Committee Summary for House Election Law (01/20/2026)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB1300 00:07:07.440 - 9:04:53 AM	Public Hearing	changing the state's congressional districts.	Ankarberg, Aidan(I)[IN]2025
HB1300 00:17:42.080 - 9:15:28 AM	Public Hearing	changing the state's congressional districts.	Ankarberg, Aidan(I)[IN]2025
HB1487 01:53:01.920 - 10:50:47 AM	Public Hearing	creating an independent commission to propose redistricting maps for the legislature to consider.	Lane, Connie(D)[CT]2025
HB1163 02:16:10.480 - 11:13:56 AM	Public Hearing	requiring the secretary of state to create and maintain a uniform election records management system.	Bernardy, JD(R)[B+]2025
HB1284 02:26:02.560 - 11:23:48 AM	Public Hearing	requiring the inclusion of a voter's year of birth on the voter checklist.	McGrath, Linda(R)[B]2025
HB1329 02:45:03.359 - 11:42:49 AM	Public Hearing	requiring the secretary of state to add voters' ages to the voter file.	Wilhelm, Matthew(D)[F]2025
HB1342 02:51:35.520 - 11:49:21 AM	Public Hearing	restricting access to certain information relative to voters subject to the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act.	McGrath, Linda(R)[B]2025
HB1678 03:48:20.080 - 12:46:06 PM	Public Hearing	requiring the secretary of state to accept voter registration forms directly from voters and to create an online portal for direct voter registration.	Long, Patrick(D)[D]2025
HB1600 04:08:56.000 - 1:06:42 PM	Public Hearing	requiring the division of motor vehicles to make available the opportunity to register to vote at the time of application for or renewal of a drivers license or nondrivers identification card.	Wilhelm, Matthew(D)[F]2025
HB1031 04:43:27.760 - 1:41:13 PM	Public Hearing	enabling candidates for state office to use campaign funds to pay for security measures.	Thomas, Wendy(D)[CT]2025
HB1081 04:58:23.440 - 1:56:09 PM	Public Hearing	requiring political committees to certify with the secretary of state whether they have, or anticipate having, less than $1,000 in receipts or expenditures in an election cycle.	Lane, Connie(D)[CT]2025
HB1083 05:06:43.840 - 2:04:29 PM	Public Hearing	requiring the disclosure of the source of certain political donations in state elections.	Muirhead, Russell(D)[D-]2025
HB1201 05:16:27.680 - 2:14:13 PM	Public Hearing	requiring certain political committees to disclose the identity of their donors.	Muirhead, Russell(D)[D-]2025
HB1201 05:21:06.240 - 2:18:52 PM	Public Hearing	requiring certain political committees to disclose the identity of their donors.	Muirhead, Russell(D)[D-]2025
HB1838 05:22:53.440 - 2:20:39 PM	Public Hearing	establishing a voter-owned elections fund and commission and raising vehicle registration fees.	Muirhead, Russell(D)[D-]2025

HB1300: Representative Robert Weary, Hillsborough District 13, Hudson Information Only00:07:07.440 - 9:04:53 AM; Introduced House Bill 1300 on behalf of Representative Ankerberg and Senator Innis, proposing changes to the state's congressional districts. Took no questions.
HB1300: Liz Tanterelli, President, League of Women Voters Oppose00:07:07.440 - 9:04:53 AM; Expressed that mid-decade redistricting is an unfortunate situation occurring across the country and thanked the committee for killing the bill. Took no questions.
HB1300: Roy Schwacker, Concord Oppose00:08:31.039 - 9:06:17 AM; Opposed the bill as written, calling it a gerrymander due to splitting five counties. Suggested redistricting based on keeping nine counties intact and splitting only one for balance, creating a southern tier and north country district. Also proposed multi-member districts with preferential voting to ensure representation, similar to ideas in the South for minorities, which could guarantee one Democrat and one Republican in New Hampshire. Responded to a question by supporting an independent redistricting commission but emphasized taking a fresh look at the state rather than minor adjustments.
HB1300: Representative Barry Support00:17:42.080 - 9:15:28 AM; Representative Barry introduces a work-in-progress non-germane amendment to HB 1300 aimed at addressing uncontrolled property tax increases in New Hampshire. He criticizes the current local election system for low turnout (often 15%) and manipulation in deliberative sessions that undermine voter intent, citing examples from New Boston, Epsom, and Weare. The proposal places a property tax cap question on the November ballot every two years for towns, cities, school districts, and counties, requiring 3/5ths approval to adopt, with the cap tied to inflation plus new growth, excluding capital projects, long-term bonding, and growth-related costs. It preserves local control by allowing opt-in/opt-out every two years, differentiates from spending caps like HB 675, and ensures overrides are meaningful. Barry addresses committee questions on transparency, fiscal impact, interaction with existing tax caps, and constitutionality, emphasizing voter empowerment in high-turnout elections over opaque town meetings.
