Committee Summary for Senate Health and Human Services (02/05/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
SB132 00:04:08.480 - 8:03:09 AM	Public Hearing	relative to health insurance coverage for prosthetics.	Gannon, Bill(R)[B-]2025
SB122 00:35:13.440 - 8:34:14 AM	Public Hearing	relative to financial eligibility for the Medicare savings program.	Rosenwald, Cindy(D)[F]2025
SB244 01:18:00.560 - 9:17:01 AM	Public Hearing	(New Title) relative to expanding access to primary health care services, increasing the size of the health care workforce, and making appropriations therefor.	Rosenwald, Cindy(D)[F]2025
SB137 02:49:48.279 - 10:48:49 AM	Public Hearing	relative to hospital stays covered under the state Medicaid plan.	Prentiss, Suzanne(D)[F]2025
SB134 04:02:42.840 - 12:01:43 PM	Public Hearing	relative to work requirements under the state Medicaid program.	Pearl, Howard (R)[B]2025
SB75 04:52:03.480 - 12:51:04 PM	Executive Session	providing health insurance carriers access to the state immunization registry and making an appropriation therefor.	Rosenwald, Cindy(D)[F]2025
SB121 05:00:40.440 - 12:59:41 PM	Executive Session	requiring notice to the insurance department of the discontinuance of certain types of insurance, including Medicare Advantage Plans.	Avard, Kevin(R)[B]2025
SB123 05:06:31.718 - 1:05:32 PM	Executive Session	requiring coverage of ear acupuncture as a treatment for substance misuse under the state Medicaid plan.	Sullivan, Victoria(R)[A-]2025
SB137 05:07:19.400 - 1:06:20 PM	Executive Session	relative to hospital stays covered under the state Medicaid plan.	Prentiss, Suzanne(D)[F]2025
SB120 05:15:42.240 - 1:14:43 PM	Executive Session	relative to insurance coverage for biomarker testing.	Innis, Daniel(R)[B]2025

SB132: Jonathan Parker Support00:04:08.480 - 8:03:09 AM; Jonathan Parker, an amputee, shared his personal experience to illustrate the importance of expanding health insurance coverage for secondary sports-related prosthetic legs to amputees over the age of 18. He detailed his journey from a promising ski racer to an amputee after a severe accident at 15, and how he continued to ski competitively at the University of New Hampshire. However, he noted that without specialized sports prosthetics, which are not covered by insurance and can cost over $110,000, he faces increased physical challenges and health decline. He argued that access to these prosthetics is crucial for maintaining physical and mental health, preventing long-term health issues, and reducing overall healthcare costs. Parker urged the committee to support the bill, emphasizing its role in enabling amputees to lead active, healthy lives and potentially saving costs for the healthcare system.
SB132: Chris Phillips, Durham, NH Support00:09:53.760 - 8:08:54 AM; Chris Phillips, a lifelong amputee and prosthetist from Durham, NH, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing the importance of access to high-activity prosthetics for quality of life. He shared his personal experience with prosthetics, from using wooden legs as a child to benefiting from advanced prosthetics later in life. Phillips highlighted the challenges his patients face in obtaining insurance approval for specialized components needed for activities like cross-country skiing. He stressed that such prosthetics not only enhance quality of life but also allow amputees to engage in family activities and exercise, which are crucial for overall health. He cited an example of a patient from Maine who, after receiving a running blade, experienced significant health improvements, underscoring the preventive health benefits of the bill.
SB132: Jason Laa Support00:20:36.159 - 8:19:37 AM; Jason Laa, a prosthetist and amputee, supported the bill by discussing the lifespan and cost of prosthetics, emphasizing that components typically have a 2-3 year warranty, and the cost of a prosthesis can be around $13,000, lower than previously mentioned figures. He pointed out the challenge in identifying the exact number of individuals who would benefit from activity-specific prosthetics due to the broad definition of amputees. Laa reinforced the health benefits of exercise, citing studies on obesity and disease progression among amputees. He argued that early access to activity-specific prosthetics could prevent further health deterioration and reduce healthcare costs, urging the committee to consider the long-term benefits of the bill.
