Committee Summary for Senate Judiciary (02/13/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
SB266 00:04:27.280 - 1:18:53 PM	Public Hearing	relative to safety and accountability of drivers under 18 years of age.	McConkey, Mark(R)[B]2025
SB268 00:15:53.560 - 1:30:19 PM	Public Hearing	permitting classification of individuals based on biological sex under certain limited circumstances.	Avard, Kevin(R)[B]2025
SB268 00:58:11.200 - 2:12:37 PM	Public Hearing	permitting classification of individuals based on biological sex under certain limited circumstances.	Avard, Kevin(R)[B]2025
SB38 03:25:19.760 - 4:39:45 PM	Public Hearing	relative to state recognition of biological sex.	Avard, Kevin(R)[B]2025

SB266: Mark Mononi, Freedom Support00:04:27.280 - 1:18:53 PM; Senator Mark Mononi introduced Senate Bill 266 FN, which aims to specify requirements for the reinstatement of a youth operator's license for individuals under 18 years of age. The bill amends RSA 263:43-B to change the minimum suspension periods for first, second, and third violations to 20 days, 45 days, and 90 to 180 days respectively. He highlighted the importance of the legislation in addressing the issue of youth driving offenses, despite not having personal experience with the issue. Senator Mononi expressed readiness to answer any questions regarding the bill.
SB268: Kevin Avard, Nashua Support00:15:53.560 - 1:30:19 PM; Senator Kevin Avard, the prime sponsor of Senate Bill SP268, presented the bill which aims to permit the classification of individuals based on biological sex in specific circumstances such as locker rooms, sporting competitions, and detention facilities. He emphasized the public's concern over safety and privacy, particularly in sports and locker room settings. Avard referenced the confusion around gender definitions, citing a Supreme Court Justice's inability to define a woman, and argued that such confusion destabilizes societal norms. He stressed the need for the bill to protect traditional values and ensure safety, mentioning incidents where biological males entered female spaces. He also highlighted the fear of being labeled negatively for holding traditional views on gender. Avard noted the bill mirrors previous legislation and is intended to protect individuals, particularly young girls, in various public settings.
SB268: Unnamed Senator Information Only00:25:31.559 - 1:39:57 PM; An unnamed senator asked Senator Avard about the necessity of the bill in their community, questioning whether there have been issues with men entering women's bathrooms or locker rooms. Senator Avard responded by confirming incidents in various locations including Nashua, Milford, and the state capital, emphasizing the need for the bill to ensure biological males and females use corresponding facilities. The senator further inquired about enforcement of the bill, to which Avard suggested it would be left to state or local municipalities to handle knowingly violations.
SB268: Senator Avard Support00:28:06.559 - 1:42:32 PM; Senator Avard expressed support for the bill, emphasizing his belief that biological sex should determine bathroom usage and sports participation. He argued against the concept of transitioning from one gender to another, viewing gender dysphoria as a mental illness rather than a legitimate state of being transgender. He raised concerns about societal norms being disrupted, suggesting that the bill aims to protect traditional gender roles and ensure safety and privacy in bathrooms, locker rooms, and sports. He stressed that the bill is a response to constituents' demands to return to what they perceive as traditional norms.
SB268: Unnamed Senator Information Only00:33:56.559 - 1:48:22 PM; The senator questioned Senator Avard on the implications of the bill, particularly regarding enforcement and the definition of a 'legitimately transgendered person.' They sought clarification on how the bill would affect transgender individuals in public spaces and sports, and whether the bill could lead to discrimination claims if employers adopted its policies. The senator also asked about the safety and privacy concerns for women and girls in bathrooms and sports, trying to understand the bill's intent and potential impact.
SB268: Unnamed Senator Information Only00:34:51.480 - 1:49:17 PM; Another senator continued to probe Senator Avard about the bill's enforcement, particularly in the context of public bathrooms and sports. The senator questioned the feasibility of enforcing bathroom policies based on biological sex and the fairness of excluding transgender individuals from sports teams, citing the lack of a level playing field in sports generally. They suggested a potential subcommittee to research and develop fair and scientifically based policies for transgender participation in sports.
