Committee Summary for House Commerce and Consumer Affairs (02/18/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB138 2024-0138h 00:09:54.040 - 9:07:30 AM	Executive Session	relative to tax impact notation on warrant articles with multi-year tax impacts.	Pauer, Diane(R)[A]2024
HB639 2024-0445h 00:17:03.600 - 9:14:39 AM	Executive Session	relative to the use of and disputes over blockchain and digital currencies.	Ammon, Keith(R)[A+]2024
HB41 Pending 00:35:43.240 - 9:33:19 AM	Executive Session	relative to the management of paint	Likely Text to Speech Error on Bill #
Unclear None 01:04:30.279 - 10:02:06 AM	Executive Session	relative to cannabis
HB276 Pending 01:07:07.640 - 10:04:43 AM	Executive Session	removing the requirement that on-premises beverage licensees serve food.	Hemingway, Wayne(R)

HB138 2024-0138h: Representative Ammon Information Only00:09:54.040 - 9:07:30 AM; Representative Ammon clarified that the gold held by the U.S. government is statutorily defined at a value much lower than its current market value, which could impact the state treasurer's rationale for investing in gold. This discussion is relevant to the state's potential investment in digital assets as part of the bill's considerations.
HB138 2024-0138h: Representative Spears Information Only00:10:39.160 - 9:08:15 AM; Representative Spears seconded the motion to pass the amendment on HB138. No additional comments or sentiments were provided.
HB138 2024-0138h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:11:25.200 - 9:09:01 AM; The speaker discussed the historical context of the gold standard and its relevance to the current bill. They noted that while the U.S. is no longer on the gold standard, the gold held by the government still represents a hard asset behind the dollar, which could be relevant to the state's considerations of digital asset investments.
HB138 2024-0138h: Keith Information Only00:12:12.519 - 9:09:48 AM; Keith provided additional information on the gold standard and its impact on the current bill, noting that the statutory price of gold held by the government is significantly lower than the market value. This could affect the state's approach to digital asset mining as outlined in the bill.
HB138 2024-0138h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:12:59.880 - 9:10:35 AM; The speaker reiterated that the gold held by the government is undervalued statutorily compared to its market value. They emphasized that this discrepancy has no direct impact on the bill but is important for understanding the state's financial position in relation to digital assets.
HB138 2024-0138h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:13:45.600 - 9:11:21 AM; The speaker discussed the state treasurer's role in rationalizing investments in gold, noting that the federal government's undervaluation of gold as collateral does not directly affect the bill but is relevant for understanding the broader financial context.
HB138 2024-0138h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:14:32.279 - 9:12:08 AM; The speaker mentioned that the state treasurer has tools to work with but is constrained by a board of directors and evaluation services like Standard & Poor's and Moody's. They clarified that the bill does not mandate investment in gold but provides the treasurer with future flexibility.
HB138 2024-0138h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:15:20.800 - 9:12:56 AM; The speaker confirmed that the statutory price of gold would not be used in transactions, as the federal government is not selling its gold reserves. They emphasized that the bill's focus is on digital assets and not on gold transactions.
HB138 2024-0138h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:16:17.720 - 9:13:53 AM; The speaker announced that the amendment 0138h on HB138 was passed, and they requested the drafting of a report on the amendment to be ready in two weeks.
HB639 2024-0445h: Representative Ammon Information Only00:17:03.600 - 9:14:39 AM; Representative Ammon introduced an amendment to HB639, which removed the private key aspect from the bill. He noted that definitions related to home digital asset mining and private keys were no longer used and thus removed.
HB639 2024-0445h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:17:49.840 - 9:15:25 AM; The speaker confirmed that the amendment to HB639 removed definitions and sections related to private keys and home digital asset mining, and clarified that the paragraph on holding and use of private digital currencies remained unchanged.
HB639 2024-0445h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:18:35.480 - 9:16:11 AM; The speaker discussed changes made to the bill based on feedback from the municipal association, including striking specific limits on decibels and removing provisions about incentivizing staking and zoning changes.
HB639 2024-0445h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:19:22.000 - 9:16:58 AM; The speaker mentioned that discriminatory rates for digital asset mining businesses were defined in the bill's definitions section, and that the rates must be the same for all businesses.
HB639 2024-0445h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:20:10.679 - 9:17:46 AM; The speaker confirmed the removal of the right to private keys section and its reassignment to the oversight commission for further consideration.
