Committee Summary for Senate Executive Departments and Administration (01/21/2026)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
SB528 00:02:30.160 - 8:01:57 AM	Public Hearing	prohibiting receiving compensation for lobbying on behalf of a foreign adversary.	Birdsell, Regina(R)[B-]2025
SB569 00:11:58.640 - 8:11:25 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the qualifications for hearings officers within the department of labor.	Birdsell, Regina(R)[B-]2025
SB423 00:26:05.760 - 8:25:32 AM	Public Hearing	reestablishing the commission to study the incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder in first responders.	Birdsell, Regina(R)[B-]2025
SB420 00:45:02.319 - 8:44:29 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the state commission for human rights.	Ward, Ruth(R)[B-]2025
SB420 00:51:05.680 - 8:50:32 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the state commission for human rights.	Ward, Ruth(R)[B-]2025
SB402 00:56:14.880 - 8:55:41 AM	Public Hearing	eliminating certain non-compete agreements for physician associates.	Gannon, Bill(R)[B-]2025
SB400 01:00:17.680 - 8:59:44 AM	Public Hearing	relative to duties and reporting requirements of the therapeutic cannabis medical oversight board.	Gannon, Bill(R)[B-]2025
SB428 01:25:43.679 - 9:25:10 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the maximum amount of terms an individual can serve on the electricians' board.	Pearl, Howard (R)[B]2025
SB424 01:28:56.080 - 9:28:23 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the organization of the department of business and economic affairs.	McGough, Tim(R)[B+]2025
SB572 02:16:07.280 - 10:15:34 AM	Public Hearing	relative to New Hampshire hospital real estate.	Reardon, Tara(D)[F]2025
Unclear 02:19:50.960 - 10:19:17 AM	Executive Session	Unclear
SB529 04:02:28.399 - 12:01:55 PM	Public Hearing	giving preference to lumber sourced in the United States on all state-funded building projects.	Rochefort, David(R)[B-]2025
SB567 04:22:41.760 - 12:22:08 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the composition of the board of dental examiners and relative to temporary licenses for out-of-state professionals.	Rochefort, David(R)[B-]2025
SB567 04:28:56.000 - 12:28:23 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the composition of the board of dental examiners and relative to temporary licenses for out-of-state professionals.	Rochefort, David(R)[B-]2025
SB470 04:38:25.278 - 12:37:52 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the expungement of certain disciplinary matters.	Rochefort, David(R)[B-]2025
SB510 04:57:42.240 - 12:57:09 PM	Public Hearing	ensuring state-operated, publicly accessible spaces have designated smoking areas undetectable to visitors.	Murphy, Keith(R)[A]2025
SB530 04:59:42.000 - 12:59:09 PM	Public Hearing	relative to fetal death reporting to the Centers for Disease Control.	Rosenwald, Cindy(D)[F]2025
HB751 05:03:09.040 - 1:02:36 PM	Public Hearing	(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
HB751 05:39:13.040 - 1:38:40 PM	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

SB528: Senator Regina Birdsell, District 19 (Hampstead, Derry, Windham) Support00:02:30.160 - 8:01:57 AM; Senator Birdsell introduces SB 528, which prohibits lobbyists from receiving compensation from foreign adversaries like China. She highlights China's increasing influence in New Hampshire, including purchases like Nung Fu Springs and Daniel Webster College, and the CCP's military-civil fusion strategy. She argues that this bill prevents foreign adversaries from drowning out Granite Staters' voices in legislation and mentions forwarding articles on China's attempts to influence US politics.
SB528: Tom Rollins, Policy Director, State Shield (Georgia) Support00:06:11.840 - 8:05:38 AM; Tom Rollins from State Shield appreciates the bill and supports efforts to counter the China threat. He explains that Chinese entities act as instrumentalities of the CCP, advancing military and intelligence goals. He advocates for states to restrict lobbying by entities controlled by hostile adversaries like China or Iran to protect against undue influence.
SB528: Ted Kirsten, Hollis resident Support00:09:12.800 - 8:08:39 AM; Ted Kirsten supports SB 528, noting that lobbyists should represent US citizens, not adversaries. He mentions similar bans in Texas and Louisiana, and ongoing considerations in other states. He cites China's influence in New Hampshire through Nung Fu Springs and Daniel Webster College, emphasizing the need to protect state decisions from foreign undermining.
