Committee Summary for House Judiciary (01/27/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB476 00:13:51.720 - 8:42:52 AM	Public Hearing	Unclear	Likely Text to Speech Error on Bill #
HB476 2025-0031h 03:30:05.920 - 11:59:06 AM	Public Hearing	Unclear	Likely Text to Speech Error on Bill #
HB476 2025-0031h 04:50:53.480 - 1:19:54 PM	Executive Session	Unclear	Likely Text to Speech Error on Bill #

HB476: Representative Katie Pill Information Only00:13:51.720 - 8:42:52 AM; Representative Katie Pill announced that a request for withdrawal of House Bill 476 has been submitted to the House Clerk. This indicates her and potentially her co-sponsors' decision to withdraw the bill, although the hearing would proceed as scheduled.
HB476: Nancy Pariser Oppose00:16:10.440 - 8:45:11 AM; Nancy Pariser argued against HB 476, highlighting New Hampshire's low maternal mortality and teen pregnancy rates due to effective medical community efforts. She pointed out that states with laws similar to HB 476 have higher rates of maternal mortality and teen pregnancy, leading to 'OB deserts'—areas with a severe shortage of OBGYNs. She shared a tragic example from Texas of a young woman who died due to delayed care under restrictive laws, emphasizing that such laws could drive away well-trained medical professionals and endanger women's lives.
HB476: Dr. Cynthia Rasmason, New Hampshire resident Oppose00:19:57.679 - 8:48:58 AM; Dr. Cynthia Rasmason, a retired obstetrician-gynecologist, opposed HB 476, which proposes a 15-week abortion ban. She contrasted this with the state's current 24-week ban, warning that a more restrictive policy could lead to unnecessary deaths as seen in other states post-Dobbs decision. She emphasized the dangers of delayed care and the potential exodus of medical professionals, which could create healthcare deserts.
HB476: Dr. O. Young, New Hampshire Medical Society Oppose00:23:52.320 - 8:52:53 AM; Dr. O. Young, with nearly 40 years of practice in obstetrics and gynecology, opposed HB 476. She shared a personal experience from her training where a young woman died due to a septic abortion pre-Roe v. Wade, warning that restrictive laws could lead to similar tragedies. She emphasized the importance of women having access to safe and compassionate healthcare, criticizing lawmakers for potentially overstepping into women's healthcare decisions.
HB476: Bonnie Bruno Oppose00:27:47.799 - 8:56:48 AM; Bonnie Bruno shared two tragic stories of young women who died due to complications from pregnancy exacerbated by abortion restrictions. She urged the committee to oppose HB 476, stressing the real-life consequences of such laws.
HB476: Michael Lewis Support00:29:08.559 - 8:58:09 AM; Michael Lewis supported HB 476, arguing for the sanctity of life and the potential to save lives by reducing the abortion limit to 15 weeks. He suggested improvements to the bill to further save lives and critiqued the current abortion practices as not being healthcare. He emphasized the moral and ethical considerations of abortion, comparing it to other historical injustices.
HB476: Lorna Carlile Oppose00:33:00.720 - 9:02:01 AM; Lorna Carlile opposed HB 476, sharing personal family experiences with pregnancy complications. She argued that the bill could criminalize natural miscarriages and criticized the impracticality of adoption as a solution, highlighting the financial and societal burdens on women who may be forced to carry unwanted pregnancies. She suggested that lawmakers focus on addressing property taxes, housing, and childcare issues instead.
HB476: Representative Genan Ner Support00:36:02.000 - 9:05:03 AM; Representative Genan Ner supported HB 476, emphasizing the sanctity of innocent human life and expressing a commitment to supporting the bill despite its likely failure and the withdrawal request. She quoted Dr. Seuss to underscore the value of every human life, regardless of size.
HB476: Lynn Hill Oppose00:37:34.160 - 9:06:35 AM; Lynn Hill opposed HB 476, arguing that New Hampshire's current abortion laws are adequate. She discussed the challenges of unwanted pregnancies, including the impracticality of the 15-week limit for scheduling and accessing care. She criticized the bill for potentially forcing unnecessary medical interventions and highlighted the broader societal impacts on families and children.
HB476: Paul Galasso Support00:40:33.720 - 9:09:34 AM; Paul Galasso supported HB 476, focusing on the procedures involved in abortions and the impact on the fetus. He described various abortion methods, emphasizing their brutality and urging the committee to consider the human aspect of the fetus in their decision-making.
HB476: James Johnston Oppose00:43:45.280 - 9:12:46 AM; James Johnston spoke against the bill, emphasizing two main points. First, he highlighted his belief in religious freedom and the separation of church and state, arguing that government should not force religious viewpoints on citizens. Second, he underscored the value of New Hampshire's 'Live Free or Die' motto, advocating for personal freedom and minimal government interference. He mentioned that an unintended pregnancy could financially burden him and his partner, potentially leading to increased reliance on state assistance, and stressed that individuals should have the autonomy to make their own choices without government dictation.
