The Manchester Free Press

Wednesday • December 11 • 2024

Vol.XVI • No.L

Manchester, N.H.

Syndicate content NH Liberty Alliance
Liberty: Too Big to Fail
Updated: 16 min 34 sec ago

Senate Gold Standard – March 16, 2023

Tue, 2023-03-14 22:59 +0000

(white) goldstandard-03-16-23-S.pdf
(gold) goldstandard-03-16-23-S-y.pdf

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Bill Hearings for Week of March 13, 2023

Sun, 2023-03-12 13:29 +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 14 hearings in the House, we are recommending support of 1 and opposition of 1 with 4 being of interest.
Of the 18 hearings in the Senate, we are recommending support of 3 and opposition of 3 with 1 being of interest.

Position Bill Title Committee Day Time Room State Analysis
Of Interest HB1 making appropriations for the expenses of certain departments of the state for fiscal years ending June 30, 2024 and June 30, 2025. Finance Mon 3/13 2:00 PM Representatives Hall NHLA Note: See full bill text by clicking bill number link. This is the operating budget bill with line item
appropriations to specific operations.
Of Interest HB2 relative to state fees, funds, revenues, and expenditures. Finance Mon 3/13 2:00 PM Representatives Hall NHLA Note: See full bill text by clicking bill number link. This is the budget trailer bill with policy changes and detailed appropriations.
Of Interest HB609 relative to energy facility siting. Science, Technology and Energy Mon 3/13 9:00 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill establishes the regulation of energy facility siting within the public utilities commission and establishes new procedures to replace the site evaluation committee.
Oppose HB142 relative to the operation of the Burgess Biopower plant. Science, Technology and Energy Mon 3/13 9:10 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill allows the public utilities commission to amend its orders as necessary to protect the continued operation of the Burgess Biopower plant.
Support HB639 relative to the legalization and regulation of cannabis and making appropriations therefor. Ways and Means Mon 3/13 9:00 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill establishes procedures for the legalization, regulation, and taxation of cannabis; the licensing and regulation of cannabis establishments; and makes appropriations therefor.
Of Interest HB83 relative to county commissioners’ authority on county buildings. Election Law and Municipal Affairs Tue 3/14 9:30 AM LOB Room 103 This bill increases the expense thresholds for county commissioners’ authority to purchase real estate and repair, enlarge, or erect county buildings.
Support HB252 (New Title) exempting certain agricultural operations from certain municipal noise ordinances. Energy and Natural Resources Tue 3/14 9:30 AM SH Room 103 This bill exempts farming and agricultural operations from municipal noise ordinances.
Support HB409 relative to nonresident licensure by the board of barbering, cosmetology, and esthetics. Executive Departments and Administration Wed 3/15 9:45 AM SH Room 103 This bill modifies the requirements for nonresident licensure by the board of barbering, cosmetology, and esthetics.
Support HB262 relative to laboratory testing by licensed naturopaths Executive Departments and Administration Wed 3/15 10:00 AM SH Room 103 This bill adds naturopathic doctors to the definition of “licensed medical practitioner” for health facilities authorized for laboratory testing.
Of Interest HB25 making appropriations for capital improvements. Public Works and Highways Wed 3/15 10:00 AM LOB Room 201-203 This bill makes appropriations for capital improvements for the biennium and extends certain lapse dates for previous appropriations.

The post Bill Hearings for Week of March 13, 2023 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

House Gold Standard – March 09, 2023

Mon, 2023-03-06 23:47 +0000

(white) goldstandard-03-09-23-H.pdf
(gold) goldstandard-03-09-23-H-y.pdf

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Senate Gold Standard – March 09, 2023

Mon, 2023-03-06 23:45 +0000

(white) goldstandard-03-09-23-S.pdf
(gold) goldstandard-03-09-23-S-y.pdf

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Bill Hearings for Week of March 06, 2023

Fri, 2023-03-03 15:21 +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 22 hearings in the House, we are recommending support of 2 and opposition of 4 with 2 being of interest.
Of the 8 hearings in the Senate, we are recommending support of 0 and opposition of 0 with 1 being of interest.

Position Bill Title Committee Day Time Room State Analysis
Oppose HB249 non-germane amendment #2023-0697h to HB 249 relative to establishing
regulatory standards for the pet insurance industry
Commerce and Consumer Affairs Tue 3/7 9:45 AM LOB Room 210-211 The amendment establishes regulatory standards for the sale of pet insurance, allows the restaurant owner to bring their companion dog to the restaurant premises, and removes the option for restaurants to allow patrons to bring dogs to outdoor dining areas.
Oppose HB402 relative to prohibiting false statements against candidates. Election Law Tue 3/7 10:30 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill prohibits the publication of false statements by any candidate, political committee, or political party regarding another candidate’s positions on issues.
Oppose HB463 relative to the establishment of an election information portal. Election Law Tue 3/7 11:00 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill authorizes the secretary of state to develop an election information portal.
Support HB496 relative to the delivery of ballots to nursing homes and elder care facilities. Election Law Tue 3/7 1:30 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill establishes a new procedure for delivering absentee ballots to voters in nursing homes and elder care facilities.
Of Interest SB270 relative to appropriations to the department of transportation. Finance Tue 3/7 1:00 PM SH Room 103 This bill appropriates $20,000,000 to the department of transportation for municipal bridges, and $20,000,000 to the department of transportation for additional “Apportionment A” distributions.
Of Interest HB609 relative to energy facility siting. Science, Technology and Energy Tue 3/7 9:00 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill establishes the regulation of energy facility siting within the public utilities commission and establishes new procedures to replace the site evaluation committee.
Oppose HB142 relative to the operation of the Burgess Biopower plant. Science, Technology and Energy Tue 3/7 10:30 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill allows the public utilities commission to amend its orders as necessary to protect the continued operation of the Burgess Biopower plant.
Support HB127 relative to the declaration of a state of emergency. Executive Departments and Administration Wed 3/8 10:30 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill revises the authority of the governor and general court to declare, renew, or terminate a state of emergency.
Of Interest HB533 Public Hearing on amendment #2023-0705h to HB 533-FN, relative to public school human
rights complaints
Judiciary Wed 3/8 9:00 AM LOB Room 206-208 The amendment gives the commissioner of education the authority to issue subpoenas related to violations of the code of ethics and code of conduct for licensed or certified personnel.

The post Bill Hearings for Week of March 06, 2023 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

Bill Hearings for Week of February 27, 2023

Sun, 2023-02-26 19:14 +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 12 hearings in the House, we are recommending support of 2 and opposition of 0 with 1 being of interest.
Of the 0 hearings in the Senate, we are recommending support of 0 and opposition of 0 with 0 being of interest.

Position Bill Title Committee Day Time Room State Analysis
Support HB363 relative to deadlines for candidates filing by nomination papers for state general elections. Election Law Tue 2/28 11:00 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill changes the deadlines for candidates filing by nomination papers for state general elections.
Of Interest HB387 permitting election ballots to be viewed pursuant to a right to know request. Election Law Tue 2/28 1:30 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill permits election ballots to be viewed pursuant to a right to know request.
Support HB136 relative to the department of health and human services collaborating and holding a roll call vote on final proposal of rules with the advisory council prior to departmental rulemaking. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Wed 3/1 9:30 AM LOB Room 210-211 This bill requires the department of health and human services seek authorization from the advisory council for the department of health and human services prior to adopting departmental rules.

The post Bill Hearings for Week of February 27, 2023 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

Big Damn Heroes party

Sat, 2023-02-25 21:43 +0000

The New Hampshire Liberty Alliance and Porcupine Outdoor Recreation Club have a notion to show you a good time on the evening of March 2!

The event starts with a tailgate party outside of Chunky’s in Manchester at 5:00pm, followed by a Firefly/Serenity costume contest inside the theater at 6:30pm and a screening of Serenity at 7:00pm.

Tickets must be purchased in advance at https://porcupineoutdoorrecreationclub.wildapricot.org/event-5110001 and support the Civic Action Fund, so get yours before they’re gone and start preparing now to show us what Big Damn Heroes you are!

在那里!

The crew of Serenity

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House Gold Standard – February 22, 2023

Mon, 2023-02-20 23:40 +0000

(white) goldstandard-02-22-23-H.pdf
(gold) goldstandard-02-22-23-H-y.pdf

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Senate Gold Standard – February 23, 2023

Mon, 2023-02-20 23:40 +0000

(white) goldstandard-02-23-23-S.pdf
(gold) goldstandard-02-23-23-S-y.pdf

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Liberty Dinner 2023 early bird tickets on sale now!

Sun, 2023-02-19 21:06 +0000

The New Hampshire Liberty Alliance cordially invites you to its 2023 Liberty Dinner on Saturday July 22nd, with tickets at last year’s prices for a limited time!

We will unveil this year’s Liberty Rating and award the Legislator of the Year and Activist of the Year. In addition to a buffet dinner and an evening with both old and new friends, there will be a silent auction of various items (liberty-themed and otherwise)—plus a special surprise!

Get your tickets at libertydinner.com!

The post Liberty Dinner 2023 early bird tickets on sale now! appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

House Gold Standard – February 14, 2023

Sun, 2023-02-12 18:22 +0000

(white) goldstandard-02-14-23-H.pdf
(gold) goldstandard-02-14-23-H-y.pdf

The post House Gold Standard – February 14, 2023 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

Bill Hearings for Week of February 13, 2023

Sun, 2023-02-12 17:24 +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 55 hearings in the House, we are recommending support of 8 and opposition of 7 with 3 being of interest.
Of the 42 hearings in the Senate, we are recommending support of 3 and opposition of 3 with 1 being of interest.