HB1300: Representative Tom Shamberg, Wilmot and Sutton Oppose00:59:05.839 - 9:56:51 AM; Representative Tom Shamberg, serving on the House Ways and Means Committee and Wilmot Select Board, opposes amendment 0093 to HB 1300. He argues it would constrain local revenue authority in four ways: limiting revenue based on CPI-U and property growth misaligned with actual costs like health insurance and utilities; increasing exposure to state-mandated underfunded services, forcing service cuts or deferred maintenance; imposing new administrative burdens on local governments and DRA without state funding; and eroding fiscal autonomy, leading to higher user fees or reduced services that burden residents. He advocates for further discussion, possibly via a study committee, rather than rushing implementation.
HB1300: Heather Robbitai, Chair of Merrimack School District Budget Committee, Merrimack NH Oppose01:09:51.759 - 10:07:37 AM; Heather opposes the non-germane amendment to HB 1300, arguing it would exacerbate budget challenges in her district. She describes proposed cuts of 16 teachers and 21 staff members to level fund the budget amid $300,000 less in state adequacy funding and 14% healthcare cost increases. She criticizes the state for underfunding education and failing constitutional obligations, stating tax caps would lead to unsustainable cuts that destroy public schools where 90% of NH children are educated. She suggests addressing voter turnout issues instead and notes local efforts in Merrimack to handle large deliberative sessions.
HB1300: Caitlyn Bernier, School Planning and Building Committee and Budget Committee, Merrimack NH Oppose01:16:02.640 - 10:13:48 AM; Caitlyn opposes the amendment as state overreach, ironic given NH's defiance of court orders to fund education adequately. She highlights failed attempts to cap school budgets and suspicions of defunding public schools for private ones. In her district, literacy investments yielded gains above state averages using grants to minimize taxpayer costs. She explains special education costs are absorbed upfront without timely reimbursement, with the state providing only 67% recently. She urges adequate funding for education, special ed, and insurance instead of caps, and calls for listening to constituents at local meetings.
HB1300: Margaret Burns, Executive Director, New Hampshire Municipal Association Oppose01:21:53.840 - 10:19:39 AM; Margaret opposes the amendment for mandating a perpetual biennial ballot question, overriding local control. Current law (RSA 32) allows local tax caps via petitions or charters with public hearings and flexibility in calculation methods and overrides. Placing it on the general election ballot confuses voters mixing state and local issues. The bill's single calculation method ignores NH's tax-setting timeline, where levies are determined post-town meeting based on actual revenues reported later. Technical issues like 'taxing jurisdiction' definitions and lack of processes for exceeding limits could cause chaos. She emphasizes voters already have choices under existing law.
HB1300: Brian Hawkins, NEA New Hampshire Oppose01:33:05.360 - 10:30:51 AM; Brian opposes the amendment, echoing concerns about endangering public services like schools, safety, and works. He calls it an artificial formula creating planning uncertainty for hiring and expenses, ignoring state underfunding like the 2011 pension subsidy cut from 35% and rising costs. Voters value these services and can already propose caps via low-threshold petitions. He urges finding the amendment inexpedient to legislate.
HB1300: David Trumbull Oppose01:37:49.360 - 10:35:35 AM; David opposes for three reasons: locals already have constitutional/statutory options like RSA 39 petitions for tax caps; the property tax crisis stems from state downshifting burdens (e.g., pensions at 35% unpaid, Medicaid to counties, special ed at 11% state share vs. 25% national education average); and constitutional issues per 1999 Claremont decision prohibiting legislative delegation to voters or towns, rooted in separation of powers. The bill's 'operation of law' forces perpetual voting, likely unconstitutional. Policy-wise, a 3% cap ignores 8-10% cost increases in transportation, health, utilities, forcing layoffs and cuts harming 90% of NH children in public schools.
HB1300: Representative Perez Oppose01:44:49.119 - 10:42:35 AM; Representative Perez shares unique insights from local experiences. Last year, a town warrant article capped the school budget based on enrollment and CPI, turning into a study showing 10 teacher layoffs needed. At a recent town council meeting until 1:30 AM, the proposed 7.1% town budget increase (72% salaries/benefits) exceeds a 3.1-3.2% CPI cap, illustrating impracticality.
HB1300: Representative Christine Perez, Londonderry Oppose01:46:42.639 - 10:44:28 AM; Representative Perez opposes the non-germane amendment to HB 1300, arguing it would lead to layoffs in police and fire departments and unplowed streets in her town. She references a detailed study on the SAU website showing the amendment's flaws, presented last March and again recently. She notes her prior work against a similar amendment on HB 675.