HB639 2024-0445h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:20:58.159 - 9:18:34 AM; The speaker discussed the regulatory aspect of the bill, noting that the Attorney General's office would enforce any violations by state or local government agencies regarding the use of private digital currencies.
HB639 2024-0445h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:21:44.440 - 9:19:20 AM; The speaker confirmed that no specific regulatory division would be established for the bill, but it would fall under the jurisdiction of the Attorney General's office and the committee.
HB639 2024-0445h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:22:30.200 - 9:20:06 AM; The speaker discussed the purpose of the bill, emphasizing that it aims to prevent discriminatory treatment of digital currency and blockchain mining in zoning and utility regulations.
HB639 2024-0445h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:23:15.360 - 9:20:51 AM; The speaker addressed concerns about electricity usage, noting that digital asset mining can adjust its load based on electricity prices, which helps manage grid capacity.
HB639 2024-0445h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:24:01.200 - 9:21:37 AM; The speaker discussed the volatility of Bitcoin and clarified that the bill does not allow miners to pay their electric bills in Bitcoin, ensuring that bills must be paid in dollars.
HB639 2024-0445h: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:24:49.279 - 9:22:25 AM; The speaker mentioned the removal of the blockchain-based trusts section from the bill, suggesting it be studied further under another bill.
HB639 2024-0445h: Representative Ammon Information Only00:25:35.919 - 9:23:11 AM; Representative Ammon moved to pass the amendment on HB639 as amended, with no further discussion.
HB41 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:35:43.240 - 9:33:19 AM; The speaker discussed the removal of the fee assessment from the bill, expressing concern about the fee being managed by the paint manufacturers' subcontractor. They noted that the plan would still be reviewed by the Department of Environmental Services (DES).
HB41 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:36:30.440 - 9:34:06 AM; The speaker addressed the liability section of the bill, clarifying that it is intended to prevent antitrust issues among paint manufacturers and does not exempt them from responsibility for any misuse of paint.
HB41 Pending: Jonathan Malanson with Demmer Prol and Thomas representing the American Coatings Association Information Only00:37:16.280 - 9:34:52 AM; Jonathan Malanson clarified that the bill defines environmentally sound management practices and ensures that paint manufacturers are responsible for any messes or cleanups.
HB41 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:38:05.240 - 9:35:41 AM; The speaker confirmed that DES would review the plan submitted by paint manufacturers to ensure compliance with state statutes and environmental practices.
HB41 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:38:53.720 - 9:36:29 AM; The speaker discussed the straw vote on the amendment, noting that it would be finalized in the exact session once the language is confirmed.
Unclear None: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:04:30.279 - 10:02:06 AM; The speaker announced a motion to retain the cannabis bill, with no discussion, and the vote was unanimous.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:07:07.640 - 10:04:43 AM; The speaker discussed the process of obtaining a tavern license, noting that it would require an affirmative vote from the town before the license could be issued. They also mentioned the need for an amendment to include this requirement.
HB276 Pending: Danielle Ellon, Deputy Chief, New Hampshire Liquor Enforcement Information Only01:08:40.399 - 10:06:16 AM; Danielle Ellon clarified that the tavern license would be for establishments serving only alcohol, with no food, and would be restricted to those over 21. She noted that the license could also allow for nightclubs and late-night establishments, which influenced the age restriction.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:09:26.120 - 10:07:02 AM; The speaker mentioned that the tavern license would be optional for towns, with the town needing to vote to allow such licenses. They emphasized the potential for local opposition due to the association of alcohol-only establishments with trouble.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:10:11.360 - 10:07:47 AM; The speaker discussed the need for towns to have an affirmative vote before a tavern license could be issued, suggesting that this process would be similar to that used for Keno.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:11:52.920 - 10:09:28 AM; The speaker addressed concerns about the tavern license leading to corruption, suggesting the removal of language that allows towns to limit the number of licenses to prevent such issues.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:12:38.159 - 10:10:14 AM; The speaker proposed a higher fee for the tavern license, suggesting it be a multiple of the highest current liquor license fee to account for the increased enforcement effort required.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:13:27.239 - 10:11:03 AM; The speaker discussed the potential for corruption if towns could limit the number of tavern licenses, emphasizing the need for an amendment to ensure fairness.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:14:14.040 - 10:11:50 AM; The speaker noted that the tavern license would be optional for towns, requiring an affirmative vote before any licenses could be issued.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:15:00.480 - 10:12:36 AM; The speaker discussed the potential for towns to limit the number of tavern licenses, expressing concern about corruption and the need to remove such provisions from the bill.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:15:47.120 - 10:13:23 AM; The speaker emphasized the need for an amendment to ensure that towns must vote affirmatively before any tavern licenses can be issued.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:16:33.960 - 10:14:09 AM; The speaker discussed the process of applying for a tavern license, noting that the application should include proof of the town's affirmative vote.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:17:19.520 - 10:14:55 AM; The speaker mentioned the need for a higher fee for the tavern license, suggesting it be a multiple of the highest current liquor license fee to cover enforcement costs.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:18:05.679 - 10:15:41 AM; The speaker discussed the potential for towns to limit the number of tavern licenses, expressing concern about corruption and the need to remove such provisions from the bill.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:18:52.639 - 10:16:28 AM; The speaker proposed a higher fee for the tavern license, suggesting it be a multiple of the highest current liquor license fee to account for the increased enforcement effort required.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:19:38.120 - 10:17:14 AM; The speaker discussed the potential for towns to limit the number of tavern licenses, expressing concern about corruption and the need to remove such provisions from the bill.