SB569: Senator Regina Birdsell, District 19 (Derry, Hampstead, Windham) Support00:11:58.640 - 8:11:25 AM; Senator Birdsell introduces SB 569 as a necessary update to align Department of Labor hearing officer requirements with other agencies, modeled after RSA 21-M:3, VIII. She notes support from both defense and claimants' bars, explaining that cases have become more complex since the 1980s, requiring more sophisticated legal analysis. Additional witnesses will provide details on Supreme Court decisions.
SB569: Paul Capfori, workers compensation defense attorney Support00:14:08.560 - 8:13:35 AM; Paul Capfori, a workers' compensation defense attorney practicing since 1997, follows up on Senator Birdsell's comments by noting significant changes in the field, including the evolution of statutes and New Hampshire Supreme Court interpretations that have increased the complexity and responsibilities for hearing officers at the Department of Labor. He provides an example from a recent case involving insurance policy interpretation, which stemmed from a Supreme Court decision expanding jurisdiction to the Department of Labor. He emphasizes that these changes have made the role more demanding and argues that requiring hearing officers to be attorneys is overdue, though it should have happened 20 years ago. As a defense attorney, he states that the defense bar fully supports the bill, highlighting that in states like Massachusetts, hearing officers are administrative law judges who are all attorneys.
SB569: Danielle Albert, Deputy Commissioner, New Hampshire Department of Labor (with Cassie Abbott, legislative liaison) Information Only00:16:39.519 - 8:16:06 AM; Danielle Albert, Deputy Commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Labor, accompanied by Cassie Abbott, the department's legislative liaison, presents the department's neutral position on Senate Bill 569. They acknowledge the bill's intent to amend workers' compensation statutes by requiring hearing officers to be attorneys in good standing with qualifications and experience in administrative hearings and law application. They note a potential technical issue: the language on education and experience in administrative adjudicative hearings might create recruitment challenges by implying prior adjudicative experience is necessary for hiring. The department already prioritizes candidates with legal backgrounds but reiterates that the prior experience requirement could be problematic. They offer to answer questions and confirm their understanding of the bill's intent.
SB569: Bob Scully, New Hampshire Motor Transport Association Support00:18:49.760 - 8:18:16 AM; Bob Scully, representing the New Hampshire Motor Transport Association, which has operated a self-funded workers' compensation program since 1993, expresses support for Senate Bill 569. He agrees with the need for attorneys as hearing officers in the appeals process, citing recent experiences where non-attorney officers fail to clearly understand their role, leading to 'split the baby' decisions that result in unfair rulings and high costs. He believes having qualified attorneys would improve the process, even though the association abides by the current appeals but sees the need for change.
SB569: John Ward, attorney representing injured workers Support00:20:15.600 - 8:19:42 AM; John Ward, an attorney representing injured workers, fully supports Senate Bill 569, noting his partner's endorsement as vice president of the workers' compensation section of the bar. He emphasizes the importance of consistency and qualified decision-makers who can render legally sound decisions, making it easier to explain outcomes to clients such as nurses and construction workers facing denied benefits and unpaid medical bills. He argues that without qualified hearing officers, decisions can become inconsistent and hard to justify, and as a claimant's attorney, he believes the bill ensures things are done right the first time.
SB569: Jared O'Connor, Shaheen and Gordon (representing injured workers) Support00:21:42.000 - 8:21:09 AM; Jared O'Connor, an attorney with Shaheen and Gordon who has represented injured workers in workers' compensation cases for about 20 years, strongly supports Senate Bill 569 as a long-overdue modernization of the system. He highlights the increased legal complexity of cases over the past 10-15 years, citing the 2010 Appeal of Margesen Supreme Court case requiring risk assessment and a 2010s matrix analysis, as well as recent statutory presumptions for conditions like cancer, heart disease, lung disease in firefighters, PTSD, and first responders—none of which existed in the 1980s and 1990s. Speaking on behalf of the claimants' bar, he argues for baseline professionalism through attorney requirements, benefiting all sides by improving decisions. Addressing the Department of Labor's recruitment concerns, he interprets the bill's language on 'education and experience in the conduct of administrative hearings' as encompassing participation in such hearings (e.g., by attorneys like himself), not requiring prior adjudicative experience as a hearing officer. He compares it to qualifications for lay members on the Compensation Appeals Board under RSA 281-A:42-D, which only require five years of workers' compensation experience.
SB423: Senator Regina Birdsell, District 19 (Derry, Hampstead, Windham) Support00:26:05.760 - 8:25:32 AM; Senator Birdsell introduced SB 423, which reestablishes the PTSD commission for first responders. She explained that the commission has been active for 5-7 years and has accomplished much, but more work remains. The bill adds a member from the comfort dog community and supports adding a representative from a community mental health organization. Key goals include creating succession plans for experienced first responders to mentor newer members on PTSD management and developing standardized peer programs statewide or regionally. The commission also addresses other appropriate matters, such as comfort dog standards.
