Warning: Bill numbers and names are based on text-to-speech transcript which may have errors due to transcription issues or ad hoc/incomplete language use by committee.
The sponsor explains that Windsor is a small town of 280 residents bisected by 1.8 miles of an unnumbered state road (Windsor Road and Black Pond Road) with a 35 mph limit, maintained by the state in summer and town in winter. Residents use OHRVs for daily tasks but cannot legally cross this state road. The town has allowed OHRVs on local roads for 12 years via town meeting vote, but state road requires legislation. The bill enables the select board to authorize OHRV use after public hearing, abutter notification, and approval from DOT and Department of Safety, with signage by Bureau of Trails. It includes guardrails for changes. No OHRV club is involved; it's for local residents' legal travel in a tight-knit community with no commerce. Existing connecting trail in woods remains unchanged. Addresses committee questions on why legislation is needed (due to state road status), maintenance split, and clarifies it's not Route 31.
HB113
Oppose00:16:51.111 - 1:15:38 PM
Claire opposes the bill citing safety risks as OHRVs are designed for off-road use, not paved roads, lacking collision protection against vehicles traveling 35-55 mph. She references 2023 statistics: 498 OHRV fatalities, 67% on paved roads; 2024 surge of 127% fatalities, 65% on roads/trails due to unsafe riding and no helmets. Manufacturers (SVIA, ROHVA) and manuals warn against road use. Enforcement is inadequate: no local police, state police 48 miles away rarely patrol, Fish and Game understaffed since 1950. Allowing access invites illegal use from Hillsborough. OHRVs limited to 20 mph vs. 35 mph road limit, with no enforcement plan. Impacts quality of life with noise, trash, traffic, property devaluation; northern NH towns now regulate due to issues. No incentive for trail development. Personal anecdote: daughter's vehicle nearly hit by unlit, speeding ATV at night. Fears collisions blocking only access road. Objects to process despite public hearing, as activity is inherently unsafe and could lead to liability.
HB113
Oppose00:24:47.431 - 1:23:34 PM
Ellen opposes due to safety hazards from limited visibility on hilly, curvy roads with 35 mph limit exceeding OHRV's 20-25 mph recommendation; unauthorized use already occurs, including by officials. Enforcement would shift to under-resourced state police who don't patrol; no local police, Hillsborough only for emergencies. Selectmen can't enforce posted limits. Increased risks near Wodeco School (daily transport, summer camp for 70 kids), Windsor Mountain Camp (camps, weddings, traffic), bus stop, Woods of Windsor association (homes, campsites, Airbnbs). Recommends site visit. No ATV club or state OHRV trails (only snowmobile Trail No. 6); no one for signage/maintenance. Would increase road wear costs to residents; other town roads not legally open (no ordinances passed in 20+ years). Values peace; opposes noise, trespassing, property value drop. Enjoys recreation but ATVs not for pavement (cites warnings). Bill favors minority over majority safety. Provides photos of illegal ATV use at town hall by selectman and road racing/burnouts, showing current abuse and lack of enforcement.
HB113
Support00:32:25.420 - 1:31:12 PM
Rep. Ouellette supports as a motorsports advocate, clarifying roads are trail connectors, not trails, used as last resort for non-cooperative landowners. Safe with DOT-approved tires; no known car accidents on connectors in his experience. No influx from Hillsborough due to no services in Windsor; bill aids local trail access. Refutes property value drop: NH Supreme Court case in Gorm found trails raise values. OHRV users fund enforcement (>1M/year to Fish and Game); complaints prompt response. State highways (Routes 3,16,10,145) have connectors without issues. Bill simply legalizes resident access across town. Addresses photos of misuse: possible plated UTVs legal on-road; for illegal, report registration to Fish and Game for tickets. Notes town approval 12 years ago per selectmen; Hillsborough police respond to Windsor calls (paid), have OHRVs for patrol, no accidents reported. Route 31 in Hillsborough bans OHRVs, preventing crossover unless legal UTVs. No formal summer trail network, only local class VI/fire roads and snowmobile Corridor 6; connector links town sections for resident access, not organized system.
HB1078
Support00:44:31.442 - 1:43:18 PM
Introduced House Bill 1078, emphasizing it recognizes and respects Gold Star Mothers and family members who lost loved ones in service. Noted a previous similar bill was set aside due to high fiscal note over $200,000, but updated manufacturing reduces cost to about $20,000. Submitted an amendment to clarify proof of relationship on lines 21-22, recommended by Deputy Adjutant General, allowing use of birth or marriage certificates. Urged committee to vote ought to pass, highlighting it as a small request for those who sacrificed much.