HB1300: Representative Timothy Han, Durham Oppose01:48:29.920 - 10:46:15 AM; Representative Han opposes both the non-germane amendment and the underlying HB 1300, calling the amendment a 'feel-good' idea that fails under scrutiny. He criticizes the use of the Consumer Price Index for northeast urban areas as mismatched to rural school and government expenses. He argues this committee lacks expertise and highlights procedural risks if the amendment fails, potentially advancing the original bill. He suggests attaching such ideas to relevant bills in Ways and Means or Finance.
HB1487: Representative Scotty Lane, Merrimack District 16 Support01:53:01.920 - 10:50:47 AM; As the bill sponsor, Representative Lane introduces HB 1487, emphasizing the need for redistricting reform due to partisan gerrymandering that erodes trust. He cites polls showing strong bipartisan support for independent commissions, including an NBC poll with 82% favoring nonpartisan processes. He outlines the bill's features: balanced commissions with independents to avoid deadlocks, binding authority, non-political members selected by judges, and criteria prioritizing communities of interest over parties. Drawing from successful models in Colorado, Michigan, and California, and learning from failures in other states, he argues it complies with the NH Constitution by establishing a fair process for legislative approval. He urges passage to benefit constituents ahead of 2030 redistricting.
HB1487: David Trumbull, Weare Support02:00:04.960 - 10:57:50 AM; Trumbull supports HB 1487 for its popularity (74 towns backed similar measures in 2020), promotion of equal representation per the NH Constitution's Article 9, and thoughtful design. He praises the non-partisan selection process, balanced composition, qualifications excluding recent politicians, district criteria emphasizing communities of interest (not parties), public transparency including map submissions and forums, and legislative oversight. He contrasts this with gerrymandered districts violating equality principles, referencing the US Supreme Court case Gill v. Lightfoot and NH's complex Senate maps.
HB1487: Kyle Haynes, Merrimack Support02:02:57.840 - 11:00:43 AM; Haynes supports HB 1487, viewing it as essential for restoring trust in government amid low confidence levels reminiscent of post-Watergate era. He highlights the bill's structure for transparency and constraints to minimize partisanship, which would reinvest citizens in elections and counter national partisan redistricting trends.
HB1487: Linda Bundy, Antrim Support02:05:06.159 - 11:02:52 AM; Bundy supports HB 1487 for creating a transparent, fair redistricting process focused on voters, not power. She details the commission's formation: 10-year removal from office for applicants, balanced 9-member panel selected via retired judges reviewing 60 applicants (equal parties), interviews, public comment, random selection of six, and public choice of three for balance. All meetings are public with online access, public map submissions, and website postings. Final maps go to the legislature, ensuring constitutional compliance while reducing partisanship through citizen involvement.
HB1487: Liz Tanterelli, Manchester, President of League of Women Voters Support02:07:56.639 - 11:05:42 AM; Tanterelli, representing the League of Women Voters, supports HB 1487 for establishing a nonpartisan, transparent redistricting process with public input since 2011. She emphasizes the bill's advisory role to the legislature, specific nonpartisan selection, and criteria on page 5 prohibiting favoritism toward parties, incumbents, candidates, or racial/language groups, while considering communities of interest. The League urges an ought to pass recommendation.
HB1487: Sarah Ortiz, Open Democracy Support02:10:39.360 - 11:08:25 AM; Sarah Ortiz, a public policy fellow with Open Democracy, spoke in favor of HB 1487 as a measured, common-sense reform that strengthens New Hampshire's redistricting process while preserving the legislature's constitutional authority. The bill creates a nonpartisan advisory commission to provide structured analysis, public input, and recommendations to assist lawmakers. It emphasizes transparency through open meetings and clear procedures, reducing speculation and litigation risks by building on existing frameworks and incorporating communities of interest.
HB1163: Robert Weary, Representative, Hudson Information Only02:16:10.480 - 11:13:56 AM; Representative Robert Weary introduced HB 1163, noting he was standing in for the sponsor who was expected shortly. He represented Hillsboro District 13 and the town of Hudson.
HB1163: Al Brandeno, Kensington Support02:16:54.478 - 11:14:40 AM; Al Brandeno spoke in favor of HB 1163, arguing that New Hampshire needs to upgrade its election processes to match the scale of its responsibilities, especially given large revenues and HAVA funds. He advocated for standard record-keeping practices like those in large businesses, including numerical indexing, controlled changes, and public availability to ensure integrity, facilitate audits, and prevent issues like the recent alteration of a chain of custody document highlighted in a HAVA complaint. He emphasized protecting election integrity to maintain state sovereignty.
HB1163: David Scandlin, Secretary of State Oppose02:23:00.319 - 11:20:46 AM; David Scandlin, Secretary of State, introduced Deputy Secretary Brendan O'Donnell and testified against the need for HB 1163 as written, noting its broad language. He expressed confidence in the current election processes, which have been upgraded recently, and clarified that legislative forms do not change without legislative approval. He affirmed that chain of custody and audits are in place and offered to answer questions.