HB476: Erica Russell Oppose00:46:10.680 - 9:15:11 AM; Erica Russell, a nurse practitioner and nurse midwife with over 25 years of experience, testified against the bill. She emphasized her commitment to patient autonomy and the importance of providing comprehensive care options. Russell shared her experiences with patients facing various challenging circumstances, such as sexual assault survivors, those with severe fetal diagnoses, and individuals dealing with poverty or family instability. She also expressed her personal stance as a mother and future grandmother, supporting her children's right to access safe and legal abortion care, underscoring that such decisions should remain with patients and their healthcare providers, not lawmakers.
HB476: Dr. David Crowley Oppose00:49:18.000 - 9:18:19 AM; Dr. David Crowley, a pediatric and fetal cardiologist from Bedford, New Hampshire, opposed the bill. He explained his role in diagnosing heart conditions in fetuses and the importance of timing in prenatal care. He noted that the standard medical practice involves an ultrasound at 18 to 20 weeks, followed by a detailed fetal echocardiogram at 21 to 23 weeks, which is crucial for identifying major fetal anomalies. Crowley argued that the bill's 15-week limit would disrupt the informed decision-making process for families facing difficult medical decisions, as they often do not receive critical information until after 20 weeks. He stressed that reducing the legal limit to 15 weeks would harm families in need of specialized care and urged the committee to vote against the bill.
HB476: Leah Easley Information Only00:53:33.400 - 9:22:34 AM; Leah Easley, who was attending the hearing with her daughter and niece, shared her perspective as a pro-life family. She and her husband have been foster parents and adopted their daughter, emphasizing the positive impact of her daughter's birth mother's decision to continue with the pregnancy after a previous abortion. Easley highlighted the availability of adoptive parents and the potential of adoption as an option for those facing unintended pregnancies, acknowledging the challenges but presenting it as a viable choice for many.
HB476: Riley Ward Oppose00:56:30.119 - 9:25:31 AM; Riley Ward, a 17-year-old from Raymond, New Hampshire, opposed the bill, expressing her desire to control her own body and future. She noted that she should be in school but chose to testify instead, emphasizing the importance of personal autonomy over reproductive decisions. Ward expressed concerns about the state's tightening grip on abortion rights and the impact such decisions could have on her future and that of her peers, suggesting that these choices could influence where young people decide to live and build their lives.
HB476: Fidelma McKenna Oppose00:58:42.280 - 9:27:43 AM; Fidelma McKenna, a certified nurse midwife with 15 years of experience in reproductive health, opposed the bill. She discussed the founding of a reproductive health center in New Hampshire and the state's historical commitment to small government and limited executive overreach. McKenna argued that the bill, which would ban abortions at 15 weeks, is contrary to New Hampshire's values and would negatively impact patient care. She provided examples of patients facing various health challenges and the potential for delayed emergency care due to legislative restrictions. McKenna urged the committee to defend New Hampshire's values and leave medical decisions to patients and providers.
HB476: Miriam Exom, Royal Tennessee Support01:01:49.839 - 9:30:50 AM; Miriam Exom shared her family's decision to move from Atlanta to Royal Tennessee and eventually to the Northeast due to concerns over heartbeat laws. They chose their new state to live freely without the restrictions they perceived in other areas. She emphasized their appreciation for the taxes in Tennessee and New Hampshire and their desire to live by the motto 'Live Free or Die,' expressing a wish for their children to grow up without the restrictions sweeping the nation.
HB476: Laura Elazim, Londonderry Support01:02:36.400 - 9:31:37 AM; Laura Elazim expressed support for the bill, highlighting her belief that the recognition of a fetus as a human individual from conception is a scientific fact, not a religious opinion. She shared a personal experience of seeing her niece's ultrasound at eight weeks, emphasizing the humanity of the fetuses. She argued for a cultural shift towards saving both the mother and the fetus, suggesting that such a mindset would lead to more just and free society. She also mentioned her experience with adoption, noting the high demand for adoptable children in the U.S.
HB476: Dr. Stephanie Harlo, Lebanon Oppose01:06:27.440 - 9:35:28 AM; Dr. Stephanie Harlo, a pediatrician and OBGYN resident at Dartmouth Hitchcock, opposed the bill, citing potential harm to New Hampshire families. She recounted a case from her pediatric residency where a child suffered extensively due to congenital anomalies, expressing concern that the bill would force similar suffering on families. She argued that the bill's narrow definition of fetal anomalies incompatible with life would exclude many serious conditions, and could make New Hampshire inhospitable to obstetric providers, potentially conflicting with her ethical obligations as a clinician.
HB476: Dr. Erica Ivers Oppose01:09:51.040 - 9:38:52 AM; Dr. Erica Ivers, an Obstetrics and Gynecology resident, strongly opposed HB 476, focusing on the ambiguity surrounding the medical emergency exemption. She described a scenario where a patient with pre-term premature rupture of membranes faces unpredictable risks, questioning how doctors can wait for life-threatening conditions before acting. She highlighted the ethical dilemma doctors face in states with such exemptions, fearing legal repercussions and delays in patient care.