HB1078
Support00:47:26.242 - 1:46:13 PM
Shared personal story of losing son Tanner in a helicopter training accident in Cyprus on November 10, 2023. Raised daughter Emily and son Tanner, who were 18 months apart. Expressed disagreement with current law allowing only mothers the Gold Star plate, arguing families including fathers and siblings should be included, as many states do. Described Tanner's character, service, love for family, friends, and New Hampshire. Urged passage to honor their family and other Gold Star families.
HB1078
Support00:51:19.932 - 1:50:06 PM
As Gold Star sister (brother Corporal Michael Ouellette killed in Afghanistan in 2009, awarded Navy Cross) and professional supporting Gold Star families, emphasized bill's importance for recognition. Families seek to be seen and remembered without fanfare. New Hampshire should honor all family members (mothers, fathers, spouses, children, siblings) via actual plates, not just decals. Decals were a bridge, but bill improves recognition. Submitted and read statements from Gold Star siblings (sister of Adam Brooks, killed 2004; brother of Alan Burgess, died from Iraq wounds). Urged support, noting 750-800 potential eligible families max. Responded to questions on numbers and costs.
HB1078
Information Only00:56:15.601 - 1:55:02 PM
Provided data: 35 active Gold Star mother plates currently. Praised fiscal note for new professional plates fitting to honor heroes. Fiscal note covers Gold Star family and father plates, costing $28,000-$55,000 depending on production volume. Registration fees cover plate costs without large production increase.
HB1483
Support01:04:41.306 - 2:03:28 PM
The speaker shares personal background with family involved in amateur radio operations, emphasizing the community's role in emergencies when other communications fail. They note that Massachusetts and other states offer license plates with call signs and insignias like a lightning bolt to recognize this service. They mention a pilot program with amateur radio groups for repeater services and strongly support the bill, stating the public safety benefits outweigh the costs discussed by the DMV director.
HB1483
Support01:06:48.886 - 2:05:35 PM
Richard Kahn, a ham radio operator since 1973, highlights the contributions of amateur radio operators during emergencies such as Hurricane Gloria, where he and his wife assisted with trouble calls for PSNH; supporting Civil Air Patrol in locating emergency locator transmitters; handling health and welfare traffic during Hurricane Katrina; providing communication at the Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk; and participating in Field Day as an emergency preparedness exercise. He serves as a volunteer examiner for FCC licenses at no cost. He supports the bill for recognition via license plates similar to Massachusetts' design with a lightning bolt, noting the costs are borne by users and there is executive precedent from former Governor Sununu and current Governor Ayotte proclaiming amateur radio weeks or months.
HB1483
Information Only01:12:02.543 - 2:10:49 PM
Jennifer O'Leary provides clarification on the bill's language, noting that references to 'decals' imply decal plates for nonprofits, which may not align with the intent for a new plate design with a lightning bolt. The fiscal note reflects costs for a new plate type, estimated at $25,000. She confirms the department would not object to an amendment changing it to a stamped plate and offers to assist in drafting language.
HB1483
Support01:14:23.971 - 2:13:10 PM
Tom Walsh addresses the decal versus plate issue, suggesting the enacting clause may need review but the rest does not reference decals. He explains the historical context of high costs for plates leading to decal programs, but with new DMV procedures reducing costs dramatically, supports moving to full plates. He hopes the committee supports the bill and offers to follow up on amendment needs.
HB1698
Support01:17:36.814 - 2:16:23 PM
Tom Mannion introduces the bill, explaining it arose from constituent concerns during HB2 discussions on legalizing electronic IDs. Fears stem from COVID-era uses of digital IDs in other countries to enforce compliance, such as vaccine status or speech restrictions, potentially blocking access to services. He aims to ensure electronic IDs remain optional, not mandated, and businesses are not forced to accept them, addressing privacy and civil liberties concerns to alleviate community fears.
HB1698
Information Only01:20:53.723 - 2:19:40 PM
John Marasco states the DMV has no issue with the bill. Mobile driver's licenses in other states are opt-in, with best practices requiring carrying the physical card alongside. New Hampshire law already allows mobile licenses with future funding, and the bill reinforces optionality without reversing existing statute. He clarifies electronic credentials primarily refer to mobile driver's licenses, usable for driving, law enforcement scans, age verification with selective info disclosure, and TSA checkpoints.
HB1594
Support01:24:55.663 - 2:23:42 PM
Seth Miller explains the bill promotes proportionality in EV registration fees, originally set at a flat $100 to replace gas tax revenue based on average mileage. It shifts to tiered fees by gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) for easier implementation: no fee for vehicles under 1,000 lbs (e.g., small scooters with minimal road damage); $50 for 1,000-3,000 lbs (neighborhood EVs); $100 for 3,000-8,000 lbs (most cars); higher for over 8,000 lbs. This ensures fair share based on weight and damage, avoiding definitional issues with evolving vehicle types.
