Committee Summary for House Criminal Justice and Public Safety (01/28/2026)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
CACR19 00:02:43.920 - 9:01:35 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the personal possession of cannabis. Providing that adults 21 years of age or older shall have the right to possess a modest amount of cannabis intended for their personal consumption.	Wheeler, Jonah(D)[D-]2025
HB1034 00:39:48.640 - 9:38:40 AM	Public Hearing	relative to possession of firearms on school property.	Horrigan, Timothy(D)[F]2025
HB1047 01:07:27.039 - 10:06:19 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the offense of capital murder.	Morton, Jonathan(R)[B+]2025
Unclear 01:31:19.120 - 10:30:11 AM	Public Hearing	Unclear
HB1049 02:01:12.639 - 11:00:04 AM	Public Hearing	relative to storage requirements for firearms.	Meuse, David(D)[F]2025
HB1051 02:30:48.240 - 11:29:40 AM	Public Hearing	establishing a commission to study the creation of a statewide fingerprinting and background check database in New Hampshire.	Layon, Erica(R)[A+]2025
HB1058 committee amendment 03:33:30.880 - 12:32:22 PM	Public Hearing	enabling the carrying of a firearm on an OHRV when such OHRV is being operated on private property.	McFarlane, Donald(R)[A]2025
HB1061 03:51:13.840 - 12:50:05 PM	Public Hearing	establishing a commission to study alternatives to incarceration for nonviolent offenders who are primary caregivers.	Murray, Alissandra(D)[D-]2025
HB1084 04:01:14.000 - 1:00:06 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the relinquishment of deadly weapons by those subject to a domestic violence protective order.	Meuse, David(D)[F]2025
HB1100 04:32:26.080 - 1:31:18 PM	Public Hearing	establishing an exception to the prohibition against interception and disclosure of telecommunication or oral communications.	Damon, Hope(D)[CT]2025
HB1108 05:03:18.000 - 2:02:10 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the offense of criminal threatening.	McFarlane, Donald(R)[A]2025
HB1142 05:35:28.000 - 2:34:20 PM	Public Hearing	relative to requirements for law enforcement officers assisting in immigration enforcement.	Simpson, Alexis(D)[CT]2025

CACR19: Representative Jonah O'an Wheeler, representing Peterborough and Sharon Support00:02:43.920 - 9:01:35 AM; Representative Wheeler introduces CACR19, proposing a constitutional amendment to legalize possession of a modest amount of cannabis for personal use. He references the 1975 Alaska Supreme Court decision establishing a privacy right for cannabis possession and notes that 12 other states have pursued similar constitutional amendments to let voters decide. He argues that New Hampshire has debated cannabis issues endlessly without progress, while surrounding states have legalized it, leaving NH as an 'island of illegality.' The amendment would put the possession question directly to voters in the next election, simplifying the issue and respecting public will, as polls show strong support. It avoids regulatory complexities like sales, focusing solely on personal possession rights.
CACR19: Committee Chair (questioning on modest amount) Information Only00:07:14.800 - 9:06:06 AM; The Chair asks for clarification on the 'modest amount' of cannabis, noting it's not specified in the bill. Representative Wheeler explains that courts have interpreted 'modest' as between 2 to 4 ounces, avoiding a specific limit to keep it constitutional rather than legislative. The Chair confirms the range as two to four ounces.
CACR19: Representative Pru (questioning on vagueness) Information Only00:08:16.800 - 9:07:08 AM; Representative Pru questions whether the vagueness of 'modest amount' could lead to court cases and suggests defining it. Wheeler counters that legal experts advised using 'modest' to allow litigation, resulting in the 2-4 ounce range, and it wouldn't protect large quantities like those from cartels.
CACR19: Representative Sher (questioning on personal use) Information Only00:10:26.800 - 9:09:18 AM; Representative Sher points out the bill specifies 'modest amount of cannabis intended for their personal use,' limiting it to private property per the Alaska ruling. Wheeler confirms it protects personal possession and use but not sales or public display. Sher follows up that this wouldn't prohibit the legislature from regulating sales, which Wheeler agrees with, noting frustration over stalled possession legalization amid sales debates.
CACR19: Representative Muse (questioning on precedents) Information Only00:12:29.200 - 9:11:21 AM; Representative Muse asks if other state constitution parts enshrine 'modest amounts' for personal rights. Wheeler says not offhand but notes legislatures innovate, as 12 states have with cannabis.
CACR19: Representative Lels (questioning on federal impact) Information Only00:13:46.560 - 9:12:38 AM; Representative Lels asks if this changes federal cannabis illegality. Wheeler explains states contend with federal gray areas, but simple possession is state-level and feds ignore it unless involving large quantities or sales. On a followup about rescheduling cannabis federally, Wheeler notes Trump's executive order to schedule three aids research and banking but doesn't affect this amendment.
