Committee Summary for House Children and Family Law (05/06/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
SB72 2025-153H 00:11:20.880 - 9:09:36 AM	Executive Session	(New Title) establishing a parental bill of rights.	Lang, Timothy(R)[B-]2025
SB72 2025-1832H 01:46:30.239 - 10:44:46 AM	Executive Session	(New Title) establishing a parental bill of rights.	Lang, Timothy(R)[B-]2025
SB269 01:50:16.520 - 10:48:32 AM	Executive Session	removing references to matrimonial age and time waivers in the vital records act.	Altschiller, Debra(D)[CT]2025

SB72 2025-153H: Representative Raymond Support00:11:20.880 - 9:09:36 AM; Representative Raymond proposed amendment 2025-153H to Senate Bill 72, aiming to adjust the bill to gain bipartisan consensus. The amendment addresses concerns about schools withholding information from parents and emphasizes that teachers should not act as surveillance operatives for parents. It differentiates between the privacy needs of younger and older students and modifies the requirement for teachers to report information to parents, specifically excluding the outing of students based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. The amendment also adjusts the evidential standard from 'clear and convincing' to 'evidence' for teachers to report concerns to DCYF, arguing that the former is too high a bar for educators. Representative Raymond stressed the importance of protecting children's safety and acknowledged the difference in needs between adolescents and younger students.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Love Information Only00:17:14.240 - 9:15:30 AM; Representative Love inquired about the obligation of teachers to report mental health issues to parents under the amendment. Representative Raymond clarified that under the amendment and current state law, teachers are required to disclose concerns about a child's mental health to parents, as it falls under the child's health within the school's educational mission.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Greg Support00:19:16.400 - 9:17:32 AM; Representative Greg expressed support for the amendment, appreciating the thorough list of parental rights and the balance it strikes between parental and children's rights. Greg highlighted the necessity of having parental rights clearly listed and supported the amendment's effort to honor constitutional rights.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Grund Information Only00:19:16.400 - 9:17:32 AM; Representative Grund clarified that schools do not diagnose mental illness but can suggest parents seek testing if concerns arise. This point was agreed upon by Representative Raymond.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Love Information Only00:20:12.240 - 9:18:28 AM; Representative Love raised a follow-up question regarding the inclusion of gender dysphoria under the amendment, specifically if teachers have a right not to disclose it. Representative Raymond clarified that teachers cannot diagnose and the amendment does not require them to disclose gender dysphoria unless it impacts the student's behavior, academic performance, or health.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Georgees Information Only00:24:26.240 - 9:22:42 AM; Representative Georgees shared concerns from their experience on school boards, emphasizing that parents should be proactive in seeking mental health support for their children rather than relying solely on teachers. They argued against putting teachers in a position where they are responsible for monitoring and reporting on children's behavior outside of the school context.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Petrinho Information Only00:25:35.600 - 9:23:51 AM; Representative Petrinho emphasized the difference between a student wanting to use certain pronouns or nicknames and expressing self-harm. They argued that self-harm must be reported, but other personal identity issues should not force teachers to violate confidentiality. They highlighted the importance of open communication between parents and children.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Greg Information Only00:26:43.120 - 9:24:59 AM; Representative Greg reiterated the importance of parents building strong relationships with their children, which cannot be legislated. They encouraged parents to be involved and communicative with their children, acknowledging that schools cannot replace this parental role.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Corel Oppose00:27:54.559 - 9:26:10 AM; Representative Corel expressed opposition to the amendment, particularly regarding the limitation of information shared with parents to the school's educational mission and student code of conduct. They cited examples from other states where parents were not informed about critical incidents involving their children, arguing that parents have a right to know about all aspects of their child's life at school.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Raymond Information Only00:30:16.240 - 9:28:32 AM; Representative Raymond responded to concerns raised by Representative Corel, stating that under both the amendment and current state law, schools are required to report bullying, criminal offenses, and drug use to parents. They clarified that the amendment does not open the door for outing gay and trans students without cause.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Petrinho Information Only00:33:32.159 - 9:31:48 AM; Representative Petrinho supported Representative Raymond's clarification, emphasizing that schools must report incidents that they should not be negligent in sharing with parents. They also highlighted the need for children to have a trusted adult at school, especially if they cannot confide in their parents due to dysfunctional home environments.