HB1594
Information Only01:32:31.791 - 2:31:18 PM
Jennifer O'Leary confirms the bill tiers the existing $100 EV fee by weight for equity, e.g., small mopeds no longer pay the full amount despite limited use. The fiscal note covers system changes for fee collection and distribution to municipalities and state accounts, including a one-time $45,000 charge. She notes the original $100 was based on estimated gas tax loss from average annual mileage but defers on revenue impact calculations.
HB2026
Information Only01:39:11.979 - 2:37:58 PM
Introduces House Bill 2026 regarding the 10-year transportation plan. Explains that the plan presented to the Governor and Council had a $300-400 million shortfall, leading to cuts in projects. The Executive Council added back 13 projects costing $255 million. Public Works, in consultation with DOT, approved 11 of those for $23 million and cut the two largest for $233 million savings. They also approved one additional project for $6.8 million. Refers to his amendment on the first page and a blue sheet recap. Defers questions to DOT representatives.
HB2026
Information Only01:40:36.364 - 2:39:23 PM
Acknowledges and applauds the work of the Public Works Committee in developing the 10-year plan through hearings and consultations with the Department of Transportation.
HB2026
Information Only01:41:10.878 - 2:39:57 PM
Introduces himself and Toby Reynolds, director of project development. Offers to provide information or present on the 10-year plan. Notes handouts including the plan book, presentation on GASIT process, and change log showing adjustments from draft to final version after Governor and House Public Works changes. Allows Toby to proceed with the presentation.
HB2026
Information Only01:43:12.135 - 2:41:59 PM
Presents detailed overview of the 10-year transportation plan, a $4.5 billion plan over 10 years, broken into roads/bridges (85%) and other modes (air, rail, transit). Covers funding sources: federal, state, turnpike. Discusses flat revenues, rising costs due to inflation, and strategies for fiscal constraint. Highlights guiding principles: maintenance, preservation, safety. Details changes in state funding (betterment revenues flat, redirection of road toll for debt service, $20M reduction offset partially by federal funds). For federal portion (62% of plan), notes assumptions on reauthorization, increased inflation rate to 4.4%, indirect cost rate to 12%, project delays adding $130M, leading to $400M overprogramming. Prioritizes preservation ($1.4B), red list and non-red list bridges, local agency projects; ranks 88 individual projects, keeping 39, delaying 15 ($200M construction removed), removing 34 ($100M). No new projects added. For turnpikes (13%), revenues flat post-pandemic, operating costs rising; reviews capital projects like Nashua-Merrimack-Bedford (continuing), Bow-Concord and Manchester Exit 6/7 (design continue, no construction funds; adds $75M for red list bridges if no expansion). Suggests toll increase ($1 at major plazas) for funding expansions and safety projects. Covers Transportation Alternatives Program: $33M for 17 non-motorized projects from 30 applications. Summarizes GASIT hearings: 26 hearings, 119 participants, 762 comments; themes include support for maintenance, fiscal balance, local projects, mobility services, toll increases, and key expansions like Bow-Concord and Manchester exits. Notes changes: GASIT added projects and $256M for Manchester; House removed the $256M. Concludes presentation.
HB2026
Information Only02:06:15.427 - 3:05:02 PM
The representative explains that a potential toll increase would allow toll funds to cover certain projects like red-listed bridges in the Bow-Concord corridor and improvements to the southbound on-ramp at Manchester Exit 6, freeing up approximately $86.6 million in federal funds for other state projects, including those removed from the current plan to achieve fiscal constraint. They describe three categories of projects adjusted in the plan: fully funded ones that remained, partially funded (PE and ROW only) that could be restored with additional revenue, and those completely removed. The list of potential projects to add back was discussed with House Public Works, and they offer to provide amendment language to incorporate these if the toll bill passes.
HB2026
Information Only02:14:05.758 - 3:12:52 PM
The official reports that as of January 1, there are 114 state red list bridges and 211 municipal red list bridges. They note that the department is maintaining a steady number by addressing as many as come onto the list, but additional funding would help prevent bridges from reaching critical posted or closed status, emphasizing safety and mobility impacts when bridges are restricted.
HB2026
Information Only02:08:51.747 - 3:07:38 PM
The member requests amendment language from the department to add projects back into the 10-year plan contingent on the toll increase passing, highlighting the elimination of regional planning commission projects and the potential to free up over $75 million, possibly up to $200 million, for broader state needs.
HB2026
Information Only02:10:03.427 - 3:08:50 PM
Responding to questions, the representative confirms the $86.6 million figure for freed-up funds and offers to discuss options for prioritizing projects similar to those presented to House Public Works.
