Committee Summary for House Finance (10/30/2025)

Weyler, Kenneth(Chairman)(R)[A-]2025	Griffin, Gerald(Clerk)(R)[A-]2025	McGuire, Dan(V Chairman)(R)[A]2025
Wallner, Mary Jane(D)[F]2025	Daniels, Gary(R)[A-]2025	Leishman, Peter(D)[D-]2025
McGuire, Carol(R)[A+]2025	Ebel, Karen(D)[F]2025	Muns, Chris(D)[CT]2025
Sweeney, Joe(R)[A]2025	Seaworth, Brian(R)[A-]2025	Preece, David(D)[CT]2025
Nalevanko, Rich(R)[B+]2025	Mooney, Maureen(R)[B+]2025	Murray, Kate(D)[F]2025
Cambrils, Jose(R)[B+]2025	Popovici-Muller, Daniel(R)[A-]2025	Rung, Rosemarie(D)[CT]2025
Bean, Harry(R)[B+]2025	Kelly, Eileen(D)[F]2025	Hakken-Phillips, Mary(D)[F]2025
Telerski, Laura(D)[CT]2025	Stringham, Jerry(D)[D-]2025	Erf, Keith(R)[A]2025
Farrington, Samuel(R)[A+]2025

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB54 00:11:02.720 - 9:06:28 AM	Executive Session	allowing alternative treatment centers to operate for-profit.	Thomas, Wendy(D)[CT]2025
HB54 00:12:16.560 - 9:07:42 AM	Executive Session	allowing alternative treatment centers to operate for-profit.	Thomas, Wendy(D)[CT]2025
HB97 00:13:56.480 - 9:09:22 AM	Executive Session	making an appropriation to the department of environmental services for wastewater infrastructure projects.	Buco, Thomas(D)[D]2025
HB97 00:15:30.639 - 9:10:56 AM	Executive Session	making an appropriation to the department of environmental services for wastewater infrastructure projects.	Buco, Thomas(D)[D]2025
HB97 00:17:51.039 - 9:13:17 AM	Executive Session	making an appropriation to the department of environmental services for wastewater infrastructure projects.	Buco, Thomas(D)[D]2025
HB97 00:18:41.280 - 9:14:07 AM	Executive Session	making an appropriation to the department of environmental services for wastewater infrastructure projects.	Buco, Thomas(D)[D]2025
HB111 00:20:02.320 - 9:15:28 AM	Executive Session	(New Title) extending the position of right-to-know ombudsman for 2 years and exempting individuals who assist in the preparation of a right-to-know complaint at no charge from the unauthorized practice of law.	Lynn, Bob(R)[B]2025
HB164 2025-2979h 00:22:11.200 - 9:17:37 AM	Executive Session	relative to local records retention.	Alexander, Joe(R)[A+]2025
HB197 00:26:36.400 - 9:22:02 AM	Executive Session	relative to payment by the state of a portion of retirement system contributions of political subdivision employers.	Edgar, Michael(D)[F]2025
HB215 2025-2970h 00:36:22.079 - 9:31:48 AM	Executive Session	requiring a landfill permit applicant to submit a report listing potential harms and benefits of the project.	Germana, Nicholas(D)[F]2025
HB216 00:41:38.160 - 9:37:04 AM	Executive Session	relative to workers' compensation and creditable service towards retirement.	McGuire, Carol(R)[A+]2025
HB219 2025-2988h 00:46:15.839 - 9:41:41 AM	Executive Session	(New Title) relative to changes to the minimum electric renewable portfolio standards.	Harrington, Michael(R)[A]2025
HB246 2025-2986h 00:53:50.800 - 9:49:16 AM	Executive Session	directing the state conservation committee to implement the conservation district climate resilience grant program and making an appropriation therefor.	Aron, Judy(R)[A-]2025
HB365 2025-2994h 00:56:25.920 - 9:51:51 AM	Executive Session	relative to proof of United States citizenship for indigent voters.	Lynn, Bob(R)[B]2025
HB572 2025-2956h 01:08:16.158 - 10:03:42 AM	Executive Session	(New Title) establishing the "partners in housing" program, an initiative under the housing champions fund to assist municipalities, counties, and developers in building workforce housing, and making an appropriation therefor.	Stavis, Laurel(D)[CT]2025
HB607 01:19:41.040 - 10:15:07 AM	Executive Session	relative to funding the Hampton Beach area commission and making appropriations therefor.	Muns, Chris(D)[CT]2025
HB611 01:23:15.120 - 10:18:41 AM	Executive Session	(New Title) relative to repayment regarding appointed counsel for indigent criminal defendants.	Scherr, Buzz(D)[D-]2025
HB619 01:25:08.560 - 10:20:34 AM	Executive Session	making an appropriation to the solid waste management fund.	Ebel, Karen(D)[F]2025
HB624 01:27:27.600 - 10:22:53 AM	Executive Session	establishing a local river management advisory committee grant program and making an appropriation therefor.	Turer, Eric(D)[F]2025
HB640 01:34:36.400 - 10:30:02 AM	Executive Session	relative to the transparency of federal agency operations within New Hampshire.	Ammon, Keith(R)[A]2025
SB63 01:36:57.840 - 10:32:23 AM	Executive Session	relative to funding for the division of travel and tourism.	Lang, Timothy(R)[B-]2025