HB1284: Linda McGrath, Representative Support02:26:02.560 - 11:23:48 AM; Representative Linda McGrath introduced HB 1284, requested by her town moderator to ensure accurate voting records by adding the year of birth to checklists. This helps distinguish voters with similar names during busy elections without revealing full birth dates for privacy. She noted support from another moderator and suggested amendments if needed.
HB1284: Mark Gorab Support02:29:40.479 - 11:27:26 AM; Mark Gorab supported HB 1284 based on personal experience where he and his son were confused at the polls, leading to incorrect voter ID assignments. He advocated for including birth date information on checklists to allow poll workers to accurately differentiate voters.
HB1284: Bev Cotton, New Hampshire (read by Olivia Zinc, Open Democracy) Support02:12:33.679 - 11:10:19 AM; Bev Cotton's letter, read by Olivia Zinc, supported HB 1487 for an independent redistricting committee with clear criteria to ensure fairness, transparency, and no partisan bias. It emphasized equal party representation, consideration of communities of interest like shared school districts and services, and opposition to midcycle redistricting to let voters choose politicians.
HB1284: Unknown Proponent Support02:30:39.200 - 11:28:25 AM; The speaker argues for including birth dates on voter checklists to prevent duplicate entries and ensure accurate voter identification, as required by New Hampshire law to differentiate individuals with similar names and addresses. They address privacy concerns by noting that federal law allows states to redact sensitive information, but birth dates are not federally regulated like Social Security numbers. They assert that states have authority over birth date privacy and that including it on checklists extends existing requirements to election day.
HB1284: Daniel Healey, Nashua City Clerk Oppose02:33:10.240 - 11:30:56 AM; Healey opposes adding birth dates to voter checklists, stating that supervisors can access the election portal to resolve rare issues like junior/senior distinctions. He notes that voters are told birth dates are not public and changing this could upset them. In response to questions, he explains that discrepancies between ID and records are resolved by the moderator, potentially involving checks of voter files or calls to officials, which might take 5-10 minutes but could lead to voters leaving if delayed.
HB1284: David Scanlan, Secretary of State Oppose02:38:40.880 - 11:36:26 AM; Scanlan opposes including birth dates on checklists, citing the promise made when creating the centralized voter database under the Help America Vote Act to keep such information confidential. He notes historical defaults to 1776 for missing dates and that voters value birth date privacy. He suggests alternatives like age ranges or marks on checklists to distinguish voters without revealing exact dates. In response to questions, he indicates year of birth or age is less sensitive but still objectionable if public, proposing ranges like 45-50 for seniors.
HB1329: Representative Matt Wilhelm Support02:45:03.359 - 11:42:49 AM; Wilhelm introduces HB 1329, which requires including voters' ages in the voter information file provided to political parties, committees, and candidates. He describes it as a technical bill to improve voter file usefulness for civic engagement, derived from existing registration data without adding new sensitive information. It promotes accurate outreach to demographics like young or older voters and ensures consistency, reducing inaccuracies from inferred ages. He is open to amendments like age ranges or combining with similar bills.
HB1342: Representative McGrath Support02:51:35.520 - 11:49:21 AM; McGrath clarifies that HB 1342 aims to increase transparency by ensuring UOCAVA voting records are accessible like other absentee records, countering misinterpretations of federal privacy protections. He notes that current practices segregate UOCAVA lists, making audits difficult, and that federal forms allow self-attestation, raising concerns about potential wrongful registrations. The bill does not remove protections for sensitive data but allows public inspection to safeguard against issues, addressing a conflicting state statute.
HB1342: Representative McGrath Support02:51:35.520 - 11:49:21 AM; Representative McGrath discusses the bill's provision that the clerk shall keep lists of absentee voter applicant information and record it in a statewide centralized voter registration database, but the list shall not be available for public inspection without a court order. She notes a potential conflict with federal statute requirements for public access and suggests an amendment to harmonize reporting elements in 657:15 with this bill. In closing, she states that HB 1342 promotes equal treatment, legal clarity, and public confidence in elections by aligning UOCAVA voting records with existing absentee voting standards while preserving privacy protections. She asks the committee to support the bill and takes questions.
HB1342: Michael Bean, Rye, New Hampshire Support02:58:07.920 - 11:55:53 AM; Michael Bean from Rye shares his experience requesting a list of UOCAVA voters for the 2024 election in his small town, which had 74 such voters, but was unable to obtain it due to direction from the election council and Secretary of State David Scanlan (referred to as Bud Fitch). After arguing, he was advised to seek legislative change, leading to this bill. He met with Secretary Scanlan and Deputy Secretary O'Donnell, who claimed it violates federal law, but his research finds no such violation. He cites the National Voter Registration Act requiring public availability of voter lists with redactions for sensitive information, New Hampshire's RSA 654:25 allowing omissions for protected voters, and NVRA section 8(i) mandating public inspection of records for list accuracy. Under UOCAVA, privacy is required during application and ballot transmission but not post-registration, where UOCAVA voters are treated like others. He argues the list is already separable and public, supports the bill to allow vetting, noting in Rye 8 of 74 were military and 66 non-military overseas with no intent to return.
