Committee Summary for House Municipal and County Government (01/13/2026)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HR31 00:08:24.400 - 8:38:36 AM	Public Hearing	urging New Hampshire counties to establish co-ed sports leagues.	Morse, Bryan(R)[A-]2025
HB1035 00:15:39.360 - 8:45:51 AM	Public Hearing	making the chapter relative to the register of deeds gender neutral.	Morse, Bryan(R)[A-]2025
HB1689 00:20:33.200 - 8:50:45 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the term of office for county officers in Merrimack county.	Morse, Bryan(R)[A-]2025
HB1044 00:45:33.040 - 9:15:45 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the filling of vacancies in the office of a county commissioner.	Turcotte, Len(R)[B]2025
HB1693 01:41:31.199 - 10:11:43 AM	Public Hearing	expanding the number of Grafton county commissioners.	Barton, Joseph(R)[A-]2025
HB10003 01:53:13.760 - 10:23:25 AM	Public Hearing	prohibiting the Grafton County Attorney from engaging in the private practice of law	Likely Text to Speech Error on Bill #
HB1105 02:03:23.360 - 10:33:35 AM	Public Hearing	making the term of office for certain Belknap county elected officials 4 years.	Trottier, Douglas(R)[IN]2025
HB1160 02:25:21.760 - 10:55:33 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the county-state finance commission.	Weyler, Kenneth(R)[A-]2025
HB1242 02:31:51.600 - 11:02:03 AM	Public Hearing	requiring county convention budget estimates to delineate between funding used for operations of county government and funding used for other state or federal government purposes.	Murray, Alissandra(D)[D-]2025
HB1518 02:39:11.280 - 11:09:23 AM	Public Hearing	permitting remote participation at county delegation meetings.	Damon, Hope(D)[CT]2025
HB1205 03:03:47.840 - 11:33:59 AM	Public Hearing	prohibiting state and county owned lands from participating in carbon sequestration projects.	Davis, Arnold(R)[B+]2025
HOUSERESOLUTION31 05:19:32.560 - 1:49:44 PM	Executive Session	urging the New Hampshire counties to establish co-ed sports leagues	Likely Text to Speech Error on Bill #
HB1035 05:23:08.080 - 1:53:20 PM	Executive Session	making the chapter relative to the register of deeds gender neutral.	Morse, Bryan(R)[A-]2025
HB1693 05:26:30.480 - 1:56:42 PM	Executive Session	expanding the number of Grafton county commissioners.	Barton, Joseph(R)[A-]2025
HB1003 05:29:38.320 - 1:59:50 PM	Executive Session	prohibiting the Grafton county attorney from engaging in the private practice of law.	McFarlane, Donald(R)[A]2025
HB1160 05:32:23.200 - 2:02:35 PM	Executive Session	relative to the county-state finance commission.	Weyler, Kenneth(R)[A-]2025
HB1518 05:35:36.480 - 2:05:48 PM	Executive Session	permitting remote participation at county delegation meetings.	Damon, Hope(D)[CT]2025
HB1205 05:38:55.200 - 2:09:07 PM	Executive Session	prohibiting state and county owned lands from participating in carbon sequestration projects.	Davis, Arnold(R)[B+]2025

HR31: Representative Brian Morris Support00:08:24.400 - 8:38:36 AM; Representative Morris introduced HR 31, explaining that the bill encourages counties to establish voluntary co-ed sports leagues to address concerns about biological women being forced to compete against biological men in public schools. He emphasized that the legislation promotes competition without mandates, aiming to bridge divides and foster community building. He noted that counties are not currently involved in such leagues, but local town leagues exist separately. During Q&A, he clarified that financing would come from fundraising, donations, and grants, similar to existing town leagues, and that the bill's purpose is to start the conversation since such leagues could happen without legislation but are not currently occurring.
HB1035: Representative Morris Support00:15:39.360 - 8:45:51 AM; Representative Morris introduced HB 1035, describing it as a simple bill that updates the language in the register of deeds chapter to be gender neutral by changing 'he' to 'he or she'. He welcomed suggestions to expand the gender-neutral changes to other areas during Q&A.
HB1689: Committee Chair Information Only00:20:33.200 - 8:50:45 AM; The chair opens the public hearing on HB 1689, noting the time as 9:50, and checks for pink cards for the bill. Recognizes the prime sponsor.
HB1689: Representative Morse (Prime Sponsor) Support00:21:59.919 - 8:52:11 AM; Introduces HB 1689, which changes two-year terms to four-year terms for county offices to allow better management and employee stability. Explains that the first year is for learning the job and the second for campaigning, leaving employees without consistent leadership. Accompanied by Samantha Morris, his wife and register of deeds.