SB423: Angela Bole, DuPont Group (representing New Hampshire Community Behavioral Health Association) Support00:32:50.799 - 8:32:17 AM; Angela Bole testified in support of SB 423 and thanked Senator Birdsell for including a community mental health center representative on the commission. She highlighted that the 10 community mental health centers serve over 50,000 residents and collaborate daily with first responders in crises through rapid response teams, emergency departments, and school interventions. A representative would provide insights into PTSD, secondary trauma, and cumulative stress in first responders, enhancing understanding of the mental health system and supporting effective programming.
SB423: Sam Hawkins, NAMI New Hampshire Support00:36:19.040 - 8:35:46 AM; Sam Hawkins spoke briefly in support of SB 423, affirming the commission's importance and effective work. He noted that NAMI's executive director has served on prior iterations and he has substituted, praising the commission members for their dedication, knowledge, and results. NAMI is thankful to participate and urges support for the bill.
SB423: Russ Keyes, Retired Major, NH State Police (Mental Health Coordinator, Department of Safety representative to the commission) Support00:37:29.359 - 8:36:56 AM; Russ Keyes, an original commission member, emphasized the commission's diversity and importance over seven years. He oversees peer services for state police, has led NAMI and suicide prevention efforts, and trains over 1,600 first responders in crisis intervention. He supported the balance of working first responders, clinicians, legal, and behavioral health experts for warm handoffs, noting first responders' reluctance to seek help. He discussed workers' comp and disability processes for psychological injuries, the rarity of severe cases, and benefits of comfort dogs and behavioral health additions. The commission has driven innovations and improved services for first responders and the public.
SB420: Senator Ruth Ward, District 8 Support00:45:02.319 - 8:44:29 AM; Senator Ward introduced SB 420 at the request of Raymond Bernard, chair, and Katrina Taylor, executive director of the New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights. She noted Bernard's appointment by Governor Ayotte in April 2025 due to his turnaround expertise, following the 2025 LBA performance audit issues. Taylor, a 40-year veteran, was appointed executive director in November 2025. Together, they and the staff have implemented significant changes to make the commission a point of pride for the state. She deferred detailed questions to Bernard.
SB420: Raymond Bernard, Chair, New Hampshire Commission for Human Rights (with Katrina Taylor, Executive Director) Support00:46:58.720 - 8:46:25 AM; Raymond Bernard, from Concord, and Katrina Taylor testified on the revised text for SB 420. Key changes include governor and executive council appointing the executive director and assistant (currently by commissioners) to align with state practices, plus minor DOJ-requested clarifications. They seek removal of advisory committee language added without input, as it's redundant, time-consuming, and unnecessary given biannual reports to governor/council and semiannual updates on audits to stakeholders. The advisory committee has been ineffective, with meetings wasted on organization or cancelled due to quorum issues. The commission is committed to addressing 2019 financial and 2025 performance audit issues and welcomes direct discussions.
SB420: Marissa Chase, New Hampshire Association for Justice Oppose00:51:05.680 - 8:50:32 AM; Marissa Chase represents the New Hampshire Association for Justice and opposes SB 420, which seeks to undo recent budget process changes to the Human Rights Commission (HRC). She highlights the rushed nature of those changes and advocates for a stakeholder group or study commission to address issues collaboratively. She expresses concern that without funding, the HRC could be defunded, and notes her members' institutional knowledge from following HRC audits. While not wedded to specific changes, she urges leaving the current structure to allow it to work, except for the mandate requiring the chair or executive director to be an attorney, which she does not support.
SB402: Senator Bill Ganon, District 23 Support00:56:14.880 - 8:55:41 AM; Senator Ganon introduces SB 402, which eliminates non-compete agreements for physician associates (PAs) in New Hampshire, mirroring legislation passed last year for nurse practitioners. He argues that removing geographic barriers is pro-healthcare, pro-workforce, and improves access for citizens. The bill does not affect existing non-competes.
SB402: Dave Kuzy, New Hampshire Society of Physician Associates Support00:57:56.319 - 8:57:23 AM; Dave Kuzy represents the New Hampshire Society of Physician Associates (NISPA), which includes over 1100 PAs and students from state PA schools. He supports SB 402 as straightforward, emphasizing it aligns PAs with physicians and nurse practitioners by removing non-compete restrictions. In response to questions, he states it will not lead to poaching issues seen post-COVID in nursing, noting no such problems among PAs and that similar changes for nurse practitioners have not caused issues.
