During a recent meeting of the New Hampshire Special Committee on Housing, advocates highlighted the pressing need for reform in Durham's student housing market. Central to the discussion was House Bill 457, aimed at addressing the challenges posed by outdated zoning laws that limit housing options for students at the University of New Hampshire.

One poignant story shared was that of Mark Riggers, a sophomore who faced significant hurdles in securing off-campus housing. Mark and his friends diligently searched for a suitable rental, only to be thwarted by Durham's "three unrelated" rule, which restricts the number of unrelated individuals who can live together in a rental property. This law forced Mark's group into a difficult position, where they had to either scramble to find a new living arrangement or face the high costs of on-campus housing, which often exceeds the price of off-campus options.

The implications of such zoning restrictions are far-reaching, affecting not just individual students but the broader community as well. Advocates argue that these outdated regulations artificially limit the housing supply, driving up costs and making it increasingly difficult for students to find affordable living arrangements. This situation is not isolated; it reflects a larger trend impacting hundreds, if not thousands, of students each year.

The committee's discussions underscored the urgent need for legislative action to restore fairness and affordability in the housing market. As the community grapples with these challenges, the proposed reforms could pave the way for more accessible housing options, ultimately benefiting both students and the local economy. The next steps will involve further deliberation on House Bill 457 and its potential to reshape the housing landscape in Durham.