SB122: Sydney Rosenwald, Senate District 13, Nashua Support00:35:13.440 - 8:34:14 AM; Senator Sydney Rosenwald introduced Senate Bill 1222, aimed at modifying New Hampshire's Medicare Savings programs to assist low-income seniors with Medicare costs upon turning 65. She highlighted that the program includes assistance with various Medicare components like Part A deductibles, Part B premiums, out-of-pocket costs, and prescription drug coverage. Rosenwald mentioned that approximately 20,000 people in New Hampshire benefit from these programs, some of whom are also on Medicaid. She emphasized the importance of the bill in helping these individuals afford healthcare, without going into detailed specifics, as other speakers were expected to provide more detailed information.
SB122: Sydney Rosenwald, Senate District 13, Nashua Support00:35:13.440 - 8:34:14 AM; Senator Rosenwald discussed the importance of expanding eligibility for Medicare Savings Programs in New Hampshire, emphasizing the state's aging population and the need to help low-income seniors access healthcare. The senator highlighted that the current system does not fully utilize available federal funds and that helping seniors stay healthy and out of nursing homes could lead to significant cost savings for the state.
SB122: Mary Roberts, AARP New Hampshire Support00:39:11.240 - 8:38:12 AM; Mary Roberts from AARP New Hampshire testified in support of SB122, which aims to expand eligibility for Medicare Savings Programs. She outlined the bill's two main changes: increasing income eligibility limits for the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) and Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) programs, and removing resource limits. Roberts emphasized that these changes would allow more low-income older adults and disabled individuals to access essential financial assistance, thereby improving their financial security and well-being.
SB122: Lori Raymond, Partnership for Public Health Support00:43:11.079 - 8:42:12 AM; Lori Raymond, a Medicare counselor with the Partnership for Public Health, supported SB122, highlighting her experience working with low-income Medicare beneficiaries. She explained how eliminating the asset limit would significantly benefit seniors by allowing them to maintain modest savings without losing eligibility for Medicare Savings Programs. Raymond stressed the rising costs of Medicare and the importance of these programs in helping seniors manage their healthcare expenses.
SB122: Judith Jones, New Futures and New Hampshire Alliance for Healthy Aging Support00:46:48.400 - 8:45:49 AM; Judith Jones from New Futures and the New Hampshire Alliance for Healthy Aging supported SB122, focusing on how expanding eligibility for Medicare Savings Programs would help keep individuals stable in their communities. She provided detailed information on the costs associated with Medicare and how the proposed changes to income and resource limits would be reasonable given the current cost of living in New Hampshire. Jones also discussed potential cost mitigation benefits, including federal matching funds and reduced administrative burdens.
SB122: Rob Barry, General Counsel to the Division of Medicaid and David Chy, Deputy Medicaid Director Information Only00:57:08.839 - 8:56:09 AM; Rob Barry and David Chy from the Division of Medicaid provided information on SB122, stating that the estimated cost to implement the legislation would be $14.5 million in general funds per year. They clarified that the higher income group would be covered by 100% federal funds, not included in their cost estimate, which focused on the expansion for the lower income group. They also discussed potential cost savings, such as preventing institutionalization and shifting costs to Medicare as a primary payer, which they have yet to quantify fully.
SB122: M Jones Information Only01:00:43.079 - 8:59:44 AM; M Jones discussed administrative savings related to the bill. They mentioned that by eliminating the resource test, there would be savings for the eligibility staff. However, they also noted that the number of applications processed might increase, potentially offsetting some of these savings.
SB122: Cheryl Steinberg, Director of the Justice and Aging Project at New Hampshire Legal Assistance Support01:03:31.240 - 9:02:32 AM; Cheryl Steinberg testified in support of Senate Bill 1222. She highlighted the work of the Justice and Aging Project, which serves people 60 and older, focusing on areas such as long-term care residents' rights, financial exploitation, and abusive debt collection. Steinberg shared personal stories of individuals who could benefit from the bill but were ineligible due to income or resource limits. She emphasized the 'Medicare Cliff' phenomenon, where older individuals struggle with medical costs after transitioning to Social Security. She argued that the bill could prevent older Granite Staters from falling into a financial spiral, particularly with high property taxes and medical expenses. Steinberg suggested that the program would not only help individuals but also the community by reducing the need for more costly state assistance like nursing home care.