HB476: Kylie Sislak, New Hampshire Oppose01:12:28.920 - 9:41:29 AM; Kylie Sislak, a critical care nurse, opposed the bill by sharing a case of a woman who suffered severe complications after an attempted at-home abortion due to lack of access to legal abortion. She emphasized the preventable nature of such tragedies and the need for safe, legal abortion care. She argued that medical decisions should be made by patients and healthcare providers, not lawmakers, and highlighted the broader implications of restricting reproductive healthcare, including high maternal mortality rates and the strain on the foster care system.
HB476: Anna Hill Oppose01:16:20.880 - 9:45:21 AM; Anna Hill opposed the bill, criticizing conservative political trends and arguing that bills like HB 476 are not about child care but about domination. She stated that restricting abortion leads to financial stress, foster abuse, and crime, rather than fostering happy families. She emphasized the diverse circumstances of those seeking abortions and the need for a reasonable timeframe for making such decisions, advocating for real protection that allows individuals to make choices about their lives and families.
HB476: Dr. Maris Tolland Oppose01:19:32.400 - 9:48:33 AM; Dr. Maris Tolland, an obstetrician gynecologist, opposed the bill, stressing the importance of listening to healthcare professionals who aim to save lives. She argued that the healthcare system is already complex and that unnecessary legislation like HB 476 adds another barrier to providing compassionate, evidence-based care. She cited examples from other states where similar bans led to doctors leaving, closures of labor and delivery units, and patients seeking care out of state, urging the committee to vote against the bill to prevent similar disasters in New Hampshire.
HB476: Dr. Courtney Nil, Concord Oppose01:21:52.360 - 9:50:53 AM; Dr. Courtney Nil, an OBGYN, opposed the bill, emphasizing the necessity of abortion care within healthcare. She expressed concern about the bill's criminalization of healthcare providers and the ambiguity in distinguishing between abortion and miscarriage management. She argued that such laws could delay care due to fear of retribution, using an analogy to illustrate the difficult decisions doctors face, and urged opposition to the bill to protect both patients and providers.
HB476: Dr. Charlotte Hastings, New Hampshire Oppose01:24:15.679 - 9:53:16 AM; Dr. Charlotte Hastings, an OBGYN, spoke in strong opposition to HB 476, citing her experiences in Texas where restrictive abortion laws limited women's reproductive choices and compromised the ability of physicians to provide safe, evidence-based care. She described cases of young girls and women forced to carry non-viable pregnancies to term, and instances where emergency care was withheld due to legal restrictions, leading to severe health risks and trauma. Dr. Hastings emphasized the real-life consequences of such laws and urged the committee to oppose the bill to ensure women in New Hampshire receive the care they need and deserve.
HB476: Dr. Kristen Banister, New Hampshire Oppose01:26:36.800 - 9:55:37 AM; Dr. Kristen Banister, a practicing OBGYN for 24 years in New Hampshire, opposed HB 476 by explaining the timeline of pregnancy and the limitations of early testing. She highlighted that significant information about fetal health is often not available until 20-22 weeks, making a 15-week abortion restriction too early. Dr. Banister discussed the consequences of abortion bans in other states, including increased maternal mortality and the migration of OBGYNs, which impacts overall women's health care. She also questioned the bill's exceptions for conditions incompatible with life, emphasizing the complexity and the need for medical professionals, not legislators, to make these determinations.
HB476: Lori Kyer, New Hampshire Oppose01:30:33.440 - 9:59:34 AM; Lori Kyer opposed HB 476, criticizing the bill for imposing unnecessary burdens on New Hampshire residents and for not aligning with scientific understanding of pregnancy. She questioned whether the bill's authors consulted medical professionals and accused them of attempting to impose religious values through legislation. Kyer highlighted the lack of exceptions for rape or incest in the bill, calling it inhumane and rooted in religiosity. She also raised concerns about the cost and implications of mandatory obstetric ultrasounds proposed in the bill, urging the committee to reject it to prevent New Hampshire from resembling a dystopian society.
HB476: Daniel McLoud, Laconia Oppose01:33:27.239 - 10:02:28 AM; Daniel McLoud from Laconia opposed HB 476, arguing that it infringes upon citizens' rights to autonomy over their bodies. He emphasized that one religious belief system should not dictate state laws, labeling such actions as theocratic. McLoud referenced New Hampshire's Bill of Rights, particularly Article 2, which he believes supports the natural and essential right to bodily autonomy. He criticized the legislature for proposing a bill that contradicts the state's motto of 'Live Free or Die' and called for the rejection of HB 476 and similar legislation.
HB476: Janelle Hall, Executive Director of the Equality Health Center, Concord Oppose01:35:26.080 - 10:04:27 AM; Janelle Hall, representing the Equality Health Center in Concord, opposed HB 476, highlighting the center's long history of providing individualized care and being New Hampshire's longest-standing abortion center. She emphasized the unpopularity of the bill among Granite Staters and the support for safe, legal, and accessible reproductive rights. Hall argued that government overreach, as proposed in the bill, undermines the trust in healthcare providers and restricts their ability to make professional judgments. She urged the committee to oppose the bill to protect patients' rights to make personal medical decisions in consultation with their providers.