HB129 01:39:26.400 - 10:34:52 AM	Executive Session	relative to the definition of the term "evidence-based" within public education.	Belcher, Mike(R)[B+]2025
HB133 01:42:44.639 - 10:38:10 AM	Executive Session	modifying the new resident drivers' license transfer requirements, specifying when the division of motor vehicles shall send violation notices, and appropriating funds to the division for technological upgrades required for legal compliance.	Prout, Andrew(R)[B+]2025
HB563 01:45:04.400 - 10:40:30 AM	Executive Session	(New Title) relative to the cost of an opportunity for an adequate education, extraordinary need grants, fiscal capacity disparity aid, and determination of education grants.	Ladd, Rick(R)[B+]2025
HB671 01:47:13.520 - 10:42:39 AM	Executive Session	establishing a kindergarten literacy readiness program.	Pearson, Mark(R)[B]2025
HB675 2025-030h 01:49:19.840 - 10:44:45 AM	Executive Session	(Second New Title) limiting total central office administrative expenses by school districts and requiring reporting of central office administrative expenses to the department of education.	Sweeney, Joe(R)[A]2025
HB675 3013 02:12:32.079 - 11:07:58 AM	Executive Session	(Second New Title) limiting total central office administrative expenses by school districts and requiring reporting of central office administrative expenses to the department of education.	Sweeney, Joe(R)[A]2025
HB716 02:16:03.360 - 11:11:29 AM	Executive Session	making an appropriation for the dual and concurrent enrollment program.	Ladd, Rick(R)[B+]2025
HB773 02:18:26.080 - 11:13:52 AM	Executive Session	relative to aid to school districts for the cost of special education.	Ladd, Rick(R)[B+]2025
HB519 02:20:41.040 - 11:16:07 AM	Executive Session	making an appropriation to the department of health and human services to fund and support the Waypoint youth and young adult shelter.	Wallner, Mary Jane(D)[F]2025
HB547 02:23:00.080 - 11:18:26 AM	Executive Session	relative to county reimbursement of funds.	Pearson, Stephen(R)[B-]2025
HB570 02:25:19.600 - 11:20:45 AM	Executive Session	(New Title) repealing the prescription drug affordability board.	Edwards, Jess(R)[B+]2025
HB661 02:33:32.000 - 11:28:58 AM	Executive Session	relative to the department of health and human services management of social security payments, supplemental security income payments, and veterans benefits for children in foster care.	Wallner, Mary Jane(D)[F]2025
HB704 2963h 02:50:03.600 - 11:45:29 AM	Executive Session	(New Title) making an appropriation to the retired senior volunteer program.	Wallner, Mary Jane(D)[F]2025
HB751 2964h 02:53:25.359 - 11:48:51 AM	Executive Session	(Second New Title) establishing a committee to study licensure of outpatient substance use disorder treatment facilities, authorizing parents to enroll their children in any public school in the state, and creating a limited exemption from parental consent required for certain recordings under the parental bill of rights.	McLean, Mark(R)[A-]2025

HB54: Representative Carol Maguire Support00:11:02.720 - 9:06:28 AM; Representative Maguire recommends ought to pass on HB54, noting it passed the House overwhelmingly with minimal cost.
HB54: Finance Committee (Roll Call) Support00:12:16.560 - 9:07:42 AM; The committee votes unanimously 25-0 in favor of ought to pass on HB54 with no appropriation.
HB97: Representative Griffin Oppose00:13:56.480 - 9:09:22 AM; Representative Griffin moves inexpedient to legislate (ITL) on HB97, explaining it was replaced by section 379 of HB2 which appropriates $2.5 million for FY2026 and $2.5 million for FY2027 due to revenue projections preventing full funding, but the state's commitment is met.
HB97: Representative Rum Oppose00:15:30.639 - 9:10:56 AM; Representative Rum speaks against the ITL motion, arguing that reduced funding burdens local property taxpayers on bonded projects already in construction or completed. References emails from Plymouth and Maramac Wastewater Treatment Plant directors. Proposes an amendment to increase funding to $5 million per year to support denser housing development via municipal wastewater infrastructure, emphasizing its importance for state housing priorities.
HB97: Finance Committee (Roll Call) Oppose00:17:51.039 - 9:13:17 AM; The committee votes 14-11 in favor of inexpedient to legislate on HB97.
HB97: Representative R. Support00:18:41.280 - 9:14:07 AM; Representative R. announces a minority report on HB97.