HB1689: Representative Alvin See Support00:23:48.320 - 8:54:00 AM; Testifies that this is the third bill to change county officers to four-year terms, with two already enacted. Notes an omission in HB 1689 regarding RSA 7:33, which should address temporary vacancies for county attorney and provide exceptions for Merrimack County, similar to Rockingham and Coos Counties. Recommends amending RSA 7:33 to reference RSA 653:1 for elections, avoiding future amendments and duplication in statutes. Suggests the same for HB 1105 and advises against merging HB 1689 with HB 154 for Belknap County to keep them independent.
HB1689: Representative Majori Information Only00:27:13.600 - 8:57:25 AM; Asks Representative C about handling RSA 653:1, whether it can stand alone or requires a replace-all amendment, and the best approach.
HB1689: Representative Alvin See (continued) Information Only00:27:13.600 - 8:57:25 AM; Responds that HB 1105 has two sections, and HB 1689 missed the first. Suggests adding the missing section to make it complete.
HB1689: Representative Walker (questioner) Information Only00:28:45.360 - 8:58:57 AM; Representative Walker asked about the current term length for county officers, confirming it is two years and noting the change to four years, with examples of counties like Rockingham that have already implemented it.
HB1689: Representative Frock (questioner) Information Only00:29:32.480 - 8:59:44 AM; Representative Frock asked for pros and cons of extending terms county-by-county versus statewide, receiving response that it was done county-by-county starting with Rockingham.
HB1689: Representative Gilman (questioner) Information Only00:30:19.120 - 9:00:31 AM; Representative Gilman offered to provide historical context on county term extensions during the executive session.
HB1689: David Croft, Merrimack County Sheriff Support00:31:17.919 - 9:01:29 AM; David Croft, Merrimack County Sheriff with over 40 years in law enforcement, supports HB 1689. He shared his experience transitioning into the role, emphasizing that prior county government knowledge allowed him to focus on duties rather than learning basics. He noted that two-year terms lead to one year of learning and the second year focused on campaigning, limiting effectiveness. He highlighted varying county practices and the success of four-year terms in Rockingham and other counties, arguing for stability in Merrimack County.
HB1689: Representative Majori (questioner) Information Only00:33:24.159 - 9:03:36 AM; Representative Majori asked Sheriff Croft about timelines for prosecuting cases at the county level, to which Croft responded that major investigations can take three to four years or more.
HB1689: Samantha Morse, Merrimack County Register of Deeds Support00:34:25.199 - 9:04:37 AM; Samantha Morse, Merrimack County Register of Deeds, supports the bill for promoting stability, continuity, and accountability. She explained that two-year terms hinder long-term planning and implementation of projects. Four-year terms allow focus on strategic leadership, training, and improvements. She shared her experience addressing lack of training and low morale upon taking office, stressing the need for time to build trust and see initiatives succeed. She urged support to strengthen county government for residents.
HB1689: Representative Joseph Barton, Grafton District 1 Oppose00:37:45.280 - 9:07:57 AM; Representative Joseph Barton opposes HB 1689, arguing that two-year terms empower the electorate to hold officials accountable quickly. He believes four-year terms reduce voter oversight and that institutional knowledge is maintained by staff. He supports reverting to two-year terms to preserve New Hampshire's representative government tradition.
HB1689: Nick DeMayo, Sugar Hill resident Oppose00:40:53.599 - 9:11:05 AM; Nick DeMayo, a 25-year Sugar Hill resident and former teacher, opposes the bill. He advocates for citizen legislators and two-year terms to prevent entrenchment and ensure accountability, likening four-year terms to 'swamp government.' He noted the county administrator provides continuity and emphasized New Hampshire's historical role in the Constitution, arguing against longer terms without limits.
HB1044: Representative Len Turkot, prime sponsor Information Only00:45:33.040 - 9:15:45 AM; Representative Len Turkot introduced HB 1044, representing Barrington and Strafford in Strafford County. He provided background on recent Strafford County changes: after 50 years, commissioner districts were established to align with other counties, and a residency requirement for district commissioners was added. The bill addresses filing vacancies in commissioner offices.
HB1044: Representative Turkot Support00:47:34.640 - 9:17:46 AM; Representative Turkot, the prime sponsor, explains the bill's purpose to address a vacancy in Stratford County where a commissioner resigned. He notes that current law requires the entire county convention to fill the vacancy, leading to imbalances in politically split counties like Stratford's 60/40 split. The bill proposes that only representatives from the commissioner's district fill the vacancy for uniformity across the state, similar to past practices in Hillsborough County. He agrees the bill's language needs clarification on voter selection and term lengths.
HB1044: Unidentified Committee Member Information Only00:50:07.280 - 9:20:19 AM; A committee member questions the bill's language on lines 7-8, pointing out it still references county voters instead of district voters and mentions a two-year term issue from outdated law. Representative Turkot agrees to clarify the language for better readability.
HB1044: Representative Davis Information Only00:52:15.680 - 9:22:27 AM; Representative Davis asks what is confusing about 'voters of the county' in the bill text. Representative Turkot explains the confusion lies in the sentence structure regarding filling terms, agreeing it needs clearer wording.