SB122: Dan Wise, Communications Director for the New Hampshire Commission on Aging Support01:08:19.279 - 9:07:20 AM; Dan Wise supported the bill, noting its alignment with the Commission on Aging's annual recommendations. He pointed out the increasing poverty rate among older individuals in New Hampshire, citing statistics from the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute and the US Census Bureau's supplemental poverty measure. Wise argued that by eliminating the asset test and increasing income limits, the bill would help more low-income seniors access necessary support. He mentioned a chart showing low participation rates in the Medicare Savings Program across counties and stressed the importance of helping low-income seniors to prevent long-term care costs.
SB122: Rebecca Sky, Executive Director for the New Hampshire State Commission on Aging Support01:13:10.040 - 9:12:11 AM; Rebecca Sky supported the bill and echoed Cheryl Steinberg's points about the cost differences between home and nursing facility care. She referenced a New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute report and shared that California's study on eliminating the asset test found minimal impact on newly eligible individuals. Sky noted that over a dozen other states have also eliminated the asset test. She concluded by offering to provide further information and copies of the annual report.
SB122: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:15:28.320 - 9:14:29 AM; The speaker suggested considering different income thresholds for the bill, particularly for the SLIMB 135s, which are fully funded by federal funds. They argued against ignoring the poorest individuals who need help the most, referencing the QMB population with incomes at 100% of the federal poverty level. They also mentioned the high cost of nursing home care, noting that Medicaid pays for two-thirds of it and that individuals often end up on Medicaid within 4.5 months of entering a nursing home.
SB122: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:15:28.320 - 9:14:29 AM; The speaker concluded their testimony discussing the cost of nursing homes, mentioning that within 4 and a half months, individuals can become impoverished. They highlighted the importance of preventing people from needing to enter nursing homes, suggesting that there is significant value in keeping individuals out of such facilities.
SB244: Cindy Rosenwald, Senate District 13 Support01:18:00.560 - 9:17:01 AM; Senator Rosenwald introduced Senate Bill 244, the New Hampshire needs caregivers Act, aimed at making pipeline investments in the healthcare workforce. She emphasized the bill's focus on both short-term and long-term workforce development, highlighting the challenges in accessing healthcare services despite significant financial investments. Rosenwald pointed out the decline in nursing home care hours and the increased costs due to temporary staffing. The bill proposes engaging students in healthcare careers, sending students to underserved areas, mentoring advanced practice nurses, expanding student loan repayment programs, and increasing Medicaid rates. She noted that the fiscal note was pending and suggested further discussions in the finance committee.
SB244: Rob Barry, General Counsel of Division Medicaid Information Only01:24:15.560 - 9:23:16 AM; Rob Barry, accompanied by Whitney Ham, interim deputy director for the Division of Public Health Services, and David Chy, deputy Medicaid director, addressed the fiscal implications of SB244. He focused on the proposed 3% Medicaid rate increase across the board for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, suggesting a return to the targeted rate increase approach used in HB2 in 2023. He estimated the cost of the bill's proposed increase to be approximately $32.4 million in general funds for 2026 and $38.9 million for 2027. He highlighted the difference between the total cost and the appropriation, suggesting that targeting rate increases could bring costs more in line with the appropriation.
SB244: Whitney Ham, Interim Deputy Director for the Division of Public Health Services Information Only01:25:34.239 - 9:24:35 AM; Whitney Ham acknowledged the importance of the bill for the healthcare workforce and the economy of New Hampshire. She highlighted the alignment of the bill's proposals with the department's efforts in rural health and primary care, including existing pipeline programs and the state loan repayment program. She discussed the fiscal implications of expanding the loan repayment program and the proposed hub-and-spoke model in the bill, which aims to reduce administrative burdens.
SB244: David Chy, Deputy Medicaid Director Information Only01:27:51.000 - 9:26:52 AM; David Chy added to the fiscal discussion by clarifying the Medicaid rate increases proposed in the bill, specifically the 3% increase and a separate appropriation for opioid providers. He mentioned the need for clarification on the definition of opioid providers to appropriately target rate increases, noting that the increase for opioid providers would be determined by the appropriation rather than a fixed percentage.
