MANCHESTER, NH – The Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce (GMCC) praised the June 1 passage of House Bill 1697 by the New Hampshire Legislature. HB 1697 establishes sensible, reasonable framework for ridesharing in New Hampshire, similar to laws passed by more than 30 other states.
“Passage of HB 1697 is a very significant and positive step forward in ensuring ridesharing has a permanent home in New Hampshire. I would like to thank all of the sponsors of this bill and legislators for their support, and in particular Representative John Hunt and Senator Donna Soucy for their leadership in guiding this bill through the legislative process,” said Michael Skelton, GMCC President and CEO.
The bill is the product of a bi-partisan study committee held last summer and overwhelming bipartisan support throughout the legislative process in both the House and Senate. Just last week, House and Senate negotiators reached final agreement on HB 1697, setting the stage for today’s vote. HB 1697 now moves to the Governor for consideration.
The GMCC was an early supporter of HB 1697 after efforts to pass a ridesharing ordinance in Manchester last year were unsuccessful. Similar discussions of municipal regulation of ridesharing in Portsmouth and Nashua have also been ongoing.
“HB 1697 establishes uniform rules that enable technologies like ridesharing to thrive in the long-term. With rides originating in dozens of municipalities across New Hampshire, it makes sense to have a single set of rules based at the state level rather than a patchwork of local regulations. As a result, riders across New Hampshire can take advantage of this innovative new option for getting around and common sense rules will be in place to keep the public safe,” said Skelton.
Since arriving in Manchester nearly two years ago, ridesharing has proven to be an in demand amenity that has been heavily utilized by young professionals, students, tourists and residents. The ridesharing firm currently operating in New Hampshire, Uber, has reported strong and growing usage in Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth and the communities surrounding each city.
“The presence of ridesharing in Manchester has been a positive economic development tool as it supports our growth as a high tech hub. Businesses rely on talent to grow and amenities like ridesharing contribute to the quality of life and energy in our community that attracts and retains workers,” Skelton said.
You’re one click away! Sign up for our free eNewsletter and never miss another thing!