HB276 Pending: Representative Ammon Information Only00:09:54.040 - 9:07:30 AM; Representative Ammon provided information regarding the subcommittee's composition and moved to pass the amendment 0138h. They mentioned that six members of the committee were present and outlined the motion.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:10:39.160 - 9:08:15 AM; An unidentified speaker discussed the gold standard and its implications, mentioning historical context with FDR and current market value discrepancies. They referenced a discussion about the potential impact of the government's gold on the legislation being considered.
HB276 Pending: Representative Ammon Information Only00:12:59.880 - 9:10:35 AM; Representative Ammon clarified the statutory and market value of gold held by the government, highlighting the difference and its potential impact on state investments in gold. They mentioned a conversation with the state treasurer about the flexibility of investment tools.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:15:20.800 - 9:12:56 AM; The speaker discussed the voting on amendment 0138h, confirming unanimous support among the present members. They mentioned the need for the committee clerk to prepare a report on the amendment.
HB276 Pending: Representative Ammon Information Only00:16:17.720 - 9:13:53 AM; Representative Ammon introduced amendment 0445h and outlined changes made to the bill, including the removal of definitions and sections related to private keys and digital asset mining. They discussed feedback from the municipal association that influenced the amendment.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:22:30.200 - 9:20:06 AM; The speaker raised questions about the regulatory body for digital currency and the enforcement of restrictions by local governments. They discussed the role of the Attorney General and the committee's oversight.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Support00:25:35.919 - 9:23:11 AM; The speaker expressed support for the bill, emphasizing its prophylactic nature to prevent discriminatory zoning regulations against digital currency businesses. They argued that the bill ensures fairness in local noise and utility regulations.
HB276 Pending: Representative Bros Information Only00:26:22.799 - 9:23:58 AM; Representative Bros inquired about the protection of neighborhoods from excessive electricity usage by digital asset mining operations. They expressed concern about potential impacts on local power grids.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:27:54.440 - 9:25:30 AM; The speaker discussed utilities' management of power distribution and the voluntary nature of power conservation requests. They also humorously mentioned personal use of air conditioners and their impact on noise.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:30:15.919 - 9:27:51 AM; The speaker explained the variable load nature of digital asset mining and its potential to stabilize the electric grid by absorbing excess capacity. They addressed concerns about the impact on local communities.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:31:49.360 - 9:29:25 AM; The speaker discussed the volatility of cryptocurrency and confirmed that digital asset mining businesses would still need to pay electric bills in dollars, not cryptocurrency. They mentioned the removal of a section on blockchain-based trusts for further study.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:35:43.240 - 9:33:19 AM; The speaker provided context about a new amendment related to a paint recycling program, expressing concerns about a fee assessment and its implications. They clarified that the amendment removes statements about the fee and focuses on the plan's oversight by the Department of Environmental Services.
HB276 Pending: Jonathan Malanson, Demmer Prol and Thomas, American Coatings Association Information Only00:42:43.480 - 9:40:19 AM; Jonathan Malanson clarified the environmental responsibilities of the paint recycling program, emphasizing that participants must follow environmentally sound practices and that the Department of Environmental Services would oversee the plan.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:04:30.279 - 10:02:06 AM; The speaker discussed retaining a cannabis-related bill and moved to vote on retaining it, confirming unanimous support from the subcommittee members present.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:07:07.640 - 10:04:43 AM; The speaker introduced the discussion on HB276, which involves a tavern license amendment. They mentioned a conversation with a journalist about age restrictions in Vermont and the rationale behind the proposed 21+ restriction for taverns in New Hampshire.