SB244: Christine Stoddard, Bi-State Primary Care Association and New Hampshire Healthcare Workforce Coalition Support01:32:54.639 - 9:31:55 AM; Christine Stoddard, representing the Bi-State Primary Care Association and the New Hampshire Healthcare Workforce Coalition, discussed the critical need for healthcare staff in New Hampshire. She emphasized the coalition's efforts since 2018 to address the healthcare workforce crisis, including the creation of a community health worker certification. She supported the bill's approach to leveraging state and private dollars to manage workforce development, citing successful past initiatives and data collection efforts supported by the committee.
SB244: Jim Mahan, DuPont Group and New Hampshire Healthcare Workforce Coalition Support01:32:54.639 - 9:31:55 AM; Jim Mahan, representing the DuPont Group and the New Hampshire Healthcare Workforce Coalition, focused on the Medicaid components of the bill. He emphasized the importance of across-the-board rate increases rather than targeted increases, citing past legislative actions and the need to raise the tide for all healthcare providers. He discussed the ongoing dialogue with the department regarding fiscal notes and the need for continued work to align the bill's proposals with practical implementation.
SB244: Stephanie Puka, Senior Director of Workforce Development and Recruitment, Bi-State Primary Care Association Support01:45:29.000 - 9:44:30 AM; Stephanie Puka discussed the role of the Bi-State Primary Care Association's recruitment center in supporting healthcare workforce development since 1994. She highlighted the center's success in recruiting primary care providers to rural and underserved areas and its partnership with the state. She supported the bill, noting its alignment with ongoing efforts and the center's readiness to operationalize its provisions.
SB244: Bill Gestner, White Mountains Family Medicine Residency Program Support01:49:08.320 - 9:48:09 AM; Bill Gestner spoke about the establishment of a primary care residency program in Family Medicine in Coos County. He shared his experience in rural healthcare and the importance of residency programs in attracting and retaining primary care providers in rural areas. He mentioned the accreditation of the program and the potential to bring 12 residents to the North Country, significantly improving local healthcare access.
SB244: Jody Harper, Southern New Hampshire Area Health Education Center (AHEC), on behalf of Paula Smith Support01:55:38.360 - 9:54:39 AM; Jody Harper, representing the Southern New Hampshire Area Health Education Center, supported the bill on behalf of Paula Smith. She discussed AHEC's role in workforce development, including continuing education, community health programs, and support for healthcare career development. She emphasized the need for state funding to build a consistent healthcare workforce pipeline and the collaboration with the Bi-State Primary Care Association.
SB244: Peggy Gilmore, Freddy Strategies representing the Greater Nashua Chamber of Commerce Support02:00:23.360 - 9:59:24 AM; Peggy Gilmore expressed support for the bill on behalf of the Greater Nashua Chamber of Commerce, highlighting the impact of the healthcare workforce shortage on businesses in the region. She emphasized the need for solutions to improve healthcare access and workforce development, noting the chamber's support for any efforts to mitigate the crisis.
SB244: Pam Denapoli, New Hampshire Nurses Association and New Hampshire Healthcare Workforce Coalition Support02:02:33.079 - 10:01:34 AM; Pam Denapoli, representing the New Hampshire Nurses Association and the New Hampshire Healthcare Workforce Coalition, discussed the need for a New Hampshire Nursing Workforce Center. She highlighted the severe nursing shortage and the lack of comprehensive data on the issue. She supported the bill's provision for funding to develop such a center, which would help understand and address workforce needs through data collection and stakeholder engagement.
SB244: Maggie Pritchard, Lakes Region Mental Health Center, President of the Community Behavioral Health Association in New Hampshire Support02:05:35.320 - 10:04:36 AM; Maggie Pritchard, CEO of Lakes Region Mental Health Center and President of the Community Behavioral Health Association in New Hampshire, supports the bill due to the severe workforce shortage in healthcare. She highlighted the difficulty in attracting and retaining healthcare workers, noting that personal efforts like speaking to high school students are insufficient without systematic changes. Pritchard stressed the need for continuous investment rather than sporadic large funding requests, as previous Medicaid rate increases were insufficient to attract and keep staff in the field. She emphasized the importance of legislative support in making a significant investment to ensure people receive necessary care.
SB244: Amy Moore, Granite State Home Health and Hospice Association, Asentria Care Alliance Support02:07:39.520 - 10:06:40 AM; Amy Moore, representing the Granite State Home Health and Hospice Association and Asentria Care Alliance, supports the bill, recalling the critical situation two years ago when the system of care bill was passed. She described how a historic rate increase prevented the closure of providers and allowed for an increase in care hours, but warned that recent plateaus and declines in care hours indicate a need for continuous investment. Moore shared a personal story about a patient's death due to lack of care, underscoring the urgency of preventing a crisis by maintaining funding and workforce stability.
