New Hampshire Faces Backlash After Passing Housing Reform Laws

Across several U.S. cities and states, new laws and ballot proposals aim to address housing shortages by reducing local barriers to development and shifting control over zoning and housing approvals. In New Hampshire, a law signed by Governor Kelly Ayotte removes local restrictions on developments along Class VI roads, sparking concern from rural lawmakers about increased community expenses and loss of local control. Similarly, New York City voters face proposals to accelerate affordable housing approvals and diminish local council members' veto power, efforts supported by Governor Kathy Hochul but criticized for potentially silencing neighborhood voices. Providence, Rhode Island, reports substantial progress in affordable housing development, with Mayor Brett Smiley highlighting significant investments and new projects targeting varying income levels. Meanwhile, in Baltimore, controversy surrounds Mayor Brandon Scott's housing bills, which opponents argue were pushed through with limited transparency and inadequate public engagement, raising concerns about the impact on homeowners and neighborhood character. These developments reflect a broader national debate balancing housing affordability and development pressures against local governance and community input.