HB476: Aurora Weatherbe, Derry Oppose01:37:59.599 - 10:07:00 AM; Aurora Weatherbe, a resident of Derry, testified against HB 476, criticizing the bill for lowering the abortion term limit from 24 weeks to 15 weeks and for lacking exceptions in cases of rape or incest. She detailed the coercive nature of many such pregnancies and the potential for continued abuse under the proposed law. Weatherbe also expressed concern about the bill's requirement for reporting certain medical procedures to the Department of Health and Human Services, which she noted was not consulted during the bill's drafting. She called out Representative Katherine Prudhomme O'Brien, a sponsor of the bill, and urged the committee to reject HB 476 to uphold New Hampshire's motto of 'Live Free or Die.'
HB476: Kayla Montgomery, Planned Parenthood of Northern New England and Planned Parenthood Action Fund Oppose01:41:42.840 - 10:10:43 AM; Kayla Montgomery, representing Planned Parenthood, expressed gratitude for the committee's decision to hold the public hearing despite the bill being withdrawn. She highlighted the current challenges in healthcare delivery, emphasizing that it is expensive and difficult to access. She discussed Planned Parenthood's adaptability, particularly in offering vasectomies in Manchester, which saw increased demand post-Roe v. Wade. Montgomery argued that HB 476 would worsen the healthcare situation by imposing unnecessary restrictions without scientific or medical justification, and it would hinder the provision of timely and compassionate care, which is critical in the current healthcare climate.
HB476: Christina Warner, New Hampshire State Director for Reproductive Equity Now Oppose01:44:45.000 - 10:13:46 AM; Christina Warner, representing Reproductive Equity Now, opposed HB 476, citing the overwhelming public opposition with over 11,000 sign-ins against it. She highlighted the dangers of 15-week abortion bans, referencing a ProPublica investigation that showed increased risks of death and severe infections in states with similar bans. Warner emphasized that these bans lead to negative maternal health outcomes, including higher maternal mortality rates and fewer maternity care providers, which contradicts the state's efforts to improve maternal and infant health. She urged the committee to reject the proposal if it moves forward.
HB476: Aaron Seaman, New Hampshire resident, labor and delivery nurse, ER nurse, and student nurse midwife Oppose01:47:14.040 - 10:16:15 AM; Aaron Seaman, a healthcare professional, opposed HB 476, arguing that gestational abortion bans increase maternal mortality rates and complicate healthcare delivery. He emphasized the unpredictability of pregnancy and the need for timely abortion care, which can be delayed or denied under such bans, leading to dangerous situations for patients. Seaman stressed that abortion is healthcare and should remain accessible to ensure the health and safety of Granite Staters.
HB476: Matthew Beam, resident of Somersworth, ordained minister Information Only01:52:45.920 - 10:21:46 AM; Matthew Beam, an ordained minister from Somersworth, spoke generally on the topic of abortion, expressing that his views have evolved over time. He drew historical parallels to oppression and dehumanization, suggesting that similar patterns are being repeated with regard to the rights of the unborn. Beam acknowledged the political challenges of passing such legislation but urged the committee to consider the long-term moral implications and the humanity of the unborn.
HB476: Kurt Walper, former representative Support01:55:31.360 - 10:24:32 AM; Kurt Walper, a former representative, supported HB 476, citing his religious beliefs and the sanctity of life. He referenced the Supreme Court's decision in Roe v. Wade, arguing that with current scientific understanding of when life begins, abortion should be considered unconstitutional. Walper criticized changes to medical ethics and the Hippocratic Oath to align with abortion practices. He argued that countries with more restrictive abortion laws have better maternal health outcomes, suggesting the problem lies with the healthcare system rather than the law. He urged support for the bill, viewing abortion as a permanent solution to a temporary problem.
HB476: Kath Clark from Somersworth, nurse and founder of a nursing advocacy business, a women's fertility center, and a prospective holistic health center Oppose01:59:20.199 - 10:28:21 AM; Kath Clark shared a personal story about her own existence, highlighting the fear and doubt her father experienced when her mother was pregnant. She explained how her mother, despite her father's initial reaction, decided against abortion. Clark emphasized the ripple effects of her life, touching on the potential positive impacts she and her children have had on others. She argued against the bill, suggesting that choosing abortion would have led to darkness and abuse, urging the committee to choose love, truth, and light instead.
HB476: Anonymous speaker from Bedford Support02:03:12.800 - 10:32:13 AM; The speaker shared a personal experience about his wife's pregnancy and her ability to predict their son's personality traits from as early as 12-16 weeks. He argued that even a young fetus is a person with a life that should not be easily forfeited. He also suggested that medical providers should provide guidelines for exceptions to abortion laws, to help create a more bipartisan solution to the issue.
HB476: Carly Fines from Bedford, 28 years old, from a family of Jewish doctors Oppose02:05:07.159 - 10:34:08 AM; Carly Fines argued from a reformed Jewish perspective, stating that life begins at birth, not conception. She explained that in cases of danger to the mother, such as rape, incest, or fatal fetal anomalies, Jewish law permits or obligates termination of the pregnancy. She criticized the bill for potentially sealing off emergency options for women and expressed her decision to remain childfree due to safety concerns in America. Fines urged the committee to vote no on the bill.
