The Manchester Free Press

Sunday • July 6 • 2025

Vol.XVII • No.XXVII

Manchester, N.H.

Senate Gold Standard – February 15, 2024

N.H. Liberty Alliance - Tue, 2024-02-13 22:40 +0000

(white) goldstandard-02-15-24-S.pdf
(gold) goldstandard-02-15-24-S-y.pdf

The post Senate Gold Standard – February 15, 2024 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

Bill Would Address Violations of Free Speech By Government-Run Colleges

The Liberty Block - Sat, 2024-02-10 23:15 +0000

On Friday, New Hampshire State Representative Mike Belcher (R-Wakefield) posted a press release to X regarding violations of free speech by government-run colleges in New Hampshire. A bill proposed in this session by eight Representatives and three Senators would address the issue by prohibiting the college administrators from discriminating against political speech they oppose. 

The post Bill Would Address Violations of Free Speech By Government-Run Colleges appeared first on The Liberty Block.

Better Dead Than Dependent

Free Keene - Sat, 2024-02-10 18:55 +0000

As politicians and law enforcement leaders spin their wheels trying to get ahold of the fentanyl crisis, those of us in the drug policy reform movement have long had the answer to solving the overdose issue: legalize, regulate, and educate.  Treat drug abuse as it should be: a medical condition, not a criminal justice one.

To say that the Drug War has been an abject failure is to simply be a broken record repeating the message that we’ve been saying all along.  President Joe Biden’s administration funded $42.5 billion dollars for drug control for fiscal year 2023.  This was a complete waste of your money, just like all the years before it.  Were the enforcement of drug laws making a difference the following overdose statistics would simply not exist.

The police keep doing the same thing they’ve always done…  and the deaths just keep on rising.

As the title of this blog suggests, and I challenge you to refute it, our current drug policy supported by law enforcement and political leaders would rather have people die than be dependent on a narcotic.  The long solution to saving money, reducing crime, saving lives, and reducing addiction, has been to open public opiate clinics where addicts can get the drugs they need to function in society.  Yes, we should spend taxpayer dollars on giving maintenance doses of drugs to people with opiate use disorder rather than spending money on prosecuting and incarcerating them.  Addicts would no longer have to attack innocent people through robberies, burglaries, and theft to get money to acquire the drugs they need to function.  Innocent people would be protected from crime.  Sick people would be helped with the ultimate goal being drug free.

Doctors would want to administer less drugs, black market drug dealers want to administer more.

We could put the cartels out of business overnight.  We could stop funding wonderful organizations like the Taliban who profit off illicit opium sales.

This, of course, means that we would have to shift away from what the police and politicians currently want.  That is that people should be dead rather than dependent on a drug.  It is a cruel policy that costs lives when in contrast we could be saving lives and reducing addiction by simply having doctors and nurses provide the narcotics people need to sustain themselves.  Opiate use disorder is a legitimate medical condition that should be treated by medical professionals, not by law enforcement officers with handcuffs and cold jail cells.

Legalizing drugs has never been about the fact that all drugs are a good thing that people should use.  To the contrary, I think all people should steer clear of opiates the best they can.  Legalizing drugs has been about the fact that drugs are too dangerous to be controlled by the low-life criminal element of society and that having professional medical staff administering drugs would reduce death and disease.

President Biden: you can heal our world and correct the policy mistakes you have supported in the past.

Dismiss Office of National Drug Control Policy Director Dr. Rahul Gupta and replace him with Drug Policy Alliance Executive Director Ethan Nadelmann.  Repeal the federal “crack house” statue, 21 USC 856, that prevents overdose prevention centers from opening.

Harm reduction is the future.

-/-

Please note that I have begun moderating the comments.  I don’t mind comments that demean, disrespect, or hate on my opinions that I share here… but the comments in the comment section were people attacking each other. 

FreeKeene.com is a community of voluntaryists/libertarians that talk about their ideas and liberty activism.  Please try to keep it respectful to each other.

Bill Hearings for Week of February 12, 2024

N.H. Liberty Alliance - Sat, 2024-02-10 15:39 +0000
  • These are the most liberty-critical hearings for the week
  • Click on the bill number to read the bill.
  • Click on the committee name to email the committee your thoughts.

Of the 76 hearings in the House, we are recommending support of 8 and opposition of 9 with 17 being of interest.
Of the 20 hearings in the Senate, we are recommending support of 1 and opposition of 1 with 2 being of interest.