HB1044: Representative Barton Information Only00:53:28.319 - 9:23:40 AM; Representative Barton expresses partial opposition, citing confusing language on two-year terms and rotating four-year terms in some counties. He argues that district-only selection for vacancies up to three years reduces voter power and suggests special elections for shorter terms. He notes potential misalignment between floterial and commissioner districts and hopes the bill can be fixed in committee.
HB1044: Kelly Monahan, Register of Deeds, Orford Support00:56:52.319 - 9:27:04 AM; Kelly Monahan supports the bill in theory but dislikes the wording. She shares her experience in Grafton County when Commissioner Raymond Burton passed away; letters of interest were reviewed by the executive committee, heavily influenced by commissioners, leading to a Democrat appointment despite party differences, leaving her town unrepresented for a year. She mentions discrimination in selections and qualified candidates being overlooked.
HB1044: Katie Wood Hedberg, Grafton County Commissioner, District 3 Oppose00:59:05.520 - 9:29:17 AM; Commissioner Hedberg opposes the bill, arguing commissioners serve all county residents, not just districts. She notes current law allows full county convention participation except in Hillsborough County. In less populated counties, district-only decisions could be made by one legislator, which is undemocratic. She emphasizes counties' diversity and that the current process is balanced and effective without need for change.
HB1044: Commissioner David Lovelin II, Merrimack County, District 3 Oppose01:01:31.119 - 9:31:43 AM; Commissioner Lovelin opposes the bill, stating commissioners represent countywide interests. He supports full convention involvement for broad representation, except in large Hillsborough County. District-only selection risks decisions by one person, undermining democracy. He highlights unequal representation in rural vs. urban counties and argues there's no demonstrated need to change the longstanding effective process.
HB1044: George McLaris, Chairman, Strafford County Commissioners Oppose01:04:08.000 - 9:34:20 AM; Commissioner McLaris, also president of the NH County Commissioners Council, reports unanimous opposition from commissioners. He argues elected commissioners represent the entire county, and district-only appointments are not in the public's interest given counties' diverse demographics. He shares experiences with past vacancies, including a recent one in Strafford where a Democratic delegation elected a Republican, showing the process works. He opposes disenfranchising the full delegation.
HB1044: Representative Kelly Patenza, Strafford District 19 Support01:07:39.520 - 9:37:51 AM; Representative Patenza supports the bill as a simple fix for the recent Strafford vacancy after Representative Petri's resignation. She describes the process as a pseudo-election by district representatives mirroring voter choice. Controversy arose because non-district members abstained, allowing exploitation of unclear law. The bill ensures district representatives fill temporary vacancies until the next election.
HB1044: Representative Peter Schmidt, Stratford County District 19 Oppose01:11:34.480 - 9:41:46 AM; Representative Peter Schmidt, with 24 years of experience representing Ward 1 in Dover, strongly supports county government in New Hampshire and opposes HB 1044. He echoes Commissioner Loveland's opposition, emphasizing the distinct differences among counties, such as population variations between Hillsborough (over 400,000) and Coos (32-33,000). He highlights Stratford County's unique compact population in cities like Rochester, Somersworth, and Dover, arguing against a one-size-fits-all approach and urging the committee to defeat the bill to respect county distinctions.
HB1044: Representative Bailey, District 1 Oppose01:16:29.360 - 9:46:41 AM; Representative Bailey opposes the bill, arguing that the full county delegation does not fully represent minority interests, likening it to historical parliamentary representation in 1776 that ignored colonial views. He asserts that the 60% cannot fully represent the 40%, emphasizing district-specific representation over the entire convention.
HB1044: Unnamed Resident from Sugar Hill Oppose01:17:48.159 - 9:48:00 AM; The resident from Sugar Hill, a former teacher, calls HB 1044 a bad bill, drawing parallels to local selectmen issues where appointed officials serve excessively long terms without elections. He refocuses on county commissioners, arguing that in northern Grafton County (19 towns, ski and farming areas), appointments could favor urban interests like Lebanon over rural ones. He advocates for special elections to let voters choose commissioners directly upon resignation or death.
HB1044: Representative Joseph Barton, Grafton District 1 (sponsor) Support01:22:28.480 - 9:52:40 AM; As the prime sponsor of HB 1693-FN, Representative Barton supports expanding Grafton County commissioners to five districts, noting it's not radical as Maine counties vary (3, 5, or 7 based on size). Grafton, comprising 20% of the state and fitting two other counties inside, needs modernization for its complexity. He clarifies the bill creates fair, contiguous, population-equal districts under RSA 20, allows mid-decade changes, reverts to two-year terms for accountability, adds negligible cost but enhances oversight, and boosts participation by easing rural campaigning. Districts include all towns like Piermont, unlike a prior withdrawn bill.