CACR19: State Representative Heath Howard, representing Strafford and Barrington Support00:15:40.959 - 9:14:32 AM; Representative Howard supports CACR19, criticizing legislative failure to legalize despite overwhelming public support (over 70% of Granite Staters favor reform) and legalization in neighboring states and Canada. He highlights NH as an 'island of prohibition' leading to over 1,000 annual possession arrests, disproportionately affecting communities of color (five times more likely than whites). The amendment protects natural rights under Article 2 of the state constitution for personal possession without sales or commercial debates, addressing government neglect of personal liberty and allowing voter self-determination via referendum. He urges an OTP vote.
CACR19: Jared Sullivan, Representative from Bethlehem in Franconia, Grafton District 2 Support00:18:45.200 - 9:17:37 AM; Sullivan supports the constitutional amendment to legalize cannabis possession, arguing that New Hampshire should stop arresting people for an activity legal in neighboring states. He highlights the ruinous impact of criminal records on individuals' lives and notes strong public support, with polls showing 70% of Granite Staters and 55% of Republicans in favor. He emphasizes that regulation and sales are separate issues and that a constitutional amendment provides durability against future revocation. He points out the inconsistency of border-crossing for purchase leading to arrests upon return.
CACR19: Sue Hamola, from Hollis, representing Smart Approaches to Marijuana Oppose00:21:04.400 - 9:19:56 AM; Hamola opposes the amendment, calling it legislatively irresponsible to enshrine possession of a federally illegal drug in the state constitution. She criticizes the vague 'modest amount' definition, which varies by state, and warns of high-potency marijuana's harm to developing brains up to age 25-27, making the 21+ age limit inappropriate compared to alcohol. She cites negative outcomes in legalized states: high youth cannabis use disorders in Vermont, cartel farms in Maine, more illegal sales than state sales in New York and California, and opt-outs by most Maine towns. She notes declining public support per Gallup polls and clarifies cannabis is not yet Schedule III federally. During Q&A, she discusses unintended consequences like increased youth addiction, ER visits for psychosis and hyperemesis syndrome, black market growth, and family costs from addiction.
CACR19: Ray Buler, from Tilton, New Hampshire Information Only00:30:58.960 - 9:29:50 AM; Buler, a child of the 1960s who used marijuana, argues that its illegality makes it a gateway drug by exposing users to illicit sellers offering harder drugs. He shares that legalization could reduce such exposure. However, he expresses concern about today's high-THC potency, noting it alters his adult son's personality negatively. He marks his support as neutral ('dash') due to these conflicting views, suggesting legalization only if THC strength is reduced to half or less.
CACR19: Matt Simon, representing Granite Leaf Cannabis Support00:34:34.879 - 9:33:26 AM; Simon supports the amendment for establishing a constitutional right to possess modest amounts of cannabis for personal use, unrelated to therapeutic programs or commercialization. He argues it aligns with public opinion (over two-thirds support) and the 'Live Free or Die' ethos, criticizing ongoing arrests despite legislative impasses. He notes repeated failures of legalization bills and suggests the amendment lets voters decide, as in other states. He views it as a philosophical issue of individual rights in a free society, praises the bill's high-level wording to avoid specifying amounts, and anticipates future legislative policy discussions on regulation and taxation if passed.
HB1034: Timothy O'Brien, Representative from Straford County District 10, town of Durham Support00:39:48.640 - 9:38:40 AM; O'Brien introduces HB1034, making illegal firearm possession on school property a Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year prison, $2,000 fine), applying only to firearms and complementing existing penalties and federal law. It empowers local/state police for de-escalation in threats, standardizes school board authorization for armed staff (confidential, excluding school resource officers), and prohibits private schools from hiring personnel solely as armed guards (they must have other duties and qualifications). He argues schools need rules for on-campus behavior not illegal off-campus, deems arming teachers unrealistic due to costs and discipline risks, and urges passage to protect students/teachers, noting events since 2019 underscore urgency. During Q&A, he opposes dedicated armed guards as uncomfortable and prefers multifaceted security like school resource officers; clarifies the bill strengthens current law for arrests without additional crimes.
HB1034: Shirley Dawson, resident of Plaistow, New Hampshire Oppose00:52:02.000 - 9:50:54 AM; Dawson opposes the bill as unnecessary gun control targeting law-abiding owners while ignoring criminals, eroding New Hampshire's tradition of individual responsibility and limited government. She argues it weakens self-defense freedoms and questions protection for after-hours playground use (e.g., her local Pard Elementary), where parents/children could face threats like registered sex offenders without firearms. She criticizes banning dedicated armed guards in private schools, seeing it as leaving schools vulnerable with a 'come shoot' sign, and asserts only a good guy with a gun stops a bad guy with one. Urges inexpedient to legislate.
HB1034: Simonita Thurber, from Exeter Support00:55:12.240 - 9:54:04 AM; Thurber supports HB1034, sharing a personal 2014 incident at Cooperative Middle School in Stratham where a sixth-grader brought a loaded handgun to school; her son was seated next to him in homeroom, and the child boasted about it. Police responded quickly, averting disaster, but she emphasizes such risks happen in New Hampshire. She criticizes unsecured firearms left accessible to children by adults and implies the bill would enhance prevention and accountability for possession.