Position Bill Title Committee Day Time Room State Analysis
Oppose HB1594 establishing an annual review and qualification to determine eligibility to participate in the education freedom accounts program. Education Mon 2/12 9:15 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill requires annual determination of eligibility for awarding of education freedom account funds.
Oppose HB1453 relative to degree granting authority of certain institutions of higher education. Education Mon 2/12 10:15 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill requires institutions of higher education approved by the higher education commission for degree granting authority to be organized as nonprofit organizations and to comply with the Higher Education Act and state and federal anti-discrimination laws.
Oppose HB1512 limiting education freedom account funding to budgeted amounts. Education Mon 2/12 10:45 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill limits the amounts of funds appropriated from the education trust fund to the education freedom account program to budgeted sums.
Of Interest HB1269 relative to the use of child restraints in schools. Children and Family Law Tue 2/13 10:30 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill requires video and audio monitoring and recording of restraint and seclusion incidents if recording is included within a student’s individualized education program, and requires parental notification prior to the use of seclusion or restraints if practicable.
Of Interest HB1659 relative to interference with child custody and shared parenting. Children and Family Law Tue 2/13 1:15 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill provides that unless the parenting plan specifically provides otherwise, both parents shall have access to all records and information pertaining to the child. The bill further directs the court to award a parent additional parenting time in response to the other parent’s noncompliance with the parenting schedule. The bill also permits the court to fine the parent for noncompliance with either the obligation to share records or to comply with the parenting schedule.
Oppose HB1092 creating a period for the placing of and removal of political advertising on public property. Election Law Tue 2/13 9:50 AM LOB Room 307 This bill creates a period for the placing of and removal of political advertising on public property.
Of Interest HB1099 relative to partisan school district elections. Election Law Tue 2/13 10:15 AM LOB Room 307 This bill enables school districts to adopt partisan elections.
Of Interest HB1348 relative to polling places at which total ballot counts exceed the total number of registered voters. Election Law Tue 2/13 1:50 PM LOB Room 307 This bill negates election results at polling places at which total ballot counts exceed the total number of registered voters.
Of Interest HB1381 relative to required training on election procedures. Election Law Tue 2/13 2:15 PM LOB Room 307 This bill requires the secretary of state to provide training on election procedures.
Of Interest HB1091 relative to the financing of political campaigns. Election Law Tue 2/13 2:40 PM LOB Room 307 This bill makes various changes to the laws that regulate the financing of political campaigns.
Of Interest SB383 relative to local tax caps. Election Law and Municipal Affairs Tue 2/13 9:15 AM LOB Room 103 This bill creates an additional adjustment to local tax caps based on inflation and population changes. The bill also establishes procedures for adoption of a budget cap by school districts.
Oppose SB538 relative to zoning procedures concerning residential housing. Election Law and Municipal Affairs Tue 2/13 10:00 AM LOB Room 103 This bill establishes a tax relief program for office conversion to residences; enables municipalities to allow its governing body to adopt certain zoning ordinance changes; and adds additional authority in zoning powers for parking requirements and lot size requirements related to sewer infrastructure.
Of Interest HB1132 relative to permits for the siting of new landfills. Environment and Agriculture Tue 2/13 1:00 PM LOB Room 210-211 This bill requires persons siting new solid waste landfills to identify brownfields within the state that may serve as the site of a new solid waste landfill as part of the public benefit requirement analysis.
Oppose HB1170 requiring public benefit and community impact assessments from the department of environmental services. Environment and Agriculture Tue 2/13 2:00 PM LOB Room 210-211 This bill requires the department of environmental services to conduct public benefit and community impact assessments when the department considers any permit or project to ensure that human values, safety, and concerns receive proper consideration during planning and project development.
Of Interest HB1620 relative to suspending the issuance of new landfill permits until 2031. Environment and Agriculture Tue 2/13 2:45 PM LOB Room 210-211 This bill requires the suspension of approval of new landfill permits by the department of environmental services until 2031.
Of Interest HB1387 relative to revisions to the state building code. Executive Departments and Administration Tue 2/13 10:00 AM LOB Room 305 This bill updates the state building code and state building code review board.
Of Interest HB1059 relative to the state building code. Executive Departments and Administration Tue 2/13 10:30 AM LOB Room 305 This bill updates the definition of the state building code to include more recent versions of certain international codes and amendments approved by the building code review board.
Of Interest HB1106 relative to net asset limits under the elderly property tax exemption. Municipal and County Government Tue 2/13 9:35 AM LOB Room 301-303 This bill redefines the definition of net asset and residence for purposes of the elderly property tax exemption and expands the income eligibility threshold and the exemption amount.
Of Interest HB1284 relative to the quasi-judicial authority of planning boards. Municipal and County Government Tue 2/13 10:15 AM LOB Room 301-303 This bill clarifies the quasi-judicial nature of local planning boards and adds requirements for duties, procedures, and disqualification of board members.
Support HB1187 relative to local legislative bodies’ voting threshold for approval of lease agreements over $100,000. Municipal and County Government Tue 2/13 11:00 AM LOB Room 301-303 This bill changes the voting threshold for local legislative bodies’ approval of equipment leases over $100,000 from a simple majority to a 2/3 or 3/5 supermajority and requires a ballot vote.
Oppose CACR16 relating to local governance. Providing that local construction projects seeking amendments, waivers, or variances be subject to certain local approval, disclosure, and vote requirements. Municipal and County Government Tue 2/13 2:15 PM LOB Room 301-303 This constitutional amendment concurrent resolution would require that projects governed by zoning and land use regulations seeking changes, variances, or waivers shall require prior approval of all civic, veterans, fraternal, and not-for-profit association property owners affected, a financial impact statement, and approval by three-fifths vote.
Oppose HB1145 prohibiting the private ownership of landfills. Environment and Agriculture Wed 2/14 1:00 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill prohibits new solid waste landfill permits in the state for facilities owned by any person other than the state of New Hampshire or a political subdivision thereof.
Of Interest SB599 relative to the state fire code. Executive Departments and Administration Wed 2/14 9:00 AM SH Room 103 This bill: I. Revises the definition of the state fire code. II. Ratifies amendments to the state fire code.
Of Interest HB1688 relative to the use of artificial intelligence by state agencies. Executive Departments and Administration Wed 2/14 11:30 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill prohibits state agencies from using artificial intelligence to manipulate, discriminate, or surveil members of the public.
Oppose HB1545 relative to the disposal of state surplus property for affordable housing. Executive Departments and Administration Wed 2/14 2:00 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill permits the disposal of state surplus property at less than fair market value if the property is transfered to a nonprofit for the purpose of constructing affordable housing.
Support SB402 relative to allowing pharmacists to administer FDA approved vaccines without explicit approval from the general court. Health and Human Services Wed 2/14 10:00 AM LOB Room 101 This bill allows pharmacists to administer FDA approved vaccines without explicit approval from the general court.
Support HB1115 relative to the termination of tenancy at the expiration of the tenancy or lease term. Judiciary Wed 2/14 9:45 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill adds the expiration of the term of the lease or tenancy if over 6 months as grounds for an eviction.
Oppose HB1368 prohibiting termination of a tenancy based on a tenant’s failure to pay rent that was increased by certain price fixing programs. Judiciary Wed 2/14 10:30 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill prohibits evictions based upon certain vertical price fixing programs used by landlords.
Of Interest HB1640 relative to qualified immunity standards. Judiciary Wed 2/14 1:00 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill establishes standards and procedures for claims against the state for alleged violations of constitutional rights by government employees.
Of Interest HB1268 relative to prohibiting the issuance of large groundwater withdrawal permits for the commercial sale of bottled or bulk water. Resources, Recreation and Development Wed 2/14 10:00 AM LOB Room 305 This bill prohibits the issuance of large groundwater withdrawal permits for the commercial sale of bottled or bulk water.
Of Interest HB1314 relative to the comprehensive state development plan. Resources, Recreation and Development Wed 2/14 1:00 PM LOB Room 305 This bill adds provisions to the comprehensive state development plan concerning protection of natural resources and identifying environmental threats.
Of Interest HB1646 relative to chartered public schools. Education Thu 2/15 10:00 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill changes the eligibility requirements for chartered public schools.
Support HB1065 relative to fire sprinkler requirements in residential buildings. Special Committee on Housing Fri 2/16 9:30 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill adds an exception to the state fire code for fire suppression or sprinkler systems requirements for certain existing residential buildings with no more than 4 dwelling units.
Support HB1215 relative to subdivision regulations on the completion of improvements and the regulation of building permits. Special Committee on Housing Fri 2/16 10:00 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill provides that approved subdivision plats, site plans, and building permits shall be exempt from subsequent changes in the state building code, fire code, and municipal zoning regulations.
Support HB1361 relative to municipal land use regulation for manufactured housing and subdivisions. Special Committee on Housing Fri 2/16 10:45 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill requires municipalities to provide reasonable and realistic opportunities for the siting of manufactured housing parks and subdivisions.
Support HB1399 allowing municipalities to permit 2 residential units in certain single-family residential zones. Special Committee on Housing Fri 2/16 1:00 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill allows the expansion of a single family residence within a residential zone in an urban area to no more than 2 residential units without discretionary review or a hearing, if the proposed development meets certain requirements.
Support HB1400 relative to the required maximum number of residential parking spaces. Special Committee on Housing Fri 2/16 1:45 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill provides that zoning and planning regulations shall not set the maximum residential parking spaces, per unit, to greater than one parking space per residential unit.
Support HB1291 relative to accessory dwelling unit uses allowed by right. Special Committee on Housing Fri 2/16 2:30 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill increases the number of accessory dwelling units allowed by right from one to 2, adds definitions, and increases the maximum square footage. It also gives municipalities the right to require accessory units meet the definition for workforce housing.

The post Bill Hearings for Week of February 12, 2024 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

NH: State House backing for secession referendum climbs 85%

Free Keene - Thu, 2024-02-08 18:52 +0000

New Hampshire’s legislature has again voted on a measure which would let the NH electorate vote in a referendum on independence from the U.S. In 2022, very similar legislation received:
– 13 votes by state reps.
This time, the bill received:
– 24 votes by state reps.