HB1342: Liz Tentarelli, Manchester Information Only03:05:22.319 - 12:03:08 PM; Liz Tentarelli from Manchester speaks as the mother of a deployed federal government worker who voted UOCAVA and a friend living in Ireland for 13 years who votes UOCAVA as a U.S. citizen. She resents implications that UOCAVA voters should be viewed suspiciously, particularly claims of most voter fraud coming from them, which she has not seen verified and asks the sponsor to substantiate. She is neutral on the bill but offers comments on behalf of her son and friend.
HB1342: David Scanland, Secretary of State Information Only03:06:43.359 - 12:04:29 PM; David Scanland, Secretary of State, notes a prior meeting with Representative McGrath and Mr. Bean. He explains the confidentiality of absentee ballot information near elections to prevent burglary risks when voters are away, especially overseas. In the 2024 general election, there were about 7,000 UOCAVA voters, with around 3,000 military. Military voters with a domicile in NH get full ballots, while overseas civilians get federal-only (FVO) ballots. Military in remote areas may request write-in FVO ballots. UOCAVA voters can receive ballots electronically per federal law (52 USC 20302), print, mark, and mail them back physically.
HB1342: David Scanland, Secretary of State Information Only03:11:03.760 - 12:08:49 PM; David Scanland explains state responsibilities under federal law for accepting UOCAVA voter registrations, noting discrepancies between federal postcard applications and state forms. He highlights that federal law does not distinguish between military and overseas voters, making distinctions in HB 1342 problematic. He describes post-election processes where UOCAVA voters are marked on checklists without special designation, and the Secretary of State's office files reports with the U.S. Election Assistance Commission. He mentions audits are possible and references Representative Lind's bill to enhance verification. He offers to answer questions.
HB1342: Committee Member (Representative) Information Only03:13:23.760 - 12:11:09 PM; A committee member asks if the federal election report is public, and Scanland confirms it is and offers a copy to the committee.
HB1342: Representative Weary Information Only03:13:23.760 - 12:11:09 PM; Representative Weary asks about identity verification for mail-in UOCAVA applications. Scanland states they must accept them but audits can occur afterward, deferring to Brendan O'Donnell for more details.
HB1342: Brendan O'Donnell Information Only03:14:35.760 - 12:12:21 PM; Brendan O'Donnell adds that concerns about unqualified voters can be reported to the Attorney General's office for investigation, citing past cases involving overseas voters' citizenship.
HB1342: Representative Weary (follow-up) Information Only03:14:35.760 - 12:12:21 PM; Representative Weary inquires about more extensive audits given new identity and citizenship requirements, noting anomalous UOCAVA voter numbers in Hanover (372 out of 7,000). Scanland agrees authorization is needed, referencing Representative Lind's bill.
HB1678: Representative Wong Support03:48:20.080 - 12:46:06 PM; Representative Wong introduces HB 1678, which creates a uniform statewide voter registration process through the Secretary of State to address constituent complaints about accessing city halls and lack of uniform forms. It simplifies paperwork for voters and clerks, allows direct registration, and modernizes with online options used in 42 states. He notes cost savings, administrative efficiencies, reduced errors, and enhanced election integrity. He mentions the fiscal note overlooks municipal savings and is open to questions.
HB1678: Representative Lane Information Only03:53:30.000 - 12:51:16 PM; Representative Lane questions the effective date (January 1, 2026) versus the bill's 60 days after passage, suggesting no retroactivity needed. Wong agrees it should align with 60 days.
HB1678: Representative Bay Information Only03:53:30.000 - 12:51:16 PM; Representative Bay asks if the bill allows immediate registration for new immigrants post-citizenship oath. Wong says it could be arranged via the Secretary of State or online upload of documents.
HB1678: Sarah Shannard, New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights Support03:55:18.160 - 12:53:04 PM; Sarah Shannard supports HB 1678 for providing a secure online registration option that reduces mistakes, keeps voter rolls accurate, eases election day pressure, and maintains existing requirements. She notes it's used in over 40 states and urges support for this modernization that strengthens security.
HB1678: Representative Gilmore Information Only03:56:15.760 - 12:54:01 PM; Representative Gilmore asks if online registration occurs without review. Shannard explains applications go to supervisors of the checklist for verification, maintaining the process.