Position Bill Title Committee Day Time Room State Analysis
Of Interest HB550 relative to chartered public school dissolution. Education Mon 2/13 9:45 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill provides for the assets of a chartered public school to be distributed to the nearest public school district following dissolution of the chartered public school. The bill also establishes a committee to study the current charter public school dissolution process.
Of Interest HB371 establishing a commission to evaluate and recommend standards for public schools. Education Mon 2/13 11:30 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill establishes a commission to evaluate and recommend standards for public schools. The bill also requires the state board of education to initiate rulemaking based on the commission’s recommendations.
Of Interest HB558 relative to electric microgrids and electric grid resiliency. Science, Technology and Energy Mon 2/13 9:00 AM LOB Room 304 This bill establishes the authority for and procedures for adoption of electric microgrids.
Support SB200 relative to optometrists. Commerce Tue 2/14 9:00 AM SH Room 100 This bill removes a variety of prohibitions on the types of care that optometrists may provide to patients.
Oppose SB145 relative to New Hampshire housing champion designation for municipalities and making appropriations therefor. Commerce Tue 2/14 9:30 AM SH Room 100 This bill establishes a New Hampshire housing champion designation program, including a housing production municipal grant program, and a housing infrastructure municipal grant and loan program. The bill also establishes positions within the department of business and economic affairs and makes appropriations for the programs.
Oppose SB202 relative to establishing a homeownership innovations fund in the New Hampshire housing finance authority. Commerce Tue 2/14 9:45 AM SH Room 100 This bill establishes a homeownership innovations fund within the New Hampshire housing finance authority and makes an appropriation thereto.
Oppose SB217 establishing a rural and underserved area educator incentive program for higher education and making an appropriation therefor. Education Tue 2/14 9:00 AM LOB Room 101 This bill establishes the rural and underserved area educator incentive program and makes an appropriation therefor.
Oppose SB218 establishing an early educator professional development grant. Education Tue 2/14 9:15 AM LOB Room 101 This bill establishes in the department of education an early educator professional development grant program to award school districts funds for their local professional development master plans.
Oppose SB219 relative to a salary floor for public school teachers. Education Tue 2/14 9:30 AM LOB Room 101 This bill prohibits public school teachers from receiving salaries below a salary floor if the corresponding school administrative unit or school district employs more than one assistant superintendent or employs one or more diversity professional.
Oppose SB255 relative to the expectation of privacy. Judiciary Tue 2/14 2:30 PM SH Room 100 This bill creates a new chapter detailing a consumer expectation of privacy.
Oppose HB513 relative to affordability and safety of clinician administered drugs. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Wed 2/15 2:00 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill requires a health plan to utilize the lowest cost method of reimbursement for clinician administered drugs and requires a health maintenance organization to cover clinician-administered drugs if the drug cannot reasonably be self-administered and is typically administered by a health care professional. The bill also prohibits a health maintenance organization from requiring that a pharmacy dispense a medication to a patient with the expectation that the patient will transport it to a health care setting for administration by a health care professional.
Support SB162 relative to exemptions from rabies vaccinations for dogs, cats, and ferrets. Energy and Natural Resources Wed 2/15 1:45 PM SH Room 103 This bill makes the initial period for an exemption from the rabies vaccination for dogs, cats, and animals annual with the recertification of a veterinarian.
Oppose SB212 relative to the regulation of massage, reflexology, structural integrator, and Asian bodywork therapy establishments. Executive Departments and Administration Wed 2/15 9:00 AM SH Room 103 This bill requires massage establishments to be licensed, regulated, and inspected by the office of professional licensure and certification. The bill also adds compensation to members of the advisory board of massage therapists.
Support HB559 establishing a state retirement plan group for new state employee members of the retirement system. Executive Departments and Administration Wed 2/15 2:00 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill establishes a group III, defined contribution retirement state retirement plan for new state employee members of the retirement system, who begin service on or after July 1, 2024. All new employees of state employers on and after July 1, 2024 will be required to join the group III defined contribution plan as administered by the retirement system, and any other group I employees may join.
Support SB238 relative to the use of telemedicine to treat mental health conditions. Health and Human Services Wed 2/15 10:00 AM LOB Room 101 This bill permits doctors and APRNs to use telemedicine to prescribe medication to treat mental health conditions.
Oppose SB237 relative to the child care scholarship program and making an appropriation therefor. Health and Human Services Wed 2/15 11:00 AM LOB Room 101 This bill modifies the child care scholarship program, establishes a child care workforce program and a regional fingerprinting support program, and makes appropriations for these programs, and for child caregiver supports, early childhood mental health support, and for early childhood education scholarships.
Support HB69 relative to direct payment and membership-based health care facilities. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Wed 2/15 10:00 AM LOB Room 201-203 This bill exempts facilities operating with membership-based or direct payment business models from the special health care licensing requirement that the facility adopt a policy to assure that it provides services to all persons who require the services of the facility regardless of the source of payment.
Oppose HB510 relative to removing the exemption for premium cigars from the tobacco tax. Ways and Means Wed 2/15 1:15 PM LOB Room 202-204 This bill removes the exemption for premium cigars from the tobacco tax.
Support HB553 relative to school district information on personnel salaries. Education Thu 2/16 9:00 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill requires school boards to publish on each school or the school district website a complete list of all position names and their annual or hourly salary.
Support HB651 authorizing the department of education and local school districts to contract with transportation network companies to provide school transportation services. Education Thu 2/16 11:00 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill allows the department of education to contract for buses to transport pupils with transportation network companies.
Oppose HB528 relative to school lunches and establishing the meals for students fund. Education Thu 2/16 11:30 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill requires schools to make free or reduced cost breakfast and lunch available to children who meet federal eligibility guidelines and provides for reimbursement to schools for offering meals at no cost to eligible students. The requirement is repealed in 2025.
Of Interest SB241 relative to graduated public assistance programs. Health and Human Services Thu 2/16 9:00 AM LOB Room 101 This bill directs the department of health and human services, the housing finance authority, New Hampshire employment security, and the department of energy to study the creation, funding, and implementation of graduated public assistance programs to complement existing programs within the state.
Oppose SB234 directing the department of health and human services to develop a public awareness campaign on brain health, Alzheimer’s disease, and related dementias and making an appropriation therefor. Health and Human Services Thu 2/16 10:00 AM LOB Room 101 This bill directs the department of health and human services to develop a public awareness campaign on brain health, Alzheimer’s disease, and related dementias and makes an appropriation to the department for this purpose.
Oppose HB617 prohibiting, with limited exceptions, state agencies from requiring use of proprietary software in interactions with the public. Executive Departments and Administration Thu 2/16 1:00 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill prohibits, with limited exception, state agencies from requiring use of proprietary software in interactions with the public.
Oppose HB359 relative to legal holidays. Executive Departments and Administration Thu 2/16 2:30 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill clarifies the effect of designating a day a legal holiday and makes the days on which the state primary preceding a biennial election and the quadrennial presidential primary are held legal holidays.
Support HB406 relative to parental access to children’s medical records. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Thu 2/16 9:00 AM LOB Room 201-203 This bill expands parents access to their 13 to 18-year-old children’s medical records without their children providing a release to each medical provider.
Support HB557 relative to the department of health and human services’ rulemaking authority regarding immunization requirements. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Thu 2/16 11:15 AM LOB Room 201-203 This bill removes the rulemaking authority of the commissioner of health and human services on immunization requirements beyond those diseases identified in statute.
Support HB408 relative to foster children and vaccinations. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Thu 2/16 1:00 PM LOB Room 201-203 This bill requires that children living in a foster family home but who are not in foster care shall be subject to the same immunization requirements as any other child in the state.
Oppose HB342 relative to lead testing in children. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Thu 2/16 2:00 PM LOB Room 201-203 This bill establishes a blood lead level testing requirement for children entering day care and public schools.
Oppose HB425 repealing the statute relative to medical freedom in immunizations. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Thu 2/16 2:30 PM LOB Room 201-203 This bill repeals the statute pertaining to medical freedom in immunizations.
Support HB652 relative to nonpublic sessions under the right to know law. Judiciary Thu 2/16 3:00 PM SH Room Reps Hall This bill provides that, when a public body goes into nonpublic session to discuss matters likely to adversely affect an individual’s reputation, the person affected shall be given notice of the meeting and an opportunity to attend, be represented by counsel and speak on their own behalf.

The post Bill Hearings for Week of February 13, 2023 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

Senate Gold Standard – February 09, 2023

Tue, 2023-02-07 21:10 +0000

(white) goldstandard-02-09-23-S.pdf
(gold) goldstandard-02-09-23-S-y.pdf

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Bill Hearings for Week of February 06, 2023

Sun, 2023-02-05 14:06 +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 121 hearings in the House, we are recommending support of 31 and opposition of 16 with 11 being of interest.
Of the 39 hearings in the Senate, we are recommending support of 0 and opposition of 0 with 1 being of interest.