HB2026
Information Only02:12:40.007 - 3:11:27 PM
The chair inquires about the status of the bridge reconstruction between Charlestown and Springfield, Vermont, confirming it is programmed for 2027.
HB2026
Information Only02:16:15.323 - 3:15:02 PM
The member requests confirmation on providing amendment language for toll-related project additions and suggests discussing priorities similar to the House version.
HB2026
Support02:17:39.935 - 3:16:26 PM
The senator introduces amendment 2024-1474s to HB 2026, which authorizes the transfer of certain land acquired under the land conservation investment program to the town of New Boston for reconstructing the Greg Mill Road bridge. She emphasizes its importance for the town and calls witnesses to testify.
HB2026
Support02:17:39.935 - 3:16:26 PM
Bozak testifies in support of the amendment to obtain easements on two parcels owned by the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources for the Greg Mill Road bridge replacement project. The bridge is deteriorating but not yet on the red list, and the project requires temporary and permanent easements for slopes and construction around the bridge area. The legislative process via this amendment is faster than the alternative through the governor and council, avoiding delays. The town has funding secured and requests no additional money.
HB2026
Support02:20:58.536 - 3:19:45 PM
Joseph supports the amendment, noting the firm has been designing the project with the town for years, completing preliminary engineering and permitting but stalled on easements for two adjacent parcels under conservation easement. The in-kind replacement requires slight expansion outside the existing right-of-way for safety, as the current bridge is load-posted at 15 tons, only 18 feet wide (vs. 24 feet standard), with poor sight distances. Delaying for the next session would add at least a year and increase costs due to inflation; the amendment allows progress to keep the project on budget and schedule.
HB2026
Support02:26:18.718 - 3:25:05 PM
Byron stresses the urgency of widening the Greg Mill Road bridge for safety, given New Boston's population growth from 1,400 to nearly 7,000 over 48 years. Larger town equipment (from 6- to 10-wheelers), increased EMS and fire truck traffic, and the narrow 18-foot width make the bridge inadequate. The project is imperative for accommodating modern needs and ensuring safe passage.
HB2026
Information Only02:28:53.614 - 3:27:40 PM
The commissioner clarifies that this easement issue is not typically handled through the 10-year plan, as the project was scheduled for FY25 but delayed. The amendment seeks legislative relief to bypass the lengthy process through court, long-range capital, and governor/council approval. While unsure if similar cases occurred before, they note projects have been added via amendments in the past and suggest it could be included as an asterisk or standalone, but support moving forward to avoid further delays.
HB2026
Support02:32:04.193 - 3:30:51 PM
Colin Lentz from the Stratford Regional Planning Commission, representing 18 communities from Wakefield to Newmarket, Northwood, and Nottingham, empathized with the DOT's position on project cuts and requested the legislature to raise more state revenue to match federal and local funds. He highlighted concerns over cut safety projects in Madbury and Middleton, noting 137 fatalities in 2025 and 20 so far this year. He mentioned construction funding cuts for US 4 and 152 intersection in Northwood and the 108 corridor in Dover, Rochester, and Somersworth, plus $8 million in general local safety improvements. The plan includes $25 million in new bridge and intersection projects from dedicated funds and $3.1 million in transportation alternatives for Farmington and Durham. He supported Senate Bill 627's graduated approach for long-term funding tied to inflation and emphasized public transit's economic return, requesting eligibility for gas tax and turnpike revenues for providers like COAST.
HB1095 154s
Support02:43:31.965 - 3:42:18 PM
Rich Parsons explained the compromise delaying the effective date to May 1, 2028, aligning with potential GIA fund increases via registration effective that date. This delay cools tensions with landowners, allowing productive discussions on trail access without immediate closures, and opens doors for future resolutions.
HB1095 154s
Support02:44:38.385 - 3:43:25 PM
Jason Stock supported the two-year postponement to assess measures like increasing grant and aid support, OHRV enforcement, and adjusting registration rates via HB2. It relieves immediate pressure on landowners, who agree to keep trails open at the current 2000-pound limit, addressing property damage and law enforcement concerns while allowing stakeholder conversations.
HB1095 154s
Vote02:47:13.165 - 3:46:00 PM
The committee introduced and passed amendment 154s changing the effective date to May 1, 2028, then voted ought to pass as amended unanimously.
HB1362 1601s
Vote02:48:35.411 - 3:47:22 PM
The committee introduced amendment 1601s with effective date upon passage per department request, then voted ought to pass as amended unanimously.
HB1698
Vote02:49:21.733 - 3:48:08 PM
The committee discussed HB 1698, noting department support for the electronic provision, and voted ought to pass unanimously.