HB476: Francis Klean from Bow, registered nurse with 44 years of experience Oppose02:07:29.119 - 10:36:30 AM; Francis Klean opposed the proposed legislation, arguing from her experience in healthcare. She highlighted the reality of caring for unadoptable children with severe disabilities and the lifelong burden it can be. She stressed the importance of women's freedom to consult with healthcare providers and make individual choices. As a Jew, she also argued that the legislation would violate Jewish religious rights, as Judaism teaches that life begins at birth and permits abortion if the pregnancy negatively affects the mother.
HB476: Jessica Sergeant, representing herself Oppose02:10:12.480 - 10:39:13 AM; Jessica Sergeant opposed the bill, emphasizing her position of privilege due to her husband's support and his decision to have a vasectomy. She argued for the separation of religious beliefs from laws dictating personal choices, and stressed the importance of bodily autonomy. She criticized the bill for potentially giving corpses more rights than living individuals and for bastardizing the term abortion, treating it as a medical procedure like any other.
HB476: Kevin Gagner Support02:12:12.800 - 10:41:13 AM; Kevin Gagner supported the bill, citing his Christian faith and the belief in life from conception to natural death. He referenced the state and U.S. Constitutions acknowledging God and prayed for respect for life. He argued that abortion is the only surgery meant to result in death and emphasized the freedom to be born, suggesting that biological parents did not play politics with their decision to let their children live.
HB476: Michelle Flynn, Bedford, NH Support02:14:44.079 - 10:43:45 AM; Dr. Michelle Flynn, a retired internal medicine physician, shared a personal story from her residency where she discovered she was pregnant at 15 weeks. Initially, she considered terminating the pregnancy due to her responsibilities but decided against it upon seeing the ultrasound, believing the fetus was a sentient human being. Her son, now 30, is an engineer working on artificial hearts. She emphasized the personhood of fetuses and advocated for compassionate solutions for sick babies in the womb, rather than abortion, as she believes it denies the reality of suffering.
HB476: Sean Foster, Pastor of The Crossing Life Church, Windham, NH Support02:17:02.799 - 10:46:03 AM; Pastor Sean Foster spoke in support of HB 476, sharing the story of a church member's baby, Caleb, born a day past the 24-week mark and initially given no hope by doctors. Despite challenges, Caleb grew up to be a musician and is joining the U.S. Army. Foster argued that the majority of New Hampshirites support a 15-week ban, as shown by a recent poll, and urged the committee to let the bill go to the floor for a democratic vote, allowing constituents' voices to be heard.
HB476: Emily Zazano Oppose02:19:38.478 - 10:48:39 AM; Dr. Emily Zazano opposed HB 476, describing her personal experience with a high-risk pregnancy that necessitated two abortions. Her first pregnancy revealed a uterine anomaly and twins, one of which had a congenital heart defect. At 16 weeks, she suffered a uterine rupture, and the pregnancy had to be terminated to save her life. She argued that every pregnancy is unique and that arbitrary gestational limits interfere with medical decisions that should be made by patients and their providers.
HB476: Meg Overbaugh, Campton, NH Oppose02:23:13.800 - 10:52:14 AM; Meg Overbaugh, a pharmacist, opposed HB 476, stating it curtails residents' autonomy and uses scientifically inaccurate language. She referenced the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, which advises against the term 'elective abortion' and supports all abortions as medically indicated. Overbaugh criticized the proposed 15-week ban as unnecessary and likely to set a precedent for further erosion of abortion rights, arguing that gestational age bans create barriers and increase risks.
HB476: Ian Huitt, Council for Cornerstone Support02:27:01.240 - 10:56:02 AM; Ian Huitt supported HB 476, arguing that a 15-week ban aligns with Chief Justice Roberts' concurrence in the Dobbs case, suggesting it provides an adequate window for choice. He noted that most Granite Staters support unlimited elective abortion before 15 weeks, and a majority agree with banning elective abortion after 15 weeks. Huitt believed the bill could lead to a long-term settlement on abortion in New Hampshire, diffusing energy on both sides of the debate.
HB476: Courtney Reed, ACLU of New Hampshire Oppose02:32:18.120 - 11:01:19 AM; Courtney Reed opposed HB 476, arguing it undermines personal autonomy and leads to cruel consequences. She cited cases where abortion bans led to mistreatment of pregnant women, increased poverty, and poor maternal health outcomes. Reed emphasized that the bill's criminal liabilities could deter doctors from practicing in the state and urged legislators to vote against the bill to preserve access to care.
HB476: Jean McGinness Oppose02:36:54.920 - 11:05:55 AM; Jean McGinness opposed HB 476, expressing concern over its impact on women's rights in New Hampshire. She shared her personal experience of choosing to have her son, Joshua, and argued that women should retain the right to make such choices. McGinness criticized the bill for potentially reverting women's rights to a time before they had the right to vote or own property, emphasizing the importance of personal choice in medical decisions.