HB1034: Unnamed Speaker Support00:57:57.839 - 9:56:49 AM; The speaker discusses the irresponsibility of some firearm owners, citing an incident where a grandfather's negligence nearly endangered a middle school. They argue that such reckless behavior puts children at risk and that without a law prohibiting firearms on school property, school personnel and police face challenges in responding. They urge support for HB1034 to send a clear message that firearms are forbidden on school grounds, helping to keep children safe and assist law enforcement.
HB1034: Raymond Banger from Tilton Oppose00:59:09.119 - 9:58:01 AM; Raymond shares his positive experience with a school resource officer at Winnisquam High School, emphasizing the importance of immediate response to threats. He supports having firearms on school grounds for protection, referencing a school shooting where an unarmed principal was killed. He opposes the bill, stating it would not prevent improper storage issues (addressed in another bill) and is essential for protecting children in schools.
HB1034: Kathleen Slover from Portsmouth Support01:02:09.040 - 10:01:01 AM; Kathleen highlights the lack of a state law prohibiting firearms on school grounds beyond students, giving examples like parents leaving guns on playgrounds or bringing them to events without consequences. She recounts a 2023 incident outside Portsmouth High School where a man threatened a mass shooting with legal firearms on school grounds, endangering her son who was in lockdown. She argues that gun-free zones establish clear norms, reduce confusion in threats, and enhance safety for students and enforcement.
HB1034: Kimberly Morren representing Women's Defense League of New Hampshire Oppose01:05:26.240 - 10:04:18 AM; Kimberly argues that HB1034 impacts parents, especially single mothers protecting themselves from abusers while dropping off children at school. She criticizes the permission requirement from school boards as impractical and an infringement on Second Amendment rights. She notes New Hampshire's status as a safe state without such restrictions and calls for voting inexpedient to legislate, viewing the bill as unrelated to safety.
HB1047: John Morton, Representative from Manchester (sponsor) Information Only01:07:27.039 - 10:06:19 AM; The sponsor introduces HB1047 briefly, explaining it establishes a capital murder offense for knowingly causing the death of high-level elected officials or candidates motivated by their position. He notes the bill's analysis and invites questions.
HB1047: Barbara Cashin Support01:08:37.440 - 10:07:29 AM; Barbara discusses testimony on the death penalty from the previous week, arguing it doesn't deter but emphasizes New Hampshire's safety. She urges the committee to consider what would help families of victims, including their own, cope with loss, though she acknowledges the bill itself specifies life without parole unless paired with another bill reinstating the death penalty.
HB1047: Lisa Bodwin from Concord Oppose01:11:54.960 - 10:10:46 AM; Lisa argues HB1047 is redundant, as such killings would already be charged as first-degree murder with life without parole. She rejects the implied hierarchy of human worth for elected officials over others and states it fails on safety grounds, as harsher penalties don't deter irrational political violence. She calls for front-end prevention instead and notes the burden on the judicial system, urging a vote inexpedient to legislate.
Unclear: Unnamed Sponsor Information Only01:31:19.120 - 10:30:11 AM; The sponsor introduces the bill, noting it has passed the House five times and seeks repeal of an ongoing position. They express optimism due to a better Senate majority and invite questions.
Unclear: Captain Matt Ematuchi with New Hampshire State Police Information Only01:31:48.719 - 10:30:40 AM; The State Police are neutral on the bill. Matt explains that items like metallic knuckles can escalate fights to fatal encounters, unlike less lethal alternatives like pepper spray. He notes these objects are intended to inflict injury and shares experiences with related injuries, though not specifically with metallic knuckles.
Unclear: Robert Lawless, Pembroke Oppose01:35:01.600 - 10:33:53 AM; Robert Lawless from Pembroke strongly opposes the bill legalizing brass knuckles, blackjacks, and slung shots. He questions the purpose of the bill, arguing it poses risks to public safety and could be used as intimidation tools. He references Captain Matuchi's points on the injuries caused by such weapons and expresses concern about their potential misuse, including by minors. Lawless criticizes the bill as moronic and in the interest of criminals, noting that four out of nine sponsors have arrest records. He calls the legislation idiotic and urges the sponsors to be ashamed.
HB1049: Representative David Muse, Portsmouth, Newington, and Newcastle Support02:01:12.639 - 11:00:04 AM; Representative David Muse introduces HB 1049, highlighting firearms as the leading cause of death for children and teens aged 1-19 in the US, based on CDC data. He details statistics on victims' demographics, locations of incidents (mostly homes), and that many are self-inflicted, especially among young children. He explains the bill's provisions: prohibiting unsecured storage where children could access guns, defining safe and unlawful storage, creating violation penalties, expanding the negligence law to include unloaded guns with accessible ammo, broadening offense circumstances (e.g., child displaying or bringing gun to public places), toughening penalties to misdemeanors, and requiring locking devices with firearm sales/transfers. The bill does not restrict adult access but promotes responsibility to prevent tragedies. He notes support from the NH American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizing secure storage over education alone. He answers a question on NH statistics, stating data is not centralized but held by local agencies, with incidents often underreported due to minors' involvement.