SB268: Karen KO, Meredith Oppose00:47:19.480 - 2:01:45 PM; Karen KO from Meredith spoke in opposition to the bill, arguing that it would not enhance safety in public spaces and could potentially harm transgender individuals. She drew parallels between past societal fears of minorities and the current attitudes towards transgender people, urging for learning and growth. KO highlighted the increasing presence of transgender individuals in younger generations and stressed the need for laws to protect their dignity and rights. She addressed concerns about sports and physical differences, suggesting that transgender participation in sports is a complex issue that should not be conflated with bathroom policies.
SB268: Unnamed Senator Information Only00:54:15.119 - 2:08:41 PM; The senator engaged with Karen KO, seeking her views on bathroom policies and transgender participation in sports. They asked about the feasibility of enforcing bathroom policies based on gender identity and the fairness of allowing transgender individuals to participate in sports, particularly regarding the potential displacement of biological girls. The senator also inquired about the safety and privacy concerns for women and girls in public spaces, aiming to understand the opposition's perspective on these issues.
SB268: Sender Information Only00:58:11.200 - 2:12:37 PM; Sender asked a question about the comparison between transgender participation in society and historical debates on marriage equality, specifically inquiring if transgender individuals pose a threat to cisgender individuals similar to how same-sex couples did not affect cisgender married couples. The response highlighted that transgender people just want to live their lives and do not pose a threat, emphasizing that cisgender people are the majority.
SB268: Nancy Brennan, Weare Oppose01:00:05.039 - 2:14:31 PM; Nancy Brennan from Weare strongly opposed the bill, using the analogy from the musical 'Wicked' to illustrate how creating an enemy can unite people. She pointed out the significant spending on anti-trans ads targeting a small population and noted that all major medical and psychiatric associations recognize gender as a continuum. Brennan argued that transgender non-discrimination bills do not endanger the cisgender population but protect transgender individuals. She criticized the bill for making exceptions that discriminate based on sex or gender and urged lawmakers to engage personally with transgender individuals to understand their humanity. She concluded by calling the bill hate-based and advocating for its defeat with a vote of inexpedient to legislate (ITL).
SB268: Pasha Roberts, Wilmot, 603 Equality Oppose01:04:51.039 - 2:19:17 PM; Pasha Roberts from Wilmot and a member of the board of 603 Equality opposed the bill, arguing that human biology is not as simple as the bill's binary categories suggest. As an intersex person, Roberts shared personal experiences of surgeries to conform to binary sex categories and explained the medical reality of intersex variations. They criticized the bill for assuming a clear biological sex distinction that does not exist, leading to potential discrimination against intersex and transgender individuals. Roberts concluded that the bill is built on a flawed understanding of biology and should be voted ITL.
SB268: Samantha, Bedford Oppose01:10:22.280 - 2:24:48 PM; Samantha from Bedford opposed the bill, expressing frustration with the use of biblical arguments to justify legislation and emphasizing the minority status of transgender individuals. She highlighted her personal experiences with sexual harassment and the dangers transgender individuals face in public restrooms and prisons, including 'V-coding' and the 'trans panic defense.' Samantha shared her struggles with suicidal thoughts due to discrimination and urged the committee not to force transgender individuals into unsafe situations, advocating for the bill to be voted ITL.
SB268: Bonnie Bro, Hollis Oppose01:15:50.679 - 2:30:16 PM; Bonnie Bro from Hollis opposed the bill, sharing a personal anecdote about feeling unsafe entering an elevator with three men to illustrate safety concerns in public spaces. She criticized the bill for attempting to reverse discrimination protections, labeling it as harmful and misguided. Bonnie suggested that the bill might be a 'Trojan horse' that could embed discriminatory practices into law, specifically harming transgender individuals. She concluded by recommending the bill be voted ITL, suggesting that its potential harm may not have been fully realized by its sponsors.
SB268: Arthan, Conquer Oppose01:22:32.199 - 2:36:58 PM; Arthan from Conquer expressed opposition to SB268, stating that it would harm transgender and non-binary individuals by forcing them into facilities that do not align with their gender identity. They argued that such legislation promotes division, hate, and intolerance. Arthan also highlighted the negative implications for transgender individuals in correctional facilities and public restrooms, stressing that the bill would roll back progress on recognizing gender diversity and urged the committee to vote against it.
