This bill authorizes the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce, or its successor organization, to install and maintain one advertising device near Exit 12 on Interstate 93. The purpose of this device is to promote nonprofit events and destinations in downtown Concord. The bill amends RSA 236:74, IV by adding a new subparagraph (h), which allows the Chamber to erect this advertising device within 500 feet of the exit, provided it complies with local zoning standards and is funded and maintained solely by the Chamber. The device can display events sponsored by Concord-based nonprofit entities and may include up to 20% of its display for for-profit entities to help cover costs. However, it specifically excludes the city of Concord as an eligible sponsor.

The bill also highlights that this new provision creates an exception to existing Outdoor Advertising Control statutes, which generally prohibit off-premise advertising devices within 500 feet of interstate interchanges. The Department of Transportation has expressed concerns that this exception could violate federal agreements related to outdoor advertising, potentially resulting in the withholding of federal highway revenue to the state. The bill is set to take effect 60 days after its passage, and while it does not have an immediate fiscal impact, future revenue implications are deemed indeterminable.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 236:74
As Amended by the Senate: 236:74
SB632 text: 236:74