Initially it appears few mainstream media have reported the latter number or the increase. But you can see the vote here for confirmation; this is the legislature’s official channel:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQHnyO93Vng
The vote occurs at 5:08:00

Here is the report on the less-successful 2022 effort: https://www.wmur.com/article/new-hampshire-house-secede-united-states/39400488?utm_campaign=snd-autopilot#
Around that time, a scientific poll by SurveyUSA indicated 42% support for an independence referendum, among NH residents…another under-reported number:
https://www.surveyusa.com/client/PollReport.aspx?g=f4ec3bab-2167-4e8e-ab64-671c1b4a5ddd

The Conservatarian Exchange Podcast #192

The Liberty Block - Thu, 2024-02-08 05:26 +0000

Mother convicted of manslaughter for murders committed by her son; Daniel from UK on the King’s medical issues and conspiracy theories; is the Taylor Swift/Kelce relationship a psyop? How many millennials believe the moon landing was faked? The fiasco of the border bill; the U.S. sec’y of state trying to meet with the Israeli military chief of staff with no one else present; Is Milei (in Argentina) backing down at all?

The post The Conservatarian Exchange Podcast #192 appeared first on The Liberty Block.

Senate Gold Standard – February 08, 2024

N.H. Liberty Alliance - Tue, 2024-02-06 00:43 +0000

(white) goldstandard-02-08-24-S.pdf
(gold) goldstandard-02-08-24-S-y.pdf

The post Senate Gold Standard – February 08, 2024 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

House Gold Standard – February 08, 2024

N.H. Liberty Alliance - Tue, 2024-02-06 00:27 +0000

(white) goldstandard-02-08-24-H.pdf
(gold) goldstandard-02-08-24-H-y.pdf

The post House Gold Standard – February 08, 2024 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

Senate Gold Standard – February 08, 2024

N.H. Liberty Alliance - Tue, 2024-02-06 00:27 +0000

(white) goldstandard-02-08-24-S.pdf
(gold) goldstandard-02-08-24-S-y.pdf

The post Senate Gold Standard – February 08, 2024 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

Should Property Owners Be Forced To Renew Leases?

The Liberty Block - Mon, 2024-02-05 01:02 +0000

Larry was kind enough to not evict Timmy in the middle of his lease, but he has resolved to not renew the contract with the unpleasant tenant. After all, Larry owns the property and can do whatever he wants with it.

But according to current state law, Larry is forced to let Timmy stay on his property indefinitely.

The post Should Property Owners Be Forced To Renew Leases? appeared first on The Liberty Block.

Bill Hearings for Week of February 05, 2024

N.H. Liberty Alliance - Sat, 2024-02-03 18:03 +0000
  • These are the most liberty-critical hearings for the week
  • Click on the bill number to read the bill.
  • Click on the committee name to email the committee your thoughts.

Of the 106 hearings in the House, we are recommending support of 18 and opposition of 12 with 8 being of interest.
Of the 18 hearings in the Senate, we are recommending support of 0 and opposition of 1 with 2 being of interest.

