Statehouse will open on weekends

On Wednesday, June 15 Gov. Maggie Hassan signed HB 1531, a bill that allows the New Hampshire Statehouse to open on weekends.

HB 1531 specifically allows the state to sign a memorandum of understanding with a private group to provide tours to the public on the weekends.  The Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce is interested in running the tours (and covering the costs).

"By opening the State House to visitors on the weekends and attracting more visitors to Concord, House Bill 1531 will help boost our travel and tourism industry while highlighting the tradition of civic engagement that helps define who we are as Granite Staters," said Hassan.

Opponents are concerned about potential damage or theft during low-staffed days, even with insurance coverage.  There are more than 200 paintings and other historical artifacts in the building.