Committee Summary for House Executive Departments and Administration (01/15/2026)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB1788 00:03:25.840 - 9:02:16 AM	Public Hearing	holding state contracts with DEI provisions to be void as a matter or law and establishing a right of action for taxpayers where public entities or state agencies engage with contracts with DEI provisions.	Nalevanko, Rich(R)[B+]2025
HB1243 00:41:05.040 - 9:39:56 AM	Public Hearing	relative to contracting and investment decisions by executive branch agencies.	Sabourin dit Choinière, Matt(R)[A-]2025
HB1500 01:06:16.400 - 10:05:07 AM	Public Hearing	establishing a commission to study and propose procedures in the event of a state government shutdown.	Telerski, Laura(D)[CT]2025
HB1636 01:21:30.960 - 10:20:21 AM	Public Hearing	directing the department of revenue administration to study options for generating state revenue.	Oppel, Thomas(D)[F]2025
HB1616 03:01:58.960 - 12:00:49 PM	Public Hearing	prohibiting state agencies and political subdivisions from advertising or expending funds to advertise vaccines in the state of New Hampshire.	Comtois, Barbara(R)[B+]2025
HB169 03:51:58.319 - 12:50:49 PM	Public Hearing	relative to a quorum of the public utilities commission.	Cormen, Thomas(D)[F]2025
HB169 04:24:49.120 - 1:23:40 PM	Public Hearing	relative to a quorum of the public utilities commission.	Cormen, Thomas(D)[F]2025
HB6005 05:00:51.280 - 1:59:42 PM	Public Hearing	establishing a state office for intelligence and counter intelligence within the executive branch	Likely Text to Speech Error on Bill #
HB1320 05:10:38.560 - 2:09:29 PM	Public Hearing	establishing a study committee to analyze past, present, and potential funding sources for the New Hampshire state council on the arts.	Wilhelm, Matthew(D)[F]2025
HB1162 05:17:15.200 - 2:16:06 PM	Executive Session	extending the commission on Holocaust and genocide studies.	Selig, Loren(D)[D-]2025
HB1243 05:25:50.000 - 2:24:41 PM	Executive Session	relative to contracting and investment decisions by executive branch agencies.	Sabourin dit Choinière, Matt(R)[A-]2025

HB1788: Representative Rich Nelleno (Cheshire District 9) Support00:03:25.840 - 9:02:16 AM; Representative Nelleno introduced HB 1788, which clarifies the definition of DEI in RSA 21-I:12, II to exclude activities of registered student organizations, mental or physical health services by licensed professionals, bona fide qualifications based on sex, and good faith compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The bill amends RSA 21-I:14 by adding provisions to void contracts violating these rules, allowing rescission by courts, and enabling any taxpayer to sue public entities for violations after demonstrating agency awareness, seeking injunctive relief and attorney fees. He described it as a good governance measure to engage taxpayers in enforcement, emphasizing it does not broadly impact student rights or ADA protections.
HB1788: Representative Howard (questioner) Information Only00:06:46.400 - 9:05:37 AM; Representative Howard questioned whether the bill's exclusion for student organizations might infringe on First Amendment rights, given that many are student-led at institutions like the University of New Hampshire.
HB1788: Representative Nelleno (response) Information Only00:06:46.400 - 9:05:37 AM; Representative Nelleno responded that the clarifying language ensures no impact on student organizations or disabled individuals under ADA, as DEI does not inherently include such characteristics.
HB1788: Representative Bailey (questioner) Information Only00:07:46.479 - 9:06:37 AM; Representative Bailey asked about severability in contracts, whether invalid DEI elements would void the entire contract, such as for fuel purchases.
HB1788: Representative Nelleno (response) Information Only00:07:46.479 - 9:06:37 AM; Representative Nelleno affirmed that standard contract provisions typically include severability, so invalid parts would not affect the rest.
HB1788: Representative Sachi (questioner) Information Only00:08:53.839 - 9:07:44 AM; Representative Sachi sought clarification on whether the intent is to exclude private and student groups from enforcement to protect free speech, and confirmed the bill allows taxpayers to sue if the state fails to enforce laws.
HB1788: Representative Nelleno (response) Information Only00:08:53.839 - 9:07:44 AM; Representative Nelleno confirmed the exclusions protect free speech and the taxpayer suit provision promotes pro se involvement after agency exhaustion, addressing standing issues to encourage civic engagement.
HB1788: Representative Pearson (questioner) Information Only00:10:50.880 - 9:09:41 AM; Representative Pearson expressed concern about broad standing for any taxpayer leading to court overload, asking if paying taxes is the sole bar.