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Corel Information Only00:34:36.960 - 9:32:52 AM; Representative Corel shared a personal anecdote about their experience as a pastor's daughter, suggesting that schools should help facilitate communication between children and their parents rather than keeping secrets. They argued for bringing issues to light rather than keeping them hidden.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Nelson Information Only00:40:44.720 - 9:39:00 AM; Representative Nelson pointed out that children often share information with each other and their parents, suggesting that secrets in schools are often not well-kept. They also raised a concern about the absence of a specific parental right in the amendment, which was clarified as an oversight since it was not in the original bill.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Labbec Information Only00:44:59.280 - 9:43:15 AM; Representative Labbec shared their experience as a camp counselor, highlighting the personal significance of nicknames for children and how it relates to their identity and comfort in their environment. They argued against the need for teachers to report nicknames to parents unless it affects the child's academic performance or mental health.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Corsen Information Only00:48:04.880 - 9:46:20 AM; Representative Corsen distinguished between the use of nicknames and changes in gender identity, arguing that there is a significant difference. They also mentioned that in states with parental rights bills, there has been no rise in abuse or neglect, suggesting that such legislation does not lead to negative outcomes for children.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Love Information Only00:50:43.119 - 9:48:59 AM; Representative Love discussed various issues like LGBTQ, drug, and mental health issues, arguing that teachers should be partners with parents in raising children. They shared a personal story about their daughter's experience with Adderall, emphasizing the need for schools to inform parents about such incidents.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Malone Oppose00:53:00.240 - 9:51:16 AM; Representative Malone opposed the amendment, citing personal experiences in foster care and with homeless youth services. They argued that many children fear genuine harm from their parents and that outing them could lead to severe consequences, including homelessness. They emphasized the vulnerability of trans and LGBTQ youth and criticized the bill for potentially endangering them.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Georgees Information Only00:57:46.079 - 9:56:02 AM; Representative Georgees advocated for not putting teachers in a position where they are held responsible for children's behavior outside of school. They shared their experience as a parent and minister, emphasizing the role of parents in their children's lives and the potential issues that arise when teachers are expected to monitor and report on children.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Moffett Vote01:02:18.799 - 10:00:34 AM; Representative Moffett voted no on the motion.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Love Vote01:02:18.799 - 10:00:34 AM; Representative Love voted no on the motion.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Corsen Vote01:02:18.799 - 10:00:34 AM; Representative Corsen voted no on the motion.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Markel Vote01:02:18.799 - 10:00:34 AM; Representative Markel voted no on the motion.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Petrinho Vote01:02:18.799 - 10:00:34 AM; Representative Petrinho voted yes on the motion.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Greg Vote01:02:18.799 - 10:00:34 AM; Representative Greg voted yes on the motion.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Grund Vote01:02:18.799 - 10:00:34 AM; Representative Grund voted yes on the motion.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Leves Vote01:02:18.799 - 10:00:34 AM; Representative Leves voted yes on the motion.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Raymond Vote01:02:18.799 - 10:00:34 AM; Representative Raymond voted yes on the motion.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Georgees Vote01:02:18.799 - 10:00:34 AM; Representative Georgees voted yes on the motion.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Malone Vote01:02:18.799 - 10:00:34 AM; Representative Malone voted yes on the motion.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative D. Simony Information Only01:03:06.319 - 10:01:22 AM; Representative D. Simony moved for Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL) on the amendment 2025-153H to Senate Bill 72. The motion was seconded, and there was a brief discussion about whether further discussion was necessary, concluding that it was not needed as they could proceed to the next amendment.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative D. Simony Support01:04:01.280 - 10:02:17 AM; Representative D. Simony moved OTP (Ought to Pass) on House amendment 2025-1832 to Senate Bill 72. He highlighted the comprehensive nature of this amendment compared to another amendment proposed by Representative Raymond. He emphasized the importance of parental rights and the need for schools and parents to work together, especially in supporting children through puberty and addressing the needs of children from the LGBTQ community. He stressed that the amendment does not require teachers to act as psychologists or to out children, but rather to facilitate communication and support between schools and parents.