HB1044: Ms. Moahan, Orford Resident and Grafton County Register of Deeds Support01:30:32.480 - 10:00:44 AM; Ms. Moahan, a 26-year Orford resident and 15-year Register of Deeds, supports HB 1693-FN's intent to address Grafton County's leadership crisis. The county, larger than Rhode Island plus 500 square miles, is hard to navigate via back roads, with poor news coverage hindering informed voting. Current three commissioners lack knowledge and time, diverting staff from duties. Adding two members would divide labor, improve oversight, and ensure dedicated focus. She suggests separating the four-year term issue, viewing it as self-serving, and offers background knowledge.
HB1044: Mr. Deo Support01:36:29.760 - 10:06:41 AM; Mr. Deo supports expanding to five commissioners, describing Grafton County's vast 1,700 square miles with diverse districts. District 2 spans 40 miles west-east (Waterville Valley to North Haverhill/Monroe) and 50 miles north-south (Bethlehem/Littleton to Lyme), involving treacherous mountainous roads. Districts 1 and 3 are compact and serviceable, but District 2's T-shape burdens candidates and commissioners. Five districts would better serve rural areas.
HB1044: Mr. Beellbrick Support01:38:33.440 - 10:08:45 AM; Mr. Beellbrick argues that perception of lacking representation and accountability in Grafton County is reality. As a large, diverse county, it needs five commissioners for better oversight and transparency, especially on major projects like the $80 million courthouse with limited public meetings. Requiring hour-long drives for hearings alienates residents. Like New Hampshire's large legislature for constituent closeness, five commissioners would enhance representation in this unique situation.
HB1693: Emily Smith, Lyman, Grafton County Support01:41:31.199 - 10:11:43 AM; Emily Smith, a retired educator from Lyman in Grafton County, supports HB 1693 to establish five county commissioner districts. She attends commissioner's meetings and notes that northern Grafton County's rural, forested, agricultural, and logging-based communities, with more cows and deer than people, have unique needs that are drowned out in the large existing district. She emphasizes the need for better representation, more oversight, and shorter two-year terms for commissioners to match other officials, allowing for recalls if needed.
HB1693: Katie Wood Hedberg, Grafton County Commissioner District 3 Oppose01:44:45.199 - 10:14:57 AM; Katie Wood Hedberg, Grafton County Commissioner from District 3, opposes HB 1693, which expands commissioners from three to five via redistricting and includes a fiscal note. She argues this would be mid-decade redistricting, contrary to New Hampshire's decennial census practice, setting a dangerous precedent. It adds financial burden with two extra salaries amid downshifted costs to counties, without identifying a clear problem or request from delegation or executive meetings. She urges opposition.
HB1693: John Sers, Representative, Bristol and Bridgewater, Grafton District 10 Support01:47:22.560 - 10:17:34 AM; John Sers, Representative for Grafton District 10 (Bristol and Bridgewater), supports HB 1693. He highlights the vast size and diversity of Grafton County, from elite colleges in Hanover to state college in Plymouth and farmland near Littleton, making representation challenging. Even splitting into five districts wouldn't shift partisan balance significantly. He references a recent costly mishap on December 31st, suggesting more commissioners could provide better oversight. He distinguishes commissioners' business-running role from delegates' financial role and advocates for two-year terms to prevent knowledge gaps.
HB10003: Representative McFarland, Prime Sponsor Support01:53:13.760 - 10:23:25 AM; Representative McFarland introduces HB 10003, which aligns Grafton County with six other NH counties (Rockingham, Cheshire, Sullivan, Strafford, Carroll, Coos) and Belknap's restrictions by prohibiting county attorneys from private practice. Under RSA 734, county attorneys exercise full prosecutorial powers and should have undivided loyalty to public interest. The bill preserves family exceptions, mirrors existing statutes, and promotes consistency, fairness, and trust without alleging misconduct, removing potential conflicts and appearances of divided loyalties.
HB10003: Representative Barton, Co-Sponsor Support01:57:46.639 - 10:27:58 AM; Representative Barton co-sponsors HB 10003 and reiterates the need for county attorneys to focus fully on county work, as even minimal private practice diverts attention from their elected duties.
HB10003: Mr. Beellberg Support01:57:46.639 - 10:27:58 AM; Mr. Beellberg, who worked in the Grafton County Attorney's office during law school, supports HB 10003. He describes the role as demanding undivided attention, with private practice leading to conflicts of interest that burden taxpayers by requiring case transfers. He compares it to other positions requiring singular focus and notes that ethics rules only address undisclosed conflicts, so prohibiting private practice ensures cleaner government and public trust in the legal system.
HB1105: Representative Douglas Tardia, Belknap County District 8 Support02:03:23.360 - 10:33:35 AM; Representative Douglas Tardia from Belknap County District 8 (Belmont, Tilton, Sanbornton) introduces HB 1105 to extend terms for certain elected officials like registry of deeds, county attorney, and sheriff from two to four years. He notes this trend in other counties like Rockingham (recently) and Merrimack (proposed), with delegation support. Four-year terms provide stability for multi-year responsibilities in public safety, prosecutions, records, and land transactions, which are hard to plan in two years, especially for new officials.