HB111: Representative Sweeney Information Only00:20:02.320 - 9:15:28 AM; Representative Sweeney moved inexpedient to legislate on House Bill 111, explaining that the state budget already brought significant reforms to the right-to-know ombudsman position. Allowing HB 111 to move forward separately would create conflicting timelines and statutory language. Inexpedient to legislate ensures consistency with the enacted budget and avoids reopening policy issues.
HB164 2025-2979h: Representative Campbell Support00:22:11.200 - 9:17:37 AM; Representative Campbell introduced amendment 2025-2979h, which appropriates $150,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, to the Secretary of State Division of Archives and Records Management for the local government records manager position. This funding is necessary to create the position for record retention, which the secretary of state strongly supports.
HB164 2025-2979h: Representative Campbell Support00:23:18.000 - 9:18:44 AM; Representative Campbell moved ought to pass as amended (OTPA) on HB 164, emphasizing that it is needed for records retention and that the secretary of state made a compelling argument for it.
HB197: Representative Carol Maguire Oppose00:26:36.400 - 9:22:02 AM; Representative Carol Maguire moved inexpedient to legislate on HB 197, a repeat bill, providing no further explanation in the motion.
HB197: Representative Muns Support00:26:36.400 - 9:22:02 AM; Representative Muns opposed the motion of inexpedient to legislate, proud to be a co-sponsor. HB 197 restores the grand bargain for the New Hampshire retirement system, providing $19 million in property tax relief to school districts and $9 million to cities and towns in FY 2027. It reinstates the state's 40% contribution to group one and two members, eliminated in 2011 during the recession. An identical bill passed the House in 2024 but failed in the Senate. An amendment would change the start date to July 1, 2026, and provide real property tax relief.
HB197: Representative Wiler Oppose00:30:00.720 - 9:25:26 AM; Representative Wiler corrected that the 2011 change was not the largest property tax increase because members increased their contributions to make up for the state's share, keeping property taxes neutral. A subsequent $100 million reduction in property taxes from Swift went unnoticed.
HB197: Representative R. Information Only00:30:00.720 - 9:25:26 AM; Representative R. questioned the neutrality of the 2011 change, noting taxes jumped in Merrimack due to the town and school district picking up the state's share. Requested comment from legislative office bill drafters.
HB197: Representative Carol Maguire Oppose00:31:02.640 - 9:26:28 AM; Representative Carol Maguire explained it's difficult to disentangle the 2011 change's effect due to concurrent factors like longer lifespans, lower expected returns, and new demographic data. The increase in property taxes was not mostly due to this change; employees now pay what the state used to.
HB197: Representative Muns Support00:32:20.960 - 9:27:46 AM; Representative Muns argued the 2011 change was the largest tax increase on residents, including retirement system members who paid more as a result.
HB197: Representative R. Information Only00:33:39.519 - 9:29:05 AM; Representative R. asked if defeating ITL and passing the amendment would lower property taxes; received response that it would not, citing past examples where reductions made little impact.
HB197: Representative R. Support00:33:39.519 - 9:29:05 AM; Representative R. recalled being on the school board when the budget increased due to the loss of state contribution, suggesting any relief is needed now.
HB215 2025-2970h: Representative Campbell Support00:36:22.079 - 9:31:48 AM; Representative Campbell moved ought to pass as amended (OTPA) on HB 215, describing it as a bipartisan, common-sense bill requiring future landfill permit applicants to submit reports on potential harms and benefits. It passed division one 9-0.
HB215 2025-2970h: Representative Ael Support00:37:40.000 - 9:33:06 AM; Representative Ael described amendment 2025-2970h, which restricts the bill to new landfills. HB 215 was included in HB2 but removed after Senate reconciliation; it was retained and is recommended unanimously by the environment committee.
HB216: Representative Carol Maguire Oppose00:41:38.160 - 9:37:04 AM; Representative Carol Maguire moved inexpedient to legislate on HB 216, her bill aimed at eliminating the one-year limit on workers' compensation time counting toward longevity for normal disability retirement (requiring 10 years service). The retirement system estimated $27 million cost assuming 10% eligibility, but no data confirms this. It's a blank check with unknown costs, though deserving; cannot recommend passage.
HB219 2025-2988h: Representative Campbell Support00:46:15.839 - 9:41:41 AM; Representative Campbell introduced amendment 2025-2988h, changing the effective date to July 1, 2027.
HB219 2025-2988h: Representative Campbell Support00:47:28.880 - 9:42:54 AM; Representative Campbell moved OTPA on HB 219, explaining it returns approximately $5.7 million annually from RPS funds to ratepayers to help with high electricity costs in New Hampshire.