SB268: Claudia Hoover, Retired Teacher and Parent Oppose01:26:05.960 - 2:40:31 PM; Claudia Hoover strongly opposed SB268, emphasizing that transgender individuals are not deviant and should not be treated inhumanely. She shared a personal story about a transgender friend who was forced to use a women's bathroom and the emotional distress it caused. Hoover also addressed the issue of transgender athletes, arguing that the performance differences are negligible and should not be a basis for exclusion. She advocated for continued tolerance and celebration of diversity among athletes.
SB268: Nancy Beerman, New Boston Support01:31:31.199 - 2:45:57 PM; Nancy Beerman from New Boston supported SB268, sharing a story about a fifth-grade boy who was uncomfortable using the bathroom due to a transgender student's presence. She argued that the school's lack of empathy and solution led to the boy's distress and refusal to use the bathroom. Beerman stressed the need for the law to allow schools to designate bathrooms based on biological sex, citing Title 9 as a legal basis for such separation.
SB268: Jennifer B, Nashua, NH Oppose01:35:38.199 - 2:50:04 PM; Jennifer B from Nashua, NH, opposed SB268, expressing concerns about the impact on her transgender son and non-binary child. She highlighted the supportive environment provided by Nashua's school system and criticized other states for stripping away transgender rights. Jennifer emphasized that her son, who has Turner syndrome, should be allowed to use the bathroom that matches his gender identity, arguing that the bill's premise is not confusing to the current generation of students.
SB268: Anelle Boar, Nashua High School North Oppose01:38:46.040 - 2:53:12 PM; Anelle Boar, a senior at Nashua High School North, opposed SB268, focusing on her experiences with safety in school. She argued that the real threats to safety come from cisgendered men, not transgender individuals. Anelle shared personal stories of harassment and emphasized that the bill would not make bathrooms safer. She concluded by sharing how a college's acceptance of transgender students influenced her decision to attend, underscoring the importance of inclusivity.
SB268: Jerry Canon, The Honorable Oppose01:41:55.639 - 2:56:21 PM; Jerry Canon, a transgender woman, opposed SB268, arguing that it wrongly portrays transgender people as sexual predators. She shared her experiences and the challenges faced by transgender individuals in public spaces, particularly bathrooms. Canon emphasized that the real problems in restrooms are caused by cisgendered men and suggested increasing penalties for those who harm others in restrooms as a better solution.
SB268: IO Gutierrez Oppose01:45:53.440 - 3:00:19 PM; IO Gutierrez expressed strong opposition to SB268, criticizing its poor conception and drafting. They argued that the bill's use of the term 'proper' is subjective and could be weaponized against transgender individuals. Gutierrez emphasized the personal nature of gender identity and criticized the absence of the bill's sponsor during the hearing, urging lawmakers to focus on the present rather than the past.
SB268: Rosie Emer, Hooksett, NH Oppose01:48:39.679 - 3:03:05 PM; Rosie Emer from Hooksett, NH, opposed SB268 as a cisgendered woman and parent of a non-binary child. She shared the difficulties her child faces with bathroom and changing room decisions, arguing that the bill would force her child into unsafe situations. Emer criticized the bill for encouraging public policing of gender expression and highlighted its lack of enforcement mechanisms, urging lawmakers to reject it.
SB268: Emily, Hooksett, NH Oppose01:51:16.560 - 3:05:42 PM; Emily, an 8-year-old trans kid from Hooksett, shared their personal experience of feeling safer and more authentic after transitioning. They expressed opposition to the bathroom ban bill, highlighting the discomfort and anxiety caused by being questioned in bathrooms. Emily emphasized the importance of allowing trans individuals to use facilities that align with their gender identity for their safety and well-being.
SB268: Ann Marie, Bedford, NH Support01:52:50.480 - 3:07:16 PM; Ann Marie from Bedford, a parental rights advocate, supported the bill, focusing on the emotional distress experienced by boys sharing restrooms with biological girls. She referenced incidents in New Boston and Keene, arguing that the bill protects the privacy and comfort of non-transgender students. She stressed the importance of not silencing girls' voices and shared an example of a girl injured in a sports event by a transgender athlete.