SB400: Senator Bill Ganon Support01:00:17.680 - 8:59:44 AM; Senator Ganon briefly introduces SB 400, which requires the Therapeutic Cannabis Medical Oversight Board (TCMOB) to note scientific discoveries in their annual report regarding qualifying medical conditions.
SB400: Katrina Taylor Support01:01:35.680 - 9:01:02 AM; Katrina Taylor supports SB 400, clarifying it adds language to RSA 126-X requiring annual review of medical qualifying conditions for therapeutic cannabis, with citations in the annual report. She explains the TCMOB's role in oversight and evidence-based reviews, noting data evolves rapidly, especially with federal changes. The bill imposes no new requirements but ensures due diligence, benefiting cardholders with updated science. She quotes Dr. Andrew Seafield on the need for evidence-based decisions and notes TCMOB's efforts to educate providers, but stresses the primary task of reviewing conditions needs a timeline to ensure completion. She offers to assist with research.
SB400: Jerry Kerk, Chair, Therapeutic Cannabis Medical Oversight Board Oppose01:07:37.920 - 9:07:04 AM; Jerry Kerk, chair of the TCMOB, opposes SB 400 as unnecessary and burdensome. The board already reviews new and existing qualifying conditions periodically, meeting four times yearly despite only being required twice. Formal reviews are time-intensive, involving subcommittees, public hearings, and consensus. Annual reviews of all conditions would be unworkable for the volunteer board, exceeding academic standards and ignoring slow evolution of science. He notes HB1278 allows provider discretion for certifications, limiting impact of removals. The board handles many other duties, and adding annual mandates would overburden volunteers without pay or mileage. He suggests changing 'annual' to 'periodic' if proceeding.
SB400: Liz Barber, Representative from Hollis, District 35 Support01:18:03.199 - 9:17:30 AM; Representative Liz Barber supports SB 400, emphasizing annual reviews ensure evolving medical cannabis research is addressed, with citations for transparency. She contrasts opposition by noting federal standards require documentation, aligning with TCMOB's statutory duties without expanding access or authority. It strengthens consistency in evidence-based decisions affecting patients.
SB400: Sue Har Support01:23:46.320 - 9:23:13 AM; Sue Har clarifies SB 400 adds a timeline for TCMOB's existing review duties, as past reports show infrequent reviews of existing conditions despite it being their primary task. It requires reviewing studies, not conducting them, and she offers to provide citations and research assistance to ease the burden.
SB428: Senator Howard Pearl, District 17, Louden Support01:25:43.679 - 9:25:10 AM; Senator Pearl introduces SB 428, allowing a third term for electrician's board members, who are volunteers facing recruitment challenges. It preserves institutional knowledge, addresses recent resignations leaving the board short, and ensures quorum. Nominations still require governor and executive council approval for oversight.
SB428: Steven Rancord, Executive Director, Electrical Contractors Business Association Support01:28:09.040 - 9:27:36 AM; Steven Rancord, a licensed electrician, supports SB 428 to allow extra terms, especially for semi-retired members with time to contribute. It aids in filling positions, particularly public members, to maintain board functionality.
SB424: Senator McHugh Support01:28:56.080 - 9:28:23 AM; Senator McHugh introduces SB 424 to elevate the North Country Industrial Agent to an unclassified division director position, allowing the commissioner to appoint up to four regional directors. It modernizes structure, repeals the outdated position without gap via amendments, and supports regional needs like language skills. It expands flexibility without necessarily adding positions, focusing on economic development statewide, especially distressed areas like the North Country.
SB424: Executive Councilor Joe Kenny, District 1 Oppose01:37:48.560 - 9:37:15 AM; Councilor Kenny opposes SB 424, arguing it eliminates the dedicated North Country Industrial Agent without input from stakeholders, unfairly handicapping the challenged region. The position, created for full-time focus on recruitment and retention, is vital due to regional barriers like workforce and infrastructure. The current agent has 19 years of experience, French fluency, and broad respect. He urges inexpedient to legislate, preferring to build resources for the existing role rather than regionalizing it.
SB424: Senator David Roer, Senate District 1 Oppose01:44:20.000 - 9:43:47 AM; Senator Roer represents the entire North Country and over 50 towns. He states that the current economic development setup works well and no one in his district—select boards, chambers of commerce, economic leaders, representatives, business owners, or the public—has requested changes. He notes that even the Executive Councilor and BEA have not asked for this. He calls the bill unneeded, unnecessary, and unasked for, describing it as a solution looking for a problem, and urges the committee to vote ITL.