HB1788: Representative Nelleno (response) Information Only00:10:50.880 - 9:09:41 AM; Representative Nelleno explained safeguards like prior agency notification and substantive evidence requirements prevent court runs, countering concerns with civic inertia and judicial dismissal of weak cases.
HB1788: Representative Reese (questioner) Information Only00:16:02.560 - 9:14:53 AM; Representative Reese questioned limiting suits to taxpayers, excluding non-taxpaying residents like stay-at-home parents.
HB1788: Representative Nelleno (response) Information Only00:16:02.560 - 9:14:53 AM; Representative Nelleno clarified it provides standing for taxpayers but does not preclude others from suing; he views renters as indirect taxpayers and welcomes language tightening.
HB1788: Representative Timothy Han (Straford County District 10, Durham) Oppose00:19:08.160 - 9:17:59 AM; Representative Han opposed HB 1788, viewing it as an attack on fairness, equal rights, rule of law, freedom of expression, and disability rights. He defined DEI positively as diversity, equity, and inclusion, essential for a diverse society. He criticized voiding contracts without due process, taxpayer suits for imaginary grievances, and potential harm to libraries and vulnerable groups. He recommended finding the bill inexpedient to legislate, suggesting deletion of the original RSA section instead of amendments.
HB1788: Representative Sachi (questioner to Han) Information Only00:23:03.600 - 9:21:54 AM; Representative Sachi asked for esoteric definitions of DEI terms beyond the exoteric ones provided.
HB1788: Representative Han (response) Information Only00:23:03.600 - 9:21:54 AM; Representative Han explained DEI as basic principles that became politicized; programs generally did good despite flaws, and diverse taxpayers could use the suit provision to protect rights.
HB1788: Representative Bailey (questioner to Han) Information Only00:23:54.159 - 9:22:45 AM; Representative Bailey noted everyone is different and asked to tighten the concept of 'disadvantaged by being different.'
HB1788: Representative Han (response) Information Only00:23:54.159 - 9:22:45 AM; Representative Han acknowledged all individuals differ but some face more stigma; equality is foundational, yet certain differences are stigmatized more.
HB1788: Unidentified Representative (questioner to Han) Information Only00:24:50.559 - 9:23:41 AM; The questioner asked if Han would support the first section clarifying DEI exclusions for student organizations to improve current law.
HB1788: Representative Han (response) Information Only00:24:50.559 - 9:23:41 AM; Representative Han opposed it, preferring to delete the entire RSA paragraph; he criticized vague terms like 'registered' organizations, 'licensed' professionals, 'bona fide' qualifications, and noted ADA benefits all.
HB1788: Representative Sers (questioner to Han) Information Only00:26:57.200 - 9:25:48 AM; Representative Sers asked if Han agrees with any part of the new language to move forward.
HB1788: Representative Han (response) Information Only00:26:57.200 - 9:25:48 AM; Representative Han stated no part is necessary, as it amends unnecessary recent changes; better ways exist for standing if needed, but he supports none.
HB1788: Isidora Rodriguez Leendre (Executive Director, NH Council on Developmental Disabilities) Oppose00:28:24.399 - 9:27:15 AM; Isidora Rodriguez Leendre summarized written testimony opposing HB 1788 due to unclear language potentially creating barriers for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As a federally funded agency under the Developmental Disabilities and Bill of Rights Act, she suggested adding a similar exclusion as for ADA to protect access, community integration, education, work, and healthcare, especially in underserved areas like the North Country.
HB1788: Chair (questioner to Leendre) Information Only00:29:41.360 - 9:28:32 AM; The Chair asked for suggestions to clarify section one to avoid impacting the developmental disabilities community.
HB1788: Isidora Rodriguez Leendre (response) Information Only00:29:41.360 - 9:28:32 AM; Isidora Rodriguez Leendre recommended referencing the DD Act alongside ADA in the bill to enable contracts serving intellectual and developmental disabilities, ensuring access to health care, education, and activities for those with less access in regions like the North Country.
HB1788: Isidora Rodriguez-Leonard (continuing) Oppose00:31:44.640 - 9:30:35 AM; The speaker explains that their organization uses contracts to reduce barriers for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, such as providing rides to work, emphasizing that these individuals pay taxes and deserve community access. They express concern that the bill's language on DEI training could limit discussions on disability rights under ADA requirements, creating loopholes for lawsuits against providing federal funds to specific groups.
HB1788: Elizabeth Brown, General Counsel, Department of Education Information Only00:35:26.400 - 9:34:17 AM; Brown provides information on implementing similar language from House Bill 2, which led to reporting requirements for school districts and vague terms causing litigation, resulting in a federal court injunction due to vagueness. She urges the committee to review the court decision to avoid further litigation, notes the time-consuming nature for the sole agency attorney, and clarifies that adding ADA does not clearly allow for IDEA compliance, which is essential for providing free appropriate public education (FAPE) to students with disabilities. She offers to provide a list of agreements for FAPE compliance.