HB1678: Sarah Ortiz, Open Democracy Support03:57:24.640 - 12:55:10 PM; Sarah Ortiz supports HB 1678 for increasing voter registration and participation equitably by allowing registration through the Secretary of State, forwarded to municipalities, without removing local authority. It benefits small towns, reduces barriers for young people, working adults, and disabled individuals. She cites data showing online registration boosts turnout without increasing fraud and urges passage.
HB1678: David Scanland, Secretary of State Oppose04:00:11.040 - 12:57:57 PM; David Scanland opposes HB 1678, explaining New Hampshire's unique, personal registration process exempt from the National Voter Registration Act, resulting in clean rolls. The bill adds bureaucracy, requiring his office to hire staff to process and redistribute forms, increasing error risks. He supports portals but opposes automatic online registration without local review and notes current process works well.
HB1678: Representative Lane (to Scanland) Information Only04:03:48.640 - 1:01:34 PM; Representative Lane asks if the bill helps access for voters facing limited town clerk hours. Scanland says it might not for rural areas but supports portals with local review.
HB1678: Representative Bay (to Scanland) Information Only04:05:02.000 - 1:02:48 PM; Representative Bay asks if Scanland would favor registering new citizens immediately post-oath if the bill passes. Scanland says they would consider it, having attended naturalization ceremonies.
HB1678: Representative C. (to Scanland) Information Only04:05:02.000 - 1:02:48 PM; Representative C. asks about verifying authenticity of uploaded documents. Scanland mentions using federal databases with document IDs for verification.
HB1678: Fran Taylor, former supervisor of the checklist, Holderness Support04:07:19.199 - 1:05:05 PM; Fran Taylor, a former two-term supervisor in Holderness, supports online registration to reduce paperwork burdens, especially during elections with many applications. She notes other states do it successfully and urges New Hampshire to modernize digitally.
HB1600: Representative Matt Wilhelm Support04:08:56.000 - 1:06:42 PM; Representative Wilhelm introduces bipartisan HB 1600, requiring DMV to offer voter registration during license or ID applications using existing proofs. It asks a simple question, transmits info to voter files for local review. He plans an amendment for online automation to reduce work and friction. It maintains verification, provides six months for implementation, and improves efficiency and integrity.
HB1600: Representative Newsome Information Only04:10:57.279 - 1:08:43 PM; Representative Newsome asks if it improves recordkeeping and election integrity. Wilhelm affirms yes.
HB1600: Representative Gazowski Information Only04:11:47.600 - 1:09:33 PM; Representative Gazowski asks when Wilhelm last visited the DMV and raises concerns about added time. Wilhelm shares his recent experience and hopes to refine via work session. Gazowski, a sponsor, agrees to discuss improvements.
HB1600: Linda Bundy, Antrim Support04:13:31.120 - 1:11:17 PM; Linda Bundy supports HB 1600, noting 44 states allow DMV registration under the NVRA, from which NH is exempt due to same-day registration. Recent law changes caused 244 voters to be unable to vote in 2025. She observed delays at polls due to missing documents. The bill allows timely registration at DMV with documents in hand, reducing barriers and ensuring access, with bipartisan support.
HB1600: Sarah Shannard, New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights Support04:17:05.359 - 1:14:51 PM; Sarah Shannard speaks in support of HB1600, explaining that the bill allows Granite Staters to register or update their voter registration at the DMV when obtaining or renewing a license, leveraging the documents they already bring. She highlights the convenience compared to long election day lines and positions it as a common-sense, bipartisan step to modernize voter registration and reduce election day issues.
HB1600: Liz Tentarelli, League of Women Voters Support04:18:43.920 - 1:16:29 PM; Liz Tentarelli, president of the League of Women Voters, supports HB1600 as it empowers voters by streamlining registration at the DMV, where the same information needed for voting is already collected. She notes the DMV's ability to transfer data to the Secretary of State's office while maintaining supervisors of the checklist's role, appreciates the bipartisan support, and encourages an ought to pass recommendation, open to minor adjustments.
HB1600: Sarah Ortiz, Open Democracy Support04:20:00.000 - 1:17:46 PM; Sarah Ortiz supports HB1600, which enables voter registration at DMV offices alongside existing options. She emphasizes DMV's role as a consistent government contact point for identity and residency verification, reducing barriers, improving administration, and boosting turnout as seen in states like Minnesota and Maine. The bill enhances participation without compromising integrity or local oversight, urging an ought to pass vote.
HB1600: Jennifer Bailey and Kathy O'Neal, DMV Information Only04:22:52.159 - 1:20:38 PM; Jennifer Bailey and Kathy O'Neal from the DMV provide informational testimony without taking a position. They clarify that visits are infrequent (every 10 years for renewals, often online or by mail without documentation), registrations occur at towns, and an appointment-based system limits same-day slots. Adding registration would increase visit times and fiscal costs for system changes, but they are open to questions.
