CONCORD — The Business & Industry Association, New Hampshire’s statewide chamber of commerce and state manufacturing council, released the following statement on Gov. Kelly Ayotte’s budget address on Thursday.

The need to increase the supply of housing in New Hampshire is a top public policy priority for the BIA this session. We appreciate Gov. Ayotte’s focus on the housing supply crisis and how addressing this complex challenge is critical to maintaining and strengthening New Hampshire’s economic competitiveness.

Gov. Ayotte’s commitment to streamline the permitting process for housing is a welcome step the state can directly take to reduce regulatory burdens related to new residential construction. BIA has convened a group of like-minded organizations in the N.H. Housing Supply Coalition and simplifying and shortening the permitting process is one of the three key pillars of our “2025 Housing Supply Agenda.”

BIA looks forward to reviewing the governor’s proposed budget in full detail and will work with legislators to make sure New Hampshire’s business climate remains competitive.