HB219 2025-2988h: Representative Muns Oppose00:48:39.280 - 9:44:05 AM; Representative Muns opposed OTPA, arguing HB 219 does nothing for high electricity prices driven by fossil fuel reliance and imports. It lowers renewable energy certificate values, discourages investment in renewables, eliminates class 2 certificates (affecting town/school solar projects), and saves only ~$2/month per residential customer. Urged addressing fossil fuel addiction instead.
HB219 2025-2988h: Representative Papavichi Mueller Support00:51:53.599 - 9:47:19 AM; Representative Papavichi Mueller supported the bill as it reduces costs and questioned buying more expensive energy.
HB219 2025-2988h: Representative Barry Support00:51:53.599 - 9:47:19 AM; Representative Barry noted the bill reduces the $14/month increase by 20% based on math.
HB246 2025-2986h: Representative Ael Support00:53:50.800 - 9:49:16 AM; Representative Ael introduced amendment 2025-2986h, clarifying $100,000 over the biennium for the conservation district climate resilience grant program and setting effective date 60 days after passage to quickly aid farmers. Appropriates $50,000/year; recalled effective farmer pleas at hearing.
HB246 2025-2986h: Representative Ael Support00:55:10.559 - 9:50:36 AM; Representative Ael moved OTPA on HB 246.
HB365 2025-2994h: Representative Campbell Support00:56:25.920 - 9:51:51 AM; Representative Campbell introduced amendment 2025-2994h, appropriating $50,000 for the biennium ending June 30, 2027, to reimburse municipalities for costs of vouchers for indigent voters' birth certificates or proof of citizenship, effective 60 days after passage.
HB365 2025-2994h: Representative Sweeney Support00:58:42.319 - 9:54:08 AM; Representative Sweeney moved OTPA on HB 365, stating it strengthens election integrity by ensuring indigent voters can prove US citizenship accessibly.
HB365 2025-2994h: Representative Run Oppose00:59:54.160 - 9:55:20 AM; Representative Run opposed OTPA, having initially supported but realized no process exists. Prime sponsor absent at hearing; secretary of state's testimony varied. Needs stakeholder input from clerks on resource impact; urges future bill with process.
HB365 2025-2994h: Representative Priest Oppose00:59:54.160 - 9:55:20 AM; Representative Priest opposed as the bill lacks defined process for secretary of state remittances and clerk vouchers, creating a bureaucratic mess and impractical burdens.
HB365 2025-2994h: Representative Priest Oppose00:59:54.160 - 9:55:20 AM; Representative Priest criticizes the bill for imposing administrative and fiscal burdens on towns and cities. She argues it replaces a proven, simple, and cost-effective affidavit system with a confusing, humiliating, and expensive alternative that forces citizens to disclose personal financial hardships to vote. She describes it as an unfunded mandate wrapped in red tape, noting that New Hampshire already has a working process, and urges the committee to find it inexpedient to legislate (ITL).
HB365 2025-2994h: Representative Sweeney Support01:03:07.680 - 9:58:33 AM; Representative Sweeney clarifies that the affidavit system was already eliminated in state law last year before the 2024 elections. He explains that HB365 funds efforts to help voters without proof of citizenship to obtain it, addressing a fraction of 1% of voters who needed affidavits previously. He dismisses concerns about bureaucratic mess or burden on municipal officers, expressing faith in the Secretary of State's office to implement the $50,000 biennial program for reimbursements. He emphasizes that the bill does not change voter laws but sets up a separate program to ensure affected voters can still participate in elections.
HB365 2025-2994h: Representative Papovichi Miller Information Only01:04:13.119 - 9:59:39 AM; Representative Papovichi Miller comments that it is strange to see Republicans trying to help indigenous people while others say no thanks, providing a brief observation on the debate.
HB365 2025-2994h: Committee Roll Call Vote01:05:15.039 - 10:00:41 AM; The committee votes on the motion of ought to pass (OTP) on HB365 as amended by 2025-2994h. The vote results in 16 yes to 9 no, with yes votes from Representatives Muire, Earth, Mooney, Bean, Campbell, Papichi Mueller, Sweeney, Perry, Seaworth, Maguire, Nelo, Farington, Leechman, Strain, Priest, and Wila; no votes from Walner, Murray, Evil, Tuliski, Hacken Phillips, Muns, Run, and Kelly. The motion passes, adopting the amendment and sending the bill to the regular calendar. A minority report is filed.
HB572 2025-2956h: Representative Sweeney Oppose01:08:16.158 - 10:03:42 AM; Representative Sweeney moves inexpedient to legislate (ITL) on HB572, stating that its policy concepts were already adopted in the state budget, making the policy section unnecessary. He notes that while the appropriation did not make it into the budget, the program exists and can be funded by future legislatures based on revenue. ITL maintains coherence with the budget and respects the existing spending plan.