HB1243: Representative Matt Sabonishian Support00:41:05.040 - 9:39:56 AM; The sponsor introduces the bill as a housekeeping measure adding language to RSA 21-I to reaffirm fiduciary responsibility of executive agencies to prioritize New Hampshire citizens' needs, per Article 3 of the state constitution. It includes a certification process for contracts to ensure compliance, clarifying that actions should be solely in the interest of providing benefits, services, and goods to NH citizens.
HB1243: Representative Timothy Han, Durham Oppose00:51:57.040 - 9:50:48 AM; Han states the bill is unclear on what it changes or prevents, arguing that state agencies already act in the state's interest. He notes it overlooks serving non-citizens who visit or live in NH, lacks a definition of 'citizens,' and could make housekeeping messier, recommending inexpedient to legislate.
HB1243: Representative Joe Barton, Co-sponsor Support00:54:00.800 - 9:52:51 AM; Barton clarifies that the bill focuses on the exclusive purpose of contracts benefiting NH citizens, not exclusive use by them. He gives an example of not using state buildings for housing Somali refugees as not benefiting NH directly, emphasizing it's housekeeping to ensure contracts align with citizen benefits without restricting business to NH only.
HB1243: Patrick Binder, Manchester, representing New Hampshire First Support00:58:46.400 - 9:57:37 AM; Binder agrees the bill clarifies fiduciary responsibility per Article 3 of the NH Constitution, ensuring government actions benefit NH citizens primarily, not foreigners or non-citizens like in housing projects. He notes 'citizen' is defined by the 14th Amendment, and the bill adds a certification process without changing current contracting, providing clarity to prevent misuse of NH funds.
HB1500: Representative Laura Terski, Hillsboro, District 11 Support01:06:16.400 - 10:05:07 AM; Representative Terski, the prime sponsor, introduced HB 1500, emphasizing the risks of a state government shutdown without a budget or continuing resolution. She described scenarios like emergency services failing, construction halting due to lack of permits, healthcare access issues, and payroll disruptions. The bill proposes a commission involving legislators, executive branch officials, state employees, and stakeholders to map essential services, set rules for pay and furloughs, ensure payments to critical sectors, and develop emergency funding procedures. Interim and final reports are due in 2026 and 2027. She argued this planning respects labor laws and separation of powers, urging an 'ought to pass' recommendation to prepare for crises like past near-misses in June.
HB1636: Representative Thomas Opel, Grafton District 9 Support01:21:30.960 - 10:20:21 AM; Representative Opel introduced HB 1636, highlighting New Hampshire's low state support for public schools, leading to high local property taxes. He noted three decades of court decisions finding the state failing constitutional obligations for education funding. He criticized past tax cuts benefiting the wealthy that shifted costs to locals, using a family analogy of reduced income forcing cuts to essentials. The bill directs the Department of Revenue Administration (DRA) to develop five options for raising approximately $500 million in state revenue to fund education, higher education, housing, and health, without specifying taxes. He urged reporting the bill 'ought to pass' to create a fairer revenue system.
HB1636: Representative Tom Shamburgg, Merrimack District 6 Support01:42:51.600 - 10:41:42 AM; Representative Shamburgg supported HB 1636, stating it provides a data-driven path to meet constitutional obligations for public education funding without mandating tax changes or favoring specific groups. He noted his experience on Ways and Means and emphasized the bill's neutral approach to gathering options.
HB1636: Unidentified Speaker (possibly continuing from previous) Support01:43:58.960 - 10:42:49 AM; The speaker emphasizes that HB 1636 requires the Department of Revenue Administration to study and present at least five distinct options for raising $500 million annually for education funding. This would provide transparent information on projected yields, legal and administrative considerations, impacts on households and businesses, and serve as an investment in sound policy-making ahead of the 2027 budget cycle. The bill ensures data-driven options to fulfill constitutional obligations to students while considering fairness and economic impact.
HB1636: Jennifer Ramsey, Tax Policy Council, Department of Revenue Administration Information Only01:48:21.040 - 10:47:12 AM; Jennifer Ramsey from DRA explains that the agency takes no position on the policy but highlights implementation challenges. She suggests a steering committee or party leadership involvement to focus on specific taxes, as DRA typically administers rather than studies taxes. The study would require outside consultants, with costs estimated between $175,000 and $600,000, lower if fewer taxes are evaluated. Assistance from DAS and DOJ would be needed for legal and administrative aspects. She recommends narrowing options in legislation for efficiency.