Position Bill Title Committee Day Time Room State Analysis
Oppose HB134 extending the public employees labor relations act to employees of the general court and relative to the duties of the joint committee on legislative facilities. Legislative Administration Mon 2/6 1:00 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill establishes the legislature as a public employer under the public employee labor relations act and establishes procedures for collective bargaining by nonpartisan employees.
Support HB381 relative to the system benefits charge. Science, Technology and Energy Mon 2/6 9:30 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill provides that system benefits charge and local distribution adjustment charge funding levels may only be increased by passage of legislation or authorization by the fiscal committee of the general court.
Support HB257 relative to telephone carrier of last resort obligations. Science, Technology and Energy Mon 2/6 2:30 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill allows for an incumbent telephone utility to be relieved of its carrier of last resort obligations.
Support HB491 relative to prohibiting the use of the prone restraint for minors. Children and Family Law Tue 2/7 11:00 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill prohibits the use of prone restraint on a child in a school or treatment facility.
Support HB490 relative to modifying the definition of neglect. Children and Family Law Tue 2/7 2:00 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill amends the definition of neglected child to exclude a child permitted to engage in certain independent activities.
Oppose SB143 establishing a scholarship fund for certain small businesses applying for loans from the capital access program administered by the New Hampshire business finance authority. Commerce Tue 2/7 9:00 AM SH Room 100 This bill establishes a scholarship fund in the capital access program of the business finance authority to cover entry costs for socially and/or economically disadvantaged individual small business owners applying for loans from the program.
Oppose SB196 establishing a minimum amount of uninsured motorist coverage required for vehicles operating as part of transportation network companies in New Hampshire. Commerce Tue 2/7 9:45 AM SH Room 100 This bill establishes a set minimum amount of coverage required for vehicles operating as part of a transportation network company in New Hampshire.
Oppose SB144 relative to the state minimum hourly rate. Commerce Tue 2/7 10:00 AM SH Room 100 This bill provides for increases in the minimum hourly rate.
Of Interest HB648 relative to establishing a state bank of New Hampshire. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Tue 2/7 11:00 AM LOB Room 210-211 This bill establishes a state bank of New Hampshire.
Oppose SB214 establishing a department of early childhood education and relative to a pre-kindergarten pilot program.  Education Tue 2/7 9:30 AM LOB Room 101 This bill establishes an executive branch department of early childhood education. The bill also establishes the authority for the department to design, create, and administer a 3-year high quality, community-based, mixed delivery public pre-kindergarten pilot program.
Of Interest HB505 relative to comprehensive mental health education in schools. Education Tue 2/7 11:15 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill adds comprehensive mental health education to the public school health education curriculum.
Support HB539 relative to vaccination clinics at schools. Education Tue 2/7 1:45 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill prohibits a public elementary or secondary school from conducting a vaccination clinic during school hours.
Of Interest HB179 relative to the definition of electioneering. Election Law Tue 2/7 2:00 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill amends the definition of “electioneering” to remove the prohibition against wearing clothing or paraphernalia that a reasonable person would believe explicitly advocates for or against any candidate, political party, or measure being voted.
Oppose SB132 prohibiting cities and towns from adopting sanctuary policies. Election Law and Municipal Affairs Tue 2/7 9:45 AM LOB Room 103 This bill prohibits any state or local government entity from establishing sanctuary policies.
Of Interest SB155 relative to the adoption of school administrative unit budgets. Election Law and Municipal Affairs Tue 2/7 10:00 AM LOB Room 103 This bill revises the procedure for the adoption of the annual budget for school administrative units and repeals the alternative budget adoption procedure.
Oppose SB55 making an appropriation for the Cannon Mountain tramway. Finance Tue 2/7 1:00 PM SH Room 103 This bill appropriates $25 million for the Cannon Mountain tramway from the fiscal year 2023 surplus.
Of Interest HB558 relative to electric microgrids and electric grid resiliency. Science, Technology and Energy Tue 2/7 10:00 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill establishes the authority for and procedures for adoption of electric microgrids.
Of Interest HB605 relative to solar generation under the renewable portfolio standards. Science, Technology and Energy Tue 2/7 10:30 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill revises the minimum percentages for solar electrical generation included in the renewable portfolio standards for 2024 through 2050 and after.
Of Interest HB616 relative to administration of the New Hampshire’s renewable portfolio standard. Science, Technology and Energy Tue 2/7 2:30 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill eliminates the use of the class definitions for renewable electrical generation for compliance with the renewable portfolio standard requirements, and adds Generation IV or later nuclear energy systems as a new class for the renewable energy portfolio standard.
Support HB370 relative to after market window tinting on motor vehicles for drivers with medical conditions. Transportation Tue 2/7 9:30 AM LOB Room 201-203 This bill authorizes persons with medical conditions to apply for a special permit to waive the prohibition on automobile after market window tinting on the left and right side of the driver.
Support HB537 permitting vehicles to have front windshield tinting. Transportation Tue 2/7 10:00 AM LOB Room 201-203 This bill removes the prohibition on front windshield tinted glass.
Oppose HB356 relative to the application of motor vehicle laws to bicycles. Transportation Tue 2/7 10:30 AM LOB Room 201-203 This bill would require bicycles to have 4″ diameter mirrors on each side of the handlebars while operating on public ways with other motor vehicles.
Of Interest HB198 modifying the new resident drivers’ license transfer requirement. Transportation Tue 2/7 1:30 PM LOB Room 201-203 This bill would require nonresident drivers who establish residency in New Hampshire to notify the department of safety if they then cease to become residents within 60 days, or if their out of state driver’s license expires or is relinquished.
Support HB280 relative to the sale of freeze-dried food. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Wed 2/8 1:45 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill excludes freeze dried fruits and vegetables from the definition of potentially hazardous food.
Of Interest HB645 relative to the establishment of decentralized autonomous organizations as legal entities within the state. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Wed 2/8 2:15 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill establishes decentralized autonomous organizations within the state.
Oppose HB32 relative to possession or discharge of a firearm in a safe school zone. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Wed 2/8 9:00 AM SH Room Reps Hall This bill adds a criminal offense for the possession or discharge of a firearm in a safe school zone.
Oppose HB59 requiring a background check prior to any commercial firearm sale. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Wed 2/8 9:45 AM SH Room Reps Hall This bill requires commercial firearms sales or transfers in this state to be subject to a criminal background check and provides a criminal penalty for a violation. The bill excludes private, noncommercial sales or transfers between individuals, provided neither individual is prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm under state or federal law.
Oppose HB76 imposing a waiting period between the purchase and delivery of a firearm. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Wed 2/8 10:30 AM SH Room Reps Hall This bill establishes a waiting period for the delivery of a firearm.
Oppose HB78 repealing an act prohibiting the state from enforcing any federal statute, regulation, or Presidential Executive Order that restricts or regulates the right of the people to keep or bear arms. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Wed 2/8 11:15 AM SH Room Reps Hall This bill repeals the prohibition on the state from enforcing any federal statute, regulation, or Presidential Executive Order that restricts or regulates the right of the people to keep and bear arms.
Oppose HB106 relative to extreme risk protection orders. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Wed 2/8 1:00 PM SH Room Reps Hall This bill establishes a procedure for issuing extreme risk protection orders to protect against persons who pose an immediate risk of harm to themselves or others.
Oppose HB351 relative to the negligent storage of firearms and relative to firearm safety devices. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Wed 2/8 1:45 PM SH Room Reps Hall This bill requires a locking safety device accompany all private and commercial firearms transactions and expands the criminal penalties for negligent storage of firearms.
Oppose HB444 prohibiting possession of a firearm at a polling place. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Wed 2/8 2:30 PM SH Room Reps Hall This bill prohibits possessing a firearm at a polling place and includes certain exceptions.
Support HB474 relative to enforcement of federal firearms laws and establishing penalties. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Wed 2/8 3:15 PM SH Room Reps Hall This bill prohibits the enforcement of any federal law or rule that might impair a person’s natural right to firearm ownership and natural right to self-defense and requires any public official who attempts to enforce such a federal law to be terminated from their position.
Oppose HB623 establishing a teacher candidate loan forgiveness program. Education Wed 2/8 10:45 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill establishes a teacher candidate loan forgiveness program administered by the university system for new teachers in critical teacher shortage areas of the state.
Support HB563 relative to the adoption of school administrative unit budgets. Education Wed 2/8 11:15 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill revises the procedure for the adoption of the annual budget for school administrative units and repeals the alternative budget adoption procedure.
Of Interest HB354 relative to chartered public school eligibility for state school building aid. Education Wed 2/8 1:45 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill adds chartered public schools to the procedures for consideration, approval, plan requirements, and determination of grants for school building aid.
Support HB394 relative to the organization of cooperative school boards. Education Wed 2/8 2:30 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill requires that officers of cooperative school boards and the locations of meetings of the board rotate among the members and their districts.
Support HB632 relative to the cooperative school district budget committee. Education Wed 2/8 3:00 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill requires that the chairperson of the cooperative school district budget committee shall not be from the same pre-existing district in consecutive years.
Of Interest SB1 (New Title) relative to the closing of the Sununu youth services center and establishing a commission to study the public safety of the secured youth development center and surrounding communities. Finance Wed 2/8 10:00 AM LOB Room 210-211 This bill requires the closure of the Sununu youth services center, and sets out parameters for the contract for a replacement facility. The bill also establishes a commission to study the public safety of the youth development center and surrounding communities.
Oppose SB175 relative to Medicaid coverage for mothers. Health and Human Services Wed 2/8 9:45 AM LOB Room 101 This bill: 1. Mandates that the department of health and human services extend Medicaid coverage for pregnant women to 12 months postpartum, to cover doula services, to cover lactation services, and to cover donor breast milk for eligible infants, and creates appropriations thereof. 2. Establishes minimum workplace supports for nursing mothers. 3. Appropriates money to the department of health and human services to support healthy outcomes for caregivers and children. 4. Establishes a commission to study home visiting programs for all parents of newborns and young children. 5. Mandates the department of health and human services establish a network of early childhood behavioral health supports.
Support HB262 relative to laboratory testing by licensed naturopaths Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Wed 2/8 9:00 AM LOB Room 210-211 This bill adds naturopathic doctors to the definition of “licensed medical practitioner” for health facilities authorized for laboratory testing.
Support HB477 to prohibit municipal inspections of owner-occupied units of multi-unit housing. Municipal and County Government Wed 2/8 10:50 AM LOB Room 301-303 This bill prohibits municipal inspections of owner-occupied units within residential structures of 4 units or less.
Oppose HB467 relative to public playground accessibility. Municipal and County Government Wed 2/8 12:00 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill requires public playgrounds in use on or after January 1, 2024 to have solid rubber or rubber composite surfacing for accessibility to the playground and each piece of equipment.
Support HB423 relative to accessory dwelling unit uses allowed by right. Municipal and County Government Wed 2/8 1:45 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill increases the number of accessory dwelling units allowed by right from one to 2, changes the definition of attached unit, and increases the maximum square footage from 750 to 1,000. It also gives towns the right to require one unit to meet the definition for workforce housing.
Support HB135 prohibiting no-knock warrants. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Thu 2/9 9:30 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill prohibits a law enforcement officer from seeking, executing, or participating in the execution of a no-knock search warrant.
Support HB481 relative to arrest warrants and search warrants. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Thu 2/9 1:00 PM LOB Room 202-204 This bill requires that the state disclose any prior evidence used to obtain either an arrest warrant or a search warrant, and whether a prior arrest or search warrant was denied based on the evidence being submitted in requesting a new arrest or search warrant.
Support HB593 relative to the forfeiture of assets in connection with a drug offense. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Thu 2/9 2:30 PM LOB Room 202-204 This bill establishes a procedure for the forfeiture of items used in connection with a drug offense.
Support HB624 relative to federal immigration checkpoints. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Thu 2/9 3:30 PM LOB Room 202-204 This bill requires a law enforcement agency to provide public notice of an immigration checkpoint.
Of Interest HB653 prohibiting personal recognizance bail for violent crimes. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Thu 2/9 4:00 PM LOB Room 202-204 This bill lists certain offenses which, if committed by the defendant, create a presumption that a defendant is a danger to the public and shall be detained for up to 36 hours. The bill also provides that a person who commits an offense while on bail shall be detained without bail pending a hearing before a judge.
Oppose HB532 relative to the licensure and regulation of music therapists. Executive Departments and Administration Thu 2/9 10:30 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill establishes the licensure and regulation of music therapists under the allied health professionals.
Support HB507 relative to unauthorized practice in occupational and professional licensing and certification. Executive Departments and Administration Thu 2/9 11:15 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill clarifies that penalties for the unlicensed practice of a profession regulated under the office of professional licensure and certification do not apply so long as the person practicing does not hold themselves out as being licensed or certified and discloses the fact that he or she is not licensed or certified.
Support HB594 relative to the licensure of out-of-state applicants to boards or commissions organized under the office of professional licensure and certification. Executive Departments and Administration Thu 2/9 1:15 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill authorizes the office of professional licensure and certification to issue licenses to out-of-state applicants who are licensed in another state, if the other state’s licensing requirements are substantially similar to those in New Hampshire.
Support HB644 relative to regulating barbers, cosmetologists, and estheticians. Executive Departments and Administration Thu 2/9 2:00 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill makes changes to the regulation of barbers, cosmetologists, and estheticians.
Support HB188 relative to the duration of physical therapy. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Thu 2/9 9:00 AM LOB Room 201-203 This bill removes the requirement that a physical therapist refer a patient to a health care provider if there is no documented improvement after 25 days of treatment.
Support HB500 relative to prescribing opioids via telehealth medicine. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Thu 2/9 10:30 AM LOB Room 201-203 This bill allows practitioners of telehealth medicine to prescribe opioids.
Support HB611 relative to eligibility criteria for the therapeutic cannabis program. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Thu 2/9 1:00 PM LOB Room 201-203 This bill removes the requirement that severe pain be resistant to other treatment options in order to be considered a qualifying medical condition for therapeutic cannabis.
Support HB610 expanding the definition of providers who can certify patients of the therapeutic cannabis program. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Thu 2/9 1:30 PM LOB Room 201-203 This bill expands the definition of provider under the therapeutic cannabis program to include any individual licensed in New Hampshire to prescribe drugs to humans who holds an active registration from the United States Drug Enforcement Administration to prescribe controlled substances. The bill also requires, for issuance of a registry identification card to a minor, certification from either a pediatrician or family practice provider.
Support HB431 permitting qualifying patients and designated caregivers to cultivate cannabis for therapeutic use. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Thu 2/9 2:00 PM LOB Room 201-203 This bill permits qualifying patients and designated caregivers to cultivate cannabis for therapeutic use.
Oppose HB191 relative to voluntarily surrendered firearms. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Fri 2/10 9:30 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill removes the prohibition on a state agency operating a voluntary firearms “surrender and destroy” program and permits a state agency to destroy voluntarily surrendered firearms.
Support HB305 relative to exceptions for violations related to Presidential Executive Orders governing the keeping or bearing of arms. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Fri 2/10 10:15 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill limits the ability of state, local, or county law enforcement officials to aid federal officials in the investigation of criminal violations for federal firearms laws to cases where the state criminal violation is a class A felony only.
Support HB651 authorizing the department of education and local school districts to contract with transportation network companies to provide school transportation services. Education Fri 2/10 9:45 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill allows the department of education to contract for buses to transport pupils with transportation network companies.
Support HB275 relative to schools approved for a school tuition program by a school board. Education Fri 2/10 11:15 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill allows a pupil’s parents to pay the difference between a receiving school tuition cost and the sending district tuition cap in a school tuition program.
Oppose HB640 relative to cost recovery for vocational rehabilitation programs. Education Fri 2/10 12:45 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill repeals the state’s right to recover the cost of vocational rehabilitation services from an individual who receives a third party settlement or benefit award.
Oppose HB628 requiring certain non-public schools or education service providers that accept public funds to perform background checks on all employees and volunteers. Education Fri 2/10 1:15 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill requires nonpublic schools and education service providers that accept public funds to comply with requirements for criminal history background checks for employees and volunteers.
Support HB427 relative to public comment and inquiry during school board meetings. Education Fri 2/10 2:00 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill establishes requirements for public meetings held by a school board to include a designated time period for questions from the public and answers from the board. The bill also allows an attendee of a meeting of the school board to demand which New Hampshire statute or administrative rule gives the school board the authority described in a school policy or operational procedure.
Oppose HB629 establishing a student bill of rights. Education Fri 2/10 2:45 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill establishes a student bill of rights.