HB572 2025-2956h: Representative Muns Support01:09:13.120 - 10:04:39 AM; Representative Muns opposes the ITL motion, arguing that to address New Hampshire's housing challenges, the state must back words with resources. She highlights housing as the top concern for constituents and emphasizes that the Partners in Housing program in HB572 reduces costs and accelerates production by identifying suitable municipal and county land and expediting reviews. She notes the original bill's $2 million for Partners in Housing and $8 million for Housing Champions, reduced to $150,000 and then removed from HB2. She urges voting no on ITL to introduce amendment 2025-2956h to restore funding and support communities.
HB572 2025-2956h: Representative Priest Support01:12:24.880 - 10:07:50 AM; Representative Priest supports opposing the ITL and favors Representative Muns' amendment, citing conversations with Manchester developers who need subsidies and partnerships with municipalities and state government to make affordable housing feasible. She stresses the program's necessity for communities.
HB572 2025-2956h: Representative Terski Support01:13:43.760 - 10:09:09 AM; Representative Terski opposes the ITL, noting housing as the number one issue and criticizing the lack of significant budget investment in successful incentive programs. She shares experiences touring workforce housing projects, like one in downtown Nashua, which provide safe places for families. She highlights crises of homelessness, young adults leaving parents' homes, and job seekers without housing, urging action to support an amendment and address the crisis.
HB572 2025-2956h: Representative R. Support01:14:50.159 - 10:10:16 AM; Representative R. opposes the ITL, criticizing superficial maintenance of the program without funding as 'putting lipstick on a pig.' She notes the program's success and the need for money to support communities and address the housing crisis, contrasting it with earlier partisan comments.
HB572 2025-2956h: Representative Papovichi Müller Information Only01:14:50.159 - 10:10:16 AM; Representative Papovichi Müller clarifies that her earlier words were misrepresented and invites checking the tape, standing by her original statement.
HB572 2025-2956h: Representative Sweeney Oppose01:15:48.480 - 10:11:14 AM; Representative Sweeney clarifies that the Partners in Housing program has never been funded before and is merely a spreadsheet identifying municipal and county land for potential housing development. He distinguishes it from the affordable housing fund or real estate transfer tax programs, noting no projects were funded by it and it does not directly fund development. The policy for the spreadsheet was adopted in the budget without appropriation.
HB572 2025-2956h: Representative R. Support01:16:41.120 - 10:12:07 AM; Representative R. apologizes if she misspoke, clarifying that visited projects exemplified creative housing solutions. She reiterates the need for a collaborative, big-picture approach involving partnerships, as HB572 enables.
HB572 2025-2956h: Representative Hacken Phillips Information Only01:17:43.120 - 10:13:09 AM; Representative Hacken Phillips requests a reminder for decorum, noting snickering and insults during discussion as unbecoming, emphasizing respect among citizen volunteers working for communities.
HB572 2025-2956h: Committee Roll Call Vote01:18:55.600 - 10:14:21 AM; The committee votes on ITL for HB572, resulting in 14 yes to 11 no. Yes votes from Maguire, Earth, Mooney, Bean, Campbell, Sweeney, Barry, Seaworth, Maguire, Neleno, Farington, Walner, Leechman, Murray, Evil, Tuliski, Hacken Phillips, Straham, Priest, Run, Muns, Kelly, and Chair Wiler (noted as 14-11, with some discrepancies in transcript). The motion passes. A minority report of OTP is filed by Representative Muns, with amendment 2025-2956h.
HB607: Representative Sweeney Oppose01:19:41.040 - 10:15:07 AM; Representative Sweeney moves ITL on HB607, stating that funding for the Hampton Beach Area Commission was already addressed in the state budget, eliminating the need for a separate appropriation. ITL aligns with the approved budget and ensures fiscal discipline.
HB607: Committee Roll Call Vote01:20:45.760 - 10:16:11 AM; The committee unanimously votes yes on ITL for HB607, 23-2 (with two no votes from Priest and Muns). The motion passes and goes on the consent calendar.
HB611: Representative Griffin Oppose01:23:15.120 - 10:18:41 AM; Representative Griffin moves ITL on HB611, noting that sections 216 to 222 of HB2 incorporate its provisions with minor changes, making HB611 redundant.
HB611: Committee Roll Call Vote01:24:00.800 - 10:19:26 AM; The committee unanimously votes yes on ITL for HB611, 25-0. The motion passes and goes on the consent calendar.
HB619: Representative Carol Maguire Oppose01:25:08.560 - 10:20:34 AM; Representative Carol Maguire moves ITL on HB619, noting that the solid waste management fund is funded by fee increases in the budget, making the bill unnecessary.
HB619: Committee Roll Call Vote01:26:19.520 - 10:21:45 AM; The committee unanimously votes yes on ITL for HB619, 25-0. The motion passes and goes on the consent calendar.
HB624: Representative Sweeney Oppose01:27:27.600 - 10:22:53 AM; Representative Sweeney moves ITL on HB624, arguing it would duplicate efforts by the Department of Environmental Services (DES) under existing programs, increasing administrative costs without improving conservation outcomes. ITL preserves efficiency and avoids bureaucratic expansion.