SB72 2025-153H: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:09:07.439 - 10:07:23 AM; The speaker discusses the issue of a child displaying feminine actions and the potential misinterpretation by a teacher. They emphasize that it's not about the teacher reporting to the parent without the parent's inquiry but rather assisting when a parent reaches out with concerns about their child.
SB72 2025-153H: Unnamed Speaker Support01:09:59.880 - 10:08:15 AM; The speaker supports the amendment, explaining that it is more comprehensive and addresses more issues to help parents and schools work together during a child's difficult teenage years. They voted against another amendment because they believe this one is better.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Petrinho Oppose01:10:53.080 - 10:09:09 AM; Representative Petrinho expresses strong opposition to the amendment, arguing that it could put children in harm's way. They emphasize that parental rights are already well-established and not rescinded, and that the Department of Education already informs parents of their rights. The main concern is with the aspect of mandatory disclosure which they believe would deter children from confiding in teachers due to fear of their parents finding out, leaving children without a safe place to turn. They provide personal anecdotes from their 40 years as a high school teacher to illustrate how crucial it is for students to have a trusted adult to confide in when they cannot do so at home.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Dimony Information Only01:17:35.440 - 10:15:51 AM; Representative Dimony shares a personal story of surviving abuse and how teachers and other adults played a crucial role in their life when their parents were neglectful and abusive. They highlight the importance of having a supportive figure like a teacher, which helped them overcome their circumstances and achieve personal and professional success.
SB72 2025-153H: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:18:21.000 - 10:16:37 AM; The speaker shares their personal journey of overcoming familial discouragement with the help of supportive figures like teachers and their husband. They managed to pursue education, become a nurse, and later obtain three degrees despite having to focus on their sick child. They emphasize the importance of having supportive adults outside the family to help navigate life's challenges.
SB72 2025-153H: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:20:30.960 - 10:18:46 AM; The speaker discussed their personal experiences with their children's education, emphasizing the role of supportive teachers and the importance of parents working with schools. They highlighted their appreciation for Representative Petrino, suggesting that most teachers are similar and crucial in helping children through difficult times.
SB72 2025-153H: Unnamed Speaker Oppose01:22:02.320 - 10:20:18 AM; The speaker expressed strong opposition to the amendment, sharing their personal story as a survivor and victim's advocate. They criticized the direction of the committee, suggesting that recent legislation and budget choices favor abusers over victims. They discussed the potential negative impacts of the amendment on minors' access to confidential birth control and the risk of increased teen pregnancy rates.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Raymond Oppose01:26:33.840 - 10:24:49 AM; Representative Raymond criticized the amendment for expanding the bill to include doctors and medical care, which they believe will hinder teachers and doctors from reporting potential abuse or neglect. They highlighted a new requirement for parental consent for medical care, including birth control, and expressed concern about the impact on teens in unsafe homes. They also pointed out that the amendment could restrict access to telehealth services and force parental involvement in medical decisions during pregnancy.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Nelson Support01:30:09.679 - 10:28:25 AM; Representative Nelson argued that the amendment's requirement for parental consent is similar to existing permission to treat forms and does not necessitate in-person visits for every medical decision. They suggested that online signatures could be used for telehealth situations, defending the amendment as not overly burdensome.
SB72 2025-153H: Unnamed Speaker Support01:32:25.719 - 10:30:41 AM; The speaker supported the amendment, emphasizing the importance of parental involvement during childbirth for non-emancipated minors. They argued that the law would allow for one-time consent, which they believe is reasonable.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative LC Oppose01:33:13.639 - 10:31:29 AM; Representative LC opposed the inclusion of medical provisions in the amendment, arguing that it should be a separate bill focused on medical personnel. They believed that the amendment unnecessarily complicates the primary focus on education and teacher-student relationships.
SB72 2025-153H: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:34:28.880 - 10:32:44 AM; The speaker raised a concern about mandatory disclosure, questioning where a child would go if they could not confide in a teacher due to fear of parental notification. They sought clarification on alternative safe spaces for children to seek help.
