Bill to broaden agritourism rights

Rep. Robert Haefner and Rep. Tara Sad are sponsoring a 2016 bill that will increase the rights of New Hampshire farms to host weddings and other "agritourism" events.

HB 1141, the bill sponsored by Haefner and Sad, would explicitly add agritourism to the state definition of "agriculture" and "farming." 

Last June the state Supreme Court ruled that weddings, receptions, and similar events are not included in the state's definition of farming, and therefore towns have the right to stop farms from hosting such events. 

Supporters of that ruling argue that farms are not necessarily safe environments for large events, because farms do not have to satisfy the same safety requirements as entertainment venues. The value of neighboring properties may also decrease if rural farms turn into busy wedding venues. 

On the other hand, agritourism supporters argue that the income from hosting events is essential to the survival of farms in today's economy. A recent study from Plymouth State University also found that agritourism contributes roughly $300 million to the state's economy. 

Do you think the state should protect the right of farms to host agritourism events? Comment below!