SB244: Adrianne S, Acadia Healthcare's Comprehensive Treatment Centers Support02:11:07.760 - 10:10:08 AM; Adrianne S, regional director for Acadia Healthcare's Comprehensive Treatment Centers, supports the bill, highlighting the severe staffing shortages in clinical and nursing roles. She emphasized that their programs offer more than just methadone, providing comprehensive services like counseling, case management, and primary care coordination to address the holistic needs of patients with opioid use disorder. Adrianne S stressed the importance of competitive wages to attract skilled professionals, noting that Medicaid rates being 45% lower than Medicare rates hinder their ability to offer such compensation.
SB244: Tiffany Dr, New Season Support02:12:44.159 - 10:11:45 AM; Tiffany Dr, regional director for New Season, supports the bill, detailing their services across five centers in New Hampshire, including Manchester City and Manchester West, Concord, Franklin, and Keene. She noted that over 50% of their patients rely on Medicaid and stressed the challenges in recruiting counselors and nurses due to insufficient Medicaid funding. Tiffany Dr advocated for aligning Medicaid rates closer to Medicare rates to fully staff centers and ensure continuous care for patients. She also mentioned the need for continuous yearly rate increases to prevent staff burnout and turnover.
SB244: Holly Stevens, Nami New Hampshire Support02:24:15.880 - 10:23:16 AM; Holly Stevens, Director of Public Policy for Nami New Hampshire, testified in favor of Senate Bill 244. She highlighted the significant issue of mental illness affecting one in five adults and youth in New Hampshire. Stevens pointed out the barriers to mental health care, including affordability and the lack of providers accepting insurance, leading to 'ghost networks' where providers are listed but not available. She also mentioned the shortage of therapists accepting Medicaid due to low reimbursement rates and the critical role of case managers. Stevens supported the bill's proposal to expand the state loan repayment program to include bachelor-level mental health professionals.
SB244: Teresa Rosenberger, Bernstein Shore, representing New Hampshire Association of Naturopathic Doctors Information Only02:28:22.240 - 10:27:23 AM; Teresa Rosenberger, representing the New Hampshire Association of Naturopathic Doctors, presented a potential solution related to the healthcare workforce shortage. She explained that naturopathic doctors, licensed in New Hampshire since 1995, could help address the shortage by becoming credentialed to accept Medicaid. Rosenberger mentioned that these doctors have been practicing primary care and some specialty care, and in other states, they serve a significant number of Medicaid patients. She proposed that allowing them to be credentialed could be a cost-effective and immediate step to increase healthcare access.
SB244: Rebecca Sky, New Hampshire State Commission on Aging Support02:31:54.319 - 10:30:55 AM; Rebecca Sky, Executive Director for the New Hampshire State Commission on Aging, testified in support of the bill. She focused on the shortage of healthcare workers, especially direct care workers, due to the state's aging population. Sky highlighted the success of the New Hampshire Needs Caregivers program, which had trained nearly 800 individuals to become Licensed Nursing Assistants (LNAs) before its funding ran out. She emphasized the importance of the bill's proposed 3% increase in Medicaid reimbursement to address salary issues and support workforce growth.
SB244: Brendan Williams, New Hampshire Healthcare Association Support02:36:03.880 - 10:35:04 AM; Brendan Williams, President and CEO of the New Hampshire Healthcare Association, expressed support for the legislation. He noted the significant decrease in the nursing home workforce since the COVID-19 pandemic despite wage increases. Williams stressed the need for Medicaid rate increases to rebuild the workforce and mentioned the challenges faced by facilities in admitting new residents due to staffing shortages. He also supported the New Hampshire Needs Caregivers program, emphasizing its effectiveness in training frontline caregivers.