Position Bill Title Committee Day Time Room State Analysis
Of Interest HB1473 relative to social-emotional learning in public schools. Education Mon 2/5 10:15 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill prohibits the teaching of curriculum for social emotional learning in public schools.
Support HB1298 relative to the definition of part-time teachers. Education Mon 2/5 12:45 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill defines “part-time teachers” and subjects them to the board of education’s professional code of ethics and professional code of conduct.
Support HB1458 relative to authorizing parents to remove children from the English Language Learner Program. Education Mon 2/5 1:15 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill allows parents to remove their children from the English language learner (ELL) program, automatically removes them if they have not received ELL services in the last 2 years, and puts the burden on the local school district to appeal removals.
Of Interest HB1496 relative to the state’s duty to protect children in public schools. Education Mon 2/5 1:45 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill adds a provision stating that the state, acting as the temporary guardian for children in public schools, has a duty to protect those children.
Of Interest HB1692 relative to public high school graduation requirements. Education Mon 2/5 2:15 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill revises the requirements for public high school graduation by adding a requirement to earn a minimum competency score on the statewide assessment administered in high school.
Of Interest HB1682 relative to the civics test graduation requirement. Education Mon 2/5 3:00 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill provides authority for schools to use the department of education provided civics test to satisfy graduation requirements.
Of Interest HB1573 relative to oversight of and criteria for residential placement of children. Children and Family Law Tue 2/6 9:30 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill revises criteria for the out-of-home placement of children and increases oversight and certification criteria for out-of-state residential treatment programs. The bill also expands the definition of abuse or neglect under RSA 169-C to include a child in certain residential placements.
Support HB1582 relative to allowing for the consumption of alcohol in artist performance areas. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Tue 2/6 10:00 AM LOB Room 305 This bill includes the stage and performance areas in the definition of entertainers under an exception to liquor license requirements.
Support HB1151 relative to the carrying of alcoholic beverages on hotel premises. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Tue 2/6 10:30 AM LOB Room 305 This bill allows a guest of a hotel to purchase a drink at a hotel bar or restaurant and carry it back to the guest’s room.
Oppose HB1591 relative to fines for prohibited sales of tobacco. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Tue 2/6 11:00 AM LOB Room 305 This bill moves fines for tobacco-related violations from statute to administrative rules, adopted by the liquor commission.
Oppose HB1162 relative to teaching discrimination in public schools and discrimination in public workplaces. Education Tue 2/6 11:00 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill provides that no education law of this state shall be construed to bar any school employee from teaching the historical or current experiences of any group that is protected from discrimination. The bill also repeals provisions of the law relating to the right to freedom from discrimination in public workplaces and education.
Oppose HB1671 relative to the complaint process for teaching discrimination and allowing educators and school officials a right of action for damages and costs for false accusations. Education Tue 2/6 1:00 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill provides that complaints for teaching discrimination first be made to the local school board and are appealed to the state board of education. The bill also allows educators or other school employees falsely accused of teaching discrimination to initiate a civil action for legal or equitable relief.
Support HB1616 relative to parental consent for student participation in Medicaid to schools program. Education Tue 2/6 2:45 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill requires schools to obtain parental consent for each service is provided to a student under the Medicaid to schools program. Violation of the requirement would subject the educator to disciplinary action by the state board of education. The bill also requires certain legislative policy committees to receive reports regarding the Medicaid to schools program.
Of Interest SB531 relative to background checks of municipal health officers. Election Law and Municipal Affairs Tue 2/6 9:00 AM LOB Room 103 This bill provides that municipalities shall be responsible for reviewing criminal background checks of nominated health officers, with oversight of appointments by the department of health and human services. The bill is a request of the department of health and human services.
Oppose HB1504 relative to architectural paint recycling. Environment and Agriculture Tue 2/6 3:30 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill establishes an architectural paint recycling program administered by the department of environmental services.
Support HB1331 relative to dentists licensed in another country. Executive Departments and Administration Tue 2/6 10:00 AM LOB Room 210-211 This bill allows the board of dental examiners to grant a limited dental license to applicants licensed in another country.
Support HB1526 relative to a conditional veterinary license for veterinarians educated in other countries. Executive Departments and Administration Tue 2/6 1:45 PM LOB Room 210-211 This bill enables the board of veterinary medicine to issue a conditional veterinary license for veterinarians who are educated in other countries.
Support HB1029 relative to exempting certain persons from requiring a New Hampshire landing license if such persons are not landing for the purpose of the sale of the lobster or crab they have caught. Fish and Game and Marine Resources Tue 2/6 10:00 AM LOB Room 307 This bill exempts certain persons from requiring a New Hampshire landing license if such persons are not landing for the purpose of the sale of the lobster or crab they have caught.
Oppose HB1148 relative to the fish and game commission. Fish and Game and Marine Resources Tue 2/6 10:30 AM LOB Room 307 This bill makes changes to the fish and game commission including notice of appointment, qualifications, and misconduct and removal from office.
Support HB1532 relative to land owner rights and responsibility pertaining to game cameras and tree stands. Fish and Game and Marine Resources Tue 2/6 11:30 AM LOB Room 307 This bill allows a tree stand to be erected from August 1 to June 1. This bill also allows for the placement of game cameras on a property with the owners’ permission.
Oppose HB1100 relative to coyote hunting. Fish and Game and Marine Resources Tue 2/6 1:30 PM LOB Room 307 This bill prohibits hunting coyote during certain months to coincide with coyote pup rearing.
Support HB1063 relative to motor vehicle speed within 10 miles per hour of the speed limit. Transportation Tue 2/6 9:30 AM LOB Room 203 This bill allows motor vehicles to lawfully travel 10 miles per hour over the speed limit in certain circumstances.
Support HB1403 relative to temporary vehicle emission control equipment. Transportation Tue 2/6 10:30 AM LOB Room 203 This bill extends the repair period for vehicles that fail the OBD II test to 90 days.
Of Interest HB1637 relative to reducing requirements for vehicle inspections. Transportation Tue 2/6 11:00 AM LOB Room 203 This bill reduces requirements for vehicle inspection.
Support HB1247 relative to requiring the display of certain information concerning Selective Service registration at driver licensing and school military recruiting locations. Transportation Tue 2/6 1:00 PM LOB Room 203 This bill requires a form to be available at locations of state driver’s licensing and at schools hosting military recruiters concerning registration with the Selective Service System.
Oppose HB1244 prohibiting smoking and e-cigarettes in motor vehicles when a passenger is under 16 years of age. Transportation Tue 2/6 1:30 PM LOB Room 203 This bill prohibits smoking and e-cigarettes in motor vehicles when a passenger under the age of 16 is in the vehicle.
Oppose HB1467 relative to child passenger protection. Transportation Tue 2/6 2:00 PM LOB Room 203 This bill requires a motor vehicle restraint system for motor vehicle operators and passengers under 18 years of age.
Of Interest HB1339 relative to department of safety firearm background checks. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Wed 2/7 10:30 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill requires the department of safety to be responsible for conducting the required firearm background checks for federal firearm licensees through NICS for all firearm transfers.
Oppose HB1462 relative to requirements for reporting hate crimes. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Wed 2/7 11:00 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill establishes reporting requirements for hate-based crimes.
Of Interest SB373 relative to the state building code. Executive Departments and Administration Wed 2/7 9:00 AM SH Room 103 This bill updates the state building code definition.
Oppose SB401 relative to removing the prospective repeal of the New Hampshire granite advantage health care program and trust fund. Health and Human Services Wed 2/7 10:00 AM SH Room 100 This bill removes the prospective repeal of the New Hampshire granite advantage health care program and trust fund.
Support HB1300 relative to terminal patients’ right to try act. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Wed 2/7 10:15 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill revises the definition of eligible patient and terminal illness for purposes of the patient’s right to try act, expands the criteria for informed consent, and removes references to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for purposes of defining an investigational drug or device.
Of Interest HB1283 relative to end of life options. Judiciary Wed 2/7 10:00 AM LOB Room 210-211 This bill establishes a procedure for an individual with terminal illness to receive medical assistance in dying through the self administration of medication. The bill establishes criteria for the prescription of such medication and establishes reporting requirements and penalties for misuse or noncompliance.
Support HB1377 relative to granting workers free choice to join or refrain from joining labor unions. Labor, Industrial and Rehabilitative Services Wed 2/7 9:30 AM LOB Room 307 This bill prohibits collective bargaining agreements that require employees to join or contribute to a labor union.
Oppose HB1388 relative to recusal by members of the general court for conflicts of interest. Legislative Administration Wed 2/7 10:30 AM LOB Room 203 This bill defines “conflict of interest” and makes provisions for the recusal of members of the general court for conflicts of interest.
Support HB1479 relative to prohibiting the use of federal, state, or local funds for lobbying activities. Legislative Administration Wed 2/7 11:00 AM LOB Room 203 This bill regulates the use of public funds for lobbying activities and establishes certain additional enforcement mechanisms.
Support HB1202 relative to the issuance of permits for the alteration of driveways exiting onto public ways. Public Works and Highways Wed 2/7 10:45 AM LOB Room 201 This bill establishes certain deadlines for issuance of permits for the alteration of driveways exiting onto public ways.
Oppose HB1360 relative to emergency authority on the public or coastal waters of the state. Resources, Recreation and Development Wed 2/7 2:00 PM LOB Room 305 This bill allows the department of safety to establish an emergency maximum speed limit on public and coastal waters for up to 10 days due to weather or environmental conditions.
Oppose HB1611 relative to establishing a child care workforce fund. Special Committee on Childcare Wed 2/7 10:00 AM LOB Room 209 This bill establishes a child care workforce fund.
Support HB1567 relative to zoning provisions concerning family and group family child care uses. Special Committee on Childcare Wed 2/7 1:30 PM LOB Room 209 This bill generally requires family and group family child care programs to be allowed as an accessory use to any primary residential use under local zoning and planning regulations.
Support HB1584 relative to home day care licensing requirements. Special Committee on Childcare Wed 2/7 2:00 PM LOB Room 209 This bill exempts from child day care licensing requirements private homes in which care is provided for up to 4 children in addition to the provider’s own children. Current law permits care for 3 additional children.

The post Bill Hearings for Week of February 05, 2024 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

Breaking: 24 NH Legislators Vote To Send Secession To The Voters

The Liberty Block - Thu, 2024-02-01 21:57 +0000

On Thursday afternoon, the New Hampshire House voted on CACR20, legislation that would place a question on the ballot asking voters if they wished to amend the New Hampshire Constitution to include a provision stating that New Hampshire declares independence from the union once the DC politicians rack up a debt of $40 trillion. 

The post Breaking: 24 NH Legislators Vote To Send Secession To The Voters appeared first on The Liberty Block.

The RIGHT Mode For Guardsmen – Stewart Secures Funding

The Liberty Block - Thu, 2024-02-01 06:37 +0000

Yesterday, I placed a mid-size donation into a fund that seeks to reimburse US Border agents and soldiers who choose to continue their work in an alliance with the Texas Guard or the volunteer groups now establishing themselves to protect Americans’ lives and property. 

The post The RIGHT Mode For Guardsmen – Stewart Secures Funding appeared first on The Liberty Block.