The post Bill Hearings for Week of February 06, 2023 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

Bill Hearings for Week of January 30, 2023

Sun, 2023-01-29 15:52 +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 97 hearings in the House, we are recommending support of 11 and opposition of 14 with 3 being of interest.
Of the 71 hearings in the Senate, we are recommending support of 2 and opposition of 2 with 1 being of interest.

Position Bill Title Committee Day Time Room State Analysis
Oppose CACR4 relating to compensation for legislators. Providing that legislators’ biennial salary compensation shall be increased. Legislative Administration Mon 1/30 10:30 AM LOB Room 301-303 This constitutional amendment concurrent resolution increases the biennial compensation for legislators and increases additional compensation for attendance at special sessions, emergency sessions, and veto sessions.
Of Interest HB301 relative to recusal by members of the general court for conflicts of interest. Legislative Administration Mon 1/30 1:00 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill defines conflicts of interests relative to legislative ethics and delineates when members of the general court should recuse themselves due to such conflicts of interests.
Oppose HB208 establishing greenhouse gas emission reduction goals for the state and establishing a climate action plan. Science, Technology and Energy Mon 1/30 11:00 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill establishes greenhouse gas emission reduction goals for the state and authorizes the department of environmental services to inventory greenhouse gas emissions on an annual basis and to develop and report on a 5-year action plan.
Oppose SB201 relative to resale of event tickets. Commerce Tue 1/31 9:45 AM SH Room 100 This bill provides a civil penalty for the unauthorized resale of event tickets.
Support HB130 repealing the drug affordability board. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Tue 1/31 2:30 PM LOB Room 305-307 This bill repeals the New Hampshire drug affordability board and the fund related to the administration of the board.
Oppose HB249 establishing regulatory standards for the pet insurance industry. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Tue 1/31 3:00 PM LOB Room 305-307 This bill establishes regulatory standards for the sale of pet insurance. The bill is a request of the insurance department.
Oppose SB141 relative to administration of the education freedom accounts program. Education Tue 1/31 9:15 AM LOB Room 101 This bill provides for applications to the education freedom account program for a child currently attending a New Hampshire public school, including a chartered public school, for a minimum of one year, or who is entering kindergarten or first grade. This bill requires annual determination of eligibility for awarding of education freedom account funds. The bill also requires an annual report on the number of students participating in the program in each school district.
Oppose SB151 relative to mental health education. Education Tue 1/31 9:30 AM LOB Room 101 This bill expands the adequate education standards to include mental health education and provides rulemaking authority to the department of education to accommodate this change.
Oppose HB324 relative to campaign contributions and expenditures and making an appropriation therefor. Election Law Tue 1/31 10:00 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill establishes a fund to provide campaign financing for eligible candidates for governor and executive councilor and makes an appropriation to the fund.
Of Interest HB482 requiring the use of ballots with embedded security, traceability, and relative to the chain of custody for ballots cast in elections. Election Law Tue 1/31 10:15 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill: I. Requires the secretary of state to select a supplier to print and deliver ballots for elections. II. Makes certain security requirements of ballots. III. Specifies the chain of custody for ballots during and after an election. IV. Requires photocopied proof of identity and residency when submitting an absentee ballot.
Oppose HB259 relative to a study about making working at polling places on election day a civic responsibility and legal obligation for citizens. Election Law Tue 1/31 1:30 PM LOB Room 306-308 This establishes a committee to study whether to make working at polling places on election day a civic responsibility and legal obligation for citizens
Oppose SB133 relative to changing the date of the state primary election and creates runoff election for federal primary election. Election Law and Municipal Affairs Tue 1/31 9:45 AM LOB Room 103 This bill changes the date of the state primary election to May and creates a runoff election for the federal primary election.
Support HB119 relative to homestead food operation licensure. Environment and Agriculture Tue 1/31 1:30 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill increases the maximum annual gross sales of food a homestead food operation may sell and retain an exemption from food licensing provisions.
Support HB122 relative to microenterprise home kitchen operations. Environment and Agriculture Tue 1/31 2:00 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill defines homestead food operations and provides food service licensing exemptions for them.
Support HB493 eliminating the state meat inspection program. Environment and Agriculture Tue 1/31 2:30 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill eliminates the state meat inspection program. This bill is a request of the department of agriculture, markets, and food.
Support HB348 relative to the sale of raw milk and products made with raw milk. Environment and Agriculture Tue 1/31 3:00 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill increases the amount of raw milk a producer processor can sell or process without a license and removes the requirement that such ice cream and frozen yogurt produced using raw milk be sold in 6 ounce containers.
Oppose SB114 relative to payment by the state of a portion of retirement system contributions of political subdivision employers. Finance Tue 1/31 1:55 PM SH Room 103 This bill restores the state’s contribution to the retirement liabilities of certain teachers, firefighters, and police officers within the state retirement system.
Support HB646 eliminating the vehicle inspection mandate for non-commercial vehicles. Transportation Tue 1/31 10:30 AM LOB Room 201-203 This bill exempts vehicles that do not require a commercial driver license to operate from annual equipment inspection to determine whether such vehicles are fit to be driven.
Oppose SB256 establishing a safety program for off-highway recreational vehicles. Transportation Tue 1/31 1:45 PM LOB Room 101 This bill establishes a safety program for off highway recreational vehicles.
Support HB288 relative to taxation of sole proprietorship businesses. Ways and Means Tue 1/31 11:00 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill exempts sole proprietorships and single member LLCs from business enterprise and business profits taxes.
Support HB486 relative to vehicle registrations and reciprocal toll collection enforcement agreements. Ways and Means Tue 1/31 1:15 PM LOB Room 202-204 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 HB225 relative to prohibiting the use of currency that could be detrimental to privacy rights. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Wed 2/1 1:45 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill prohibits the use of any currency as legal tender that could be detrimental to privacy rights.
Of Interest HB46 relative to the appointment of magistrates and repealing the statutes governing bail commissioners. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Wed 2/1 10:00 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill authorizes the superior court and circuit court to appoint magistrates and repeals the powers, duties, and authority of bail commissioners.
Oppose HB400 relative to certain assault offenses, bail eligibility for commission of certain assault offenses, and making a false report to a law enforcement officer. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Wed 2/1 11:00 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill establishes a separate criminal penalty and bail conditions for assaults involving a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or emergency medical services worker. The bill also establishes a criminal penalty for making a false report to a law enforcement officer.
Oppose HB549 relative to definitions of domestic violence. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Wed 2/1 12:30 PM LOB Room 202-204 This bill expands the definition of abuse to includes acts of financial abuse and domestic violence.
Support SB206 prohibiting corporal punishment in child day care agencies. Executive Departments and Administration Wed 2/1 10:15 AM SH Room 103 This bill expands the definition of endangerment to include corporal punishment as defined by the department of health and human services.
Support HB274 relative to the administrative rulemaking process. Executive Departments and Administration Wed 2/1 1:00 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill makes various changes to the administrative procedures act, including requiring the agency to verify that the rule complies with the underlying statutory authority and legislative intent; expanding the scope of fiscal impact statements; requiring that proposed rules be submitted to the appropriate legislative policy committee for approval; permitting JLCAR to deny adoption of a rule following final objection, and repealing certain exemptions from rulemaking authority.
Oppose HB566 relative to establishing a fund for child care workers and early childhood educators at state licensed child care centers. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Wed 2/1 10:30 AM LOB Room 210-211 This bill establishes a child care workforce fund to provide grants to eligible child care employers for child care workforce recruitment and retention bonuses and benefits.
Support SB254 relative to community-based sentencing alternatives for primary caregivers. Judiciary Wed 2/1 2:00 PM SH Room 100 This bill adds “dependent child,” “elder,” “person with a disability,” and “primary caretaker of a dependent child” to sentencing definitions. This bill requires sentencing courts make determinations for individually assessed sentences without imprisonment based on community rehabilitation and parent-child or dependent unity and support factors for primary caretakers of dependents.
Oppose HB489 establishing a county tourism development fund administered by the department of business and economic affairs and making an appropriation therefor. Municipal and County Government Wed 2/1 10:00 AM LOB Room 301-303 This bill establishes a county tourism development fund administered by the department of business and economic affairs and makes an appropriation therefor. The bill also establishes a county tourism grant program funded from tax on meals and rooms income.
Oppose HB226 enabling municipalities to regulate the distribution and disposal of certain solid waste within landfills. Municipal and County Government Wed 2/1 11:30 AM LOB Room 301-303 This bill allows towns and municipalities to regulate the distribution and disposal of certain solid waste within landfills.
Oppose HB273 requiring composting and waste recycling to be made available to residents of public housing. Municipal and County Government Wed 2/1 2:20 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill requires public housing residents to have access to on-site composting and recycling receptacles.
Support HB592 relative to buffers around wetlands. Resources, Recreation and Development Wed 2/1 2:30 PM LOB Room 305-307 This bill exempts temporary impacts and small impervious surface impacts projects from local over lay districts and permits for construction, excavation, or filling near wetlands.
Of Interest SB191 relative to road toll registration surcharges for electric vehicles. Ways and Means Wed 2/1 9:45 AM SH Room 100 This bill establishes a registration surcharge for electric vehicles and requires the division of motor vehicles and department of transportation to report annually on the surcharge revenue and use of funds.
Oppose SB261 relative to the interest and dividends tax rate and threshold. Ways and Means Wed 2/1 10:15 AM SH Room 100 This bill: I. Removes the repeal of the interest and dividends tax rate that was to take place on January 1, 2027. II. Removes the interest and dividends tax rate reductions that were to occur after December 31, 2024. III. Increases the taxable minimum of gross income from interest and dividends.
Oppose SB262 allowing municipalities to collect an occupancy fee from operators of local room rentals. Ways and Means Wed 2/1 10:45 AM SH Room 100 This bill enables a municipality to collect an occupancy fee from room rentals for the purpose of establishing a municipal capital fund, revolving fund, or tourism support fund.
Oppose SB168 relative to participation in a low-moderate income residential customers community solar project. Energy and Natural Resources Thu 2/2 1:45 PM SH Room 103 This bill allows for participation of certain large electrical generators in low-moderate income community solar projects and expands the eligibility of residents to benefit from community solar additions.
Oppose SB149 relative to nurse agencies. Executive Departments and Administration Thu 2/2 9:30 AM SH Room 103 This bill establishes a licensing and application process for nurse agencies.
Support HB110 prohibiting the use of state funds for new passenger rail projects. Public Works and Highways Fri 2/3 11:45 AM LOB Room 201-203 This bill prohibits the department of transportation from utilizing state funds for the planning, construction, operation, or management of new passenger rail projects.
Oppose HB511 relative to requiring the department of transportation to do road maintenance and repairs according to its complete streets program Public Works and Highways Fri 2/3 1:45 PM LOB Room 201-203 This bill requires towns, cities, state departments and state institutions who request maintenance and repair assistance for their roads from the department of transportation to coordinate with the complete streets advisory committee to plan and follow the complete streets program standards of the National Association of City Traffic Officials.
Oppose HB633 relative to electric distribution company market share, prohibiting certain electric rate increases, and requiring enforcement against Eversource. Science, Technology and Energy Fri 2/3 1:00 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill requires that electric distribution companies shall not raise electric rates by an amount that exceeds the annual increase in the Consumer Price Index. The bill also prohibits electric distribution companies from having market share greater than 50 percent and requires the attorney general to bring an action against Eversource.