HB476: Shos Kelly, Nashua Oppose02:40:13.560 - 11:09:14 AM; Shos Kelly, an older woman, mother, small business owner, and elected official from Nashua, opposes HB 476. She highlights the dire consequences of a 15-week abortion ban, including potential deaths of women and restrictions on doctors providing necessary reproductive health care. She emphasizes the unpopularity of the ban among Granite Staters and brings her 13-year-old daughter, Elsa, to personalize the impact of the decision, urging lawmakers to consider the intimate and personal nature of reproductive health decisions.
HB476: Caitlyn Matthews, Second Step Oppose02:42:20.520 - 11:11:21 AM; Caitlyn Matthews, the chief operating officer at Second Step, a nonprofit domestic violence organization, opposes HB 476. She discusses the intersection of domestic violence and abortion access, explaining that restrictive abortion laws increase the risk of lethality and exacerbate domestic violence. Matthews argues that such laws lead to increased isolation, vulnerability, and health risks for survivors, urging lawmakers to oppose the bill to support domestic violence survivors.
HB476: Jonathan Kimble, Hampton Support02:43:55.080 - 11:12:56 AM; Jonathan Kimble, a 24-year-old lifelong resident of Hampton, supports HB 476 but opposes the proposed amendment. He views the bill as a critical step for protecting the unborn in New Hampshire and criticizes the amendment as potentially undermining the bill's intent. Kimble draws parallels between historical injustices like slavery and current abortion practices, urging lawmakers to stand for what is right rather than seek political gain. He warns of future societal judgment on abortion similar to that of slavery.
HB476: Sue Allen, Hollis Support02:47:17.640 - 11:16:18 AM; Sue Allen from Hollis supports the 15-week abortion ban proposed in HB 476. She shares her personal experience with a spontaneous abortion at 16 weeks, emphasizing the humanity of the fetus at that stage of development. Allen argues that the majority of abortions occur before 12 weeks and that the sentiment against abortions after 15 weeks is strong due to the fetus's development. She expresses concerns about the trustworthiness of health providers and the potential for life and death decisions being made.
HB476: Katherine Tucker, Laconia Oppose02:50:52.640 - 11:19:53 AM; Katherine Tucker from Laconia, an attorney specializing in fertility law, opposes HB 476. Representing All Paths Family Building, she argues that the bill would negatively impact women with very much wanted pregnancies, potentially complicating their care after 15 weeks. Tucker explains the necessity of later fetal anatomy scans, around 20 weeks, due to the development of vital organs, and stresses the importance of compassionate care for these women.
HB476: David Laru Information Only02:52:48.680 - 11:21:49 AM; David Laru, a father of two young sons, shared his personal experience of catching his second son during birth at home, emphasizing that the process of birth does not define life. He expressed uncertainty about his support for the bill but highlighted concerns about the lack of discussion on the due process of law for life. He challenged the committee to consider the definition of life, including scenarios like life support or genetic anomalies, and questioned the state's fetal homicide law, which considers a fetus after 20 weeks as a person for criminal intent purposes. He criticized the misrepresentation of the right to life and stressed the need for a legal decision on this matter before imposing deadlines.
HB476: Ryan McKenna, Attorney, Native of New Hampshire Support02:56:39.080 - 11:25:40 AM; Ryan McKenna, an attorney and father, urged support for HB 476 and opposition to the amendment. He highlighted the appropriateness of debating the deadline for abortion, stating it fits within the Overton window. He emphasized that the responsibility to debate this issue lies with the committee. Sharing his personal experience of miscarriage at 10 weeks and having seven children, he discussed the customary 12-week wait before announcing pregnancy, suggesting that this is a private matter until then. He argued that medical providers had cited exceptions implying the need for an abortion, and stressed the importance of balancing the state's obligation to preserve life in utero with the mother's health and safety. He referenced a survey showing majority support for a 15-week abortion ban with exceptions and urged the committee, especially Republicans, to debate and support the bill.
HB476: Brian Richardson, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, Caretaker Support02:59:45.160 - 11:28:46 AM; Brian Richardson expressed his hope for the committee's support for the work of Pregnancy Care Centers and wished well to former representative David Testerman. As a caretaker for his 23-year-old grandson with Down Syndrome, he highlighted the ability to detect life well before 24 weeks and criticized selective procedures for Down Syndrome. He urged the committee to support HB 476 and oppose the amendment, reflecting the majority view of New Hampshire residents on abortion after 15 weeks.
HB476: Kathy Stratton, CEO of the New Hampshire Medical Society, Mother Oppose03:03:01.000 - 11:32:02 AM; Kathy Stratton, representing the New Hampshire Medical Society, opposed HB 476, arguing against government interference in the doctor-patient relationship and laws restricting access to evidence-based health care. She emphasized that elective abortions are medical care considering the patient's physical and mental health. She criticized the bill for lacking provisions for cases like a 13-year-old victim of rape or a mother facing medical risks, stating that it denies patients bodily autonomy and safe medical care. She concluded by stressing the importance of well-informed, evidence-based practices and the opposition to criminalizing medically necessary treatments.