SB72 2025-153H: Unnamed Speaker Support01:35:41.400 - 10:33:57 AM; In response to the previous concern, the speaker suggested that children could seek help from other community figures like coaches or neighbors, emphasizing that there are alternatives to teachers for children to confide in.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Ken Support01:37:02.800 - 10:35:18 AM; Representative Ken supported the amendment, arguing that it reinforces the role of extended family in a child's life. They emphasized the importance of grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins as traditional support systems for children.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Love Support01:38:19.159 - 10:36:35 AM; Representative Love supported the amendment, arguing that it protects the rights of good parents who are the majority. They criticized the current system for focusing too much on law enforcement rather than social services, which they believe could help reduce the number of problematic parents.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Georgees Oppose01:40:26.639 - 10:38:42 AM; Representative Georgees opposed the amendment, arguing that it would block children from confiding in teachers, which could be detrimental. They emphasized the importance of having at least one trusted adult in school for children to speak to and criticized the amendment for potentially isolating children further.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Greg Oppose01:41:36.719 - 10:39:52 AM; Representative Greg opposed the amendment, sharing personal experiences and arguing that good parents do not need legislative help to communicate with their children. They highlighted the importance of children feeling safe to discuss issues and criticized the amendment for potentially protecting abusive parents.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative Raymond Oppose01:43:46.199 - 10:42:02 AM; Representative Raymond reiterated their opposition to the amendment, focusing on its impact on medical care and social services. They argued that the amendment would harm children by blocking access to birth control and raising the threshold for reporting abuse and neglect.
SB72 2025-153H: Representative D. Simony Support01:45:08.840 - 10:43:24 AM; Representative D. Simony supported the amendment, explaining that teachers are mandated reporters and can still protect children by reporting abuse to authorities. They also argued that parental consent for medical care, including birth control, is necessary due to potential medical risks known only to parents.
SB72 2025-1832H: Committee Vote01:46:30.239 - 10:44:46 AM; The committee voted on amendment 2025-1832H to Senate Bill 72. The amendment passed with a vote of 9-7. Subsequently, the committee voted on Senate Bill 72 as amended by 2025-1832H, which also passed with a vote of 9-7.
SB269: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:50:16.520 - 10:48:32 AM; The speaker acknowledged the emotional triggers that can arise during discussions on certain bills and thanked the committee for their graciousness. They emphasized the need for individuals to work through their personal issues and suggested moving forward with the original bill.
SB269: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:51:06.920 - 10:49:22 AM; The speaker expressed appreciation for the time given before the executive session on the bill, allowing for grace. They moved for the bill to pass, and the vice chair seconded the motion. The speaker explained that the bill, sent by the Office of the Secretary of State, does not introduce new policy but aligns the language of RSA 5C413 and RSA 5C428 with other parts of the law.
SB269: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:51:56.480 - 10:50:12 AM; The speaker acknowledged the information provided during the hearing, which was initially doubted but later confirmed through a lengthy document from the deputy secretary of state. They described the bill as housekeeping, aligning language without making changes, and confirmed the committee report's content. Representative Raymond requested a form for the minority report on a prior bill, and agreed with the speaker's statements on the current bill.
SB269: Unnamed Speaker Vote01:53:12.119 - 10:51:28 AM; The motion to pass Senate Bill 269 (OTP) was moved by the chair and seconded by the vice chair. A roll call vote was conducted with most representatives voting 'yes', except for Representative Nelson who voted 'no'. The final vote count was 14 to 1.
SB269: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:54:01.760 - 10:52:17 AM; Following the vote, there was some confusion about the next steps. The bill was placed on consent without objections, marking a successful conclusion. The session ended with plans to reconvene in the fall and a mention of a subcommittee on family court.
SB269: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:55:05.520 - 10:53:21 AM; The speaker requested caucus members to meet in a side room for a brief meeting.

DeSimone, Debra(Chairman)(R)[B+]2025	Nelson, Jodi(Clerk)(R)[B]2025	Rice, Kimberly(V Chairman)(R)[B-]2025
McMahon, Charles(R)[B+]2025	Love, David(R)[B+]2025	Pearson, Mark(R)[B]2025
Korzen, Lori(R)[B+]2025	Georges, Mary(D)[D-]2025	Raymond, Heather(D)[CT]2025
Gregg, Alicia(D)[D-]2025	Petrigno, Peter(D)[F]2025	Grossman, Gaby(D)[IN]2025
Levesque, Cassandra (D)[D-]2025	Malone, Amy(D)[D-]2025	Markell, Jay(R)[B]2025