HB1636: Laura Carile, Salisbury, Budget Committee Member and Merrimack Valley School Board Member Support01:54:26.480 - 10:53:17 AM; Laura Carile supports HB 1636, noting rising property taxes and the state's responsibility to adequately fund education beyond 'good enough.' She references lawsuits like Claremont, Londonderry, and ConVal ruling the state insufficient in support. The bill would reveal revenue options to prevent downshifting costs to taxpayers, who fear losing homes. She criticizes breaks to wealthy via interest and dividends tax repeal ($180 million loss) and business tax reductions benefiting large corporations without significant impact, urging a review of revenue sources using DRA annual reports.
HB1636: Curtis Hamilton, Vice Chair, ConVal School Board, Greenfield Support01:57:56.400 - 10:56:47 AM; Curtis Hamilton clarifies HB 1636 does not raise taxes or select sources but directs DRA to provide a menu of options showing impacts on payers, especially local school boards. In ConVal, expenditures grew 2.85% annually (in line with inflation), but property tax assessments rose 4.675%, shifting burden from 66% to nearly 80% local funding due to flat state aid. The bill corrects revenue discussion imbalance, providing factual analysis for informed decisions and strengthening governance by making state choices explicit.
HB1636: Carissa Cororo, Penacook Support02:03:02.719 - 11:01:53 AM; Carissa Cororo supports the bill, arguing it forces an honest look at revenue options beyond outdated tools, addressing the no-tax pledge that downshifts costs to municipalities, underfunds education, and pits communities against each other. She calls the pledge 'peer pressure from dead people' and advocates using 21st-century resources for fair funding.
HB1636: Patrick Binder, Manchester, Representing Himself and Hampshire First Oppose02:05:04.719 - 11:03:55 AM; Patrick Binder opposes HB 1636, viewing it as a disingenuous response to ConVal and Claremont court decisions by activist judges overstepping into legislative spending. He argues the legislature, as a co-equal branch, should fix laws via constitutional amendment rather than study new taxes, which he calculates would cost households $870 more. He references HB2 limiting judicial control over spending and urges inexpedient to legislate, criticizing funding of failing schools like Manchester's (below 50% proficiency).
HB1636: Zach Shehan, Executive Director, New Hampshire School Funding Fairness Project Support02:09:01.280 - 11:07:52 AM; Zach Shehan supports HB 1636 as it provides data-driven revenue options to reduce property tax reliance and ensure excellent education. He highlights disparities in local education property tax rates ($1.522 to $25 per thousand, even negative in Dixville Grant due to SWEPT changes). The bill analyzes $500 million shift impacts on individuals (e.g., low-income, primary residents, out-of-state owners, businesses). He suggests examining common taxes like income, sales, property, business, and estate taxes, with detailed distributional analysis, noting historical examples like 1999 SWEPT reducing average rates despite being additive.
HB1636: Michaela Demeter, Dover School Board Support02:24:55.280 - 11:23:46 AM; Michaela Demeter, on behalf of Dover School Board, supports HB 1636 as a good faith step to identify fair revenue for the $500 million education funding gap affirmed by the Supreme Court. The bill requires systematic DRA analysis of options, measuring impacts on lower-income residents under the regressive property tax system. It equips stakeholders with data for 2027 budgeting, addressing underfunding consequences like rising local taxes, program limits, and inequities. Ensuring state funding relieves property taxpayers while meeting constitutional duties.
HB1636: Susan Elberger, Representative, Hillsborough District 5 (Nashua Ward 1) Support02:30:12.880 - 11:29:03 AM; Susan Elberger urges support for HB 1636, citing high property tax burdens in New Hampshire (e.g., $400,000 property in Moultonborough taxed 8-9 times higher than in Denver or DC). She advises against limiting revenue sources (taxes, fees) to avoid excluding helpful options, using analogy of class size vs. student-adult ratios to illustrate broader exploration yields better solutions.
HB1616: Representative Barbara Comtois, Barnstead and Alton Support03:01:58.960 - 12:00:49 PM; Representative Comtois sponsors HB 1616 to prohibit state advertising of vaccines, citing ongoing billboards and promotions post-COVID. She notes the pharmaceutical industry's billions in profits and state profits from vaccines via the Vaccine Association. The state should not subsidize private companies or pick winners/losers. Education is acceptable if balanced with facts, positives, negatives, and scientific data for informed consent. She is not anti-vax (her children are vaccinated) but opposes state involvement in promoting private industry products funded by taxpayers.
