for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to fund the Waypoint youth and young adult shelter's operations, programs, and projects. This funding directly supports the shelter’s services for youth and young adults experiencing homelessness or housing instability. The bill authorizes the Department of Health and Human Services to use these funds starting July 1, 2025, with no additional policy changes beyond the financial allocation. It is a straightforward funding measure with no legislative policy shifts.

HB 1814 establishes a 10-year statewide strategic housing and infrastructure plan (SHIP) that requires the governor to develop and update the plan every two years. The plan must identify housing needs, incorporate regional infrastructure projects, and include public input through hearings in each executive council district. It directly affects state agencies (like the Department of Business and Economic Affairs), municipalities (which must update master plans every 10 years), and regional planning organizations. The bill also expands the Council on Housing Stability’s membership to include regional planning representatives and housing advocates, ensuring broader input into housing strategy.

HB 1753 establishes the New Hampshire First for Veterans Program and Authority to support veterans, service members, and their families across the state. The program will provide funding to address key priorities like ending veteran homelessness, matching veterans with veteran-friendly jobs, improving access to mental and physical healthcare (including suicide prevention and substance use treatment), and supporting military skills transfer and education opportunities. The New Hampshire First for Veterans Authority, governed by a 22-member board appointed by state leaders, will coordinate these efforts through public-private partnerships. This program directly affects veterans and their families by creating structured support systems for housing, employment, healthcare, and career transition.