SB137: Senator Supren, District 515 Support02:49:48.279 - 10:48:49 AM; Senator Supren from District 515, representing the Upper Valley and New London areas, introduced Senate Bill 137, which focuses on extending hospital stays for new mothers with opioid use disorders and their newborns affected by neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome. He highlighted the vulnerability of these populations and referenced a study from the University of New Hampshire covering 2005 to 2015, which showed a significant increase in opioid-addicted infants in New Hampshire, particularly in Berlin. Senator Supren discussed past treatment practices, which included isolating neonates and using morphine for pain management, contrasting these with the current 'Eat Sleep Console' approach, which allows mothers and babies to stay together. This new method has shown a decrease in the use of morphine and reduced hospital stays to an average of five days. He proposed that SB137 would fund hospital beds for up to five days to enable this treatment approach, emphasizing the importance of location accessibility for mothers and the potential for cost savings in the healthcare system.
SB137: Dr. Amy Lee, Dartmouth Hitchcock, Upper Valley Support03:01:59.560 - 11:01:00 AM; Dr. Amy Lee, an obstetrical resident at Dartmouth Hitchcock and a resident of the Upper Valley, supported Senate Bill 137. She emphasized the importance of the 'Eat Sleep Console' model for newborns affected by maternal substance use, noting that it significantly reduces the length of hospital stays and NICU admissions. Dr. Lee highlighted the current barriers to this treatment due to early discharge policies for parents, which can hinder their ability to participate in the care of their infants. She also addressed the critical need for access to medications for opioid use disorder for mothers to maintain their recovery and care for their infants, advocating for SB137 as a means to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes and potentially reduce healthcare costs by freeing up hospital beds more quickly.
SB137: Rob Barry, General Counsel, Division of Medicaid Information Only03:08:28.080 - 11:07:29 AM; Rob Barry, General Counsel for the Division of Medicaid, discussed the fiscal implications of Senate Bill 137. He mentioned that a fiscal note had been completed but not yet attached to the bill. Barry indicated that the initial estimate might be an overestimate because it was based on a broad group of people rather than specifically postpartum parents. He explained that the cost was calculated assuming a daily rate of $180 per swing bed and estimated the total cost at 6.5 million in general funds, with no federal match anticipated based on the bill's current language. Barry also discussed the potential cost savings if the bill could reduce NICU stays and the length of hospital stays for neonates.
SB137: David Charney, Deputy Medicaid Director Information Only03:09:39.239 - 11:08:40 AM; David Charney, the Deputy Medicaid Director, provided additional information on the fiscal impact of SB137. He clarified the methodology used for the fiscal note, which initially considered all inpatient stays without appropriate discharge placement, not just postpartum mothers. Charney discussed the potential for cost savings if the length of stay for neonates could be reduced, thus avoiding additional per diem rates for extended NICU stays. He also mentioned that the bill's language might need clarification to ensure it targets the intended population.
SB134: Senator Howard Paille, District 17, Loudon Support04:02:42.840 - 12:01:43 PM; Senator Howard Paille from District 17, residing in Loudon, introduced Senate Bill 134, which proposes work requirements for non-aged, non-disabled adults on Medicaid. He argued that such requirements could help low-income families achieve independence and self-sufficiency, similar to existing requirements in food stamp and temporary aid programs. Paille cited research from the Heritage Foundation suggesting significant lifetime wage losses for individuals remaining on Medicaid, suggesting that work requirements could improve living standards. He also proposed a committee amendment to ensure that any waiver associated with the bill would be approved by the fiscal committee before submission.
SB134: John Steven, Counselor Support04:06:54.479 - 12:05:55 PM; John Steven, identified as a counselor, was set to provide technical data and further support for Senate Bill 134. He was mentioned as having submitted written testimony to the committee, indicating his readiness to discuss the bill in detail, particularly in response to questions about the effectiveness of similar programs in other states.
SB134: John Steven, Executive Counselor, District 6, Former Commissioner of Health and Human Services Support04:07:22.399 - 12:06:23 PM; John Steven supports SB134, emphasizing the importance of work in escaping poverty. He references the successful welfare reform in 2006 that reduced TANF caseloads by over 40%. He argues that work and community engagement have been effective in New Hampshire's TANF program, and believes similar success can be achieved with Medicaid. Steven highlights the availability of jobs in the state and suggests exemptions for the disabled. He also supports the involvement of the fiscal committee in reviewing the waiver to ensure protections are in place. He provided a research paper linking work to health and well-being, arguing that work requirements can improve health outcomes and reduce poverty.