The post Bill Hearings for Week of January 30, 2023 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

Bill Hearings for Week of January 23, 2023

Sun, 2023-01-22 17:40 +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 167 hearings in the House, we are recommending support of 22 and opposition of 42 with 10 being of interest.
Of the 35 hearings in the Senate, we are recommending support of 0 and opposition of 0 with 3 being of interest.

Position Bill Title Committee Day Time Room State Analysis
Oppose HB633 relative to electric distribution company market share, prohibiting certain electric rate increases, and requiring enforcement against Eversource. Science, Technology and Energy Mon 1/23 1:00 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill requires that electric distribution companies shall not raise electric rates by an amount that exceeds the annual increase in the Consumer Price Index. The bill also prohibits electric distribution companies from having market share greater than 50 percent and requires the attorney general to bring an action against Eversource.
Of Interest SB102 relative to the Jones Act’s effect on New Hampshire’s heating and energy fuel market. Commerce Tue 1/24 9:45 AM SH Room 100 This bill requires the department of energy to submit a report to the legislature on the impact of the Jones Act on New Hampshire’s heating and energy fuel market.
Oppose HB487 establishing a New Hampshire farm-to-school reimbursement program. Education Tue 1/24 9:00 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill establishes a New Hampshire farm to school reimbursement program and makes an appropriation therefor.
Oppose HB334 relative to determination and cost of state adequate education. Education Tue 1/24 12:45 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill changes the calculation for the per pupil amount for grants for the opportunity for an adequate education to be 1/2 of the statewide average cost per pupil.
Oppose HB430 relative to applications for the education freedom accounts program. Education Tue 1/24 1:45 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill provides for applications to the education freedom account program for a child currently attending a New Hampshire public school, including a chartered public school, for a minimum of one year, or who is entering kindergarten or first grade.
Oppose HB324 relative to campaign contributions and expenditures and making an appropriation therefor. Election Law Tue 1/24 10:00 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill establishes a fund to provide campaign financing for eligible candidates for governor and executive councilor and makes an appropriation to the fund.
Of Interest SB61 relative to surface water setbacks for landfills. Energy and Natural Resources Tue 1/24 9:30 AM SH Room 103 This bill enables the department of environmental services to adopt rules relative to surface water setbacks for landfills.
Oppose HB332 relative to school building aid for eligible projects. Finance Tue 1/24 10:00 AM LOB Room 210-211 This bill increases the amount to be appropriated by the legislature for school building aid construction and renovation projects of school districts. The bill also allocates a portion of funds to be paid for school building projects approved in prior years but which were not funded.
Oppose HB541 relative to school building aid grants and making an appropriation therefor. Finance Tue 1/24 10:30 AM LOB Room 210-211 This bill increases the amount of school building aid grants that may be approved by the department of education per fiscal year. The bill also makes appropriations of $100 million in fiscal years 2024 and 2025 for approved school building aid projects.
Oppose HB546 relative to the school building aid program. Finance Tue 1/24 11:00 AM LOB Room 210-211 This bill requires a minimum of $50,000,000 per fiscal year to be transferred to the school building aid fund, in addition to any debt service payments, for school building aid grants.
Of Interest SB80 requiring the recording of custodial interrogations and making an appropriation therefor. Judiciary Tue 1/24 1:00 PM SH Room 100 This bill requires that custodial interrogations be recorded, establishes a fund to make grants to state law enforcement agencies to purchase equipment to enable such recordings, and makes an appropriation therefor.
Oppose SB117 relative to the definition of a “child” for the purpose of negligent storage of firearms. Judiciary Tue 1/24 1:35 PM SH Room 100 This bill changes the age of a child for the purpose of negligent storage of firearms.
Oppose HB418 relative to eliminating the rebates distributed by the energy efficiency fund. Science, Technology and Energy Tue 1/24 10:30 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill eliminates the rebate amount distributed to retail electricity ratepayers and allocates all auction proceeds to support current or future energy efficiency resource standards programs.
Oppose HB92 requiring the adoption of innovative vehicle emissions standards pursuant to section 177 of the federal Clean Air Act. Science, Technology and Energy Tue 1/24 2:00 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill requires the adoption of California Low Emission/Zero Emission vehicle standards to protect public health, enable New Hampshire automotive customers to utilize the extended emissions-specific warranty, and to enable New Hampshire automotive dealers to carry Zero Emissions Vehicles in stock. The bill also increases the inspection sticker fee and makes an appropriation to the department of environmental services to fund an additional position.
Oppose HB597 relative to race and ethnicity data on driver’s licenses, and race and ethnicity data collection. Transportation Tue 1/24 11:00 AM LOB Room 201-203 This bill adds race and ethnicity as optional information that may be included on a driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, and nondriver’s picture identification card and requires law enforcement agencies to collect such data.
Support HB650 relative to prohibiting suspension of driver’s licenses due to nonpayment of fines or fees. Transportation Tue 1/24 1:00 PM LOB Room 201-203 This bill modifies the circumstances under which a driver’s license may be suspended or revoked for nonpayment of fines, fees, or restitution; removes suspension of a driver’s license or privilege as a sentencing punishment for nonpayment of fines, fees, or restitution; and authorizes the commissioner of safety to expunge the records of individuals covered by this bill.
Support HB388 relative to number plates for motor vehicles. Transportation Tue 1/24 1:30 PM LOB Room 201-203 This bill would require private passenger vehicles to display only one number plate on the rear of the vehicle.
Support HB393 permitting a motor vehicle operator to use only a rear license plate. Transportation Tue 1/24 2:00 PM LOB Room 201-203 This bill allows all private passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles to have a single license plate on the rear.
Support HB15 relative to the rate of the business enterprise tax. Ways and Means Tue 1/24 10:00 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill reduces the rate of the business enterprise tax for tax years ending on or after December 31, 2024.
Support HB133 relative to repealing the communications services tax. Ways and Means Tue 1/24 11:00 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill repeals the communications services tax.
Oppose HB192 relative to the rate and exemptions of the interest and dividends tax. Ways and Means Tue 1/24 1:00 PM LOB Room 202-204 This bill repeals the previously passed phase out of the interest and dividends tax and changes the rates and exemptions.
Support HB100 to repeal the interest and dividends tax. Ways and Means Tue 1/24 2:00 PM LOB Room 202-204 This bill changes the effective date of the repeal of the interest and dividends tax.
Oppose HB531 relative to the taxation of tobacco and nicotine products. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Wed 1/25 9:00 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill directs the commissioner of the department of revenue administration to annually set the tobacco and nicotine tax based on the rates charged by neighboring states, and directs the commissioner to produce a report detailing the uses of such taxes.
Oppose HB279 increasing the penalty for on-premises licensees overserving alcohol. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Wed 1/25 9:30 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill increases the penalty for on-premises licensees overserving alcohol.
Of Interest HB612 relative to the fees for New Hampshire wine manufacturers. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Wed 1/25 10:00 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill: I. Allows wine manufacturers to give a bottle as a sample under certain conditions. II. Changes the fee and tax structure on wine sold in state. III. Exempts a certain volume of wine from taxes for home use.
Support HB639 relative to the legalization and regulation of cannabis and making appropriations therefor. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Wed 1/25 1:15 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill establishes procedures for the legalization, regulation, and taxation of cannabis; the licensing and regulation of cannabis establishments; and makes appropriations therefor.
Of Interest HB544 legalizing cannabis for retail sale. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Wed 1/25 1:20 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill: I. Legalizes the retail sale, possession, and use of cannabis for persons 21 years of age and older. II. Authorizes the liquor commission to regulate and administer the cultivation, manufacture, testing, and retail sale of cannabis statewide, and makes an appropriation therefor. III. Authorizes alternative treatment centers registered to dispense therapeutic cannabis to register, as a separate entity, to manufacture, cultivate, or transport cannabis to the state for retail sale. IV. Authorizes a municipality to enact an ordinance prohibiting or limiting the number and type of cannabis establishments that may be permitted within the municipality and regulating the time, place, and manner of operation of a cannabis establishment permitted within the municipality. V. Establishes the cannabis control fund and requires funds to be distributed to municipalities and the general fund. VI. Makes an appropriation to the department of health and human services to create public media and social media campaigns to address some of the risks of cannabis use.
Oppose HB272 increasing chartered public school per pupil funding. Education Wed 1/25 9:00 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill increases the amount of the additional grant for tuition of chartered public school students paid by the state.
Oppose HB626 requiring the department of education to administer the education freedom account. Education Wed 1/25 1:00 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill changes the administration of the education freedom account program under RSA 194-F from scholarship organizations to the department of education.
Oppose HB341 establishing licensure for massage establishments. Executive Departments and Administration Wed 1/25 10:45 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill establishes licensure for massage establishments under the regulation of massage therapists by the office of professional licensure and certification.
Oppose HB105 relative to the registration of medical spas. Executive Departments and Administration Wed 1/25 11:30 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill establishes the registration of medical spa facilities.
Oppose HB620 establishing a department of early childhood education and relative to a pre-kindergarten pilot program. Executive Departments and Administration Wed 1/25 1:30 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill establishes an executive branch department of early childhood education. The bill also establishes the authority for the department to design, create, and administer a 3-year high quality, community-based, mixed delivery public pre-kindergarten pilot program.
Oppose HB329 establishing an ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) registry in New Hampshire. Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Wed 1/25 1:00 PM LOB Room 210-211 This bill establishes an ALS registry administered by the department of health and human services.
Oppose HB112 relative to tenant’s right to notification prior to the sale of a multifamily home. Judiciary Wed 1/25 9:00 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill requires the owner of restricted residential property to provide tenants with notice of sale of the property and an opportunity to make an offer to purchase the property.
Support HB117 relative to the termination of tenancy at the expiration of the tenancy or lease term. Judiciary Wed 1/25 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 HB261 authorizing residential tenants to terminate their lease in instances of domestic violence or following a disabling illness or accident. Judiciary Wed 1/25 11:15 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill permits residential tenants to terminate their lease in instances of domestic violence or following a disabling illness or accident, and describes the written documentation required.
Oppose HB283 to limit application fees charged to prospective residential tenants. Judiciary Wed 1/25 1:00 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill limits the rental application fee and other fees charged by a landlord as part of the rental application process for a residential property.