HB624: Representative Muns Support01:28:28.480 - 10:23:54 AM; Representative Muns opposes ITL to allow an OTP motion, noting the committee has approved nearly $300,000 in expenditures already. She supports the $40,000 annual funding for local river management advisory committees for water testing and educational programs. Citing DES testimony on volunteer work, she links river health to lake and pond quality, listing affected water bodies like Lake Winnipesaukee. She argues the modest cost prevents larger future expenses, like the $300,000 spent on Partridge Lake treatment.
HB624: Representative [Unnamed, likely from Ware] Oppose01:30:55.600 - 10:26:21 AM; The representative, from a local river committee in Ware, opposes additional funding, stating DES has a large budget and handles the described work. As volunteers, they manage tasks like updating 10-year plans without extra expenditure.
HB624: Representative Priest Oppose01:32:04.800 - 10:27:30 AM; Representative Priest, from experience managing river programs in 13 communities, opposes the bill. She notes benefits in pollution identification and community engagement but implies existing systems suffice.
HB624: Committee Roll Call Vote01:33:19.040 - 10:28:45 AM; The committee votes on ITL for HB624, resulting in 13 yes to 12 no (with no votes from Mooney, Walner, Leechman, Murray, Evil, Tiski, Hen Phillips, Strraham, Priest, Run, Muns, Kelly). The motion passes narrowly. A minority report is filed by Representative Run.
HB640: Representative Carol Maguire Oppose01:34:36.400 - 10:30:02 AM; Representative Carol Maguire moves ITL on HB640, calling it grandstanding to encourage federal reporting on state activities. She argues there is no leverage to force compliance, and critical information would not be shared anyway, recommending against wasting time.
HB640: Committee Roll Call Vote01:35:45.440 - 10:31:11 AM; The committee unanimously votes yes on ITL for HB640, 25-0. The motion passes and goes on the consent calendar.
SB63: Representative [Likely Chair or Sweeney] Oppose01:36:57.840 - 10:32:23 AM; The representative moves ITL on SB63-FN, noting Division One's 9-0 vote. The tourism agency is funded $7 million annually ($14 million biennium) in the budget. The bill would automate payments from rooms and meals tax, removing legislative control over annual budgeting.
SB63: Committee Roll Call Vote01:38:05.920 - 10:33:31 AM; The committee unanimously votes yes on ITL for SB63-FN, 25-0. The motion passes and goes on the consent calendar.
HB129: Representative Papovich Oppose01:39:26.400 - 10:34:52 AM; Representative Papovich moves ITL on HB129, stating agreement with the prime sponsor and Finance Committee that the bill is no longer needed.
HB129: Committee Roll Call Vote01:40:32.480 - 10:35:58 AM; The committee unanimously votes yes on ITL for HB129, 25-0. The motion passes and goes on the consent calendar.
HB133: Representative Papovich Oppose01:42:44.639 - 10:38:10 AM; Representative Papovich moves ITL on HB133, noting the required language is substantially included in the adopted budget, making the bill unnecessary.
HB133: Committee Roll Call Vote01:43:57.600 - 10:39:23 AM; The committee unanimously votes yes on ITL for HB133, 25-0. The motion passes and goes on the consent calendar.
HB563: Representative Papovich Oppose01:45:04.400 - 10:40:30 AM; Representative Papovich moves ITL on HB563, stating it is no longer needed as its topics are covered in budget sections 223-227.
HB563: Committee Roll Call Vote01:46:08.719 - 10:41:34 AM; The committee unanimously votes yes on ITL for HB563, 25-0. The motion passes and goes on the consent calendar.
HB671: Representative Papovich Oppose01:47:13.520 - 10:42:39 AM; Representative Papovich moves ITL on HB671-FNA, noting unanimous Finance 2 agreement due to lack of data on program effectiveness, revenues below budget, and need for language refinement.
HB671: Committee Roll Call Vote01:48:34.800 - 10:44:00 AM; The committee unanimously votes yes on ITL for HB671, 25-0. The motion passes and goes on the consent calendar.
HB675 2025-030h: Representative Earth Support01:49:19.840 - 10:44:45 AM; Representative Earth moves ought to pass (OTP) on HB675 and introduces amendment 2025-030h, a replace-all requiring a two-thirds majority vote of the school district legislative body to increase the annual school budget beyond changes in student population and inflation.
HB675 2025-030h: Representative Kelly Oppose01:50:42.080 - 10:46:08 AM; Representative Kelly opposes the amendment, citing a recent vote in Kearsarge Regional School District where over 1,600 attendees rejected a spending cap petition 1,435-113 (92% no), demonstrating local control. She references House Majority Leader Jason Osborne's comments on 'leashing' local governments and questions the rush for a statewide mandate when RSA 32:5-e allows local caps since October 2024. She argues it erodes local control unnecessarily.