SB424: Representative Mike Wlette, Coos District 3, Canadian Trade Council, Coos County Delegation Oppose01:46:14.320 - 9:45:41 AM; Representative Wlette opposes the bill despite appreciating Senator Mgo's efforts. He highlights that the position was created by statute to focus on North Country economic development in a distressed area. The current holder is well-respected and a strong advocate. The entire Coos County delegation unanimously opposes the bill, as it directly affects the North Country, which does not want the change. In response to a question, he emphasizes satisfaction with the current structure's permanence and doubts the current occupant would be guaranteed the new position.
SB424: Representative Linda D. Sylvestro, District 17, Manchester, Canadian Trade Council Oppose01:48:47.040 - 9:48:14 AM; Representative Sylvestro, in her seventh term on the Canadian Trade Council, opposes SB 424. She praises Benois Lamontaine's qualifications due to his deep knowledge of NH business, Canadian heritage, and connections, making him ideal for cross-border economic opportunities. She suggests voting ITL and stresses decisions should be based on qualifications and performance, not envy or personal animus.
SB424: Lou Delesandro, Manchester Oppose01:50:11.840 - 9:49:38 AM; Lou Delesandro strongly opposes SB 424, stating Ray Burton would be appalled. He emphasizes Burton's legacy in equalizing the North Country with the rest of the state, maintained over years. The bilingual current position holder is essential for trade with Canada, NH's largest. He credits George Bald for hiring the individual, an entrepreneur who brought business to northern counties. He questions the bill's purpose, calls it destructive to what works, and suggests repaying the $1750 drafting cost.
SB424: Steve Shartliff, Ward One, Conway, Village of Pentecost Oppose01:53:59.280 - 9:53:26 AM; Former Representative Steve Shartliff, after 10 years on the Canadian Trade Council, opposes the bill. He states the system works well and, with respect to the sponsor, no amendment can fix a bad bill. He asks the committee to vote no.
SB424: Former Representative Linda Masselum, North Country Resident Oppose01:55:05.280 - 9:54:32 AM; Linda Masselum, a North Country resident for over 50 years, provides personal examples of Benois Lamontaine's value. She details his networks aiding business, education, and manufacturing, including setting up a CNC program in 2014 and organizing tourism marketing strategies with bilingual brochures. She highlights his role in reciprocal events benefiting local merchants and advocacy for North Country funding. She argues the position is vital, respected, and should be retained, as SB 424 harms the region and state.
SB424: Brad Bailey, resident of Monroe Oppose01:59:37.679 - 9:59:04 AM; Brad Bailey, a former NH House representative from the Littleton area and business owner, expresses strong opposition to SB 424. He argues that the industrial agent position is crucial for the North Country, covering Coos, Grafton, and Carroll counties, which have distinct economic needs different from southern areas like Concord, Manchester, Portsmouth, or Nashua. He highlights the agent's understanding of the local landscape and unique advantages for businesses. Bailey notes that no local business leaders or peers in towns like Groton, Gorham, Colebrook, Lancaster, or Berlin were consulted by the bill's sponsors. He also mentions that the North Country senator was not informed. He praises the position as one of the state's most effective initiatives and urges the committee to vote inexpedient to legislate, including any amendments.
SB424: George Bald, former Commissioner of Department of Resources and Economic Development Oppose02:01:55.520 - 10:01:22 AM; George Bald, who served 13 years as commissioner, strongly opposes SB 424, calling the idea of eliminating the North Country industrial agent position a travesty and an insult to Coos, Grafton, and Carroll counties. He praises the current agent's qualifications, including attracting Quebec businesses and language skills. Bald uses the example of limited bus service in the North Country compared to the Manchester-Nashua corridor to illustrate regional challenges. As commissioner, he prioritized the North Country due to its lack of resources, helping companies despite difficulties in travel and access. He criticizes the bill's sponsor for not consulting North Country stakeholders and suggests instead increasing funding for outreach, like to Montreal, rather than restructuring positions. In response to a question, Bald argues against elevating the position to a division director requiring governor and council approval every four years, advocating for permanent, professional roles focused on daily work.
SB424: Barry Nando, business person from North Country Oppose02:06:05.840 - 10:05:32 AM; Barry Nando, a business owner who buys and turns around distressed companies in the North Country, opposes SB 424, noting widespread anger in the business community. He has held positions including US Treasury chairman of a CDFI economic development lender and led a regional economic action group after the paper mills' collapse, which cost 3,000 jobs. Nando relies on the industrial agent for support and states the position has been refined over time. He questions reallocating responsibilities to someone not associated with the North Country and calls the bill insulting, with nothing encouraging support for it.