HB1049: Shirley Dawson, Plaistow Oppose02:09:30.639 - 11:08:22 AM; Shirley Dawson from Plaistow opposes HB 1049, calling it redundant, intrusive, unnecessary, and a violation of constitutional privacy rights in homes. She references existing RSA 650:C1 and argues the bill intrudes into private homes without evidence of public benefit or enforcement mechanisms, like home checks. While agreeing guns should be stored safely, she believes it burdens law-abiding owners without addressing root causes. She criticizes it for not aligning with NH's 'Live Free or Die' ethos, preferring education and outreach over ineffective laws, drawing from her experience moving from Massachusetts in 1987.
HB1049: Simonyita Thurber, Exeter Support02:12:27.360 - 11:11:19 AM; Simonyita Thurber from Exeter supports HB 1049, sharing a personal story of a sixth grader at Cooperative Middle School in 2014 who brought an unsecured loaded gun from his grandfather to school to show a classmate, with no harm occurring but the child punished while the adult faced no consequences. She volunteers with Be SMART, educating on safe storage, and recounts encounters with families who believe they are safe but allow easy child access, like guns on top of refrigerators. She urges support for secure storage requirements, locking devices in transactions, and expanded penalties to prevent unauthorized access and accidents, emphasizing moral responsibility over burden.
HB1049: Ray Balanger, Tilton Support02:17:25.439 - 11:16:17 AM; Ray Balanger from Tilton, typically opposing gun bills, supports aspects of HB 1049 for requiring locked storage in homes with children, as he already does for his granddaughter. However, he objects to mandating unloaded guns separate from ammunition, arguing it renders firearms useless for self-defense in emergencies like home invasions, where quick access is needed via biometrics or quick-unlock safes. He stresses education, suggesting reinstating Eddie Eagle programs in schools for children and parents on firearm safety to address the issue without full restrictions.
HB1049: Kathleen Slover, Portsmouth Support02:21:08.720 - 11:20:00 AM; Kathleen shares her experience with the Be Smart program, educating on safe firearm storage and suicide prevention. She discusses conversations with responsible gun owners at community events and highlights statistics from a 2023 CDC report showing firearms as the leading cause of death among US children and adolescents, with many unintentional injuries occurring at home due to unlocked and loaded guns. She recounts anecdotes like a mother needing help with an ex-boyfriend's gun and a grandmother who lost a grandson to an accidental shooting, emphasizing the need for accountability and secure storage to prevent child access.
HB1049: Kimberly Morren, Women's Defense League of New Hampshire Oppose02:25:35.760 - 11:24:27 AM; Kimberly argues that negligent storage is already law and HB 1049 unnecessarily increases penalties. She clarifies CDC statistics, noting that for under 17, accidents (not firearms) are the top cause of death, and for 18-19-year-olds (adults), many firearm deaths involve gang violence. She criticizes the focus on guns for suicides, advocating for mental health solutions instead, as suicides occur with various methods. She describes a scenario where gun-owning families face extra legal burdens post-suicide, calling the bill discriminatory and urging inexpedient to legislate.
HB1051: Representative Erica Leyon, Derry Information Only02:30:48.240 - 11:29:40 AM; As sponsor, Rep. Leyon introduces HB 1051 to form a commission studying portable background checks for speech-language pathologists and similar professionals serving students across districts, similar to school bus drivers. She notes challenges with varying requirements and federal compliance, suggesting models from other states like Maine. She volunteers for the commission and believes it needs stakeholder input for a proper solution, potentially amendable this year but warranting study.
HB1051: Ray Banger, Tilton Information Only02:33:51.840 - 11:32:43 AM; Ray expresses concern about databases, mistakenly thinking the bill involves firearm purchaser databases and fingerprinting, but retracts opposition upon clarification that it's about employment background checks for school professionals.
HB1051: Chris Dunston, New Hampshire Occupational Therapy Association Support02:34:42.479 - 11:33:34 AM; As an occupational therapist and association president, Chris describes the burden of repeated fingerprinting for clinicians serving multiple districts, including travel to specific locations and delays in servicing students. He supports streamlining for OT, speech, physical therapy, and nursing to ensure timely access while maintaining safety.
HB1051: Wendy Librand, New Hampshire Speech Language Hearing Association Support02:38:04.560 - 11:36:56 AM; Wendy, a speech-language pathologist, details excessive fingerprinting (e.g., one colleague 70 times in 10 years) causing delays in evaluations for needy students, like AAC specialists. She advocates studying statewide systems like Maine's Identico or bus driver RSA 189:13-b, impacting various itinerant professionals (OTs, PTs, psychologists, etc.) to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure child safety without local control issues.
HB1051: Tracy Adams, American Physical Therapy Association New Hampshire Support02:53:03.840 - 11:51:55 AM; As a physical therapist and new association president, Tracy affirms support for HB 1051 from PTs working in schools, aligning with OT and speech associations, though she lacks detailed school experience.
HB1058 committee amendment: Sponsor (not named) Information Only03:33:30.880 - 12:32:22 PM; The sponsor introduces HB 1058 with a committee amendment to allow loaded long guns on OHRVs on private property with permission, addressing current law's prohibition even on one's own land. It excludes public trails and maintains uniform 'loaded' definition from RSA 207:1. A similar amendment for HB 1046 (snowmobiles) is provided for consistency. The bill promotes safe, lawful transport without affecting hunting or public areas.