HB1616: Megan Hedi and Dr. Benjamin Chan, Department of Health and Human Services Oppose03:11:20.880 - 12:10:11 PM; Megan Hedi, Chief of the Bureau of Infectious Disease Control, and Dr. Benjamin Chan, State Epidemiologist, oppose HB 1616. They argue that the bill's vague definition of 'advertise' could encompass education, promotion, and information sharing about immunizations, including evidence-based recommendations. This would risk state funding for contracted healthcare providers who educate on routine immunizations. It could also prevent entities like Manchester and Nashua Health Departments, New Hampshire Hospital, and GlenCliff Home from informing residents about vaccinations. The bill would hinder the Vaccines for Children program, potentially causing loss of $3.5 million in federal funding, undermining vaccine access. It conflicts with statutory responsibilities under RSA 141-C and 21-P:53, and could prohibit timely recommendations during outbreaks, increasing confusion and health risks. Dr. Chan emphasizes the program provides free vaccines without promoting specific brands.
HB1616: Representative Robert Wary, Hudson Support03:24:28.239 - 12:23:19 PM; Representative Wary, with 43 years in pharmaceutical and biotech industries, supports HB 1616. He argues state agencies should not promote vaccines as manufacturers earn billions and can fund their own advertising. New Hampshire revenues are down, so manufacturers should bear the cost. Commercial drug advertising often contains misleading statements, and the FDA has more expertise to review them than state agencies. He suggests redirecting state funds from promotion to improving informed consent for vaccines, citing testimony on consent issues. He believes the bill allows education but prohibits promotion.
HB1616: Representative Paige Boschman, Nashua Oppose03:33:39.520 - 12:32:30 PM; Representative Boschman, a nurse for 16 years at Nashua Public Health's sexual wellness clinic administering vaccines, opposes HB 1616. The bill's vague term 'marketing' could prevent advertising vaccine availability, informing patients about flu and COVID vaccines, or providing CDC-required information sheets listing benefits, prevalence, and side effects. This insults the profession's commitment to informed consent. It risks losing $3.5 million in federal funding, affecting state-funded facilities like public health centers that provide free vaccines to uninsured individuals, who often travel far for access. She views the bill as dangerous and harmful to constituents' health.
HB1616: Representative Mike Belchure, Wakefield Support03:40:02.319 - 12:38:53 PM; Representative Belchure, part of the COVID investigative committee, supports HB 1616. The committee found no malice in DHHS actions but criticized the lack of independent review of federal vaccine recommendations, which were rubber-stamped with the state name. As a sovereign state, New Hampshire should conduct its own evidence reviews before endorsing or advertising recommendations. He extends this to political subdivisions, noting towns are subsidiaries of the state, so state oversight is appropriate.
HB1616: Representative Timothy Horus, Durham Oppose03:43:18.479 - 12:42:09 PM; Representative Horus opposes HB 1616, referencing his testimony to the COVID committee on the virus's impact, with a million U.S. deaths. Vaccines are not 100% effective or safe but benefit the vast majority, reducing deaths from diseases like measles and polio. COVID persists, and vaccines have saved millions. He has personal health issues but attributes them to other causes, not vaccines. The bill should not prevent state agencies, towns, or cities from supporting vaccination efforts for public health.
HB1616: Carlen Frier, New Hampshire Nurses Association Oppose03:46:34.880 - 12:45:25 PM; Carlen Frier, a nurse for 37 years representing the New Hampshire Nurses Association, opposes HB 1616. The bill blurs education and advertising, challenging nurses' ability to educate patients using DHHS materials based on scientific data. Declining education would reduce vaccination uptake, leading to outbreaks and increased nursing needs amid shortages.
HB1616: Kate Fry, New Futures Oppose03:48:23.359 - 12:47:14 PM; Kate Fry, Vice President of Advocacy at New Futures, a nonpartisan nonprofit, opposes HB 1616. The unclear definition of 'advertising' could limit public education by DHHS, public health networks, and contractors. It might hinder life-saving vaccine provision during outbreaks, like the 2004 hepatitis A outbreak in Derry, New Hampshire, involving extensive education. Vaccines promote community health and economic strength.
HB169: Representative David Muse, Newington, Newcastle, Portsmouth Support03:51:58.319 - 12:50:49 PM; Representative Muse, sponsor of HB 169, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing two key aspects: preventing mass incarceration of immigrants in New Hampshire and ensuring fiscal responsibility. He highlighted the $170 billion federal funding for immigration enforcement, with $45 billion allocated for detention expansion, criticizing private prison companies like Core Civic and GEO Group profiting from it. He described poor conditions in facilities like Florida's 'Alligator Alcatraz' and potential plans for large regional complexes, possibly including a site in Merrimack. The bill would prohibit using state, county, or municipal funds or property for constructing, renovating, or subsidizing private immigration detention facilities, while exempting existing 287(g) jail agreements. He stressed that immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility and urged passage to avoid subsidizing it with NH taxpayer money.