The Conservatarian Exchange Podcast #191

The Liberty Block - Thu, 2024-02-01 05:51 +0000

The ongoing opposition of Texas to the feds on the border issue and where is Trump, why is he not capitalizing on this issue? Does POTUS have authority to stop States’ National Guards from going to another State to enforce the border; the proposed deal in the senate to allow more immigrants in; should Trump do more to raise the enthusiasm of the republican voters? How important is the upcoming special congressional election on February 13th in Nassau County, NY? Severe prison sentences for pro-lifers vs light or no sentences for BLM peaceful protesters? Should Trump more publicly protect and stand up for Peter Navarro?

The post The Conservatarian Exchange Podcast #191 appeared first on The Liberty Block.

House Floor Vote On CACR20 on February 1st

Free Keene - Wed, 2024-01-31 05:18 +0000

New Hampshire State House

A constitutional amendment proposed this session (CACR 20) would give the people of New Hampshire the power to fight back against the dangerous and reckless spending of the federal government. In the last 100 years the U.S.federal government has only managed to balance its budget once! By comparison New Hampshire not only cut taxes, but even reduced it’s budget during a time in which all the other states were spending recklessly (that is during the recent economic shutdown that was COVID). As an independent country New Hampshire could do better and CAC20 would give the people the right to vote on an amendment that would declare independence if the federal government continues to increase our indebtedness.

No matter how people actually vote on this constitutional amendment our legislators sending it to a vote of the people would be an act that sends an important message to the federal government: Stop stealing our money or we’re out. This bill would enable voters to declare New Hampshire an independent country IF and only if the United States continues to entangle New Hampshire in a debt we will never be able to pay back. The declaration of independence from the United States empire would only occur if both the citizens of New Hampshire voted yes to pass the constitutional amendment AND the federal governments debt hits $40 trillion. It is also essential that the house and senate conduct a roll call so we know which reps favor democracy and freedom and which reps just pay lip service to it.

The committee hearing on this amendment saw more than 50 individuals come out in support of it and only one person testify against it. I’m not even sure that is correctly framed as my recollection is they had a neutral stance on the amendment. As the committee didn’t listen to it’s constituents and placed the amendment on the consent calendar it’s now up to you to tell your reps to pull this bill off of the consent calendar and do a role call vote. This will give us the power to vote out reps who do not support democracy and the freedom of their constituents to vote on this important issue.

In conclusion please tell your rep to pull CACR 20 off of the consent calendar and support it in a roll call vote!

To find out who your state reps are and their contact information you can utilize this handy tool:

https://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/house/members/

House Gold Standard – February 01, 2024

N.H. Liberty Alliance - Wed, 2024-01-31 00:20 +0000

(white) goldstandard-02-01-24-H.pdf
(gold) goldstandard-02-01-24-H-y.pdf

The post House Gold Standard – February 01, 2024 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

Bill Hearings for Week of January 29, 2024

N.H. Liberty Alliance - Sun, 2024-01-28 14:54 +0000
  • These are the most liberty-critical hearings for the week
  • Click on the bill number to read the bill.
  • Click on the committee name to email the committee your thoughts.

Of the 118 hearings in the House, we are recommending support of 24 and opposition of 17 with 5 being of interest.
Of the 55 hearings in the Senate, we are recommending support of 3 and opposition of 8 with 4 being of interest.