Oppose HB340 relative to the transfer of residential property. Judiciary Wed 1/25 1:45 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill restricts the acquisition of single-family and multi-family housing to natural persons with certain exceptions. The bill requires a nonnatural person that acquires single or multi family housing within one of the specified exceptions to register and file reports with the secretary of state.
Oppose HB379 requiring that attorneys be appointed to represent indigent tenants during residential eviction proceedings and making an appropriation therefor. Judiciary Wed 1/25 2:30 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill provides that an indigent tenant shall have the right to counsel at an eviction proceeding, establishes a fund for this purpose, and makes an appropriation therefor.
Oppose HB401 relative to evictions based on the owner’s intent to renovate the property. Judiciary Wed 1/25 3:15 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill establishes certain criteria for evictions based on the landlord’s intent to renovate or remove the property from the residential housing market.
Support HB296 relative to local authority for granting driveway permits. Public Works and Highways Wed 1/25 3:00 PM LOB Room 201-203 This bill clarifies that local land use boards and not the state fire code regulate driveway access.
Oppose HB472 relative to the placement of temporary seasonal docks. Resources, Recreation and Development Wed 1/25 1:00 PM LOB Room 305-307 This bill prohibits a wetlands permitting exception for temporary seasonal docks which impact any wildlife species, threatened species, or endangered species in accordance with the endangered species conservation act.
Oppose HB353 establishing an interstate compact for universal healthcare. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Thu 1/26 11:00 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill establishes an interstate compact for universal healthcare to provide payment for providing healthcare for the citizens of New Hampshire and other member states after the date of implementation.
Of Interest HB318 eliminating bail commissioners, and relative to the release of a defendant pending trial and establishing new circuit court judge positions. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Thu 1/26 9:00 AM SH Room Reps Hall This bill eliminates bail commissioners; provides that judges shall set bail; amends the procedure for the release of a defendant pending trial; and requires the judicial branch to include in its budget funding for 3 new full-time circuit court judges.
Of Interest HB643 relative to legalizing marijuana. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Thu 1/26 10:30 AM SH Room Reps Hall This bill legalizes marijuana for persons 21 years of age and older.
Support HB581 repealing the controlled drug act and establishing a committee to study the policy and statutory changes necessary to implement the repeal. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Thu 1/26 11:15 AM SH Room Reps Hall This bill repeals the controlled drug act effective July 1, 2025, and establishes a committee to recommend legislation to make the necessary policy and statutory changes to accompany the repeal.
Support HB473 relative to penalties for controlled drug violations. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Thu 1/26 12:45 PM SH Room Reps Hall This bill changes the penalty for certain schedule I, II, III, and IV drug offenses.
Support HB360 an act legalizing cannabis for persons 21 years of age or older. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Thu 1/26 1:30 PM SH Room Reps Hall This bill legalizes the possession and use of cannabis for persons 21 years of age and older.
Support HB344 relative to the home cultivation of cannabis plants and the possession of certain cannabis-infused products. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Thu 1/26 2:15 PM SH Room Reps Hall This bill permits adults to possess up to 3/4 of an ounce of cannabis, 5 grams of hashish, and certain cannabis-infused products; permits adults to cultivate up to 6 cannabis plants at home in a secure location that is not visible from other properties, and to possess and process the cannabis produced from their plants at the same location; permits adults to give cannabis to other adults, provided it is not more than 3/4 of an ounce of cannabis, 5 grams of hashish, or up to 300 mg of cannabis-infused products, or 3 immature plants; provides that smoking or vaporizing cannabis in public by an adult would be punishable by a $100 fine; provides that violations of the restrictions on cultivation would be a violation punishable by fine of up to $750; penalizes dangerous, volatile extraction; and permits adults to possess, make, and sell cannabis accessories to other adults.
Support HB328 an act legalizing certain controlled substances for persons 21 years of age or older. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Thu 1/26 3:00 PM SH Room Reps Hall This bill legalizes the possession and use of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), mescaline, psilocybin, and peyote for persons 21 years of age and older.
Support HB470 relative to fentanyl test strips and other drug checking equipment. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Thu 1/26 3:45 PM SH Room Reps Hall This bill amends the definition of drug paraphernalia to exclude drug checking equipment and authorizes the use of drug checking equipment.
Oppose HB436 relative to group II retirement under transition provisions in the retirement system. Executive Departments and Administration Thu 1/26 1:00 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill adjusts the application of the minimum age, minimum years of service, and annuity multipliers in the transition provisions for group II service retirement adopted in 2011 to be applicable as of January 1, 2014 rather than January 1, 2012.
Oppose HB449 relative to the calculation of group II retirement benefits in the retirement system. Executive Departments and Administration Thu 1/26 2:00 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill increases the service retirement and disability retirement annuity multiplier for the first 20 years of service of group II retirement system members under the transition provisions adopted in 2011.
Oppose HB525 relative to group II service retirement provisions in the retirement system. Executive Departments and Administration Thu 1/26 2:15 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill adjusts the application of the transition provisions for group II service retirement adopted in 2011 to be applicable as of January 1, 2014 rather than January 1, 2012.
Oppose HB579 eliminating the 2011 transition provision requirements for group II retirement. Executive Departments and Administration Thu 1/26 2:30 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill eliminates the transition provision adopted in 2011 for group II retirement system members that began service before July 1, 2011 but were not yet vested.
Oppose HB506 relative to the construction of a rail trail box tunnel on Exit 4-A in Derry and making an appropriation therefor. Finance Thu 1/26 11:30 AM LOB Room 210-211 This bill requires the department of transportation to complete the rail trail box tunnel project in Derry, makes an appropriation for the project, and establishes a criminal penalty for any person who fails to complete or impedes the progress of the project.
Oppose HB50 relative to payment by the state of a portion of retirement system contributions of political subdivision employers. Finance Thu 1/26 2:00 PM 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.
Of Interest HB555 appropriating state general fund surplus toward the retirement system unfunded accrued liability. Finance Thu 1/26 3:00 PM LOB Room 210-211 This bill requires the transfer of 75 percent of a state biennial surplus to the reduction in the retirement system’s unfunded accrued liability.
Oppose HB469 prohibiting discrimination against tenants holding certain vouchers for purposes of renting dwellings. Judiciary Thu 1/26 9:00 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill prohibits discrimination against tenants holding certain vouchers for purposes of renting dwellings.
Oppose HB567 relative to notice of rent increases in certain residential rental property. Judiciary Thu 1/26 9:45 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill requires a landlord of certain residential property to provide additional notice of a prospective rent increase.
Of Interest HB533 relative to public school human rights complaints. Judiciary Thu 1/26 1:00 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill allows the department of education to bring a complaint on student discriminatory practices to the state commission on human rights.
Support HB647 relative to causes of action for individual rights. Judiciary Thu 1/26 2:30 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill establishes a cause of action against the state for violations against individual rights.
Oppose HB182 prohibiting discharge of volunteer firefighters or volunteer emergency medical technicians from other employment. Labor, Industrial and Rehabilitative Services Thu 1/26 10:00 AM LOB Room 305-307 This bill prohibits an employer from discharging or disciplining an employee who is a volunteer firefighter or emergency medical technician and whose failure to report for work was due to such employee responding to an emergency.
Support HB190 relative to the duration of unemployment benefits. Labor, Industrial and Rehabilitative Services Thu 1/26 10:45 AM LOB Room 305-307 This bill specifies the duration of unemployment benefits based on the state’s average unemployment rate.
Oppose HB125 relative to youth employment during the school year and at night. Labor, Industrial and Rehabilitative Services Thu 1/26 3:00 PM LOB Room 305-307 This bill clarifies the number of hours a minor is permitted to work when school is in session and limits the evening hours a minor is permitted to work when school is in session.
Oppose HB483 to remove the duties of county delegations and delegate them to county commissioners. Municipal and County Government Thu 1/26 10:00 AM LOB Room 301-303 This bill transfers the duties of the county delegation to the county commissioners as members of the county convention.
Oppose HB357 relative to the length of terms for Belknap county officers. Municipal and County Government Thu 1/26 10:20 AM LOB Room 301-303 This bill establishes a 4-year term for the county treasurer, county sheriff, county register of deeds, and county attorney in Belknap county.
Support HB313 relative to the reductions from the default budget for official ballot town meetings. Municipal and County Government Thu 1/26 11:30 AM LOB Room 301-303 This bill alters the definition of default budget to include salary and benefit reductions which occur as a result of position turnover.
Oppose HB293 allowing a town to appropriate funds to create a town scholarship fund. Municipal and County Government Thu 1/26 2:00 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill allows a town to establish a scholarship fund for the benefit of town residents.
Of Interest HB294 enabling municipalities to adopt a child tax credit. Municipal and County Government Thu 1/26 2:30 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill allows municipalities to adopt a per-child property tax credit.
Support HB498 requiring fish and game officers to obtain a warrant to conduct a search and seizure. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Fri 1/27 10:45 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill requires conservation officers to obtain a search warrant for conducting certain enforcement operations.
Support HB588 relative to the criteria for applying for parole. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Fri 1/27 1:30 PM LOB Room 202-204 This bill allows an eligible incarcerated person to apply for parole upon the completion of 50 percent of such person’s minimum sentence.
Oppose HB158 relative to armor piercing ammunition. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Fri 1/27 2:15 PM LOB Room 202-204 This bill creates a criminal penalty for the possession, manufacture, or use of armor-piercing ammunition.
Support HB503 relative to the rights afforded to a person accused of a crime. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Fri 1/27 3:00 PM LOB Room 202-204 This bill codifies certain rights of an accused person in the criminal process, increases the penalty assessment in cases involving charges related to an alcohol or controlled drug offense, and requires those penalty assessments to be used by the state crime lab.
Of Interest HB439 relative to the duty to provide an education and contracts with private schools. Education Fri 1/27 11:45 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill repeals the authority of a school board to execute a contract with a nonsectarian private school to provide education. The bill also provides that a school board has a duty to provide an education to a pupil until the pupil reaches 22 years of age.
Of Interest HB540 relative to adequate education grant amounts for pupils receiving special education services. Education Fri 1/27 12:45 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill provides for categories of special education services for application to the calculation of differentiated aid in adequate education grant amounts.
Of Interest HB530 relative to withdrawal from a cooperative school district. Education Fri 1/27 1:45 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill clarifies the process for the vote on withdrawal from a cooperative school district.
Support HB466 relative to water bottle filling stations in schools. Education Fri 1/27 2:45 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill repeals the state board of education’s rulemaking authority to adopt rules pursuant to RSA 541-A relative to requirements for the installation of water bottle filling stations.