HB1600: David Scanland, Secretary of State Oppose04:29:02.159 - 1:26:48 PM; David Scanland opposes HB1600, citing concerns about inserting the DMV into the registration process, requiring trained staff and adding complexity. He highlights recent improvements like data sharing MOUs, free vital records for registration, and polling for online access. He argues it creates unnecessary bureaucracy without improving elections, notes NH's high turnout, and advises removing rule-making language from election bills.
HB1600: David Trumble Support04:38:26.080 - 1:36:12 PM; David Trumble supports HB1600, emphasizing voting as a fundamental right and noting its implementation in 25 states like Oregon, which increased registration and turnout without partisan bias. Benefits include accurate voter lists, higher participation among youth, rural, low-income, and diverse groups. He argues it enhances democracy in rural NH, prevents fraud via secure DMV processes, and urges joining modern practices.
HB1031: Wendy Thomas, Representative from Marham Support04:43:27.760 - 1:41:13 PM; Representative Wendy Thomas introduces and supports HB1031, allowing candidates and officeholders to use campaign funds for security amid rising threats, citing the Minnesota assassination and personal experiences like death threats and swatting. The bill covers reasonable measures like hardware, personnel, and cybersecurity up to $3,000, mirroring federal language with guardrails to prevent abuse, ensuring safety without state cost.
HB1081: Connie Lane, Representative from Marham District 16 Support04:58:23.440 - 1:56:09 PM; Representative Connie Lane introduces HB1081 to require certification for committees under $1,000 in receipts and expenditures, addressing suspicions of underreporting. It ensures transparency by mandating a simple declaration, enabling enforcement if violations occur, and clarifies remedies for non-compliance.
HB1081: Keith Howard, Representative from Stratford District 4 Support05:00:34.798 - 1:58:20 PM; Representative Keith Howard supports HB1081 for promoting transparency and consistency in campaign finance reporting. It requires a simple checkbox certification for those under $1,000, preventing missed filings and ensuring all follow the same rules, especially in competitive districts. He recommends an ought to pass vote as a minor, non-onerous change.
HB1081: Kaylee of Stratio, Development and Communications Associate, Open Democracy New Hampshire Support05:03:07.360 - 2:00:53 PM; Kaylee testified in support of HB 1081, explaining that it would require political committees to file a simple confirmation if they exceed the $1,000 threshold, reducing confusion and increasing clarity for filers and the public. She noted that under the current system, missing reports make it hard to distinguish non-compliance from inactivity below the threshold. The bill ensures voters can understand campaign finance information, enhancing transparency and trust. It also improves administrative efficiency for the Secretary of State's office by distinguishing inactive committees from non-compliant ones, reducing unnecessary investigations. Finally, it modernizes reporting with a consistent electronic process for low-activity committees. She urged the committee to vote OTP.
HB1083: Representative Mirhead Support05:06:43.840 - 2:04:29 PM; Representative Mirhead introduced HB 1083, which requires entities giving more than $500,000 to gubernatorial candidates or $50,000 to executive council candidates to disclose the original source of funds. He highlighted $28 million in out-of-state dark money from the Democratic and Republican Governors' Associations in the 2024 race, equating to $35 per voter, influencing outcomes and donor class control. The bill targets large donors to reveal sources, noting Arizona's $50,000 threshold as a comparison. He argued voters deserve to know who's funding campaigns at that scale and invited discussion on the threshold. During questions, he discussed timing of reporting (upon hitting threshold, with a clock starting), handling nested organizations (requiring tracking of donors), and the need for 'in aggregate' language. He agreed the $50,000 fiscal note was excessive.
HB1083: Olivia Zinc, Executive Director, Open Democracy Action Support05:13:24.718 - 2:11:10 PM; Olivia Zinc supported HB 1083 for reducing big money influence and increasing citizen voices through transparency and accountability. She suggested lowering the $500,000 threshold to $100,000 or $50,000 to address potential quid pro quo, leaving it to the committee. She recommended defining 'original source' using North Carolina's campaign finance definition and cited past registration of Governors' Associations, now ceased. She noted a 2023 law allowing unlimited donations via budget rider without public hearing, opening floodgates: NPR reported $18 million AOT raised, two-thirds from Liberty PAC funded by Republican Governors' Association; Democratic Governors' Association gave $7.3 million to Put New Hampshire First PAC and $9 million to another committee, plus $2 million directly to Joyce Craig. She urged Ought to Pass, possibly with amendments, and offered questions.