Position Bill Title Committee Day Time Room State Analysis
Of Interest HB1437 relative to the membership of the state board of education. Education Mon 1/29 1:30 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill changes the composition of the state board of education.
Oppose HB1205 relative to women’s school sports. Education Mon 1/29 2:00 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill requires schools to designate athletics by sex and prohibits biological males from participating in female athletics. This bill further creates various causes of action based on violations of the provisions in the bill.
Oppose HB1279 relative to payment by the state of a portion of retirement system contributions of political subdivision employers. Finance Mon 1/29 10:00 AM LOB Room 210-211 This bill provides that the state shall pay 7.5 percent of contributions of retirement system employers other than the state for group I teachers and group II members.
Oppose HB1508 requiring fiber optic communications service providers to prioritize service restoration for public safety and public health organizations. Science, Technology and Energy Mon 1/29 10:30 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill requires fiber optic communications providers to prioritize the restoration of communication and Internet access for critical infrastructure of public safety and public health organizations over commercial and residential customers.
Support HB1576 relative to allowing property owners to opt out of public utilities. Science, Technology and Energy Mon 1/29 1:00 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill requires public utilities, cooperatives, and municipal corporations providing electric, gas, water, and sewer connection services to allow property owners or existing customers to decline service.
Support HB1308 relative to parent access to children’s library records. Children and Family Law Tue 1/30 11:00 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill provides a parent or legal guardian with access to their minor child’s library records.
Of Interest CACR25 relating to the rights of children and parents. Providing that parents and children have the right to control their health, education, and welfare. Children and Family Law Tue 1/30 1:15 PM LOB Room 206-208 This constitutional amendment concurrent resolution amends the constitution to recognize the rights of children and parents to provide for the protection of their minor children.
Of Interest CACR17 relating to the rights of parents. Providing that parents shall have a fundamental right to direct the upbringing, education, and care of their minor children. Children and Family Law Tue 1/30 1:30 PM LOB Room 206-208 This constitutional amendment concurrent resolution adds an amendment to the constitution stating that parents have a fundamental right to direct the upbringing of their minor children.
Oppose SB308 relative to the state minimum hourly rate. Commerce Tue 1/30 9:45 AM SH Room 100 This bill provides for increases in the minimum hourly rate.
Support HB1159 relative to toilet facilities provided by restaurants and other food establishments. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Tue 1/30 10:00 AM LOB Room 305 This bill would require that restaurants designed to seat 50 or more patrons have at least 2 separate toilet rooms, and eliminates the requirement for separate bathrooms to be gender-specific.
Support HB1090 repealing the requirement to register “farmers’ market” as a trade name. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Tue 1/30 11:00 AM LOB Room 305 This bill repeals the prohibition against using the term “farmers’ market” in a trade name unless the use met specific requirements.
Of Interest SB523 relative to the regulation of public school library materials. Education Tue 1/30 9:15 AM LOB Room 101 This bill prohibits material that is obscene or harmful to minors in schools, requires vendors of school library materials to develop appropriate ratings, and creates a procedure for removal and cause of action.
Support SB339 relative to repealing the graduation requirement regarding Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) applications. Education Tue 1/30 9:30 AM LOB Room 101 This bill removes requirements that students file a free application for federal student aid form (FAFSA) or a waiver for such form prior to graduation, and removes all references to the FAFSA.
Support HB1446 relative to eliminating the cost for electronic copies of the checklist. Election Law Tue 1/30 10:00 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill eliminates the cost for an electronic copy of the checklist that is emailed to the requestor but enables the town or city clerk and the secretary of state to charge a fee for electronic copies given on an external storage device.
Support HB1313 relative to access to the voter checklist by candidates. Election Law Tue 1/30 11:30 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill enables municipalities to send a copy of the voter checklist electronically to candidates.
Oppose HB1292 relative to coverage of children under the state retiree insurance plan. Executive Departments and Administration Tue 1/30 10:00 AM LOB Room 210-211 This bill removes the requirement that young adult children covered under a retired state employee’s insurance plan be full-time students.
Support HB1070 relative to procedures during a state of emergency. Executive Departments and Administration Tue 1/30 1:00 PM LOB Room 210-211 This bill prohibits state employees from cooperating with the executive branch in suspending civil liberties during a declared state of emergency.
Oppose SB460 establishing the crime of and penalties for unlawful use of unmanned aircraft systems. Judiciary Tue 1/30 1:30 PM SH Room 100 This bill establishes the crime of and penalties for unlawful use of small unmanned aircraft systems (drones).
Support SB578 relative to criminal pre-trial services and monitoring. Judiciary Tue 1/30 2:00 PM SH Room 100 This bill prohibits criminal defendants on pre-trial release from being required to pay for pre-trial services or monitoring, including electronic monitoring, with the cost instead the be paid by the court where the defendant is charged or through appropriations to the agency performing the pretrial services and monitoring. This bill further requires the agency performing the pretrial services and monitoring to use the least restrictive interventions that are necessary unless otherwise ordered by the court.
Oppose HB1218 relative to voting for municipal bonds. Municipal and County Government Tue 1/30 9:50 AM LOB Room 301-303 This bill allows for the adoption of municipal bonds by a simple majority vote.
Oppose HB1362 relative to authorizing municipalities to stabilize rent increases in rental housing. Municipal and County Government Tue 1/30 2:30 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill authorizes municipalities to enact and enforce rent stabilizing ordinances.
Support HB1439 relative to vehicle registrations and reciprocal toll collection enforcement agreements. Public Works and Highways Tue 1/30 10:00 AM LOB Room 201 This bill removes the authority of the commissioner of the department of transportation to suspend the motor vehicle registration of owners in violation of reciprocal toll collection enforcement agreements.
Oppose HB1487 relative to the health effects of 5G technology. Science, Technology and Energy Tue 1/30 11:00 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill requires certain provisions around measurements of RF-radiation and notification of the effects of such radiation from 5G technology.
Oppose HB1332 relative to prohibiting electric vehicles from parking in parking garages. Transportation Tue 1/30 11:00 AM LOB Room 203 This bill prohibits the parking of electric vehicles in parking garages.
Oppose HB1445 relative to electric bicycles, electric scooters, and electric unicycles. Transportation Tue 1/30 11:20 AM LOB Room 203 This bill modifies the requirements for the operation of and equipment required for all classes of electric bicycles, requires the division of motor vehicles to develop procedures for the registration of electric bicycles, and requires that electric scooters and electric unicycles be regulated as motor vehicles.
Oppose SB428 relative to the use of automated license plate readers by law enforcement officers. Transportation Tue 1/30 1:30 PM LOB Room 101 This bill defines the appropriate use of automated license plate readers by law enforcement officers. The bill also makes an appropriation to the department of safety for digital automatic programming interface to connect data from the division of motor vehicles to the state police.
Oppose HB1203 relative to prohibiting the charging of rent to charities by charitable gaming facilities. Ways and Means Tue 1/30 10:00 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill prohibits the charging of rent for facilities or equipment to charities by primary game operators.
Support HB1346 relative to food service at a bed and breakfast. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Wed 1/31 10:00 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill permits bed and breakfasts to serve snacks and meals in addition to breakfast.
Support HB1540 relative to the definitions of full course meals and full service restaurant for purposes of alcohol licensing. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Wed 1/31 11:00 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill revises the definition of full course meal and full service restaurant for purposes of alcohol licensing.
Support HB1374 relative to liquor licenses for restaurants. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Wed 1/31 11:30 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill changes the sales requirements for food for on-premises beverage and liquor licenses.
Support HB1271 relative to the conversion, combination, and reorganization of boards and advisory boards. Executive Departments and Administration Wed 1/31 10:45 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill, at the request of the office of professional licensure and certification: 1. Converts the board of acupuncture licensing into an advisory board and makes other amendments implementing this change. 2. Converts the board of family mediator certification into an advisory board and makes other amendments implementing this change. 3. Converts the guardian at litem board into an advisory board and makes other amendments implementing this change. 4. Converts the manufactured housing installations standards board into an advisory board and makes other amendments implementing this change. 5. Combines the advisory board of massage therapists with the advisory board of reflexology, structural integration, and Asian bodywork therapy and makes other amendments implementing this change. 6. Converts the midwifery council into an advisory council and makes other amendments implementing this change. 7. Converts the board of septic system evaluators into an advisory board and makes other amendments implementi
Oppose SB406 relative to emergency housing assistance and making an appropriation therefor. Health and Human Services Wed 1/31 9:00 AM SH Room 100 This bill directs the department of health and human services to establish a homelessness prevention pilot program, to be administered through municipalities and community action programs. The bill also makes an appropriation to the department of health and human services to assist municipalities in providing emergency housing assistance and preventing homelessness.