SB268: Sam Hawkins, NAMI New Hampshire Oppose01:57:11.400 - 3:11:37 PM; Sam Hawkins, representing NAMI New Hampshire, opposed the bill, citing the negative impact of discrimination on mental wellness. They highlighted that the bill could expose Granite Staters to discrimination and have a chilling effect on the transgender and non-binary community. Hawkins noted data suggesting that such policy discussions harm the mental health of young people and urged the committee to vote down the bill.
SB268: Lyn Lipsett, Milford, NH Oppose01:58:42.960 - 3:13:08 PM; Lyn Lipsett from Milford opposed SB 268, arguing that transgender people have been protected by New Hampshire's anti-discrimination laws without causing harm. They emphasized that these bills remove freedoms and inflict harm on a vulnerable group, with no evidence of transgender people causing issues in bathrooms or sports. Lipsett warned about the enforcement challenges and potential harassment that could arise from such legislation.
SB268: Michaela Fishler, Manchester, NH Oppose02:02:47.159 - 3:17:13 PM; Michaela Fishler from Manchester opposed SB 268, expressing confusion over bathroom bills. They argued that requiring individuals to use restrooms based on biological sex would lead to discomfort and potentially unsafe situations. Fishler emphasized the importance of understanding and communication in resolving these issues and highlighted the lack of safety benefits from such bills.
SB268: Fidelma McKenna Oppose02:05:12.239 - 3:19:38 PM; Fidelma McKenna opposed the bill, celebrating love and support for the transgender community. As a certified nurse midwife, they warned about the dangerous impact of the bill on mental health, citing studies showing improved well-being when transgender individuals are correctly gendered. McKenna urged the committee to protect the health and well-being of their constituents by defeating the bill.
SB268: Erica Russell Oppose02:06:57.320 - 3:21:23 PM; Erica Russell, a healthcare provider, opposed the bill, arguing that it would negatively impact the mental health of transgender individuals. They emphasized the link between mental health and living authentically, citing increased risks of depression, anxiety, and suicide if the bill were passed. Russell urged the committee to consider the destructive nature of imposing views on others and to support the health of the transgender community.
SB268: Michael Haley, Derry, NH Oppose02:09:32.960 - 3:23:58 PM; Michael Haley from Derry, an attorney with GLBTQ Legal Advocates and Defenders, opposed the bill, highlighting its potential violation of federal law and the Constitution. He referenced a previous injunction against a transgender sports ban and argued for more nuanced policies. Haley also questioned the necessity of categorizing bathrooms by biological sex, noting the absence of significant issues in the state and supporting the governor's veto of a similar bill.
SB268: Courtney Reid, ACLU of New Hampshire Oppose02:17:16.478 - 3:31:42 PM; Courtney Reid from the ACLU of New Hampshire expressed strong opposition to SB268, emphasizing that transgender individuals have always existed and that the bill would make them unsafe and unwelcome in public spaces. She highlighted the potential negative impacts on transgender people's lives, including issues in employment, public spaces, and the potential for harassment and assault. Reid also pointed out the conflicts with existing federal and state laws, such as Title 7, Title 9, and the Prison Rape Elimination Act. She urged the committee to consider the real-life stories and potential litigation concerns, advocating for a vote against the bill.
SB268: Sarah Smith, Penacook, New Hampshire Oppose02:23:23.920 - 3:37:49 PM; Sarah Smith from Penacook, New Hampshire, opposed the bill by drawing parallels to historical discrimination and sharing her personal experiences and growth in understanding and accepting transgender individuals. She argued that laws should restrict harmful behaviors, not classes of people, and emphasized that there have been no reported incidents since the non-discrimination law was passed. Smith advocated for getting to know transgender people personally to understand their humanity and urged the committee to reject the bill.
SB268: Beth Scare, Nashua, New Hampshire Support02:28:00.600 - 3:42:26 PM; Beth Scare from Nashua, New Hampshire, read her husband Stephen Scare's testimony in support of SB268. The testimony argued for recognizing the biological reality of sex over subjective gender identities, especially in sports and private spaces. It criticized the notion that distinguishing between males and females is difficult and claimed that transgender medical treatments for minors are harmful. The testimony urged the committee to protect women's sports and spaces.