HB1201: Representative Russell Mirhead, Hanover and Lime, New Hampshire Support05:16:27.680 - 2:14:13 PM; Representative Mirhead introduced HB 1201, commending it as elegant, requiring 501(c)(4), (5), (6) nonprofits contributing to New Hampshire statewide campaigns to disclose donor identities. He argued this aligns with accepted principles: candidates, town committees (like Hanover-Lyme Democratic Committee), state parties must disclose donors, so nonprofits should too. It's not controversial but cures a violation where nonprofits evade disclosure while doing the same activities. He supported broader reforms like McCain's caps but noted opponents' view that money can't be stopped, only regulated into complexity; thus, transparency allows voters to hold officials accountable. He invited questions.
HB1201: Sarah Ortiz, Public Policy Fellow, Open Democracy Support05:21:06.240 - 2:18:52 PM; Sarah Ortiz supports HB1201, emphasizing the need for transparency in political funding to inform voters about who influences elections and politicians. She argues that disclosure restores confidence, ensures accountability, and prevents hidden influences or kickbacks. She notes that similar laws exist in New Hampshire, and HB1201 closes loopholes for nonprofits without being partisan. She urges an ought to pass vote as a win for the people.
HB1838: Representative Russell Mirhead, Hanover and Lime, New Hampshire Support05:22:53.440 - 2:20:39 PM; Representative Russell Mirhead, the prime sponsor of HB1838, explains the bill aims to create a voter-owned election system for executive council candidates to empower ordinary citizens without relying on wealthy donors. It would fund campaigns through a $5 vanity plate fee and $1 car registration fee, creating a fund for qualified candidates who secure 500 unique small contributions ($5-$125). Every voter receives four $25 certificates to donate, making everyone a potential donor and incentivizing grassroots engagement. This reduces corporate influence on contract approvals and promotes a citizen executive council similar to New Hampshire's citizen legislature.
HB1838: Aubrey Freriedman, Bridgewater, private citizen Oppose05:30:19.600 - 2:28:05 PM; Aubrey Freriedman opposes HB1838, arguing that additional fees on vehicle registrations burden taxpayers, especially since the fiscal note indicates general fund backfilling. She raises concerns about fraud, corruption, confusion, and high postal costs ($780,000 initially) for mailing certificates to 1 million voters, many of which may be wasted in low-turnout midterms. She questions granting $10,000 to candidates in uncontested elections and forcing uninterested citizens to fund campaigns. She suggests loosening election laws to encourage more candidates and voluntary contributions instead.
HB1838: Olivia Zinc, Executive Director, Open Democracy and Open Democracy Action Support05:34:54.160 - 2:32:40 PM; Olivia Zinc supports HB1838 as a voluntary system adding public financing to existing private options, requiring qualification through small donations. She quotes former Senator Warren Rudman advocating citizen-funded elections and notes their success in 41 jurisdictions, including Maine and Connecticut, which reduce fundraising time, stabilize costs, eliminate out-of-state influence, and enable bold reforms like prescription drug changes in Arizona. She addresses corruption risks in private financing, especially for executive council contracts, and references past New Hampshire studies and reports for alternative funding ideas. She urges adoption or further discussion to reduce big money's role.
HB1838: Kaylee Estradio on behalf of Aaron McKenney, Campaign Legal Center Support05:40:31.040 - 2:38:17 PM; Kaylee Estradio presents testimony from the Campaign Legal Center supporting HB1838, highlighting how public financing reduces corruption by enabling competitive campaigns reliant on small contributions rather than large donors. She cites Seattle's democracy voucher program data: pre-program, high-dollar donors ($500+) provided 40-55% of funds; post-program, participating candidates raised 82-90% from small donors ($199 or less), validating anti-corruption benefits.
HB1838: Linda Bundy, Antrim Support05:43:39.920 - 2:41:25 PM; Linda Bundy supports HB1838 to counter big money's undue influence in politics, which disempowers voters. The bill establishes voluntary voter-owned elections for executive council, supplementing small donations with public funds from fees and fines, as in 14 states and 26 localities. It reduces donor dependence, expands candidate fields, boosts engagement, and strengthens local control. She notes costs but argues the current system's influence is pricier, and she's willing to pay the $5 vanity plate fee. She urges an ought to pass vote for grassroots participation.

Berry, Ross(Chairman)(R)[A+]2025	Burnham, Claudine(Clerk)(R)[A-]2025	Qualey, James(V Chairman)(R)[B+]2025
Ward, Gerald(D)[F]2025	Prudhomme-O'Brien, Katherine(R)[B+]2025	Gilmore, Gary(D)[F]2025
See, Alvin(R)[A-]2025	Grill, Jessica(D)[D-]2025	Wood, Clayton(R)[B+]2025
Bay, Luz(D)[F]2025	Wherry, Robert(R)[A-]2025	Harvey-Bolia, Juliet(R)[A-]2025
Muirhead, Russell(D)[D-]2025	Wilhelm, Matthew(D)[F]2025	Lane, Connie(D)[CT]2025
Newsom, James(D)[CT]2025	Toner, Travis(R)[B+]2025	Guzofski, James(R)[B+]2025