HB169: Representative Nick Germana, Cheshire District 15 (Chesterfield, Hinsdale, Keene, Surry, Walpole, Westmoreland) Support03:58:44.239 - 12:57:35 PM; Representative Germana supported HB 169, arguing that the Trump administration's deportation regime is inhumane and illegal, targeting law-abiding immigrants rather than violent criminals. He cited statistics from the Cato Institute showing most ICE detainees have no criminal records and noted court findings against the administration for deporting without due process, including US citizens and veterans. He shared a personal example from his community but pivoted to fiscal impacts, highlighting federal cuts to Medicaid, SNAP, education, and mental health programs amid NH's affordability crisis. He concluded that the unpopular regime is a federal matter that NH taxpayers should not fund.
HB169: Representative Timothy Hiran, Strafford County District 10 (Durham) Support04:03:40.239 - 1:02:31 PM; Representative Hiran expressed strong support for HB 169, noting it overlaps with his prior bill HB 438, which was placed on consent before the election. He criticized the indiscriminate ICE crackdowns, including a tragic Minneapolis incident, and rumors of a potential ICE facility in Merrimack. He argued against using NH taxpayer money for such facilities, praising existing humane treatment in Strafford County jails under 287(g) agreements. He urged the committee to pass the bill as a second chance, emphasizing no human is illegal and highlighting opposition to housing immigrants on one side while supporting this measure.
HB169: Representative Paige Boschman, Nashua Ward 4 Support04:07:22.080 - 1:06:13 PM; Representative Boschman testified in support of HB 169, representing Nashua's large Spanish-speaking community, which would be emotionally impacted by immigration detention. She expressed worry about mental health effects on constituents whose friends and family face detention. She referenced a protest in Merrimack with over 1,000 attendees opposing an ICE facility, noting community concerns about traffic, symbolism of family separation, violence, and human suffering. She argued that such a facility would blemish NH's reputation and urged passage to voice constituent opposition.
HB169: Victoria Nepus, Dover Support04:09:43.279 - 1:08:34 PM; Victoria Nepus supported HB 169, arguing that ICE's inflated budget means they should not take NH resources needed for state improvements. She described a rally in Merrimack with over 30 NH organizations and 1,000 participants opposing an ICE facility announced over Christmas, contrasted with only two supporters. She urged the committee to listen to constituents who prioritize public schools, healthcare, community resources, and child nutrition over ICE facilities.
HB169: Sandy Town, New Hampshire resident Support04:11:41.600 - 1:10:32 PM; Sandy Town, a nonprofit shareholder in Global Airlines and connected to Hilton and Budweiser through family and networks, opposed ICE facilities. She cited poor conditions in facilities, including children sleeping on floors, dehumanization, and a death due to inadequate conditions. As a shareholder, she threatened to pull investments from NH Hiltons if ICE facilities are supported and referenced contacts in Minnesota warehouses. With personal ties including a Mexican grandson and Dominican family, she refused to let tax dollars fund what she called a racist facility, emphasizing her lifelong NH residency and nonprofit giving due to past health struggles.
HB169: Andrew Horn, Amherst Support04:15:13.279 - 1:14:04 PM; Andrew Horn supported HB 169, citing a Minneapolis incident where ICE violently detained an autistic woman en route to a doctor's appointment, calling it fascism. He referenced historian Timothy Snyder's warnings about paramilitaries and historical parallels to Gestapo, Mussolini, and Franco. As an autistic man, he empathized and argued NH must refuse to fund ICE prisons with state money, land, or subsidies, protecting freedom like historical resistance to the Fugitive Slave Act. He committed to nonviolence but opposed state violence, urging courage to vote ought to pass on HB 169 to stand against tyranny.
HB169: Eileen Kane, New Hampshire resident Support04:18:07.439 - 1:16:58 PM; First-time testifier Eileen Kane nervously supported HB 169, arguing public funds and property should not build or operate ICE detention centers, rejecting complicity in private detentions. She opposed the policy due to concerns like abuse, maltreatment, unsanitary conditions, and rights violations, expressing fear for neighbors and citizenship volunteers she helped, noting Trump's intent to review naturalizations. She emphasized taxpayer protection, state authority, federal responsibility, accountability, constitutional values, and due process, urging the committee to consider NH residents' wishes.
HB169: Barbara Fineore, Londonderry Support04:21:24.479 - 1:20:15 PM; Barbara Fineore strongly supported HB 169, stating NH should not use taxpayer dollars for federal immigration detention centers, as enforcement is a federal responsibility. She highlighted risks of due process issues, poor confinement conditions, inadequate medical care, and lack of accountability in ICE centers, with no public safety benefit. The bill avoids interfering with federal authority while prioritizing state resources for education, housing, healthcare, and safety, urging an ought to pass recommendation.