SB268: Lynne Jaros, Dover, New Hampshire Oppose02:31:07.319 - 3:45:33 PM; Lynne Jaros from Dover, New Hampshire, opposed SB268 and related bills, arguing they promote discrimination against transgender and non-binary people. Jaros highlighted the successful update of New Hampshire's non-discrimination law in 2017 and 2018, which passed with bipartisan support, and pointed out the lack of increased safety incidents since then. They emphasized that these bills would effectively allow employment discrimination by affecting restroom access and could lead to privacy invasions and harassment.
SB268: Lisa Bowden, New Hampshire Council of Churches Oppose02:35:25.640 - 3:49:51 PM; Lisa Bowden from the New Hampshire Council of Churches opposed SB268, emphasizing that true Christianity calls for love and inclusion, not discrimination. She quoted scripture to support her argument that Jesus taught to love and care for the marginalized, rejecting legalism that prioritizes rules over human dignity. Bowden urged the committee to vote against the bill, aligning with the values of dignity, inclusion, and love.
SB268: Jennifer Smith, medical doctor Oppose02:37:58.160 - 3:52:24 PM; Jennifer Smith, a medical doctor, opposed SB268, sharing her personal experiences as a transgender individual and critiquing the bill's implications on transgender people's lives. She referenced her understanding of Christian and Jewish scriptures to argue for acceptance and inclusion of transgender individuals, emphasizing that the bill would force transgender people into uncomfortable and potentially unsafe situations. Smith offered to provide further medical insights via email.
SB268: David Trumble, town of Ware, New Hampshire Oppose02:42:29.000 - 3:56:55 PM; David Trumble from Ware, New Hampshire, opposed SB268, arguing that the law should educate society to be welcoming and inclusive. He critiqued the bill from a legal perspective, stating that it fails the strict scrutiny test as it is not narrowly tailored or the least restrictive alternative. Trumble suggested alternatives like non-gender-specific bathrooms and discussed the impact on sports and prisons, urging the committee to consider the type of state they want New Hampshire to be.
SB268: Lisa Lee, Manchester, New Hampshire Oppose02:52:01.680 - 4:06:27 PM; Lisa Lee, a resident of Manchester and a member of the New Hampshire bar, opposed the proposed amendments to SB268. As a CIS woman who knows members of the trans and non-binary communities, she expressed her initial lack of understanding about gender identity issues and her subsequent learning. She is proud of New Hampshire's current anti-discrimination act and believes the amendment would permit discrimination against the trans and non-binary communities, encouraging the policing of bodies. She found no compelling evidence of threats to girls or women from the trans community and emphasized the importance of diversity, echoing sentiments about the need for narrowly tailored state interests.
SB268: Sarah Kelly, Nashua, New Hampshire Oppose02:54:21.600 - 4:08:47 PM; Sarah Kelly from Nashua opposed SB268, arguing that it is unconstitutional and contradicts the existing anti-discrimination laws. She highlighted the discrepancy between the existing law's protection of gender identity and the amendment's endorsement of classification based on biological sex. Kelly likened the amendment to Orwell's 'Animal Farm,' suggesting it promotes discrimination against vulnerable groups. She recited a poem by Pastor Martin Niemöller to emphasize the dangers of not defending marginalized groups and stressed that constitutional rights should not be based on those in power.
SB268: Heather Burns, Concord, New Hampshire Oppose02:58:02.120 - 4:12:28 PM; Heather Burns, a resident of Concord and an employment attorney, strongly opposed SB268, arguing that it denies access to justice for transgender individuals. She noted that transgender individuals were added to the state's anti-discrimination statute in 2018 and provided copies of the statement of intent from that committee report. Burns highlighted the high rate of suicide attempts among transgender individuals and argued that removing protections would be detrimental. She stressed the importance of waiting for court decisions and warned against backpedaling on existing protections.
SB268: Shelley Wilkins, transgender male to female Oppose03:06:04.640 - 4:20:30 PM; Shelley Wilkins, a transgender male to female, opposed SB268 and clarified the concept of biological sex, mentioning four types: chromosomal, phenotypic, behavioral, and gonadal. Wilkins addressed concerns about safety in sports and bathrooms, providing statistics on transgender athletes and incidents in bathrooms. They argued that transgender individuals have not significantly impacted women's sports and that reported incidents in bathrooms often did not involve transgender individuals. Wilkins emphasized the need for clarity and fairness in addressing safety concerns.