HB476: Mary Haehn Phillips, Representative from Grafton 12, Representing Hanover and Lyme Oppose03:06:35.600 - 11:35:36 AM; Representative Mary Haehn Phillips opposed HB 476, arguing it harms patients, providers, the healthcare system, and the economy. She criticized the bill's political impracticability, potential to ignore science, polling, and expert testimony, and its vague language that could lead to complications in pregnancy. She warned that passing the bill would cause a generational shift in voter allegiance and damage the responsible party's ability to craft public policy. She expressed disappointment in the ongoing political attacks on reproductive health care, highlighting the discrimination against women and the interference in medical privacy, urging bipartisan defeat of the bill.
HB476: Abigail Robbins, Student Oppose03:10:37.600 - 11:39:38 AM; Abigail Robbins, a student, expressed disappointment in having to defend reproductive rights and the potential rollback of women's rights to the time before Roe v. Wade. She argued that a 15-week abortion ban does not provide enough time for life-changing decisions and criticized the focus on abortion bans at the beginning of the year instead of addressing pressing issues like housing. She shared personal concerns about her future and the rights of younger generations, feeling that the committee was not listening to the testimonies given.
HB476: Katherine Evans, Nashua Oppose03:14:35.160 - 11:43:36 AM; Katherine Evans from Nashua opposed the bill, focusing on the concept of choice. She thanked those who attended and shared her personal situation as a mother of two children, one with autism, grateful for her health insurance and the choices she was able to make. She expressed concern for her daughter's future and the need for women to have the choice to make life-altering decisions. She also discussed adoption and surrogacy, where choices are available, and shared information about France's abortion laws to underline her argument for choice.
HB476: Amanda Shenna, Exeter Oppose03:18:17.160 - 11:47:18 AM; Amanda Shenna shared her personal experiences with reproductive health issues, including an ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, abortion, and severe infection post-delivery, which required a DNC procedure. She emphasized the complexity of reproductive health care and the potential dangers of restrictive laws like HB 476, which could delay or deny life-saving care. She urged the committee to oppose the bill to ensure women have access to critical, nuanced care.
HB476: Kevin Costan, New Hampshire Oppose03:21:23.840 - 11:50:24 AM; Kevin Costan, a concerned citizen, expressed his observations about the lack of medical practitioners supporting the bill. He argued that denying science is akin to denying life and urged the committee to trust scientific evidence over political considerations.
HB476: Patricia Godzik, Hooksett Oppose03:22:10.160 - 11:51:11 AM; Patricia Godzik, a survivor of domestic violence and a foster mom, shared her story of discovering a genetic abnormality in her pregnancy at 22 weeks. She discussed the emotional and medical challenges she faced due to the 24-week abortion ban and urged the committee to consider the real-life implications of such laws on families like hers.
HB476: Christine Peters Support03:26:15.319 - 11:55:16 AM; Christine Peters expressed support for HB 476, emphasizing the value of life and the need for the bill to go to the floor for a vote. She acknowledged the emotional testimony from women facing pregnancy complications but maintained her stance on protecting viable fetuses.
HB476 2025-0031h: Representative Bob Lynn, Windham Support03:30:05.920 - 11:59:06 AM; Representative Bob Lynn introduced the amendment, which proposes a reporting requirement for abortions conducted in New Hampshire. He noted that the amendment was based on a 2016 bill and includes provisions for confidentiality. Lynn mentioned ongoing discussions with Planned Parenthood about confidentiality concerns and highlighted that most states have similar reporting requirements.
HB476 2025-0031h: Courtney Tanner, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Oppose03:39:23.960 - 12:08:24 PM; Courtney Tanner from Dartmouth-Hitchcock opposed the amendment due to concerns about patient privacy and HIPAA compliance. She noted the low volume of late-term abortions in New Hampshire, which makes anonymity challenging. Tanner expressed willingness to work on Senate Bill 36, which she believed might better address these concerns.
HB476 2025-0031h: Joanna Cha, Bureau Chief of Public Health Statistics, Division of Public Health Services Information Only03:46:28.159 - 12:15:29 PM; Joanna Cha raised concerns about the amendment's technical and financial implications. She highlighted the need for adequate resources and a clear legal framework for data collection and reporting. Cha also noted the absence of a fiscal note and the potential costs involved in implementing the required systems.
HB476 2025-0031h: Abby Rogers, Division of Public Health Services Information Only03:46:33.680 - 12:15:34 PM; Abby Rogers echoed Joanna Cha's concerns about the amendment's requirements and the lack of funding to support data collection and reporting. She emphasized the importance of ensuring HIPAA compliance and the need for legislative authority to collect such data.
HB476 2025-0031h: Kayla Mont, Vice President of Public Affairs, Planned Parenthood Northern New England Oppose04:00:37.199 - 12:29:38 PM; Kayla Mont opposed the amendment as drafted but supported the concept of data collection for public health outcomes. She mentioned that Planned Parenthood already reports data to the Guttmacher Institute and highlighted the need for secure and HIPAA-compliant systems. Mont suggested that Senate Bill 36 might be a better vehicle for addressing these issues.
