New Hampshire weighs taxes on vacant and luxury second homes

Two New Hampshire bills would tax second homes and unoccupied properties: a 0.75% levy on second homes valued at $500,000+ that would go to the local municipality, and a 'supplemental residence tax' requiring owners to pay the state the equivalent of their property tax if the home sits empty six months a year or is rented seasonally. Revenue projections range from about $15 million annually to more than $900 million, sparking debate over implementation and fairness; supporters say it could address housing and community funding needs while critics, including real estate and vacation rental interests, call it punitive. Gov. Ayotte and lawmakers say more housing units are needed and these measures will be reviewed in subcommittees.