SB424: Raymond Gorman, Coos County Commissioner from Colebrook Oppose02:08:26.960 - 10:07:53 AM; Raymond Gorman, representing Coos County Commissioners from District 3 in Colebrook, strongly opposes SB 424 and any amendments. He argues that the North Country cannot afford steps backward in economic development and provides handouts with statistics supporting this view. Gorman notes that more people could have testified but emphasizes the importance of recognizing the region's needs. He advocates for grassroots collaboration with North Country residents before legislation. The county has hired a Canadian advisor from the Sherbrooke area to attract businesses, especially to Berlin and Colebrook with trade-free zones, but opposes this bill. He believes the bill is confused and requires better consultation with locals for positive outcomes.
SB424: Stu Arnett, resident of Concord, former Economic Development Director Oppose02:10:40.880 - 10:10:07 AM; Stu Arnett, a Concord resident and former economic development director for three governors about 20 years ago, opposes eliminating the North Country industrial agent position. His company has a contract with the Department of Business and Economic Affairs unrelated to this issue. Arnett explains the history: initially, one field person covered the state while others in Concord handled general inquiries without regional focus. Assigning dedicated agents to regions, starting with North Country, created accountability and better understanding of local needs. This model was replicated statewide with five agents. Statutory protection ensures continuity despite commissioner changes that might centralize staff in Concord. He compares it to district engineers in the Department of Transportation, who know their regions and report centrally but cannot be easily pulled back. Arnett urges maintaining regional allocation for effective service.
SB572: Senator Reen, prime sponsor Support02:16:07.280 - 10:15:34 AM; Senator Reen introduces SB 572 as a cleanup from last year's budget, which proposed selling a corner of the state hospital campus known as the Philbrook Center and recognized the revenue. Follow-up revealed that the entire campus is not subdividable per statute, so the bill allows selling that piece. The city manager from Concord and Commissioner Arlinghouse are available to discuss details.
SB572: Charlie Arlinghouse, Department of Administrative Services Support02:17:55.359 - 10:17:22 AM; Charlie Arlinghouse explains that SB 572 is necessary to sell a piece of the state hospital property. Without the bill's notwithstanding clause overriding the statute, the sale cannot proceed. If passed, the property will be sold; if not, it won't.
SB572: Thomas Bell, City Manager, City of Concord Support02:17:55.359 - 10:17:22 AM; Thomas Bell states that the Concord City Council authorized him to support SB 572. The city is interested in acquiring the site to return it to the tax rolls and is conducting a study on expanding Memorial Field for parking or space, adjacent to the property.
Unclear: Committee Discussion Vote02:19:50.960 - 10:19:17 AM; The committee moves into executive session. On SB 572, they vote to pass unanimously on consent (one opposed noted but consent moved). On SB 528 (prohibiting lobbyists from lobbying for foreign adversaries), they discuss defining 'foreign adversary' and vote to pass on consent. On SB 569 (qualifications for hearings officers), they clarify education and experience requirements and vote to pass on consent. On SB 423 (amendments to a board, likely CISD or similar), they discuss adding members (paramedic association and community mental health center, already one exists) and adjust quorum from 9 to 10, then vote to pass as amended on consent. On SB 402 (non-compete for business positions), they vote to pass on consent. They hold SB 420, SB 400, and SB 428 (electricians board, passed on consent). The session recesses until 1 p.m.
SB529: Senator David Roford, prime sponsor, Senate District 1 Support04:02:28.399 - 12:01:55 PM; Senator Roford introduces SB 529 to give preference to U.S.-sourced lumber in state-funded projects. He explains SPF (spruce, pine, fir) lumber from Canada versus SPFS (south) from the U.S., noting the same species grow in NH counties like Coos, northern Carroll, and Grafton, but are classified as SPFS due to the border. The bill doesn't change building codes or standards but prefers U.S. lumber unless design necessitates imports, and requires specifications to reference SPFS. This avoids automatic Canadian sourcing in plans, reduces costs by avoiding tariffs, and benefits local mills without mandating changes. He defers technical questions to experts behind him. In response to questions, he clarifies 'preference' allows flexibility if Canadian is cheaper, the federal government sets the SPF/SPFS demarcation at the border, and SPFS means south of the Canadian border, regardless of geography.