HB476 2025-0031h: Meg Overby, Pharmacist, Three Hospital Health System Oppose04:11:27.439 - 12:40:28 PM; Meg Overby opposed the amendment due to concerns about patient privacy and the administrative burden it would impose. She noted the potential for data to be used to identify individuals, especially in small towns, and questioned the value added by the reporting requirements. Overby also highlighted the financial implications of implementing such a system.
HB476 2025-0031h: Ian Huy, Cornerstone Oppose04:17:58.199 - 12:46:59 PM; Ian Huy, representing Cornerstone, opposed the amendment but emphasized the organization's advocacy for moderate abortion restrictions. He argued that the small 'r' republican process should allow a floor vote on such issues, indicating that the amendment might hinder this process.
HB476 2025-0031h: Courtney Reid, ACLU of New Hampshire Oppose04:19:50.239 - 12:48:51 PM; Courtney Reid from the ACLU of New Hampshire spoke in opposition to the amendment 2025-0031h. She highlighted the historical context by mentioning that a similar bill was decisively voted down by the legislature in 2016 and has been rejected multiple times since. Reid expressed concerns about the amendment, particularly about the collection of individualized data without adequate funding to protect it from breaches. She supported the collection of aggregate data instead, suggesting that the Senate bill, which is currently under consideration, might be a better vehicle for addressing privacy concerns. Reid also recommended looking at models from Massachusetts and Vermont for collecting data on abortions rather than patient-specific data. She noted the lack of HIPAA protection for the Department of Vital Statistics as a concern and mentioned a 91a exemption in the bill that is absent from the Senate's version, suggesting open discussions on its inclusion. Reid was open to questions following her testimony.
HB476 2025-0031h: Chair Information Only04:50:53.480 - 1:19:54 PM; The Chair opened the executive session on House Bill 476 and the non-germain amendment, expressing a strong inclination to immediately recess the executive session. Despite objections from Representative Smith, who argued for the committee's responsibility to vote on the bill and amendment, the Chair decided to recess the session until February 19th, anticipating that the bill would be withdrawn on the house floor before that date. The Chair acknowledged the committee's work and the importance of public hearings but maintained that the committee should await the house's decision on the withdrawal request. The Chair also announced adjustments to the schedule for upcoming hearings due to various reasons, including accommodating a prime sponsor's schedule and managing potentially time-consuming topics.
HB476 2025-0031h: Representative Smith Oppose04:51:41.840 - 1:20:42 PM; Representative Smith strongly objected to recessing the executive session, emphasizing the committee's responsibility to vote on the bill and the non-germain amendment. She argued that the bill was assigned to the committee and should be handled by them, regardless of the prime sponsor's request for withdrawal. Smith was concerned about the process and the potential for the bill to be withdrawn without a committee vote, which she felt was disrespectful to the committee's work and the public's input during the hearings. She expressed her belief in the importance of committee work in the legislative process and her readiness to vote, regardless of the outcome.
HB476 2025-0031h: Representative Information Only04:57:25.840 - 1:26:26 PM; A representative questioned the Chair about the implications of recessing the executive session to a specific date and the status of the withdrawal request. The representative sought clarification on House Rule 39e, which states that the committee is not obligated to make a recommendation on a bill with a pending withdrawal request. They also inquired about the effect of a house vote on the withdrawal before the recessed date, to which the Chair responded that both the bill and amendment would die if the withdrawal was accepted.
HB476 2025-0031h: Representative Tur Information Only04:59:44.600 - 1:28:45 PM; Representative Tur raised a procedural question, suggesting that the committee could have postponed the hearing earlier in the day when the withdrawal request was known. He expressed concern about the committee's effort being dismissed if the house voted on the withdrawal before the recessed date, emphasizing the importance of completing the process and respecting the public's voice on the bill.
HB476 2025-0031h: Representative Sh Information Only05:01:16.160 - 1:30:17 PM; Representative Sh supported the idea of holding the hearings to allow public input but stressed the committee's responsibility to express its opinions rather than deferring to the house's decision on the withdrawal. They believed that the committee should carry out its duties and vote on the bill and amendment.
HB476 2025-0031h: Representative Perez Information Only05:05:13.360 - 1:34:14 PM; Representative Perez asked if the committee could vote to accept the withdrawal, to which it was clarified that they could not.

Lynn, Bob(Chairman)(R)[B]2025	Kuttab, Katelyn(Clerk)(R)[B]2025	Mannion, Dennis(V Chairman)(R)[B+]2025
Smith, Marjorie(D)[F]2025	Bergeron, Dan(D)[F]2025	Horrigan, Timothy(D)[F]2025
Berch, Paul(D)[F]2025	Turer, Eric(D)[F]2025	Scully, Kevin(R)[A-]2025
Tripp, Richard(R)[B]2025	Andrus, Louise(R)[C+]2025	Ball, Lorie(R)[B+]2025
Manos, Zoe(D)[CT]2025	Perez, Kristine(R)[B+]2025	Alexander, Joe(R)[A+]2025
McFarlane, Donald(R)[A]2025	Rombeau, Catherine(D)[CT]2025	Paige, Mark(D)[D-]2025