HB1105: Representative Douglas Tardia, Belknap County District 8 Support02:06:13.119 - 10:36:25 AM; Representative Tardia argues that two-year terms prevent elected officials from completing initiatives and evaluating performance adequately. He highlights that four-year terms reduce election costs, allow better budgeting, enable voters to assess officials over a longer period, and align New Hampshire with other states. He notes successful implementation in Rockingham and Coos Counties and support from his delegation, urging the committee to recommend ought to pass.
HB1105: Representative Alvin C, Representative Alvin See, Merrimack County District 26 Information Only02:09:23.520 - 10:39:35 AM; Representative C finds the bill acceptable but points out an anomaly in the bill text on line six mentioning 'and Belknap' which is not in current RSA and should be removed during enrollment. He suggests an amendment similar to one for HB 1689 to eliminate specific election details from RSA 73, avoiding superfluous words.
HB1105: Representative Barton, Grafton County Oppose02:10:54.000 - 10:41:06 AM; Representative Barton opposes four-year terms, arguing they lower accountability and represent a power grab from voters. He emphasizes New Hampshire's tradition of two-year terms statewide, allowing quick removal of poor performers. He advises against the change for Belknap County, stressing the need to maintain power with the people and shorter terms for accountability.
HB1105: Sheriff Bill Wright, Belknap County Support02:14:29.119 - 10:44:41 AM; Sheriff Wright supports the bill, explaining that learning the role takes time, as seen in his third term and 20 years of experience. He notes election anxiety disrupts operations and that four-year terms allow for lasting changes, as experienced in Rockingham and Coos Counties. Speaking for himself, the county attorney, and register of deeds, he emphasizes bipartisan support, professional focus without constant campaigning, and accountability via elections every four years.
HB1105: Mr. Deo, Grafton County Oppose02:18:40.718 - 10:48:52 AM; Mr. Deo opposes longer terms, arguing the founding fathers intended a citizen legislature, not lifetime service, citing issues in Washington like insider trading. He believes county administrators provide continuity for new officials, and longer terms reduce voter opportunities to change representatives. He criticizes limited public input at county meetings.
HB1105: Emily Smith, Grafton County resident (formerly Belknap County) Oppose02:21:18.640 - 10:51:30 AM; Emily Smith, formerly a teacher and administrator in Belknap County, opposes the bill, stressing the need for active voter voice and ability to recall officials in a transient community with large employers like factories, businesses, and a mall. She highlights different dynamics in Belknap versus Grafton County but emphasizes the importance of shorter terms for accountability.
HB1105: Unidentified Speaker Oppose02:23:00.399 - 10:53:12 AM; The speaker argues that due to the influx of transient residents in the area, long-term residents (over 25 years) should have the ability to vote out officials in two years. They criticize the bill for not specifying which county officials it applies to, calling it unclear, and recommend rejecting it.
HB1160: Representative Jim Majori, Northampton Information Only02:25:21.760 - 10:55:33 AM; Introduces the bill, stating it makes technical updates to the County State Finance Commission to match current statutes and titles. Offers to answer questions but adds a light-hearted comment about sports teams.
HB1160: Kate Han, New Hampshire Association of Counties Support02:26:28.800 - 10:56:40 AM; Provides detailed explanation of technical changes in the bill, including allowing designees for the commissioner, updating division names like elderly adult services to long-term supports and services, standardizing two-year terms for members to ensure quorum, aligning county association appointments, broadening House representative eligibility, and removing outdated references to juvenile services responsibilities that counties no longer handle.
HB1242: Representative Ali Murray Support02:31:51.600 - 11:02:03 AM; Introduces the bill as a simple measure to require county budgets to separate regular county activities from supplemental state or federal programs. This ensures delegations understand funding sources and taxpayer impacts when voting. Responds to a question by noting it can be done voluntarily but lacks consistency across counties, aiming to standardize the process.
HB1242: Representative Megan Murray, Amherst and Milford Support02:33:40.800 - 11:03:52 AM; Supports the bill as county delegation chair, emphasizing it allows better communication to constituents about county activities like UNH cooperative extension and opioid abatement programs. Believes it promotes transparency in proposed budgets. Responds to a question by agreeing it would streamline processes for federal funding decisions by voters and delegations.
HB1242: Kate Han, New Hampshire Association of Counties Oppose02:36:05.840 - 11:06:17 AM; Opposes the bill on technical grounds because not all counties use calendar years; six of ten are on fiscal years, which would disrupt budget cycles. Offers to work with Representative Murray on language to accommodate all budget types. Responds to a question by indicating conceptual support if the issue is remedied via amendment, pending legislative committee approval.