HB1058 committee amendment: Fish and Game Commission Representative Oppose03:41:55.279 - 12:40:47 PM; Testifying in opposition, the representative argues the bill compromises safety by allowing loaded long guns on OHRVs, which are harder to handle than sidearms. Concerns include implied permission lacking written documentation, potential liability for landowners under RSA 508:14, and risks of muzzle direction. They note no public trails exist statewide, and changes could lead landowners to close access to clubs, harming trails and economy. Fish and Game policy prohibits chambered rounds on vehicles.
HB1061: Representative Alisandre Murray, Manchester Information Only03:51:13.840 - 12:50:05 PM; As sponsor, Rep. Murray introduces HB 1061 to form a commission studying alternatives to incarceration for nonviolent primary caregiver offenders, addressing system gaps identified in prior bills. It examines evidence-based options from other states to promote accountability, reduce recidivism, and minimize family harm, noting impacts like higher risks of depression, anxiety, and foster care for children of incarcerated parents, plus state costs from instability.
HB1084: Representative David Muse, Portsmouth, Newington, Newcastle Support04:01:14.000 - 1:00:06 PM; Representative Muse introduces HB 1084, emphasizing the deadly impact of domestic violence involving firearms in New Hampshire, where over half of homicides are domestic violence-related and most involve guns. He references the tragic case of Marisol Fuentes as motivation but stresses the bill aims to prevent future incidents by closing legal gaps. The bill strengthens victim protections by mandating immediate firearm surrender upon serving protective orders, changes judicial discretion to requirements for prohibiting deadly weapons possession, requires search warrants for non-compliance including vehicles, ensures notifications to police, prosecutors, courts, and victims, and imposes misdemeanor and felony penalties for non-relinquishment or aiding prohibited persons. He details timelines like 4-hour service and 24-hour reporting, and addresses due process under existing RSA 173-B.
HB1084: Nicholas Thomas, Alexandria Oppose04:13:08.560 - 1:12:00 PM; Thomas opposes HB 1084, arguing the immediate surrender requirement creates unfulfillable obligations for police and defendants. He shares his experience where a protective order against him was not served for nearly a month due to an incorrect address, despite his cooperation, and notes similar delays in other cases heard in Manchester Circuit Court. He contends the bill won't solve service delays but could lead to arrests in impractical scenarios, like inaccessible firearms in a seasonal hunting cabin. He supports customary police discretion over mandatory immediate surrender, stating it would be ineffective for victim protection and impracticable.
HB1084: Rebecca Hoskins, Concord Support04:15:06.880 - 1:13:58 PM; Hoskins, a domestic violence survivor, supports HB 1084 based on her experience with an abuser who owned guns and used their threat to control her, leading to isolation, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. She escaped but faced ongoing fear when her abuser threatened mutual friends with firearms to find her new location. She obtained a protective order, and the judge's decisive action to remove the abuser's firearms provided her first sense of safety. Hoskins argues victims deserve such protection, notes federal restrictions on gun ownership for certain groups including domestic violence convicts, and praises the bill for ensuring consequences post-protective order without infringing on responsible gun owners' rights. She emphasizes judicial findings of credible threat justify firearm removal to prevent harm.
HB1100: Representative Buzz Shear, Portsmouth Ward 3 Information Only04:32:26.080 - 1:31:18 PM; Shear introduces HB 1100 on behalf of prime sponsor Representative Damon from Sullivan County, noting he is neither prime nor co-sponsor and cannot answer questions.
HB1108: Representative Matt Beaudoin, Rochester Support05:03:18.000 - 2:02:10 PM; Beaudoin introduces HB 1108, clarifying the criminal threatening statute to protect defensive displays of firearms or self-defense means in response to perceived threats of serious bodily injury, death, property damage, theft, unlawful intrusion, or refusal to leave after trespass notice. He explains it does not excuse recklessness, legalize threats, or alter firearm possession laws, but prevents mischaracterization of lawful deterrence as crime using an objective reasonable person standard. He contrasts current vague language with the bill's clearer protections for de-escalation and self-defense, citing concerns from pro-gun organizations about inconsistent enforcement. During questioning, he distinguishes displaying from brandishing, affirms coverage for silent displays with intent to deter post-trespass notice, excludes verbal threats, and notes the expansion to property-related threats aims to clarify without enabling threats.
HB1108: Captain Matt Amitucci, New Hampshire State Police Information Only05:19:18.240 - 2:18:10 PM; Captain Amitucci testified about potential risks of the bill, noting that threatening deadly force in non-deadly scenarios could lead to more negligent homicides. He highlighted the increase in road rage incidents and how expanding firearm access might escalate traffic disputes into violent outcomes, such as brandishing firearms when feeling threatened by aggressive driving. He emphasized that the perception of threat by the victim is key in criminal threatening cases, regardless of the actor's intent.
