A Conservative Case for Property Rights and Housing Access

Every individual has the fundamental right to enjoy their property—just as every individual has the right to access that same opportunity. Property ownership and the freedom to live where one chooses are cornerstones of both New Hampshire’s values and our broader American tradition.

Unfortunately, in some communities, local regulations—often backed by a small minority of voters—have been weaponized to prevent others from accessing that same liberty. Historically, these kinds of exclusionary practices took the form of restrictive covenants aimed at keeping out Irish, Poles, Catholics, Jews, and others. Today, it’s the 5-acre zoning mandates, excessive permitting barriers, and regulations make it nearly impossible for working-class families to live in the communities they serve.

Let’s be clear: after all, local control doesn’t get more local than statutes that dictate your liberties by right.

The New Hampshire Constitution makes it the duty of the State to protect the rights of all citizens—not just those with political influence or deep pockets. That’s why the legislation under consideration in the State Senate is so important. It doesn’t eliminate local control—it simply ensures that local governments can’t abuse their zoning authority to deny others the right to live and thrive in their town.

This isn’t about “elitism” in the abstract. It’s about real people being priced out of their communities because a vocal few are determined to keep their neighborhoods exclusive. When only 7–10% of a town’s population votes on zoning ordinances, the system isn’t reflecting the will of the people—it’s reflecting the will of the most entrenched.

As Republicans, we believe in shared opportunity. We believe that families—regardless of income—should have the freedom to live where they choose, build homes, and pursue the American Dream. That’s why House Republicans included “Expand Housing and Lower Property Taxes” in our Contract with New Hampshire. That promise wasn’t just a slogan—it was a commitment to remove the barriers that make housing unaffordable and restrict opportunity.

If taken to its logical conclusion, unchecked local control could even be used to revive redlining in spirit, if not in name. That is not the New Hampshire way.

It’s time to stand up for liberty, fairness, and the principle that your zip code should never determine your worth.

Representative Jordan Ulery is the Vice Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee