This bill proposes two significant changes regarding state parks in New Hampshire. First, it exempts honorably discharged veterans from metered parking fees at state parks, provided they present acceptable proof of their veteran status. This exemption applies to all state park lots, including popular locations like Hampton Beach South and Wallis Sands. Second, the bill raises the limit on individual gifts and donations that the Division of Parks and Recreation can accept without requiring approval from the governor or the executive council, increasing the threshold from $2,500 to $50,000.

The bill also includes provisions for the Division of Parks and Recreation to solicit and receive donations to offset revenue losses resulting from these exemptions. Donations can be acknowledged through limited sponsor recognition, as long as it is non-promotional and does not imply state endorsement. The fiscal impact of the bill is expected to result in a decrease in revenue for the State Park Fund, estimated between $70,000 and $165,000 annually, due to the parking fee exemption for veterans. However, the potential increase in donations could provide an indeterminable boost to the State Parks Gifts and Donations Fund, depending on the number and value of contributions received.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 216-A:3-g
As Amended by the House: 216-A:3-g, 216-A:3-o
HB1768 text: 216-A:3-g