On May 18, the NH House of Representatives voted to kill SB27 by a margin of 276 to 75.
This is a great vistory for Lake Winnipesaukee and for the hundreds of lake lovers who have worked hard to make this happening. To those who have been closest to this, it is clear that the calls, letters and emails to reps have been the key to helping them understand that we who love the lake think that the speed limit is hugely important. For those of you who have helped with this, we thank you.
The margin of victory is particularly important. Speed Limits have come before the NH House of Representatives four times in the last six years. Each time, the House has voted in favor of speed limits and each time, the margin of support has been greater. Here is the history:| Year | Bill | Supporting | Opposing | Percent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | HB 162 | 193 | 139 | 58% |
| 2008 | HB 847 | 236 | 111 | 68% |
| 2010 | SB464 | 268 | 79 | 77% |
| 2011 | SB 27 | 276 | 75 | 79% |
We expect that this is the end of defending the boating speed limit for this session of the legislature. However, the President of SBONH stated in an interview right after the vote that this issue will arise again in the future. We hope it doesn't, but we will be ready if it does. Every time this issue comes up, we get more supporters who make calls, write letters and send emails. We will let you know when we need your help again.