HB169: Sandra Sullivan, Hudson Support04:23:44.640 - 1:22:35 PM; Sandra Sullivan urged support for HB 169 as a taxpayer opposed to using state funding for 'immigrant concentration camps.' She stressed protecting public funds amid 2%+ inflation, rising food prices, and insurance costs affecting communities, children, and families.
HB169: Unnamed Speaker Support04:24:49.120 - 1:23:40 PM; The speaker expresses concern over soaring premiums and urges using available monies to help families first. As a 39-year resident of New Hampshire and a retired nurse with 37 years in labor and delivery, they share heartbreak over ICE's cruelty towards Latino men, women, and children, describing it as vile, illegal, abusive, and un-American. They plead for approval of HB169 and for New Hampshire citizens to speak out against ICE abuses.
HB169: John Blanchett, Manchester Support04:25:52.319 - 1:24:43 PM; John highlights ICE actions like pulling people from cars, demanding papers, tear-gassing and shooting flashbangs at kids, and shooting people without oversight as a stain on the country. He compares these to shameful historical events like Jim Crow, slavery, the Vietnam War, and Japanese internment camps. Noting no opposition testimony, he argues supporting HB169 will position supporters on the right side of history, while opponents may later deny involvement to avoid judgment from future generations.
HB169: Maggie Fogerty, American Friends Service Committee Support04:28:33.520 - 1:27:24 PM; Representing the New Hampshire Immigrant Rights Network, Maggie emphasizes core arguments for HB169, which restricts state and local funds for federal detention of civil immigration violations. As a Quaker-founded organization with 109 years of supporting displaced people, and a coalition seeking humane policies, she describes the current immigration system as a human rights catastrophe and growing police state due to congressional failures. She notes ICE's massive, unlawful operations, including 155 immigrants at Strafford County Jail in Dover and hundreds at Berlin federal prison, straining resources. Urges voting ought to pass to avoid funding this overfunded enterprise.
HB169: Don Cusik, Hudson Support04:32:20.000 - 1:31:11 PM; A 24-year Navy veteran, Don agrees with prior testimonies and opposes using taxes for ICE, viewing it as destroying the Constitution. He describes detention conditions as barbaric: improper food, sleeping on floors, deaths from lack of medical care, and public restroom use. Compares treatment worse than animals he cared for as a kennel volunteer. Criticizes rounding up American citizens, like Native Americans in Minnesota, and fights against such barbarism in New Hampshire and the US.
HB169: Adam Thompson, Nashua Support04:34:15.359 - 1:33:06 PM; A disabled Marine Corps veteran from Nashua, Adam urges support for HB169 to prevent state and local governments from using public money or land for privately owned immigrant detention facilities. He stresses immigration enforcement is federal, and the bill protects taxpayer resources and local control without blocking lawful federal cooperation or interfering with public safety. Concerned about diverting funds to the for-profit prison industrial complex, he calls for responsible public fund use to ease property taxes.
HB169: David Holt, Somersworth Support04:35:49.039 - 1:34:40 PM; A third-generation immigrant and lifelong New Hampshire resident, David supports HB169, noting most are descendants of immigrants. He argues funding ICE contradicts small government principles and violates federal-state separation, eroding community trust in law enforcement. Debunks lies about immigrants, highlighting their diversity, higher education, lower crime rates, roles as business owners, professionals, essential workers during COVID, and fillers of jobs like construction (50%) and healthcare. Warns removing them would be an economic disaster amid help-wanted signs; urges being on the right side of history.
HB169: Representative Wendy Thomas, Merrimack Support04:39:09.039 - 1:38:00 PM; Representing Hillsborough District 12, Rep. Thomas strongly supports HB169 to prohibit state, county, and municipal funds or property for immigrant detention facilities. In Merrimack, a former warehouse is eyed for ICE use, causing alarm despite no confirmed plans, with a January site visit and truck traffic. Such a facility for hundreds or thousands would strain police, fire, EMS without funding, increase traffic on Daniel Webster Highway, foster fear undermining community trust, and burden property taxes as facilities are tax-exempt. The bill protects local autonomy, preventing compelled use of taxpayer resources for unapproved uses that degrade quality of life.
HB169: Redacted Resident (from Merrimack) Information Only04:43:55.600 - 1:42:46 PM; The speaker provided late-breaking information from a resident who visited the proposed ICE facility site in Merrimack. They described being approached by a local police officer who requested ID, stated they were patrolling due to it being an ICE holding area, and asked them to leave. The site was originally an Amazon warehouse at 50 Robert Milligan Highway, now repurposed for ICE detention, emphasizing the urgency of HB169.