Of Interest SB498 relative to the department of health and human services, division for children, youth and families. Health and Human Services Wed 1/31 9:30 AM SH Room 100 This bill provides that under RSA 169-B, relative to delinquent children, and RSA 169-D, relative to children in need of services, a child may be placed with fictive kin or a child care institution, psychiatric residential treatment program, or other program certified by the department of health and human services.
Oppose SB559 relative to the definition of vaccine for purposes of the New Hampshire vaccine association. Health and Human Services Wed 1/31 10:00 AM SH Room 100 This bill revises the definition of vaccine for purposes of the New Hampshire vaccine association.
Support HB1693 relative to the use of psychedelics for therapeutic purposes. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Wed 1/31 1:00 PM LOB Room 210-211 This bill allows and regulates the use of psychedelics for certain qualifying medical conditions.
Support HB1585 relative to medication administration by direct care staff in residential care facilities. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Wed 1/31 1:30 PM LOB Room 210-211 This bill directs the department of health and human services, in consultation with the board of nursing, to adopt rules governing the administration of medication by direct care staff in residential care facilities.
Support HB1010 relative to expanding maternity options and midwifery access. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Wed 1/31 2:30 PM LOB Room 210-211 This bill provides that the midwifery council shall not adopt rules limiting care by a midwife based on the patient being pregnant with multiple fetuses, malpresentation of the fetus, the number of prior cesarean sections, or distance from a hospital.
Support CACR12 relating to the definition of the word “cherish.” Providing that the 1784 word “cherish” shall be replaced by the 2024 word “cherish.” Judiciary Wed 1/31 9:00 AM LOB Room 206-208 This constitutional amendment concurrent resolution reinserts the word “cherish”.
Oppose HB1169 creating a private cause of action for discrimination based on hairstyles relative to a person’s ethnicity. Judiciary Wed 1/31 9:45 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill creates a private cause of action for discrimination based on hairstyles relative to a person’s ethnicity. This bill also exempts such causes of action from the jurisdiction of the human rights commission.
Support HB1220 relative to abolishing the collection of racial and ancestral data for use in a marital application worksheet. Judiciary Wed 1/31 10:30 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill abolishes the collection of racial and ancestral data for use in a marital application worksheet.
Support HB1245 relative to release of confidential records of a person appointed a guardian. Judiciary Wed 1/31 11:15 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill provides that a person appointed a guardian shall retain the right to access and consent to the release of his or her confidential records unless the terms of the appointment provide otherwise.
Oppose HB1432 relative to prohibiting certain uses of artificial intelligence and creating a private claim of action. Judiciary Wed 1/31 1:00 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill: 1. Establishes the crime of fraudulent use of artificial intelligence and sets penalties therefor; 2. Establishes a cause of action for fraudulent use of artificial intelligence; 3. Establishes registration of lobbyists who have been found to have fraudulently used artificial intelligence in certain cases; 4. Establishes a mechanism for the enforcement of a ban on the fraudulent use of artificial intelligence in elections.
Oppose SB315 relative to law enforcement agency reporting on information concerning bias crimes. Judiciary Wed 1/31 1:00 PM SH Room 100 This bill requires a law enforcement agency operating within New Hampshire to collect and report information concerning bias crimes as prescribed by the division of state police.
Support SB507 extending the time to petition for a new trial in certain cases. Judiciary Wed 1/31 1:15 PM SH Room 100 This bill extends the time to petition a court for a new trial in certain cases.
Support HB1475 relative to preventing strategic lawsuits against public participation. Judiciary Wed 1/31 1:45 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill establishes legal process for preventing strategic lawsuits against public participation (anti-SLAPP) as qualified immunity from suit, prosecution, and from liability for any defendant or counter-defendant in any action, case, claim, administrative proceeding, arbitration, or any other legal process that impacts their First Amendment rights.
Oppose HB1037 relative to repealing limited liability for manufacturers, distributors, dealers, or importers of firearms or ammunition. Judiciary Wed 1/31 3:15 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill repeals the statute that provides limited liability to manufacturers, distributors, dealers, or importers of firearms or ammunition.
Support HB1343 prohibiting the use by the governor of emergency orders concerning elections procedures without the written consent of the majority and minority leaders of the house of representatives and senate. Legislative Administration Wed 1/31 10:00 AM LOB Room 203 This bill requires the governor to get prior written or electronic approval from legislative majority and minority leaders to issue an emergency order concerning elections procedures.
Oppose HB1208 relative to permitting requirements before timber harvesting operations in a wetland. Resources, Recreation and Development Wed 1/31 11:00 AM LOB Room 305 This bill requires that persons or entities conducting timber harvesting operations in wetlands verify compliance with and maintain in their records all permitting documents required for the work being done.
Support HB1209 relative to observers in motorboats. Resources, Recreation and Development Wed 1/31 1:00 PM LOB Room 305 This bill provides that an observer is not required in a motorboat towing water skiers, aquaplanes, or similar devices, or while engaged in wake surfing, when the motorboat is equipped with a mirror allowing the operator to view the water skiers.
Oppose HB1229 relative to the purchase and sale of any interest in real property abutting public waters. Resources, Recreation and Development Wed 1/31 2:00 PM LOB Room 305 This bill requires buyers, lessees and transferees of shoreland property to acknowledge minimum requirements for compliance with the shoreland water quality protection act.
Support CACR15 relating to taxation. Providing that a 2/3 vote is required to pass legislation imposing new or increased taxes or license fees, or to authorize the issuance of state bonds and providing that the general court shall appropriate funds for payment of interest and installments of principle of all state bonds. Ways and Means Wed 1/31 9:30 AM LOB Room 202-204 This constitutional amendment concurrent resolution provides that a 2/3 vote of the house of representatives and the senate shall be required to pass a new tax or license fee or to increase any tax or license fee that has been levied, or to authorize the issuance of state bonds.
Of Interest SB475 relative to design of a climate-controlled storage facility for the New Hampshire state library. Capital Budget Thu 2/1 10:00 AM SH Room 103 This bill makes a capital appropriation to the department of natural and cultural resources toward the design of a climate-controlled storage facility to properly preserve precious state materials stored within the New Hampshire state library.
Of Interest SB476 making a capital appropriation to the department of corrections toward the replacement of the New Hampshire state prison for men. Capital Budget Thu 2/1 10:15 AM SH Room 103 This bill makes a bonded appropriation of funds for architectural, engineering, programming, and design and construction documents for the New Hampshire state prison for men.
Oppose SB533 relative to physical quorums at public meetings. Judiciary Thu 2/1 10:00 AM SH Room 100 This bill enables public bodies to allow one or more members of the body to participate in a meeting by electronic means.
Oppose SB563 relative to federal immigration enforcement. Judiciary Thu 2/1 1:00 PM SH Room 100 This bill prohibits state and local government entities from adopting sanctuary policies to prohibit or impede the enforcement of federal immigration law.
Of Interest HB1050 relative to establishing a voluntary waiver of the right to purchase a firearm. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Fri 2/2 9:30 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill establishes the New Hampshire voluntary do not sell firearms list and prohibits the commercial sale or transfer of firearms to any person who voluntarily waives that person’s right to purchase a firearm and registers to be enrolled onto the list and sets out penalties for violations thereof. This bill further protects from public disclosure any governmental documents relating to the list.
Oppose HB1336 relative to employees’ firearms in locked vehicles. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Fri 2/2 10:30 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill prohibits employers from inquiring into, searching for, or banning employee’s storage of firearms or ammunition in their locked vehicles and provides civil immunity to employers for any economic loss, injury, or death that results from an employer’s adherence to this law.
Support HB1337 relative to the return of weapons and ammunition upon expiration of protective orders. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Fri 2/2 11:00 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill changes the burden to the plaintiff to file a request for a hearing prior to the expiration of a protective order or else any and all firearms, ammunition, or specified deadly weapons will be returned to the defendant. This bill further removes the prohibition that law enforcement agencies shall not release firearms, ammunition, or specified deadly weapons without a court order, and removes the authorization for law enforcement agencies to charge the defendant a fee for the storage of the firearms, ammunition, and specified deadly weapons. This bill further removes the subsection providing law enforcement agencies release from liability for damage or deterioration to the firearms, ammunition, or specified deadly weapons stored.
Oppose HB1711 authorizing the state to report mental health data for firearms background check purposes and providing for processes for confiscation of firearms following certain mental health-related court proceedings and for relief from mental health-related firearms disabilities. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Fri 2/2 11:30 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill authorizes the state to report mental health data for firearms background check purposes and provides for processes for the confiscation of firearms following certain mental health-related court proceedings and for relief from mental health-related firearms disabilities.
Support HB1701 relative to annulments of records related to involuntary commitments. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Fri 2/2 12:00 PM LOB Room 202-204 This bill creates a process to annul records related to involuntary commitments to the state hospital or secure psychiatric unit.
Of Interest HB1156 relative to public health, safety, and state sovereignty. State-Federal Relations and Veterans Affairs Fri 2/2 9:15 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill provides that the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization shall have no jurisdiction in New Hampshire.

