Decisions regarding the permitting of new energy facilities could change hands in New Hampshire if lawmakers choose to dissolve the state’s current process and move responsibilities to the Public Utilities Commission.

On Tuesday, Rep. Michael Vose, the prime sponsor of House Bill 609 and chairman of the House Science, Technology, and Energy Committee, controlled the hearing on his own legislative effort, which was front-loaded with testimony of support from state agencies, labor unions, Eversource, and business officials. Members of the public, mostly in opposition, weren’t given a chance to speak until more than two hours in. 

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Along with more than 300 constituents who registered their opposition to the bill online, the Appalachian Mountain Club, Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, Audubon Society of New Hampshire, and Conservation Law Foundation all oppose HB 609.