SB268: Lisa Ban Kim, licensed clinical social worker Oppose03:09:54.040 - 4:24:20 PM; Lisa Ban Kim, a licensed clinical social worker, opposed SB268 and highlighted the confusion around privacy and safety terminology in the bill. She questioned the legislators' focus on safety without acknowledging the safety concerns of transgender individuals. Ban Kim discussed risk factors for sexual assault, noting that gender identity is not a significant factor according to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center. She argued that the section of the bill related to prisons focuses on the wrong factors and emphasized the need to consider the safety of transgender people in bathrooms they do not identify with.
SB38: Senator Kevin Avard, District 12 Support03:25:19.760 - 4:39:45 PM; Senator Avard introduced SB38, explaining that the bill limits the jurisdiction of the State Commission on Human Rights. It specifies that the commission cannot file complaints against laws or policies that mandate single-sex bathrooms, sports teams, or correctional facilities based on biological sex. He emphasized that the bill does not mandate separation but protects policies that do so from human rights complaints, aligning with New Hampshire's law, tradition, and science.
SB38: Senator Oer Information Only03:26:28.160 - 4:40:54 PM; Senator Oer questioned Senator Avard about the definition of biological sex in the bill, specifically whether it was intended to present sex as a binary. Senator Avard confirmed that the intention was to recognize biological sex as a binary between male and female.
SB38: Jerry Cannon, Somersworth, NH Information Only03:28:54.120 - 4:43:20 PM; Jerry Cannon from Somersworth, NH, expressed concerns about the classification of gender in state records. He mentioned being classified as a transgender male to female by medical professionals, but his state documents list him as female. He questioned the necessity and use of such information by the state, suggesting that his medical professionals should be the ones with this information, not the state.
SB38: Karen Kolo, Meredith, NH Oppose03:30:49.560 - 4:45:15 PM; Karen Kolo from Meredith, NH, opposed the bill, highlighting the safety concerns for transgender individuals. She argued that trans women using men's restrooms would be at risk due to increased visibility and potential harassment. She emphasized that transgender people are not criminals and stressed the importance of private facilities in gyms and the need for understanding broader safety concerns beyond harassment.
SB38: Nancy Brennan, Weare, NH Oppose03:34:58.160 - 4:49:24 PM; Nancy Brennan read a statement from Danny Jean Stewart, a resident of Weare, who could not attend the hearing. Stewart, identifying as a cisgender woman, shared her experience with her transgender best friend who had to undergo extensive medical certification to be recognized as a woman before receiving gender-affirming surgery. Brennan used this to argue that trans women are women and trans men are men, opposing the bill. Brennan further shared her own experiences attending the Transgender Day of Remembrance, highlighting the violence and discrimination faced by transgender individuals, especially transgender women of color. She emphasized the fear and danger transgender individuals face in public spaces like restrooms and expressed her opposition to the bill, citing safety concerns.
SB38: Simone, NH Oppose03:38:04.760 - 4:52:30 PM; Simone, a transgender woman, expressed strong opposition to the bill, focusing on the safety and human rights implications. She described the fear and danger she faces in men's restrooms, emphasizing the potential for assault and harassment. Simone criticized the bill's sponsor for suggesting enforcement methods that she interpreted as promoting violence against transgender individuals. She highlighted the broader societal and legal context, including the Canadian New Democratic Party's proposal for political asylum for transgender people, and warned that the bill could lead to increased violence and discrimination against transgender individuals. She also shared her personal connection to New Hampshire and her concerns about feeling safe in the state if the bill passes.
SB38: Nancy Beerman, New Boston, NH Support03:44:30.319 - 4:58:56 PM; Nancy Beerman spoke in support of the bill, emphasizing the need for biological sex to be defined in law to protect children in schools. She argued that biological sex is a protected class under the state's Discrimination Act and mentioned an upcoming Supreme Court case that could influence interpretations of discrimination law. Beerman cited court cases from other circuits that upheld the separation of facilities based on biological sex, arguing that such measures are necessary to prevent sexual harassment and protect students' privacy. She concluded by asserting that biological sex cannot be changed by surgery, drugs, or clothing.