HB675 2025-030h: Representative Hacken Phillips Oppose01:51:46.800 - 10:47:12 AM; Representative Hacken Phillips, absent during division vote, opposes OTP, emphasizing local control and recent court cases on school funding. She highlights unexpected costs like $30 million in school care assessments affecting districts (e.g., $564,000 in Dresden), adequacy aid reductions, special ed, and transportation. Districts respond variably with cuts, reserves, or revenue increases, none fitting HB675's strict inflation cap. She compares it to families handling unexpected bills flexibly, arguing the bill ties hands illogically and invites voting no on OTP.
HB675 2025-030h: Representative Seaworth Support01:58:07.440 - 10:53:33 AM; Representative Seaworth clarifies the bill requires only a two-thirds vote, not preclusion of spending, citing examples of 90% approval in similar votes exceeding the 66% threshold.
HB675 2025-030h: Representative Hacken Phillips Oppose01:59:12.320 - 10:54:38 AM; Representative Hacken Phillips follows up, acknowledging the two-thirds vote but noting the challenge of achieving it at meetings, unlike broad voter turnout. She clarifies 90% was of attendees, not total electorate, implying practical barriers.
HB675 2025-030h: Representative [Unnamed] Support02:00:10.480 - 10:55:36 AM; The representative clarifies it requires two-thirds of voters present at meetings or ballots, not total district residents, akin to current practices.
HB675 2025-030h: Representative Carol Maguire Support02:01:00.639 - 10:56:26 AM; Representative Carol Maguire notes current decisions are by attendees, who overwhelmingly support budgets, and the bill wouldn't change the legislative body composition.
HB675 2025-030h: Representative Dan McGuire Support02:02:13.520 - 10:57:39 AM; Representative Dan McGuire references a special committee on SAU consolidation, citing census data showing New Hampshire as the sixth highest spender on education ($3,000 more per kid than California), second in administration costs. With 75-80% of property taxes for education, he addresses constituent complaints on taxes, supporting spending controls.
HB675 2025-030h: Representative Farington Support02:03:51.040 - 10:59:17 AM; Supports the motion to reduce property taxes, standing with taxpayers.
HB675 2025-030h: Representative Murray Oppose02:05:05.840 - 11:00:31 AM; Addresses underfunding in special education and varying school district needs. Argues against arbitrary caps that limit local authority, especially given lawsuit outcomes like Rand and Conval. Notes additional challenges like healthcare and food deserts, making the cap a burden on districts already doing their best.
HB675 2025-030h: Representative Barry Support02:06:54.960 - 11:02:20 AM; Defends the bill as protection from unchecked property tax increases driven by low-turnout local elections (average 15%). Highlights declining enrollment yet rising spending and poor outcomes. Compares to family budgeting, criticizing administrative bloat and lack of teacher raises. Urges immediate action to prevent residents from being taxed out of homes.
HB675 2025-030h: Unidentified Representative Information Only02:11:23.760 - 11:06:49 AM; Briefly notes that some high property tax increases result from downshifting burdens from the state legislature.
HB675 2025-030h: Representative Ron Oppose02:11:23.760 - 11:06:49 AM; Trusts local school boards more than state bodies. Emphasizes that voters must participate; low turnout is no excuse. Advocates trusting local neighbors over state intervention.
HB675 3013: Committee Vote Vote02:12:32.079 - 11:07:58 AM; Amendment 3013 adopted 14-11.
HB675 3013: Committee Vote Vote02:13:30.320 - 11:08:56 AM; Ought to pass as amended adopted 14-11. Placed on regular calendar with minority report.
HB716: Representative Papovich Information Only02:16:03.360 - 11:11:29 AM; Moves ITL as appropriation already in HB1, making bill unnecessary.
HB716: Committee Vote Vote02:17:12.080 - 11:12:38 AM; Inexpedient to legislate adopted 25-0. Placed on consent calendar.
HB773: Representative Papovich Information Only02:18:26.080 - 11:13:52 AM; Moves ITL as similar provisions in HB292 and HB2 make bill unnecessary.
HB773: Committee Vote Vote02:19:27.359 - 11:14:53 AM; Inexpedient to legislate adopted 25-0. Placed on consent calendar.
HB519: Representative Nelleno Information Only02:20:41.040 - 11:16:07 AM; Moves ITL as substance included in HB1 AU 3170.
HB519: Committee Vote Vote02:21:46.399 - 11:17:12 AM; Inexpedient to legislate adopted 25-0. Placed on consent calendar.
HB547: Representative Seaworth Information Only02:23:00.080 - 11:18:26 AM; Moves ITL. Explains counties overpaid due to federal funding surge; reimbursement now in HB2 section 287 over four years.
HB547: Committee Vote Vote02:24:13.439 - 11:19:39 AM; Inexpedient to legislate adopted 25-0. Placed on consent calendar.