HB6005: Representative Mike Belchure, Wakefield Support05:00:51.280 - 1:59:42 PM; Representative Belchure introduced HB6005, which creates a modest office within the Department of Safety focused on investigating foreign interference and subversion, such as activities linked to the Chinese Communist Party. He cited examples from Maine involving illegal marijuana operations, human trafficking, and murders tied to Chinese triads, generating billions in untraceable revenue used for undue influence and espionage. He emphasized the need for proactive state-level capacity due to federal shortcomings, noting the office would have no special powers, abide by existing laws, and consist of a few analysts and investigators. He urged the committee to consider the bill's importance for national security, even if funding is challenging this year, and referenced extensive email testimony.
HB1320: Representative Matt Wilhelm, Manchester (testimony read by Representative Gro) Support05:10:38.560 - 2:09:29 PM; Representative Wilhelm supported HB1320, a bipartisan bill to form a study committee examining the past, present, and future funding of the New Hampshire Council for the Arts. He described the council's role as a convenor, grant maker, and partner supporting local arts councils, schools, municipalities, nonprofits, and artists across urban and rural areas. Noting New Hampshire's low national ranking in per capita arts funding, the bill would analyze historical trends, comparisons to peer states, and arts' impacts on education, workforce development, tourism, and economic vitality, without mandating changes or presuming outcomes. It aims to foster informed, transparent discussions with diverse stakeholders on effective funding models reflecting state values, emphasizing arts' integral role in community, education, mental health, and quality of life as good governance.
HB1162: Representative Doy (motion) Support05:17:15.200 - 2:16:06 PM; Moved ought to pass on HB1162 to extend the Commission on Holocaust and Genocide Education for another three years, allowing it to continue its important work. As a commission member, emphasized its effective functioning and the need for ongoing education on historical atrocities.
HB1162: Representative Gro (second) Support05:17:15.200 - 2:16:06 PM; Seconded the motion for ought to pass, agreeing with the explanation provided.
HB1162: Representative Pearson Support05:18:14.480 - 2:17:05 PM; Supported the bill in its original form, stressing there is no expiration on learning from historical events like World War II and genocides, and hoped for passage on the consent calendar.
HB1162: Representative Howard Support05:19:18.160 - 2:18:09 PM; Seconded Representative Pearson's comments, highlighting the importance of educating about genocides since the Holocaust, such as Rwanda, to prevent future atrocities.
HB1162: Committee Chair (commission member) Support05:19:18.160 - 2:18:09 PM; As a commission member with personal family ties to the Armenian genocide, supported extension, noting the commission covers all genocides, includes a survivor, develops school curriculum, conducts surveys on education quality, and partners with organizations like the Cohen Institute to combat group think and repetition of history.
HB1162: Representative Zitec Support05:22:09.840 - 2:21:00 PM; Emphasized that those who do not know the past may not see future dangers, underscoring the commission's educational value.
HB1162: Representative Spritz Support05:23:23.440 - 2:22:14 PM; Referenced prior testimony from Michigan witnesses on an amendment, reminding the committee of ongoing threats and the commission's relevance in preventing repetition of history.
HB1162: Representative Schmidt Support05:24:31.920 - 2:23:22 PM; Paraphrased concerns about external influences seen in prior testimony, reinforcing the commission's role in education to ensure such events do not recur.
HB1243: Representative Slatchi (motion) Oppose05:25:50.000 - 2:24:41 PM; Moved inexpedient to legislate on HB1243, citing issues with wording and execution that would require significant revisions not feasible this term. Acknowledged bipartisan interest in beneficial state expenditures but recommended tabling for next year.
HB1243: Representative Groto (second) Oppose05:25:50.000 - 2:24:41 PM; Seconded the motion for inexpedient to legislate.
HB1243: Committee Chair Oppose05:26:53.520 - 2:25:44 PM; Agreed that while underlying ideas may have merit, implementing workable changes this term is not feasible.

Layon, Erica(Chairman)(R)[A+]2025	Sytek, John(Clerk)(R)[B-]2025	Slottje, Jeremy(V Chairman)(R)[A+]2025
Schmidt, Peter(D)[F]2025	Thibault, James(R)[A]2025	Howard, Heath(D)[F]2025
Sellers, John(R)[A-]2025	de Vries, Erica(D)[CT]2025	Dargie, Paul(D)[F]2025
Davis, Fred(D)[D-]2025	Bailey, Glenn(R)[A+]2025	Kelley, Diane(R)[A-]2025
Pearson, Stephen(R)[B-]2025	Grote, Jaci(D)[CT]2025	Long, Patrick(D)[D]2025
DeRoy, Susan(R)[A-]2025