HB1518: Representative Hope Damon, Sullivan District 8 Support02:39:11.280 - 11:09:23 AM; Representative Damon introduced HB 1518, which requires county delegates to participate remotely in meetings when not reasonably practical to attend in person. The bill mandates audible participation without requiring video, identification of remote participants, a quorum in person, and roll call votes. She emphasized the need for complete participation in county governance, especially in smaller delegations like Sullivan County's 13 members, to avoid loss of input due to illness, family care, travel, weather, or emergencies. She noted that five counties already allow this successfully, with minimal technology needed (e.g., phone), no fiscal impact, and that it does not extend to public access. Damon addressed questions on RSA 91-A compliance, reasons for remote participation, audio-only limitations, identification, voting, and why targeting county delegations specifically.
HB1518: Representative Walker Information Only02:43:36.560 - 11:13:48 AM; Representative Walker questioned the viability of remote participation reasons under RSA 91-A, stressing it should not be for mere convenience but for valid reasons like illness or travel, with the chair enforcing it. He concurred with Damon's statement.
HB1518: Representative Damon (response) Support02:43:36.560 - 11:13:48 AM; Damon clarified that the bill references RSA 91-A twice and uses 'not reasonably practical' language, leaving interpretation to the chair. She provided examples like caring for an ill relative out-of-state or severe weather (e.g., ice storm), emphasizing non-frivolous use.
HB1518: Representative Walker (follow-up) Information Only02:44:48.080 - 11:15:00 AM; Walker asked why the bill specifies voice-only, not Zoom or visual.
HB1518: Representative Damon (response) Support02:44:48.080 - 11:15:00 AM; Damon explained audio-only for simplicity, accessibility, and low cost, avoiding barriers for counties without advanced tech. She noted visual is preferable but not required, and open to amendments.
HB1518: Representative Dolan Information Only02:45:53.680 - 11:16:05 AM; Dolan asked how to identify remote individuals with voice-only participation.
HB1518: Representative Damon (response) Support02:45:53.680 - 11:16:05 AM; Damon acknowledged no certain verification method but suggested distinguishable voices and familiarity among delegates. She was open to recommendations and research on practices.
HB1518: Representative Fron Information Only02:47:06.960 - 11:17:18 AM; Fron questioned audio-only for voting, suggesting visual is needed for roll call.
HB1518: Representative Damon (response) Support02:47:06.960 - 11:17:18 AM; Damon confirmed roll call voting is included for full participation. She was unsure if other counties use only audio and suggested discussing in executive session. She was open to visual amendments if deemed better.
HB1518: Unidentified Representative Information Only02:48:16.880 - 11:18:28 AM; The representative clarified that under RSA 91-A, remote participation is currently permissible ('may'), but the bill makes it required ('shall') with audio-only.
HB1518: Representative Damon (response) Support02:48:16.880 - 11:18:28 AM; Damon confirmed the shift to 'shall' and openness to amendments for visual/audio if preferred.
HB1518: Representative Frock Information Only02:49:31.920 - 11:19:43 AM; Frock asked why require remote for county delegations when other public bodies under 91-A only 'may' allow it.
HB1518: Representative Damon (response) Support02:49:31.920 - 11:19:43 AM; Damon explained focusing on counties due to frustration there, simplicity, and precedent in seven counties already doing it.
HB1518: Unidentified Representative (suggestion) Information Only02:51:02.800 - 11:21:14 AM; Suggested amending to reference RSA 91-A Roman IV, changing to 'shall' for remote participation subject to its requirements.
HB1518: Representative Damon (response) Support02:51:02.800 - 11:21:14 AM; Damon agreed it aligns with her objective and was open to side-by-side comparison.
HB1518: Representative Davis Information Only02:53:22.479 - 11:23:34 AM; Davis requested side-by-side include quorum subsection B under 91-A, noting no meeting without quorum, which needs careful review.
HB1518: Chair Information Only02:54:31.120 - 11:24:43 AM; The chair offered to request a side-by-side comparison by the committee researcher to analyze the bill against 91-A and identify amendments.
HB1518: Representative Janet Lucas, Grafton County District 7 Support02:55:32.720 - 11:25:44 AM; Co-sponsor Lucas testified in support, highlighting New Hampshire's unpredictable weather and emergencies like power outages or breakdowns requiring remote options for county delegations. In Grafton County, remote participation is allowed anytime for discussion, statements, and questions. HB 1518 ensures representation by allowing the chair to suspend in-person quorum in emergencies, benefiting county citizens. She urged a vote to pass.
HB1518: Representative Majori Information Only02:57:51.040 - 11:28:03 AM; Majori asked if Grafton County allows remote only in emergencies or anytime.
HB1518: Representative Lucas (response) Support02:57:51.040 - 11:28:03 AM; Lucas confirmed anytime.
HB1518: Nick Deo, Sugar Hill, Grafton County District 2 Support02:57:51.040 - 11:28:03 AM; Deo began testimony supporting the bill, noting Grafton County's use of online Zoom communications (testimony cuts off).