SB134: Rob Barry, General Counsel to the Division of Medicaid, David Choury, Deputy Medicaid Director, Karen Hebert, Director of the Division of Economic Stability Information Only04:16:32.720 - 12:15:33 PM; Rob Barry, David Choury, and Karen Hebert from the Department of Health and Human Services expressed concerns about the feasibility of implementing a work requirement waiver for the Granite Advantage program due to federal uncertainties. They highlighted the withdrawal of a previous waiver in 2021 and the difficulty in estimating fiscal impacts due to potential changes in federal requirements. They noted a $2.5 million general fund expenditure estimate and additional costs for ongoing evaluation. They questioned the July 1st, 2025 submission date, suggesting it might be too ambitious given the required public hearings and comment periods. They also mentioned that only Georgia currently has work requirements in place.
SB134: Michelle Lawrence, Henniker, NH, Volunteer with the Leukemia Lymphoma Society Oppose04:22:50.399 - 12:21:51 PM; Michelle Lawrence opposed SB134, sharing her personal experience with cancer and the financial burdens of private health insurance. She explained how Medicaid allowed her full access to necessary medical care without financial stress, emphasizing that work requirements could jeopardize her health. Lawrence argued that defining treatment and recovery periods for work eligibility would add bureaucratic burdens and potentially lead to loss of coverage, which could be fatal for her and others in similar situations. She urged the committee to vote no on SB134, highlighting the critical role of Medicaid in her survival and well-being.
SB134: Raymond Burke, Attorney at New Hampshire Legal Assistance Oppose04:29:54.439 - 12:28:55 PM; Raymond Burke opposed SB134, arguing that adding work requirements to Medicaid would lead to loss of critical health services, as seen in Arkansas where 18,000 people lost coverage. He noted that most Medicaid beneficiaries who can work already do, and the bill is premature given potential federal changes. Burke highlighted that the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services cannot implement a work requirement waiver under current law, and doing so would be inefficient. He also mentioned existing statutory language that would need review if the federal landscape changes, and urged the committee to recommend the bill as inexpedient to legislate.
SB134: Jay Coocher, CEO of SEACO Mental Health Center, Portsmouth, NH, representing the New Hampshire Community Behavioral Health Association Oppose04:34:46.000 - 12:33:47 PM; Jay Coocher opposed SB134, representing the New Hampshire Community Behavioral Health Association. He highlighted the services provided by the 10 Community Mental Health Centers to about 54,000 individuals annually. Coocher expressed concerns about the potential for inappropriate loss of benefits, as seen during the Medicaid unwind, which led to a $19 million collective loss for the centers. He noted that work can be part of recovery but warned that the bill could harm people and further strain the mental health system, which is required by statute to provide care regardless of ability to pay.
SB134: Jake Barry, Vice President of Policy at New Futures, Portsmouth, NH Oppose04:38:27.080 - 12:37:28 PM; Jake Barry, representing New Futures, a nonpartisan nonprofit health policy organization, strongly opposes Senate Bill 134. He argues that the bill's proposed work requirements could lead to a loss of coverage for vulnerable individuals and families in New Hampshire. Barry emphasizes the importance of work for dignity and health but notes that the existing Medicaid expansion program, Granite Advantage, is designed to provide short-term health insurance to help people regain stability and return to work. He cites data showing that the program has successfully enrolled 252,000 individuals over its lifetime, with 59,000 currently enrolled. Barry highlights the negative impact of work requirements in other states like Georgia and Arkansas, where many lost coverage due to administrative burdens rather than unemployment. He concludes that implementing work requirements would be counterproductive and fiscally irresponsible, urging the committee to oppose the bill.
SB134: Sam Hawkins, Public Policy Assistant at NAMI New Hampshire, Concord, NH Oppose04:42:17.840 - 12:41:18 PM; Sam Hawkins from NAMI New Hampshire strongly opposes Senate Bill 134, expressing concerns about the impact of work requirements on access to mental health and substance use services. He argues that Medicaid is crucial for providing treatment to those with serious mental illnesses, enabling them to work and engage with their community. Hawkins cites research indicating that the majority of Medicaid enrollees are already working and that work requirements could discourage people from pursuing coverage, leading to adverse health outcomes and increased uncompensated care costs. He urges the committee to vote 'inexpedient to legislate' on the bill.