The post Bill Hearings for Week of January 23, 2023 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

Bill Hearings for Week of January 16, 2023

Sat, 2023-01-14 19:44 +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 119 hearings in the House, we are recommending support of 18 and opposition of 24 with 13 being of interest.
Of the 32 hearings in the Senate, we are recommending support of 2 and opposition of 2 with 2 being of interest.

Position Bill Title Committee Day Time Room State Analysis
Support HB108 relative to the confidentiality of reports made to the division of children, youth, and families and requiring guardians ad litem be appointed in certain instances. Children and Family Law Tue 1/17 11:00 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill provides that reports of suspected abuse and neglect may include the name of the person making the report and provides that the person’s identity shall be fully confidential unless such a person makes such a report in bad faith or maliciously and with intent to cause harm, in which case the person may be subject to civil and criminal penalties.
Oppose HB115 relative to changing the date of the state primary election. Election Law Tue 1/17 10:00 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill changes the date of the state primary election to the second Tuesday in June.
Oppose HB333 relative to changing the date of the state primary election and adding a run-off election if necessary. Election Law Tue 1/17 10:45 AM LOB Room 306-308 This bill changes the date of the state primary election to the second Tuesday in March. This bill also creates a run-off election in the event no state primary election candidate reaches 50 percent of the total vote.
Of Interest HB345 enabling ranked-choice voting for state party primary elections and municipal elections. Election Law Tue 1/17 1:00 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill establishes procedures for ranked-choice voting and allows state parties and municipalities to opt into such procedures.
Of Interest HB350 relative to ranked-choice voting. Election Law Tue 1/17 2:00 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill establishes procedures for ranked-choice voting for federal and state offices.
Oppose HB402 relative to prohibiting false statements against candidates. Election Law Tue 1/17 3:00 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill prohibits the publication of false statements by any candidate, political committee, or political party regarding another candidate’s positions on issues.
Of Interest SB12 relative to the leasing of seasonal camp lots by the fish and game department. Energy and Natural Resources Tue 1/17 9:00 AM SH Room 103 This bill allows the executive director of fish and game to lease certain seasonal camp lots on fish and game lands, and changes the requirements for approval of short-term leases and contracts of the department.
Of Interest SB54 relative to purchased power agreements for electric distribution utilities. Energy and Natural Resources Tue 1/17 9:30 AM SH Room 103 This bill requires electric distribution utilities to issue requests for proposals to provide more diverse and longer term options for providing default energy service to customers in purchased power agreements as directed by the public utilities commission.
Support HB252 exempting agricultural operations from certain municipal noise ordinances. Environment and Agriculture Tue 1/17 1:30 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill exempts farming and agricultural operations from municipal noise ordinances.
Support SB48 relative to the definition of “way” for the purposes of driving after revocation or suspension. Judiciary Tue 1/17 1:15 PM SH Room 100 This bill clarifies laws related to driving after revocation or suspension by prohibiting persons with revoked or suspended licenses from driving a motor vehicle upon a way, removing the prohibition on operating motor vehicles while not on a way.
Oppose SB58 relative to arrests without a warrant while in the care of a medical professional on the premises of a residential care or health care facility. Judiciary Tue 1/17 1:45 PM SH Room 100 This bill authorizes a law enforcement officer to arrest a person without a warrant for interfering with the provision of medically-necessary health care services.
Oppose HB260 prohibiting the operation of motor vehicles by drivers with animals on their laps. Transportation Tue 1/17 3:00 PM LOB Room 201-203 This bill prohibits operation of a motor vehicle while the driver has an animal on his or her person.
Of Interest HB121 relative to worldwide combined reporting for unitary businesses under the business profits tax. Ways and Means Tue 1/17 10:30 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill repeals the water’s edge combined group provisions of the business profits tax.
Oppose HB303 relative to insurance coverage for pain management services. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Wed 1/18 2:15 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill requires insurance coverage for pain management services.
Of Interest HB97 establishing an additional penalty for a violation of privacy. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Wed 1/18 10:45 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill increases the penalty for certain offenses that constitute a violation of privacy.
Oppose HB107 relative to employment restrictions for registered sex offenders. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Wed 1/18 11:45 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill prohibits a person convicted of certain sexual assault offenses from hiring or otherwise engaging in any employment or volunteer service which provides direct services to a minor, or supervision or oversight of a minor.
Oppose HB420 relative to the availability and funding for the dual and concurrent enrollment program by the community college system and making an appropriation therefor. Education Wed 1/18 10:10 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill amends the purpose and course eligibility for the dual and concurrent enrollment program withing the regional career and technical education program and makes an appropriation therefor.
Oppose HB429 requiring the offering of breakfast and lunch in all public and chartered public schools. Education Wed 1/18 2:00 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill requires school districts and chartered public schools to offer both breakfast and lunch programs to students.
Oppose HB327 prohibiting the state from requiring the public use proprietary software when visiting state websites. Executive Departments and Administration Wed 1/18 1:15 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill prohibits the state from requiring the public use proprietary software when visiting state websites.
Support SB35 relative to RSV vaccine administration. Health and Human Services Wed 1/18 9:15 AM LOB Room 101 This bill authorizes pharmacists, pharmacy interns, and licensed advanced pharmacy technicians to administer an RSV vaccine to adults.
Support HB164 relative to prohibiting towns from criminalizing the right to peacefully and orderly assemble. Judiciary Wed 1/18 11:00 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill creates an exemption from the criminal code for orderly and peaceful assembly.
Of Interest HB169 relative to termination of guardianship. Judiciary Wed 1/18 11:30 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill changes the burden of proof for termination of guardianship proceedings.
Of Interest HB63 relative to religious use of land and structures. Judiciary Wed 1/18 3:00 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill prohibits zoning ordinances and local land use regulations from burdening religious land and structures in their use as residential housing.
Support HB256 prohibiting cities and towns from discriminating in the use of public facilities. Judiciary Wed 1/18 3:30 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill prohibits a municipality from unlawfully discriminating against any individual or group based on their speech or purpose.
Oppose HB95 enabling municipalities to adopt rental practice regulations. Municipal and County Government Wed 1/18 10:00 AM LOB Room 301-303 This bill enables municipalities to adopt bylaws to regulate the period of notice required prior to a rent increase on residential property and the permissible amount of such rent increases.
Oppose HB422 to create a public county registry of the monthly rent charged by landlords for each owned unit. Municipal and County Government Wed 1/18 10:45 AM LOB Room 301-303 This bill creates a public registry of rents.
Oppose HB295 relative to requiring all selectboard and school board meetings to be recorded and broadcast live online. Municipal and County Government Wed 1/18 2:00 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill requires public sessions of the boards of selectmen and school boards to be video recorded and live-streamed.
Of Interest HB416 relative to membership on certain local land use boards. Municipal and County Government Wed 1/18 2:30 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill prohibits certain persons from being elected or appointed or sitting on any zoning board of adjustment, planning board, or board of selectmen of the town in which they reside.
Support HB434 relative to flying drones in state parks. Resources, Recreation and Development Wed 1/18 11:15 AM LOB Room 305-307 This bill allows for the commercial and recreational use of drones or small unmanned aircraft in state parks subject to exceptions and limitations. The bill also establishes fees and authorizes fines to be assessed for violations.
Oppose HB143 relative to wiretapping to record conversations related to domestic violence. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Thu 1/19 10:00 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill allows a person to make an audio or video recording, or both, without the consent of the person being recorded for the purpose of obtaining evidence of domestic violence. Such recording shall be admissible as evidence.
Support HB201 relative to changing the penalties for driving without a license. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Thu 1/19 11:30 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill changes the penalties for driving without a license to a violation, unless the individualis convicted for second time in a 12-month period.
Support HB464 relative to eligible students in the education freedom account program. Education Thu 1/19 9:30 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill expands the definition of who is an eligible student qualifying under the education freedom accounts program.
Support HB367 relative to eligibility of students in the education freedom account program. Education Thu 1/19 11:00 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill increases the household income level based on the federal poverty guidelines for the eligibility of students to participate in the education freedom account program.
Oppose HB380 relative to non-academic surveys administered by a public school or a chartered public school to its students. Education Thu 1/19 1:00 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill makes changes to the requirements for school district or chartered public school policies governing the administration of non-academic surveys or questionnaires.
Of Interest HB399 allowing for a testing exception for graduation from high school. Education Thu 1/19 1:45 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill requires the department of education to design and administer a high school diploma equivalency test which would except students age 13 or older who pass the test from school attendance requirements. The bill also provides a private right of action to enforce the provisions of the bill.
Oppose HB45 establishing a committee to study student loan forgiveness in New Hampshire. Education Thu 1/19 2:30 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill establishes a committee to study student loan forgiveness in New Hampshire.
Oppose HB258 establishing a certification for animal chiropractors. Executive Departments and Administration Thu 1/19 1:30 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill establishes a certification for animal chiropractors.
Support HB409 relative to nonresident licensure by the board of barbering, cosmetology, and esthetics. Executive Departments and Administration Thu 1/19 2:15 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill modifies the requirements for nonresident licensure by the board of barbering, cosmetology, and esthetics.
Oppose HB320 relative to free speech in interactive computer services. Judiciary Thu 1/19 9:00 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill prohibits, with limited exception, censorship of speech on interactive computer services social media platforms. The bill establishes a civil right of action for violation of the statute.
Support HB314 relative to the expectation of privacy in the collection and use of personal information. Judiciary Thu 1/19 10:00 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill regulates the collection, retention, and use of personal information and establishes a cause of action for violations of an individual’s expectation of privacy in personal information.
Support HB149 relative to the handling of requests made under the right-to-know law. Judiciary Thu 1/19 10:30 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill requires periodic updates to the requestor when a request is made under the right-to-know law.
Of Interest HB254 relative to remote participation in public meetings under the right to know law. Judiciary Thu 1/19 11:00 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill modifies the requirements for remote participation in public meetings under the right to know law.
Support HB289 relative to consultation with legal counsel under the right to know law. Judiciary Thu 1/19 11:30 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill prohibits a public official from retaining legal counsel for the purpose of evading compliance with the right to know law and makes violation of the requirement a misdemeanor.
Support HB307 relative to attorney’s fees in actions under the right to know law. Judiciary Thu 1/19 1:00 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill requires the court to issue a final judgment in favor of the requester before attorney’s fees are awarded under the right to know law.
Oppose HB308 relative to a quorum for meetings open to the public to include remote presence. Judiciary Thu 1/19 1:30 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill removes the emergency exception requirement for remote presence of members to constitute a quorum for meetings open to the public.
Of Interest HB321 relative to minutes from nonpublic sessions under the right to know law. Judiciary Thu 1/19 2:00 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill requires public bodies to review meeting minutes withheld from public disclosure at least every 10 years to determine whether they should continue to be withheld. Minutes not reviewed after 10 years shall be made public.
Of Interest HB347 establishing a superior court land use review docket. Judiciary Thu 1/19 2:30 PM LOB Room 206-208 This bill establishes the land use review docket in the superior court.
Oppose HB57 relative to the state minimum hourly rate. Labor, Industrial and Rehabilitative Services Thu 1/19 10:00 AM LOB Room 305-307 This bill increases the minimum hourly rate, increases the base rate for tipped employees, and adjusts both rates annually based on the most recent 12-month average of the consumer price index. The bill also requires a youth minimum wage for employees under 18 years of age.
Oppose HB48 relative to employee protections from COVID-19 in the workplace. Labor, Industrial and Rehabilitative Services Thu 1/19 1:00 PM LOB Room 305-307 This bill establishes COVID-19 related workplace rights for employees.
Oppose HB74 relative to an employee’s unused earned time. Labor, Industrial and Rehabilitative Services Thu 1/19 1:30 PM LOB Room 305-307 This bill requires an employer to pay an employee for unused earned time.
Oppose HB82 relative to employment protection for participants in the therapeutic cannabis program. Labor, Industrial and Rehabilitative Services Thu 1/19 2:30 PM LOB Room 305-307 This bill prohibits an employer from refusing to hire, or terminating the employment of a qualified patient of the New Hampshire therapeutic cannabis program solely on the basis of a positive drug test.
Oppose HB118 prohibiting employers from engaging in certain anti-union activities. Labor, Industrial and Rehabilitative Services Thu 1/19 3:00 PM LOB Room 305-307 This bill prohibits employers from requiring employees to attend or participate in anti-union training.
Support HB44 relative to permissible residential units in a residential zone. Municipal and County Government Thu 1/19 1:30 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill requires that local legislative bodies permit by right certain single-family lots in residential districts to be used for up to 4 residential units.
Oppose HB90 relative to the municipal planning master plan. Municipal and County Government Thu 1/19 2:15 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill adds the authority for local planning master plans to contain sections on transition to renewable energy and other relevant topics.
Of Interest HB292 establishing a criminal penalty for theft by a public servant. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Fri 1/20 10:00 AM LOB Room 202-204 This bill establishes a criminal penalty for theft by a public servant who authorizes payment for legal actions against the municipality, and creates a right of action against such public servants.
Support HB216 exempting dimethyltryptamine from the controlled drug act. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Fri 1/20 1:30 PM LOB Room 202-204 This bill exempts dimethyltryptamine from the controlled drug act.
Support HB144 restoring firearm ownership rights to ex-felons. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Fri 1/20 2:15 PM LOB Room 202-204 This bill provides that a non-violent felon who has completed the term of incarceration, and all other conditions of the sentence, shall have the right to possess and use a firearm.
Support HB31 repealing the prohibition on the possession or sale of blackjacks, slung shots, and metallic knuckles. Criminal Justice and Public Safety Fri 1/20 2:45 PM LOB Room 202-204 This bill repeals the prohibition, penalty, and exceptions relating to the carrying and possessing with intent to sell a black jack, slung shot, or metallic knuckles.
Support HB229 relative to requiring an official declaration of war for the activation of the New Hampshire national guard. State-Federal Relations and Veterans Affairs Fri 1/20 10:00 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill limits the activation of the New Hampshire national guard to only those times where the United States Congress has passed an official action pursuant to Article I, Section 8 of the United States Constitution.
Of Interest HB269 relative to limiting the authority of New Hampshire delegates to policymaking conventions. State-Federal Relations and Veterans Affairs Fri 1/20 10:30 AM LOB Room 206-208 This bill: I. Establishes a procedure for the selection of delegates to an inter/intrastate policy-making convention. II. Limits the authority of delegates to policymaking conventions to only those granted by the New Hampshire legislature. III. Creates a procedure for recalling and replacing delegates to policymaking conventions who act outside of the scope of the authority granted to them by the New Hampshire legislature.

