David Toth: Concern that HB 155 will increase property taxes

To The Daily Sun,

I am writing to express my concern that HB 155 will increase property taxes while granting tax relief to large multinational corporations, with little or no meaningful benefit for small businesses.

HB 155 is projected to reduce state tax revenues by approximately $26 million over the next several years. These are funds that support essential priorities such as education and infrastructure. When the state reduces its revenue base, the burden does not disappear — it shifts to local communities.

In New Hampshire, that shift is already being felt. In Ashland, the education budget is increasing by 5.6% due in part to reductions in state and federal funding. For many residents, particularly those on fixed incomes, additional property tax increases are simply not sustainable. This bill will intensify that pressure.

Supporters argue that HB 155 is necessary to keep our state competitive and attract business investment. I agree that competitiveness matters. However, competitiveness should not come at the expense of our children, our towns, or local entrepreneurs who are deeply invested in their communities. Providing tax advantages to multinational corporations with limited ties to our public welfare, while shifting costs onto property owners and small businesses, is not balanced economic policy.

We can pursue growth without undermining local stability. I urge legislators to reconsider HB 155 and protect the communities that make our state strong.

David Toth

Ashland