The post Bill Hearings for Week of January 29, 2024 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

Texas Border Crisis – Civil War Or Peaceful Secession; There May Be No Third Option

The Liberty Block - Sun, 2024-01-28 00:41 +0000

Over the past few weeks, the situation has escalated far beyond any level we've seen in our lifetimes. The Biden administration has allowed the southern border to remain very open, a policy that the people of Texas and their government do not support. After Texas put razor wire along areas of its southern border to deter illegal immigration, DC politicians were infuriated by the act of defiance. 

The post Texas Border Crisis – Civil War Or Peaceful Secession; There May Be No Third Option appeared first on The Liberty Block.

NHexit.com statement on the Texas-D.C. border standoff

Free Keene - Sat, 2024-01-27 18:31 +0000

Austin’s border militarization is wrong; so is U.S. interference. NH should divorce both governments.


(Above) New Hampshire independence advocates rally before a hearing on secession legislation (Photo by Joa Orga).

In a memorable sci-fi moment, elderly politician Chrisjen Avasarala warns interstellar envoy James Holden of danger. She expects a murderous local faction will try and get him on their side. “Do not,” she says, “put your dick in it.”

Those of us in America who advocate a “national divorce” should consider her advice – and historical precedent – before we “jump to the side…of Austin’s aPARtheid.” Every state and empire involved with this ugly confrontation will lie, steal, cheat and at least occasionally kill. That’s what states and empires do, even when they’re not trying to build the next Berlin Wall or accrue millions of destitute migrants at taxpayer expense. So how should Concord react? How should secession advocates react? It, and we, should let the non-aggression principle be the guide.

Within the limits of practicality, we should:

– Support the human rights, of every member, of every party, to this conflict.
– Oppose every act of aggression committed by every member of every party to this conflict.

Ignore the faction; focus on the action.

So what aggressive misdeeds have been committed? Well, walking to Texas from Mexico without papers…is not an act of aggression. Making taxpayers help or harm migrants *is* an act aggression. Both D.C. and Austin have committed both acts.

1) Washington made this showdown possible by using income taxation to seize the earnings of Texans. It then redistributed some of the stolen property to so-called “illegals,” artificially increasing the number of migrants and creating more resentment toward them. It has actively fostered immigration problems. Where in the U.S. Constitution is such a redistribution of wealth to immigrants authorized? Even if authorized, would it be right?
2) Where, in its constitution, is D.C. empowered to prevent Texans – even Texas goons – from restricting immigration themselves? To restrict Texas citizens from owning or acquiring certain firearms they may deem useful for self defense in a time of crisis? How many hundreds of pages of gun laws does D.C. impose on Texas?
3) Where is D.C. empowered to make New Hampshire taxpayers underwrite its actions against Austin? To tax New Hampshirites and give their money to random immigrants?
4) Has everyone forgotten the extent to which D.C. has destabilized Latin American countries over the years, including the 2009 coup in Honduras?
5) Should D.C. be allowed to get away with its pause on Texas natgas permits? Do these constitute economic sanctions which would raise prices in New Hampshire?
6) If D.C. doesn’t follow its constitution, why does Austin have to follow it? Why does New Hampshire?

Having raised these concerns:

A) The Texas government’s attempt to militarize part of its border with Mexico is an act of aggression against the many Texas taxpayers who disagree with such measures. It is also an abuse of migrants who wish to exercise the inalienable (if not yet recognized) human right to travel on public roads without government permission.
B) Austin imposes some gun control of its own on Texas. This limits the ability of Texans – and migrants – to exercise legit self defense against violent criminals. Like Kiev, Austin has experienced a rush of brains to the head on this matter and gun laws there have generally been loosening.
C) Austin, at least on occasion or by accident…does direct some welfare payments to undocumented migrants.
D) State sovereignty is desirable as a hedge against Washington, its over-taxation, its no-win wars. But Texas’ rulers have picked a dirty issue upon which to make their stand for such sovereignty. This issue likely won’t stand the test of time. If the trends of the last 500 years continue, by 2100 it will be widely understood that no human being – or sentient being – is “illegal.” It will become obvious that no peaceable person or person-equivalent should be told which region of the earth they may visit…that none should be forced to get permission from an earthly nation-state before they can travel. Those alive today who hold the popular view favoring guarded borders and travel papers….will likely be regarded like slavers or Jim Crow enforcers. In 1860 it was a commonly-held belief in the United States…that one human being should be able to enslave another based on ethnicity. Now it is a commonly-held belief that one human being should be able to severely restrict the movements of another based on nationality and “papers.” The two beliefs are not wildly different. Someday those who hold the second belief will probably be almost as disgraced as the slavers of 1860.
E) Since 1865, Austin has tamely acquiesced in nearly every Unionist genocide and torture chamber spree, from Wounded Knee to Bagram Air base. But it’s going to make a stand over..not being able to build its own border police state at taxpayer expense? Is there some reason Austin can’t just get out of the way, letting private citizens defend property or aid immigrants as they see fit in accordance with common rules of decency?
F) Arguably, constitutionally…Austin was correct in the 1860s when it claimed Washington had little authority to keep Texas in the union. Other states supported Austin’s position. But the stain of slavery blotted out all.
G) Arguably, constitutionally, Austin was correct in the 1960s when it claimed that D.C. had little authority to enforce the Civil Rights Act. Other states supported Austin’s position. But the stain of segregation blotted out all.
H) And arguably, constitutionally, Austin is correct in the 2020s when it claims D.C. has little authority to prevent local immigration control. Other states are supporting Austin’s position.. But the stain of border militarism may, in its turn, blot out all.

The most regrettable misdeed hasn’t been committed yet. That would be the use of deadly force by Austin against D.C.’s enforcers…even in “self defense.” Any such act of political violence by Texans during this standoff…would be an inexcusable breach of everything Dr. King – and to some extent Texit leader Daniel Miller – have taught the world in the last century: An autonomy-minded region’s chances of political success against established central government…drops by 3x if the autonomists start using deadly force. Washington understands this, and there is probably some risk of a false flag event where D.C. attacks itself and makes it look like the Texans did it.  Maybe now is a chance for Texit folks to play some constructive or mediative role reducing tensions between Austin and Washington…so that their peaceable secession drive can continue in an orderly way.

During the 19th century, New Hampshire had a nonviolent independence movement which opposed both the expansionist wars of the Union…and slaver cruelty of the South. This movement was mostly forgotten, because the secession “success” of Southern slavers damaged all subsequent efforts at full independence for the states. But what if New Hampshire had declared independence in 1850 to protest slavery? Or the invasion of Mexico? Or all the Federal abuses at once? What if it at least had put secession to a vote? Setting that example might have kept independence alive through the decades as an active possibility for the states, disconnected from the taint of Fort Sumter and Confederacy.

NH has the ability to set such an example, and we have done it. In 2022, NHexit put legislation in front of the whole State House which would have let all New Hampshirites vote in a referendum on independence. In 2024, we brought almost exactly the same legislation forward and it made it into a Newsweek cover story. We do these things to show how plays for autonomy can be orderly, clean and even friendly. We do them to mainstream secession as Quebec and Scotland have done. But mainstream or not, New Hampshire independence is the root-striking answer to all grievances outlined above. We don’t belong in the same empire with D.C. and its on-again-off-again manipulation of migrants as political cannon fodder. We don’t belong in the same empire with Texas and its razor wire.

When India left the British Empire, no one imagined the two would part peaceably and that over 70 years of happy relations would follow. But that is what occurred. So it can be with New Hampshire and the increasingly troubled states of this continent. Change is coming fast. Once we are disentangled from our unhappy marriage with Austin and D.C., we can finally have a shot at normal friendly relations with both.

The Conservatarian Exchange Podcast #190

The Liberty Block - Thu, 2024-01-25 07:32 +0000

Ohio legislature overriding governor’s veto of transgender bill, which bans transitioning of minors; Trump’s victory in NH; how much is because of the left’s persecution of him? Will Trump’s almost certain nomination affect world affairs and wars even now? Kari Lake’s tiff with the GOP leader in Arizona; why isn’t Trump fighting the legal battle over election fraud in light of the new evidence re: hacking election machines? Is there any reason to believe that the 2024 election will be more secure than 2020? Texas standing up to Biden on the razor wire at the border

The post The Conservatarian Exchange Podcast #190 appeared first on The Liberty Block.

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