The post Bill Hearings for Week of January 16, 2023 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

Bill Hearings for Week of January 09, 2023

Sat, 2023-01-07 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 41 hearings in the House, we are recommending support of 1 and opposition of 6 with 4 being of interest.
Of the 18 hearings in the Senate, we are recommending support of 0 and opposition of 0 with 3 being of interest.

Position Bill Title Committee Day Time Room State Analysis
Oppose HB101 relative to requiring voters declare a party affiliation prior to a state primary election. Election Law Tue 1/10 1:00 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill requires any undeclared voter who wishes to vote in a state party primary to declare a party affiliation at least 4 months prior to such primary.
Oppose HB116 relative to fees and primary petitions required for primary ballot election access. Election Law Tue 1/10 2:00 PM LOB Room 306-308 This bill increases certain filing fees and the number of signed primary petitions required for primary ballot candidates. This bill also removes the filing fee for state representative candidates.
Oppose HB102 requiring high schools to include instruction on the nature and history of communism. Education Wed 1/11 10:40 AM LOB Room 205-207 This bill requires school boards and governing boards of private schools to include at least one hour of instruction on the nature and history of communism for high school graduation.
Of Interest HB170 requiring the teaching of cursive handwriting and multiplication tables. Education Wed 1/11 2:00 PM LOB Room 205-207 This bill requires school boards to teach cursive handwriting and the memorization of multiplication tables.
Of Interest HB83 relative to county commissioners’ authority on county buildings. Municipal and County Government Wed 1/11 2:45 PM LOB Room 301-303 This bill removes references to expense thresholds for county commissioners’ authority to purchase real estate and repair, enlarge, or erect county buildings.
Of Interest HB146 relative to the closure of state liquor stores. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Thu 1/12 10:00 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill requires the liquor commission to obtain the prior approval of the fiscal committee of the general court before closing a state liquor store.
Support HB173 relative to toilet facilities provided by restaurants. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Thu 1/12 11:00 AM LOB Room 302-304 This bill removes the requirement for restaurants or food establishments that are capable of seating 25 or more, or serve alcohol, from having to provide separate toilet rooms for each sex.
Oppose HB39 relative to paper billing fees. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Thu 1/12 1:15 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill prohibits a person doing business in this state from charging an additional fee for receiving a paper billing statement, electing to make a payment by United States mail, or attempting to pay a bill in person.
Oppose HB73 relative to the repair of home appliances. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Thu 1/12 2:15 PM LOB Room 302-304 This bill requires home appliance manufacturers to make available to appliance owners and repair providers certain repair-related documentation, parts, and tools. The failure to do so would be a violation of the consumer protection act.
Oppose HB61 relative to teaching on discrimination in the public schools and discrimination in public workplaces. Education Thu 1/12 9:30 AM SH Room Reps Hall 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.
Of Interest CACR1 relating to the governor. Providing that there be a lieutenant governor who shall assume the duties of the governor if the governor is incapacitated. Executive Departments and Administration Thu 1/12 1:30 PM LOB Room 306-308 This constitutional amendment concurrent resolution establishes the office of lieutenant governor and changes succession provisions in the event a governor is unable to perform the duties of the office.
Of Interest SB14 relative to the use of game cameras. Energy and Natural Resources Tue 1/10 9:30 AM SH Room 103 This bill adds a definition of “game camera” and permits the use of a game camera to take or attempt to take a game animal or fur-bearing animal.
Of Interest SB15 relative to the use of tree stands and observation blinds. Energy and Natural Resources Tue 1/10 9:45 AM SH Room 103 This bill amends the permissible uses of tree stands, observation blinds, and pit blinds.
Of Interest SB1 relative to the Sununu youth services center. Judiciary Thu 1/12 10:00 AM SH Room 100 This bill requires the closure of the Sununu youth services center, and sets out parameters for the contract for a replacement facility.

The post Bill Hearings for Week of January 09, 2023 appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

Running on Empty! PAC Fundraiser

Thu, 2022-11-17 11:47 +0000

Liberty continues to live and grow in New Hampshire. We had 97 NHLA Endorsed Representatives and Senators elected!
We supported 158 candidates in the primary and general election and must replenish funds to be able to support liberty candidates in special elections. We are holding a PAC fundraising event at Vine 32 in Bedford on Monday, November 28th. If you can attend, we’d love to see you at the event. Please buy your ticket (which acts as a contribution to our PAC). If you can’t attend but have the means to help us prepare for what are sure to be challenging special elections in 2023, please consider donating to the PAC.

The post Running on Empty! PAC Fundraiser appeared first on NH Liberty Alliance.

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