SB529: Wesley Roisho, Coastal Forest Products, Sandown NH Support04:10:35.040 - 12:10:02 PM; Wesley explains the historical use of SPF nomenclature for softwood framing lumber since the 1960s and the 1991 changes due to engineered lumber, leading to US designation as SPFS to differentiate from Canadian SPF due to testing differences. He notes that architects and engineers often specify SPF unknowingly, excluding US producers despite similar practical strength. The bill aims to raise awareness for SPFS use, especially in state-funded projects, without mandating changes to standards.
SB529: Sarah Beltate, family-owned lumber yard Support04:17:13.680 - 12:16:40 PM; Sarah describes the impact on her business, reducing contracts with NH's Milin Lumber from 100 to 60-70 trucks yearly due to SPF specs requiring Canadian wood, violating Buy America preferences. This led to dual inventories, extra costs, demolitions at job sites, and three yards stocking only Canadian wood. She emphasizes negligible price differences and prefers supporting NH businesses; awareness would allow using US wood in most cases.
SB529: Jason Stock, NH Timberland Owners Association Support04:19:35.520 - 12:19:02 PM; Jason highlights the tangible impact on NH businesses like Milin Lumber, where SPF specs result in lost bids for trusses and framing. He supports the bill to raise awareness, allowing US (especially NH) wood to compete on cost, as it's not a mandate but a preference benefiting local timber owners.
SB529: DJ Burke, BIA (Business & Industry Association) Support04:21:14.960 - 12:20:41 PM; DJ supports the bill as it promotes NH businesses without mandating changes, echoing prior points on awareness and preference for US lumber over Canadian imports.
SB567: Senator David Rober, Senate District 1 Information Only04:22:41.760 - 12:22:08 PM; Senator Rober introduces SB 567, combining two issues: requiring one general dentist on the Board of Dental Examiners to ensure balanced representation, as current members are all specialists leading to gaps in general dentistry cases; and OPLC-requested changes to temporary out-of-state licensing for streamlining. Effective date September 1, 2026, aligns with board cycle.
SB567: Dr. Andrew Albby, NH Dental Society Support04:26:06.159 - 12:25:33 PM; Dr. Albby supports requiring at least one general dentist on the board, noting they comprise most NH dentists and provide broad care insights. All-specialist boards risk overlooking general issues; specialists would value this balance. His father, former board president, agrees it's essential for informed decisions. Urges passage of SB 567.
SB567: Steven Rancort, ECBA Information Only04:28:56.000 - 12:28:23 PM; Steven Rancort, representing the ECBA (licensed electricians), expresses concerns about rulemaking authority in the bill. He notes that RSA 332-G:14 excludes certain professions like electricians from temporary licensing provisions, creating conflicts with the proposed rulemaking under 310:6. He reads from the statute to highlight that boards with reciprocity or compact procedures need not comply with certain sections, arguing that the law must authorize rules and suggesting potential revisions to avoid conflicts.
SB567: Steven Rancort, ECBA Information Only04:37:12.080 - 12:36:39 PM; In follow-up, Rancort reiterates concerns about temporary licensing allowing unqualified individuals to work up to 120 days while applying for full licensure, potentially through chains of contractors. He suggests adding wording to ensure applicants meet endorsement qualifications to prevent abuse.
SB567: Nicholas Fry, OPLC Information Only04:31:52.159 - 12:31:19 PM; Nicholas Fry from OPLC acknowledges the complexity in the statutes, explaining efforts to create a universal temporary licensing process under RSA 310:6 for all boards, making 332-G:14 superfluous due to universal endorsement under 310:17. He describes the process requiring commitment to full NH licensure and addresses concerns about military/veteran paths remaining intact. Fry suggests potentially repealing 332-G:14 to clarify jurisdiction and ensure a single process.
SB470: Senator David Roer, Sponsor Support04:38:25.278 - 12:37:52 PM; Senator David Roer introduces SB 470, drawing from his experience on the NH Board of Pharmacy. He shares a case of a pharmacist disciplined for an administrative error in the prescription drug monitoring program, who later faced barriers to licensure in Florida due to the unexpungeable record. The bill aims to allow petitions for expungement after minor disciplinary actions (e.g., fines, reprimands) without revocation, after a waiting period, to clear records for career mobility without endangering public safety. He notes ongoing discussions to refine language, excluding serious cases like negligence causing harm, and seeks committee input on timing after discipline completion.
SB470: Nicholas Fry, OPLC Information Only04:49:21.040 - 12:48:48 PM; Nicholas Fry from OPLC takes no position but explains operational feasibility. He outlines gradations: revocation bars expungement; minor actions (reprimands, fines) may qualify without hearing if requirements met; intermediary cases (suspensions, probation) require hearings where petitioners demonstrate rehabilitation and public protection. He discusses policy on 'shall' vs. 'may' for board discretion and references alignment with criminal expungement factors.