HB1518: Nick Deo, Sugar Hill, Grafton County District 2 Support02:59:11.200 - 11:29:23 AM; Mr. Deo continued his testimony from the previous segment, emphasizing the need for better public participation in county commissioner meetings. He highlighted being cut off from Zoom communications for 17 weeks starting April 22nd, 2024, resulting in lost comments and no opportunity to ask questions despite his educational background. He stressed that commissioners do not have all the answers and that regular citizens should be allowed to provide input. He attends meetings weekly, taking notes for three hours, and advocated for the bill to include stipulations for clear enunciation, no mumbling, and no side comments to promote open government in Grafton County.
HB1205: Representative Ouellette Support03:03:47.840 - 11:33:59 AM; Representative Ouellette introduced HB 1205 on behalf of the prime sponsor, Representative Davis, who was unavailable. The bill prohibits carbon sequestration programs on state and county lands, which were purchased with taxpayer money for traditional uses like logging to stabilize timber supply, recreation, and economic development. Much of these lands do not qualify for sequestration due to inaccessible timber or areas like Franconia State Park that will never be cut, or recently cut properties. The Coos County delegation, commissioners, and New Hampshire Association of Counties unanimously support the bill. The goal is to maintain public trust and use these lands as originally intended. During questioning, she confirmed that timber sales generate revenue at market rates through public bidding, benefiting county residents, and that sequestration would tie up land for at least 40 years, altering habitat, restricting motorized recreation, and not truly benefiting the environment as it displaces logging elsewhere without net gain.
HB1205: Representative C, Representative Alvin See, Merrimack County District 26, Loudon Support03:13:54.160 - 11:44:06 AM; Representative C supports the bill and suggests adding cities and towns along with counties and states to ensure it applies to all public land without question.
HB1205: Roberta Cropsy, private landowner, Belknap County Support03:13:54.160 - 11:44:06 AM; Ms. Cropsy strongly supports HB 1205, drawing from her experience managing 100 acres of forest in Tilton and Sanbornton as a private micro version of state or county parks. She describes restoring the neglected land and managing it for wildlife, forest health, diversity, sustainability, habitat, and recreation through selective cuts every 10 years. She argues against carbon sequestration's focus on old growth trees, which she says leads to unhealthy forests prone to mold, rot, and disease, lacking biodiversity and unsuitable for wildlife. She emphasizes that state and county lands should not be managed for carbon credits to offset external pollution, favoring timber harvests for sustainability. She objects to tying up land for decades or centuries under false assumptions of better forest management or development prevention.
HB1205: Joe Kenny, former State Senator and Executive Councilor Support03:19:48.080 - 11:50:00 AM; Mr. Kenny supports HB 1205 to prohibit carbon sequestration on county and state lands, emphasizing protection of public trust, appropriate harvesting, public access, biodiversity, and wildlife. He cites concerns about silence on sequestration in contracts like the Connecticut Lakes project and opposes long-term contracts that restrict activities. He advocates including cities and towns for clarity, highlighting New Hampshire's forested nature, tourism, and natural resource enjoyment. He argues this is a practical measure, noting a moratorium and study commission but favoring straightforward legislation over bundling issues.
HB1205: Matt Ley, Public Policy Director, Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests Oppose03:25:39.520 - 11:55:51 AM; The Forest Society opposes HB 1205, acknowledging questions about forest carbon markets but viewing them as a potential revenue source for managing forest lands, including those owned by public agencies. Mr. Ley notes uncertainty about state or county enrollment but criticizes the bill's blanket prohibition, presuming any such contracts would require approvals like from the Governor and Council or county processes. He argues against a total ban on this complex policy issue.
HB1205: Ms. Smith Support03:28:05.920 - 11:58:17 AM; Ms. Smith, having spoken earlier, now supports the bill after hearing other testimony, particularly addressing concerns about the blanket prohibition raised by Mr. Ley, which changed her mind.
HB1205: Mr. Haynes Information Only03:29:15.680 - 11:59:27 AM; Mr. Haynes notes the bill's straightforward language but observes it focuses on biological carbon sequestration, potentially limiting engineered carbon capture technologies that are emerging and expensive. He expresses concern that the broad scope covering all state or county-owned land, including non-forest sites like brownfields and landfills, may overly restrict future state options without the same protection needs as forests.
HB1205: Mr. Deo, resident of Grafton Support03:30:19.920 - 12:00:31 PM; Mr. Deo supports the bill as beneficial for New Hampshire, managing woods for habitat, supporting northern residents who heat with wood (citing his $13,000 outdoor wood boiler investment), and keeping heating costs low on his teacher's pension. He highlights benefits for building ski, ATV, and snowshoe trails, and economic advantages for the New Hampshire nursery, UNH, counties, and people through tree sales and fuel cost savings.