SB134: Jules Good, Programs Coordinator at the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network, Newmarket, NH Oppose04:46:20.040 - 12:45:21 PM; Jules Good, representing the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network, opposes Senate Bill 134, stating that any measure making it harder to access Medicaid is a cut to the program. Good refutes the misconception that Medicaid recipients do not work, citing a study showing that two out of three recipients nationwide have jobs. They argue that work requirements would add unnecessary administrative burdens and could force disabled individuals into institutions, increasing costs for the state and families. Good also highlights the potential negative impact on family caregivers covered by Medicaid, urging the committee to vote 'inexpedient to legislate' on the bill.
SB75: Senator Berdel Information Only04:52:03.480 - 12:51:04 PM; Senator Berdel expressed concerns about Senate Bill 75, which would provide health insurance carriers access to the state immunization registry. They are worried about the security of personal health information and referenced a previous incident at Dartmouth. Berdel moved for an interim study of the bill due to these privacy concerns.
SB75: Senator Apprentice Information Only04:54:18.200 - 12:53:19 PM; Senator Apprentice, a co-sponsor of Senate Bill 75, shared concerns about the fiscal note associated with the bill, which showed a cost to the state. They had discussed the bill with insurance carriers and confirmed that enrollment in the registry is optional and cannot be used to withhold care. Despite these assurances, Apprentice expressed reservations about data security and the appropriateness of the state funding this initiative, leading them to support the motion to vote 'inexpedient to legislate'.
SB121: Senator Bzel Information Only05:00:40.440 - 12:59:41 PM; Senator Bzel moved to pass Senate Bill 121, which requires notice to the insurance department regarding the discontinuance of certain types of insurance, including Medicare Advantage plans. They discussed an amendment to include fire and casualty insurance, aligning with New Hampshire statutes, and clarified that the notice period would remain at 120 days, consistent with state law despite a federal standard of 90 days.
SB123: Senator Apprentice Information Only05:06:31.718 - 1:05:32 PM; Senator Apprentice mentioned the need for a fiscal note on Senate Bill 123, which requires coverage of ear acupuncture as a treatment for substance misuse under Medicaid. They noted that the cost estimates needed to be revised, as they had initially overestimated based on regular acupuncture costs. The committee decided to wait for the updated fiscal note before proceeding.
SB137: Senator Apprentice Information Only05:07:19.400 - 1:06:20 PM; Senator Apprentice moved to pass Senate Bill 137, which concerns hospital stays for postpartum parents with neonates exposed to opioids. They clarified the need for language to ensure that the bill's conditions are conjunctive, not disjunctive, to avoid broad interpretation. They also discussed the need for a fiscal note, estimating that the bill might affect up to 40 individuals per year, and mentioned potential cost savings if newborns could be discharged earlier from the NICU.
SB120: Senator Birds Information Only05:15:42.240 - 1:14:43 PM; Senator Birds expressed nervousness about Senate Bill 120, which deals with insurance coverage for biomarker testing. They were concerned about potential misuse of biomarker data by insurance companies for denying coverage or raising premiums, particularly in relation to future health risks like cancer. They suggested language to prevent discrimination based on biomarker results.
SB120: Senator Apprentice Information Only05:17:01.080 - 1:16:02 PM; Senator Apprentice shared insights on biomarker testing, noting that several states, including Medicaid programs, have implemented coverage for such testing. They mentioned the potential benefits for targeted treatments and cost savings but acknowledged the need for more targeted language in the bill to address concerns about data misuse. They discussed the possibility of working with advocates and the bill's sponsor to refine the legislation.
SB120: Mike Rolo, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network Information Only05:22:16.080 - 1:21:17 PM; Mike Rolo from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network clarified that biomarker testing is not genetic testing but is used to determine the best treatment options for specific cancers. He noted that such testing could also assess treatment efficacy. Rolo mentioned that several states have passed similar legislation without significant premium increases and offered to provide a report from Massachusetts on the subject. He emphasized the clinical utility and cost-effectiveness of biomarker testing, particularly in Medicaid contexts.

Rochefort, David(Chairman)(R)[B-]2025	Avard, Kevin(V Chairman)(R)[B]2025	Birdsell, Regina(R)[B-]2025
Prentiss, Suzanne(D)[F]2025	Long, Pat(D)[F]2025