SB510: Grant Bosi, for Senator Keith Murphy Support04:57:42.240 - 12:57:09 PM; Grant Bosi introduces SB 510 as a constituent request to designate smoking areas at state parks and facilities out of public sight, particularly not at entrances, to create a more welcoming environment while maintaining the areas.
SB530: Senator Cindy Rosen, Sponsor Support04:59:42.000 - 12:59:09 PM; Senator Cindy Rosen introduces SB 530 to enhance privacy in fetal death reporting after 20 weeks, aligning with SB 92's live birth protections. It prevents DHHS from sending identifying data (names, DOB, medical records, addresses) to the CDC, while retaining year of birth, town/county/state, and delivery date. It also updates terminology to 'name prior to first marriage or civil union' per Vital Records request, protecting parents' privacy in tragic losses.
HB751: Senator Terara Rearen Information Only05:03:09.040 - 1:02:36 PM; Senator Terara Rearen introduces HB 751 in the absence of House members, describing it as establishing a committee to study the lure (likely 'lure' as in attraction or placement) of outpatient substance use disorder treatment facilities.
HB751: Jake Barry, New Futures Information Only05:05:23.680 - 1:04:50 PM; Jake Barry from New Futures provides background on HB 751, explaining its original intent to license outpatient substance use treatment facilities like residential ones. He notes the lack of oversight for outpatient providers, with only 48 registered with Medicaid and limited state authority over most. He highlights risks to vulnerable patients from substandard care or abuse. Barry urges restoring the bill to its original form rather than studying it further, citing past bipartisan support and reduced costs to $210,000 for one DHS position. He emphasizes the need for patient protections without expressing direct support or opposition to the current version.
HB751: Jamie Powers, Gate House Treatment Support05:11:29.280 - 1:10:56 PM; Jamie Powers, CEO of Gate House Treatment and former DHS director, supports restoring HB 751 to require certification of outpatient substance use programs. She stresses the gap in oversight compared to residential facilities and recovery homes, noting the bill's development over two years with studies already conducted. Powers argues certification ensures safety, accountability, and quality without stifling innovation, while addressing data deficiencies and providing complaint mechanisms via a behavioral health specialist. She advocates against further study to avoid delaying protections for patients vulnerable to substandard care.
HB751: Marie Kylie, Portsmouth Support05:17:35.920 - 1:17:02 PM; Marie Kylie from Portsmouth shares her personal story of losing her son Ben to alcohol use disorder two years ago, despite his four treatments (inpatient and outpatient) over six years. She criticizes the facilities for providing outdated, harmful information during family meetings and lacking evidence-based treatment, which she believes could have saved his life. Kylie provides resources on alcohol-related 'deaths of despair' among young men, urging immediate action on licensing to address the epidemic and support families, rather than delaying with a study.
HB751: Anita Hansen, Peterborough Support05:22:18.958 - 1:21:45 PM; Anita Hansen from Peterborough, a person in recovery and trauma educator, supports HB 751 for licensing outpatient facilities to protect vulnerable patients, especially women in early sobriety from abuse histories. She describes personal experiences of predatory behavior in recovery settings and emphasizes the need for oversight, reporting mechanisms, and best practices to ensure safety, similar to other healthcare environments. Hansen highlights risks in the current unregulated system and urges action to safeguard New Hampshire residents seeking recovery.
HB751: Jenny O. Higgins, DHS Information Only05:26:24.878 - 1:25:51 PM; Jenny O. Higgins, DHS legislative liaison for behavioral health, offers to answer questions on HB 751. She notes prior interim study and report on licensing options, the shift to a study committee to reduce fiscal impact by using existing structures, and the need for a new position if restored to original form, complicating budget constraints. She explains the House's likely conversion due to costs and affirms DHS's goal of increased oversight for quality care, describing it as a new licensing type.
HB751: Committee Chair Vote05:39:13.040 - 1:38:40 PM; In executive session, the committee discusses HB 751 after public hearing testimony urging restoration to original licensing provisions. Acknowledging fiscal constraints would table the bill, the chair moves ought to pass with a committee amendment reducing Senate members from two to one. The motion passes unanimously, sending it forward as a study committee to maintain focus on the issue without adding costs.

Pearl, Howard (Chairman)(R)[B]2025	McGough, Tim(V Chairman)(R)[B+]2025	Gannon, Bill(R)[B-]2025
Altschiller, Debra(D)[CT]2025	Reardon, Tara(D)[F]2025