HB1205: Jason Stark, Executive Director, New Hampshire Timberland Owners Association Support03:32:46.399 - 12:02:58 PM; Mr. Stark supports HB 1205 on behalf of the association representing private landowners, loggers, and foresters. After a deep dive into forest carbon programs three years ago, they concluded public fee ownership lands should not enroll, as they were purchased with tax dollars under expectations of specific management for timber, recreation, wildlife, etc. He views carbon contracts as encumbrances (ranging from 5 to 99 years) not contemplated at purchase, distinguishing from private rights. He emphasizes philosophical public trust issues over specific management types, noting members participate in state timber programs.
HOUSERESOLUTION31: Representative Majori Oppose05:19:32.560 - 1:49:44 PM; Representative Majori moved for inexpedient to legislate (ITL) on House Resolution 31. He argued that it is not the purview of counties to create sports leagues, as this responsibility lies with individual communities for recreational environments. He noted the sponsor's intent to foster neighborhood and community engagement but stated that the county delegation is not responsible for implementation, making the bill unfeasible.
HB1035: Representative Walker Oppose05:23:08.080 - 1:53:20 PM; Representative Walker moved for ITL on HB 1035. He argued that the bill involves unnecessary time to change language from 'he' to 'she' and similar gender-neutral adjustments throughout the statutes, emphasizing the need to prioritize other bills.
HB1693: Representative McDonald Oppose05:26:30.480 - 1:56:42 PM; Representative McDonald moved for ITL on HB 1693FN but deferred speaking to his motion.
HB1693: Representative Frock Oppose05:27:16.080 - 1:57:28 PM; As a member of the Grafton County delegation, Representative Frock stated that the delegation functions well with only three commissioners and sees no reason to expand the number.
HB1693: Committee Vote Vote05:28:51.040 - 1:59:03 PM; The motion of inexpedient to legislate passes with a vote of 12 to 2. It will go on the consent calendar without objection. Representative McDonald is asked to write the committee report.
HB1003: Representative Elwood Support05:29:38.320 - 1:59:50 PM; Representative Elwood moves ought to pass and explains that there is nothing ethical about an elected paid county attorney privately practicing law, and the prohibition is appropriate.
HB1003: Committee Vote Vote05:30:28.878 - 2:00:40 PM; The motion of ought to pass passes with a vote of 14 to 0. It will go on consent. Representative Elward is asked to author the committee report.
HB1160: Representative Fron Oppose05:32:23.200 - 2:02:35 PM; Representative Fron moves inexpedient to legislate, noting that the sponsor did not show and there were points he wanted to ask the sponsor.
HB1160: Representative Gilman Oppose05:33:13.680 - 2:03:25 PM; Representative Gilman expresses concern that the bill, though technical changes, removes members from the municipal and county government committee from a county bill or commission.
HB1160: Committee Vote Vote05:33:13.680 - 2:03:25 PM; The motion of inexpedient to legislate passes with a vote of 14 to 0. It will go on the consent calendar. Representative Fron is asked to write the report.
HB1518: Representative Stavis Oppose05:35:36.480 - 2:05:48 PM; Representative Stavis moves inexpedient to legislate (ITL), stating that most counties are already doing remote participation, as are other municipal forms of government like the Lebanon City Council, and sees no reason to mandate it in statutes.
HB1518: Committee Vote Vote05:36:48.080 - 2:07:00 PM; The motion of inexpedient to legislate passes with a vote of 12 to 2. It will go on the consent calendar without objection. Representative Stavis is asked to write the report. No minority report on consent calendar.
HB1205: Representative Majori Support05:38:55.200 - 2:09:07 PM; Representative Majori moves ought to pass (OTP). Initially leaning towards ITL due to an ongoing study commission through 2027, testimony changed his mind. He emphasizes that state or county-owned land purchased with taxpayer dollars should not have additional obligations without taxpayer or resident input, highlighting the importance of transparency for public lands. He suggests letting the study commission handle private lands.
HB1205: Unidentified Representative Support05:41:05.040 - 2:11:17 PM; The representative notes that in contract law, there's constructive notice, and if investors years ago did not have notice of this obligation, it may not even be lawful.
HB1205: Committee Vote Vote05:42:20.320 - 2:12:32 PM; The motion of ought to pass passes with a vote of 13 to 1. It will go on consent without objection. Representative Majori is asked to write the committee report.

Pauer, Diane(Chairman)(R)[A]2025	Bjelobrk, Marie Louise(Clerk)(R)[B+]2025	MacDonald, John(V Chairman)(R)[B+]2025
Germana, Dylan(D)[D-]2025	Fracht, David(D)[D-]2025	Guthrie, Joseph(R)[C]2025
Gilman, Julie(D)[D-]2025	Grund, Stephanie(D)[F]2025	Stavis, Laurel(D)[CT]2025
Karasinski, Sly(R)[B]2025	Maggiore, Jim(D)[CT]2025	Dolan, Tom(R)[B]2025
Aylward, Deborah(R)[B+]2025	Walker, David(R)[B+]2025	Colby, Eleana (D)[F]2025
Girard, Dale(D)[C-]2025	Franz, Linda(R)[B]2025	Murphy, Denis(R)[B+]2025