HB1142: Representative Alexis Simpson, Rockingham District 33 (Exeter, Newfields, Newmarket, Stratham) Support05:35:28.000 - 2:34:20 PM; Representative Simpson introduced HB 1142, arguing that Granite Staters do not want masked police enforcing federal immigration laws. The bill requires state and local officers to identify themselves by name, agency, and badge number without masks during such activities to enhance community safety, accountability, and trust. She cited recent fatal encounters involving masked federal agents, including deaths of Renee Good and Alex Prey in 2026, and other incidents like the arrests of Romesa Ourk, Mosen Madawi, and Juan Sebastian Carvajal Munoz, to illustrate the need for transparency. She stressed that clear identification reduces fear, misunderstandings, and escalations, protecting both the public and officers, and urged an Ought to Pass vote to uphold New Hampshire's values of openness and liberty.
HB1142: Reverend Lori Savoc, Granite State Organizing Project, pastor of Wesley UMC and Concord Support05:51:40.878 - 2:50:32 PM; Reverend Savoc urges support for the bill, emphasizing the importance of accountability and integrity in law enforcement, symbolized by her clerical collar. She argues that officers must always identify themselves to maintain public trust, even when working with federal agencies, to ensure safety and effectiveness in their roles as community members. She stresses that systemic accountability reduces the burden on individual officers and fosters a culture of trust in New Hampshire.
HB1142: Paul Twami, criminal defense lawyer Oppose05:54:16.558 - 2:53:08 PM; As a 40-year criminal defense lawyer with experience in high-profile cases, Twami opposes the bill, arguing that masking allows unidentified individuals to pose as officers, leading to resistance, fights, and difficulties in proving resisting arrest charges. He asserts that no New Hampshire officer has needed masks for protection, calling it a myth, and warns that anonymity encourages abuse of power, reduces accountability, and makes crimes like abductions easier.
HB1142: Doris Hampton, Canterbury Support05:57:30.798 - 2:56:22 PM; Hampton shares a personal story of her mother's fear from Nazi Germany triggered by masked figures, comparing it to the fear induced by masked ICE and local police. She argues that such masks create contagious fear in communities, especially among children, hindering trust and the ability to seek help from officers, and urges a yes vote on the bill.
HB1142: David Trumbull, town of Ware Support05:58:16.558 - 2:57:08 PM; Trumbull supports the bill as common-sense policy aligning with longstanding New Hampshire law requiring visible names and badges. He notes that state officers have not masked even in federal collaborations, cites low criminality among those detained by ICE (only 3% per Syracuse University), and advocates for exceptions only in rare cases. He emphasizes maintaining trust for immigrants and people of color, referencing surveys showing widespread fear and avoidance of public life due to enforcement fears.
HB1142: Lynn Lipet, Milford Support06:01:00.958 - 2:59:52 PM; Lipet supports the bill, noting that masks heighten fear and clashes between agents and the public, eroding accountability. She shares concerns from legal immigrants and naturalized citizens who are terrified to go out, stressing that this contradicts American and New Hampshire values. She references the Hillsborough County Sheriff's inability to protect against ICE overreach and calls for officers to operate accountably without masks to preserve trust in local police.
HB1142: Andy Davis, Tamworth Support06:02:59.920 - 3:01:51 PM; Davis, raised with values of honor from Depression-era and WWII-veteran parents, supports the bill to promote honor in law enforcement. He argues that allowing officers to mask like 'ninjas or dementors' undermines the profession's integrity and visibility.
HB1142: Gordon Humphrey Support06:04:10.480 - 3:03:02 PM; Humphrey stresses that accountability is essential in a democratic republic to prevent tyranny, criticizing federal breakdowns. He argues for restoring accountability to law enforcement, especially federally, as a solution to recent unhappy events including tragic deaths, rather than more brutality.
HB1142: Unidentified Speaker Support06:05:51.280 - 3:04:43 PM; The speaker emphasizes the need for accountability in law enforcement, criticizing ICE's unaccountable practices and masked operations as Gestapo-like. They argue that HB 1142 prevents New Hampshire officers from participating in such tactics by requiring identification. They also lament a prior law fining towns 20% for withholding police services from ICE and urge the committee to support the bill to maintain trust.
HB1142: Fidelma McKenna, from Concord Support06:07:09.280 - 3:06:01 PM; As a nurse in the community, McKenna stresses that transparency and accountability promote health and safety, urging the committee to support HB 1142.
HB1142: Karen Leo Hill, Executive Counselor for District 2 Support06:08:08.240 - 3:07:00 PM; Hill highlights recent immigration officer-involved killings by masked officers that have eroded public trust. She supports HB 1142 for requiring clear identification and prohibiting face coverings, viewing these as essential safeguards that protect the public and lawful officers while bolstering confidence in the rule of law. Accountability, she argues, is key to legitimacy.
HB1142: Teresa Masiello, Seabrook Support06:09:21.520 - 3:08:13 PM; Masiello, with family ties to the National Guard and police academy, fully supports the bill after hearing testimony. She questions if badge numbers are public and proposes visible badges for identification if not. She suggests handling criminal warrants for undocumented immigrants separately rather than broadly, notes that masks erode trust in law enforcement despite community familiarity with officers, and argues masks only protect those doing wrong.
