NH State Representative Steven Smith

Over the last few years, land owners have become increasingly concerned that if they open their land to hunters, hikers, etc., and those folks get hurt, that they are liable.  Due to a few actual law suits, these concerns were valid.  We were faced with a scenario where land owners across New Hampshire would begin posting their land, and removing acreage from those available for recreation today.  This is a large concern here in the rural areas of Acworth, Charlestown, Goshen, Langdon, Lempster, and Washington where we have so much unspoiled land.  Thanks to HB 1551, this has been averted.  This bill affords property owners protection when they allow people to use their land for free.  If a property owner deliberately creates a dangerous situation or causes injury, they are still liable.  If the land owner receives compensation for the use of the land, then they are also liable and should be carrying the appropriate insurance.  However, if you’re just a nice person who wants to let people enjoy your land, now you’re protected.  Read the bill for yourself here http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2012/HB1551.html

I had the privilege of meeting the Washington Selectboard this past Thursday.  I’m always a little envious of Selectboard meetings.  It’s three people in a room making decisions and getting work done.  If we could make Concord work like that, we’d be better off.  The Selectboard was very hospitable and we learned a lot about how the town works, and what Washington expects from it’s Representatives.  Today, my family and I went to the 225th Birthday Celebration of Meetinghouse/Town Hall.  The displays of how people worked and built things in colonial times were very educational.  I hope that young people saw these exhibits and appreciate how much easier things are today.  I wonder how many people know that Washington, NH was the first place named after George Washington.

Big thanks to Windy Walker for helping us today.  Local campaigns are driven by regular people who are willing to stand and be heard.  Windy and Jessica Bailey made some great shirts for the parade.  This was a great example of the kind of thinking we need.  She should could have spent a bunch of money and had some printed up.  Instead, she found a creative solution and worked within a budget.  This is the kind of effort that you should expect from government, creative solutions that get the job done while saving you money.