HB570: Representative Farington Information Only02:25:19.600 - 11:20:45 AM; Moves ITL as board already repealed in HB2.
HB570: Unidentified Representative Oppose02:26:34.479 - 11:22:00 AM; Opposes ITL, highlighting high-cost drugs (e.g., over $1M) burdening Medicaid (up to 50% taxpayer cost). Notes potential savings from board on PBMs and beyond Medicaid. Calls repeal a mistake; urges revisiting for cost-saving and life-enhancing opportunities.
HB570: Representative Alivinko Support02:28:50.560 - 11:24:16 AM; Notes board existed three years, funded but ineffective with little meetings or business plan, justifying repeal.
HB570: Representative McGuire Information Only02:28:50.560 - 11:24:16 AM; Questions total medical/drug spending in NH (e.g., $13B total, $1B on Ozempic-like drugs), noting premium impacts.
HB570: Representative Stringham Information Only02:30:06.720 - 11:25:32 AM; Confirms high-cost drugs like GLP-1s and past examples (hepatitis C at $80K) strain budgets; insurers pivot to cuts elsewhere.
HB570: Committee Vote Vote02:31:18.160 - 11:26:44 AM; Inexpedient to legislate adopted 23-2. Placed on consent calendar.
HB661: Representative Seaworth Information Only02:33:32.000 - 11:28:58 AM; Moves interim study. Explains bipartisan bill passed unanimously before; addresses federal funds (Social Security, veterans, disability) for foster youth. State currently uses funds for care costs; bill shifts to child/family benefit with admin costs (~$3M/year). Recommends study due to budget constraints and complexity (e.g., IT changes, payee rules).
HB661: Representative Walner Oppose02:41:45.920 - 11:37:11 AM; Opposes interim study; bill responds to legislated report on state's practice of collecting benefits from ~270 needy foster children (disabled or orphaned). Encourages finding non-state payees; hold funds in interest-bearing accounts for aging out. Proposes amendment for next budget cycle and admin ease.
HB661: Committee Vote Vote02:47:27.200 - 11:42:53 AM; Interim study adopted 14-11. Placed on regular calendar.
HB704 2963h: Representative Terski Support02:50:03.600 - 11:45:29 AM; Moves adoption of replace-all amendment 2963h, removing budget-funded items (Alzheimer's respite, senior companions) and appropriating for Retired Senior Volunteer Program (connects 55+ adults to community volunteering).
HB704 2963h: Committee Vote Vote02:51:02.880 - 11:46:28 AM; Amendment adopted by voice vote. Ought to pass as amended adopted 25-0. Placed on regular calendar.
HB751 2964h: Representative Mooney Information Only02:53:25.359 - 11:48:51 AM; Moves adoption of amendment 2964h, replacing bill with study committee on licensure of outpatient facilities (four House members from specific committees and two others).
HB751 2964h: Representative Daniels Information Only02:54:15.439 - 11:49:41 AM; Explains the amendment 2964h, which charges the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to study the licensing of outpatient substance use disorder treatment facilities at zero cost. Provides background on the original HB751, which proposed a licensure model for an unknown number of facilities requiring one new employee at $211,000, with feasibility questions. Notes the original bill included certification, rulemaking, full-time employees, IT upgrades at $500,000, and revenue from fees. Highlights DHHS's strained budget with $51 million cuts and 400 unfunded vacancies, leading the majority to recommend studying further before funding. Moves for passage of the amendment.
HB751 2964h: Representative K. (likely Representative Carol McGuire) Oppose02:55:35.120 - 11:51:01 AM; Opposes amendment 2964h, arguing the bill has been simplified from its original robust form and can be further streamlined. Introduces a potential alternative amendment (2957h) discussed in division that fits DHHS needs. Traces the bill's history to a bipartisan response to a podcast exposing abuse at independent treatment centers, emphasizing the need for oversight. References prior interim study via SB495 in HHS, which recommended the policy bipartisansly, making further study unnecessary. Describes dialing back the bill in HHS and Finance Division 3 after consultations, proposing to integrate licensing into existing DHHS structure with partial cost offset by fees. Urges voting no on Daniels' amendment to advance licensing and combat the substance use crisis.
HB751 2964h: Representative Carol Maguire Support03:00:58.240 - 11:56:24 AM; Supports further study via the amendment, acknowledging HHS studied the policy but not implementation details like licensing and rulemaking. Suggests involving EDNA committee and executive department for evaluation, especially since there's no organized group advocating and the players are unknown.
HB751 2964h: Representative Dan McGuire Oppose03:03:19.840 - 11:58:45 AM; Responds to Representative Carol Maguire, noting DHHS behavioral health testified that licensing would integrate easily into their existing program. Emphasizes DHHS's desire to proceed and the urgency due to unknown locations and operations of these clinics, which put vulnerable clients at risk without oversight.