SB38: Unnamed Speaker Support03:47:16.159 - 5:01:42 PM; The unnamed speaker supported Nancy Beerman's statement that biological sex cannot be changed. They argued that despite claims or feelings of transgender individuals, their biological reality remains unchanged by surgery, drugs, or clothing. They referenced multiple studies and the experiences of detransitioners to support their argument that transitioning does not solve the issues faced by transgender individuals.
SB38: Pasha Roberts, Wilmot, NH Oppose03:48:52.159 - 5:03:18 PM; Pasha Roberts, representing 603 Equality, opposed the bill, sharing a story of a woman accosted in a restroom due to her appearance. They argued that the bill contributes to a moral panic and demonization of transgender people, potentially leading to increased harassment and violence against women who do not conform to traditional gender norms. Roberts highlighted the broader societal impact, including the fear and safety concerns it raises for transgender individuals and women in general, and criticized the bill's sponsor for suggesting enforcement that could lead to violence.
SB38: Sam Hawkins, NAMI New Hampshire Oppose03:52:08.080 - 5:06:34 PM; Sam Hawkins, representing NAMI New Hampshire, opposed the bill, focusing on the stigma it perpetuates against transgender individuals. They argued that the bill's justification creates a harmful myth that transgender people pose a threat to privacy and safety, which discourages transgender individuals from seeking necessary mental health care and community support. Hawkins emphasized New Hampshire's history of defending rights and freedoms and urged the committee to vote down the bill.
SB38: Courtney Reid, ACLU of New Hampshire Oppose03:54:19.399 - 5:08:45 PM; Courtney Reid, policy advocate with the ACLU of New Hampshire, opposed the bill, focusing on legal concerns. They referenced the Bostock ruling, which interpreted sex discrimination to include transgender status under Title 7, arguing that barring transgender individuals from using appropriate facilities could constitute a civil rights violation. Reid discussed the implications of this ruling on other areas of life, including Title 9, and cited a case (Doe v. Boyertown) to argue that transgender individuals have a right to use facilities that align with their gender identity. They also mentioned the availability of reasonable religious accommodations for those uncomfortable sharing facilities.
SB38: Unnamed Senator Information Only03:58:18.000 - 5:12:44 PM; The unnamed senator asked a question regarding the case discussed by Courtney Reid, specifically about balancing competing protected classes and whether the case discussed the potential for one class's rights to outweigh another's. The senator sought clarification on how the court handled these competing interests.
SB38: Unnamed Senator Information Only03:59:12.040 - 5:13:38 PM; The senator expressed concerns about the arguments made regarding the discomfort felt by the majority in relation to gender identity, drawing a parallel to historical discrimination against Black people in public facilities. They questioned if society had not already addressed such issues.
SB38: David Trumble Oppose04:00:35.960 - 5:15:01 PM; David Trumble from an unspecified location opposed the bill, highlighting its potential to legalize discrimination against intersex and transgender individuals. He criticized the bill's definition of biological sex as only male and female, ignoring intersex people, and argued that it denies the existence of transgender people without medical evidence. He urged the committee not to pass the bill, citing its impact on the Human Rights Commission and previous protective legislation from 2018.
SB38: Sarah Kelly from Nashua Oppose04:03:00.960 - 5:17:26 PM; Sarah Kelly from Nashua strongly opposed SB38, presenting data to refute the notion that transgender individuals pose a threat. She highlighted the small percentage of transgender people in the population and the high rates of violence and harassment they face, arguing that the bill would exacerbate these issues. Kelly emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable groups and questioned the committee's priorities between civic duty and responding to mass hysteria.
SB38: Ryan Noo Oppose04:07:11.159 - 5:21:37 PM; Ryan Noo opposed Senate Bill 38, criticizing it for promoting discrimination against transgender people in various public and private settings. He argued that the bill was based on hypothetical scenarios and expressed frustration with the legislature's focus on gender identity. Noo challenged the senators to consider the real issues faced by transgender individuals and to engage in meaningful conversations with affected communities. He stressed the importance of informed leadership and urged the cessation of spreading misinformation and hatred toward transgender people.

Gannon, Bill(Chairman)(R)[B-]2025	Abbas, Daryl(V Chairman)(R)[B-]2025	Carson, Sharon(R)[B]2025
Altschiller, Debra(D)[CT]2025	Reardon, Tara(D)[F]2025