HB276 Pending: Danielle Ellon, Deputy Chief, New Hampshire Liquor Enforcement Information Only01:08:40.399 - 10:06:16 AM; Danielle Ellon explained that the proposed 21+ age restriction for taverns was due to the lack of food service, which could attract underage patrons. They discussed the potential for taverns to become nightclubs and the associated concerns.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:11:52.920 - 10:09:28 AM; The speaker discussed the process of notifying towns about liquor license applications and the need for an affirmative vote from the town before issuing a tavern license. They suggested amending the bill to include this requirement.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:17:19.520 - 10:14:55 AM; The speaker expressed concerns about potential corruption if towns could limit the number of tavern licenses. They suggested removing this provision and ensuring that towns have to affirmatively vote to allow tavern licenses.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:20:34.719 - 10:18:10 AM; The speaker discussed the need for towns to affirmatively vote for tavern licenses before applications can be accepted. They suggested that this requirement be added to the bill to ensure local control.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:27:44.040 - 10:25:20 AM; The speaker raised concerns about crime associated with taverns without food service, referencing a recent shooting incident. They emphasized the need for proactive town involvement in approving tavern licenses.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:28:32.440 - 10:26:08 AM; The speaker discussed the need for an amendment that would require towns to vote affirmatively on allowing tavern licenses, similar to the process for keno. They suggested this be added to the application process.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:30:05.560 - 10:27:41 AM; The speaker mentioned the application process for other types of licenses and the importance of town approval. They suggested that the tavern license application should include confirmation of town approval.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:31:38.040 - 10:29:14 AM; The speaker discussed the need for towns to vote on allowing tavern license applications and the normal application process that would follow. They confirmed that warrant articles could be initiated by petition.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:32:24.239 - 10:30:00 AM; The speaker suggested including language on tavern license applications encouraging establishments to offer bar food. They discussed liability concerns and the balancing of costs with the absence of food service.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:33:59.960 - 10:31:35 AM; The speaker discussed the historical context of liquor licensing fees and the enforcement efforts required for establishments without food. They suggested a higher fee to cover enforcement costs.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:36:18.480 - 10:33:54 AM; The speaker proposed setting the tavern license fee at $6,400, a multiple of the highest current fee, to reflect the increased enforcement efforts required. They mentioned the Senate's potential stance on the bill.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:39:23.880 - 10:36:59 AM; The speaker discussed the potential for taverns to serve food if they choose, subject to local health regulations. They expressed concerns about the proposed amendment and the potential impact on local law enforcement.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:46:03.800 - 10:43:39 AM; The speaker discussed the potential for crime related to taverns without food, emphasizing age as a significant factor in crime rates. They argued against the idea that food requirements alone could prevent crime.
HB276 Pending: Representative Bros Information Only01:47:36.880 - 10:45:12 AM; Representative Bros expressed concerns about drunk driving associated with taverns without food service. They argued that the primary goal of patrons might not be to eat, challenging the effectiveness of food requirements in preventing crime.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:49:08.960 - 10:46:44 AM; The speaker discussed the historical context of liquor licensing post-prohibition and the role of food requirements in ensuring responsible alcohol sales. They expressed concerns about the financial responsibility of tavern owners.
HB276 Pending: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:54:30.239 - 10:52:06 AM; The speaker discussed the potential for taverns to operate alongside other businesses, such as pizza shops, and the economic viability of such arrangements. They questioned the impact of taverns on local economies and crime.

Hunt, John(Chairman)(R)[B+]2024	Post, Lisa(Clerk)(R)[A]2024	Potucek, John(V Chairman)(R)[A]2024
Salvi, Santosh(D)	Chourasia, Manoj(D)	Ammon, Keith(R)[A+]2024
Herbert, Christopher(D)[F]2024	Osborne, Jason(R)[A]2024	Cole, Brian(R)[B-]2024
Walsh, Lilli(R)[B]2024	Porcelli, Susan(R)[A-]2024	Spier, Carry(D)[CT]2024
Burroughs, Anita(D)[CT]2024	Gibbs, Merryl(D)[CT]2024	McAleer, Chris(D)[CT]2024
Sullivan, Jared(D)[D+]2024	Miles, Julie(R)	Presa, Adam(R)