HB1142: Michael Sism, from Somersworth Support06:11:29.840 - 3:10:21 PM; A 20-year Air Force veteran who served in Afghanistan, Sism criticizes a committee member's inattention as disrespectful. He warns of a systematic campaign to suppress dissent and consolidate power, with increased DHS and ICE funding enabling masked agents to promote violence without accountability. Suffering from PTSD, he invokes fallen comrades to argue against allowing such tactics that undermine constitutional rights, urging support for the bill.
HB1142: Laura Carlile Support06:14:10.080 - 3:13:02 PM; Carlile questions the double standard of requiring her identification to testify peacefully while masked ICE agents can terrorize communities without accountability. She supports the bill as a moral issue protecting First Amendment rights to protest without fear.
HB1142: Maria Delio, longtime resident of Concord Support06:15:07.440 - 3:13:59 PM; Delio agrees with prior testimony and adds that professions like judges, prosecutors, and legislators also confront dangerous criminals such as cartels and gangs, implying the need for similar accountability measures as in HB 1142.
HB1142: Unnamed Speaker Support06:16:02.878 - 3:14:54 PM; The speaker praises the committee's bravery in voting despite potential targeting based on legislation. They express understanding for police families but note that everyone has families. Echoing previous testimony, they voice terror about the country's direction towards fascism and tyranny, seeing the bill as a step to fight against it.
HB1142: Nancy Brennan Support06:16:54.000 - 3:15:46 PM; Nancy Brennan shares a personal story about her husband, a judge who faced serious threats without masking, and how she learned to shoot for safety. She supports the bill as a first step and extends the idea to prohibit ICE from masking except in specific cases like cartel pursuits. She highlights wrongful detentions of citizens and compares masking to intimidation by groups like Patriot Front and imposters posing as ICE who committed crimes. She emphasizes the need for trust and protection for immigrants, including 13 friends her family helped who are now citizens but still fearful.
HB1142: David Holt, Summersworth, NH Support06:20:47.920 - 3:19:39 PM; David Holt, a third-generation immigrant and lifelong New Hampshire resident owning a home in Somersworth, testifies in support of HB 1142 as a common-sense transparency bill. It requires officers assisting in immigration enforcement to display identification, avoid masking, and use body cameras, without prohibiting enforcement or cooperation with federal authorities. He argues that anonymized enforcement creates fear, reducing crime reporting and cooperation, while transparency builds trust essential for public safety. Aligning with New Hampshire's tradition of open government, he urges an Ought to Pass vote. He notes research showing no Tren de Aragua gang presence in the state.
HB1142: Michelle Johnson, Swansea, NH Support06:23:24.160 - 3:22:16 PM; Michelle Johnson from Swansea shares her pro-police upbringing and experiences raising children in New Hampshire who view police as community members and neighbors. As a former police dispatcher, she acknowledges trust issues but emphasizes police integration in small towns like Swansea with only seven officers. She supports the bill for enhancing public safety and transparency, and crucially, for protecting local officers from pressure by federal agents like ICE to mask or cover badges, providing them a legal basis to refuse.
HB1142: Matthew J. Cordm, Concord, NH Support06:26:18.878 - 3:25:10 PM; Matthew J. Cordm, a 36-year-old veteran of the United States Air Force Medical Service and resident of Concord, New Hampshire, fully supports House Bill 1142. He describes it as a sensible first step to require ICE agents to remain unmasked and identify themselves. He shares concerns from his family and friends in Minneapolis, Minnesota, who are afraid for their lives while running errands or delivering groceries due to similar issues there. He questions whether New Hampshire wants such fear in their state and strongly supports the bill to prevent this.
HB1142: Karen Zurheim, New London, NH Support06:27:21.760 - 3:26:13 PM; Karen Zurheim, a longtime resident of New London, speaks in support of HB 1142, agreeing with previous testimonies. She represents only herself but knows hundreds who would agree. She views the bill as common sense, practical, and nonpartisan. She expresses respect and gratitude for law enforcement at all levels in New Hampshire, noting a close family member who is a retired state trooper. She believes the bill protects both law enforcement officers and the general citizenry, helping maintain a free, just, and peace-loving society in the Granite State.
HB1142: Lisa Bodwin, Executive Director, New Hampshire Council of Churches Support06:29:36.240 - 3:28:28 PM; Lisa Bodwin, Executive Director of the New Hampshire Council of Churches, representing seven denominations and over 300 churches, urgently supports HB 1142. She highlights dangers of anonymity and lack of transparency in recent national events, where individuals posing as immigration agents have committed crimes. The FBI has warned since October 17th about distinguishing legitimate officers from impostors, undermining public safety. She notes the Council's appreciation for law enforcement and clergy's role as chaplains. Reports from Minnesota indicate terror worse than reported, which is not the 'Live Free or Die' way of New Hampshire. She urges support to prevent masked thugs from disregarding protocols.
