This bill proposes the repeal of the position of the northern county area industrial agent within the Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA). The responsibilities associated with this position will be reallocated to other directors and employees within the department, ensuring that all areas of the state are served equally according to their economic needs. The bill includes new legal language that empowers the commissioner of the BEA to assign existing division directors or other employees to focus on economic development in specific regions, assisting local political subdivisions and organizations in maintaining and expanding industries, as well as encouraging new industries to establish operations in those areas.

Additionally, the bill repeals RSA 12-O:23, which pertains to the northern county area industrial agent, and is expected to result in a fiscal impact beginning in FY 2027, with an estimated annual savings of approximately $111,313. The Department of Business and Economic Affairs will absorb the responsibilities of the eliminated position by redistributing duties among existing staff, without the need for new funding or positions. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 12-O:5, 12-O:23
SB424 text: 12-O:5