HB1142: Todd Air, Co-chair of Political Action, Human Rights Campaign New England Support06:32:44.958 - 3:31:36 PM; Todd Air speaks on behalf of Sarah Chisinski, congressional candidate, and as co-chair of political action for the Human Rights Campaign New England, voicing strong support for HB 1142. He emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability for all law enforcement, including ICE, matching standards for local police. He references damage to public trust in Minnesota from unidentified agents acting without accountability, encouraging abuse of power. Masked practices perpetuate risks of impersonators, as warned by the FBI, with real cases nationwide. He urges passing the bill to keep Granite Staters safe, hold federal agents accountable, and prevent impunity, Gestapo-like tactics, and peril to communities.
HB1142: Katie Cousins, Hancock, NH Support06:34:57.840 - 3:33:49 PM; Katie Cousins from Hancock, New Hampshire, supports HB 1142, noting how masks have enabled unchecked actions nationwide with no consequences. Her family members of color, including an adopted daughter from Ethiopia, grandsons, and in-laws, face fears. She ensures her daughter carries her citizenship certificate and has advised on using dual citizenship to flee to Canada if needed. She offers her home as a safe haven for her college daughter's friends who are American citizens of color. She drives to Pennsylvania if necessary to help. She asserts this is not how America should be run; people should feel free, not afraid or looking over their shoulders. Masks allow crimes like shootings without repercussions, and the bill addresses this.
HB1142: Katherine Wanger, Hopkinton/Sunapee, NH Support06:36:56.558 - 3:35:48 PM; Katherine Wanger grew up in Hopkinton and lives in Sunapee. With a background in criminal justice, supporting criminal defense lawyers and foster children, she views the bill as basic common sense policy for accountability and transparency without removing ICE presence or stopping police cooperation. She highlights the contributions of immigrants to society and criticizes the entitlement and lack of accountability that contradicts American values. She supports the bill.
HB1142: Sabrina Smith Oppose06:39:00.798 - 3:37:52 PM; Sabrina Smith opposes the bill as currently written, arguing ICE officers should have the choice to wear masks, similar to COVID policies. Raised in the San Joaquin Valley amid cartels, she supports ICE for targeting rapists, cartels, and traffickers. She notes many ICE and border patrol officers are immigrants protecting their communities and may mask for safety due to threats. She would support if mask-wearing is optional and warns of cartel presence in nearby states. She credits local police reluctance for necessitating ICE involvement.
HB1142: Mary Wilkey, Concord, NH Support06:41:48.878 - 3:40:40 PM; Mary Wilkey from Concord supports the bill, surprised by any controversy as it seems common sense. She notes strong public support online with over 3,000 in favor versus 189 against. Emphasizing American wariness of government overreach, she cites the example of a legally present Tufts student detained by masked, unidentified officers in an unmarked van, later cleared but traumatized. In the 'Live Free or Die' state, she urges voting in favor to prevent armed, masked, unidentified New Hampshire police.
HB1142: Sarah McNeel Support06:44:06.080 - 3:42:58 PM; Sarah McNeel, an older white woman, supports the bill and fears ICE due to historical abuses of power, weapons, and poor training. She notes ICE officers choose their profession and are well-paid by taxes, so no sympathy for masking needs. Legislators face public scrutiny without masks, and she stresses maintaining separation of government branches and state rights. New Hampshire should exemplify insisting on unmasked, identified ICE officers, upholding its unique 'Live Free or Die' ethos.
HB1142: Patricia Pisceta, Belmont, NH Support06:46:23.920 - 3:45:15 PM; Patricia Pisceta, a longtime Belmont resident raised to respect law enforcement with family in the field, questions why honest, professional officers would hide their identity. Her grandfather, a proud beat cop, never hid his face. If following the law and Constitution, no need to conceal. She hopes law enforcement won't later feel shame for participating in overreach, as shame prompts hiding faces. She strongly supports the bill at minimum.
HB1142: Gordon Blakeley, former legislator Support06:48:52.240 - 3:47:44 PM; Gordon Blakeley, a former legislator, believes the bill as written applies only to state, municipal, and local officers, not federal like ICE and CBP, so it doesn't go far enough. New Hampshire can enforce laws against all officers. He urges amending to a criminal statute with penalties for non-identification to ensure prosecutions. He contrasts heroic unmasked law enforcement figures like Batman with masked criminals, attributing masking to shame or fear. Specify coverage for any government officer authorized to carry a sidearm to avoid loopholes, especially since immigration is civil.

Roy, Terry(Chairman)(R)[B]2025	Murray, Alissandra(Clerk)(D)[D-]2025	Rhodes, Jennifer(V Chairman)(R)[B+]2025
Harriott-Gathright, Linda(D)[CT]2025	Proulx, Mark(R)[C+]2025	Lascelles, Richard(R)[B+]2025
Morency, Pete(R)[B]2025	Paquette, Kathleen(R)[B+]2025	Murphy, Nancy(D)[CT]2025
Newman, Ray(D)[F]2025	Meuse, David(D)[F]2025	Devoid, Ricky(R)[A-]2025
Scherr, Buzz(D)[D-]2025	Sabourin dit Choinière, Matt(R)[A-]2025