Committee Summary for House Criminal Justice and Public Safety (01/29/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB257 00:34:57.400 - 9:03:48 AM	General Working Session	establishing the crime of criminal neglect of a child.	Rollins, Skip(R)[A-]2024
HB405 00:43:42.319 - 9:12:33 AM	General Working Session	establishing a committee to study approaches to combat store-front sex trafficking in New Hampshire.	Layon, Erica(R)[A]2024
HB500 02:34:39.680 - 11:03:30 AM	Public Hearing	establishing enhanced enforcement zones for motor vehicle speed enforcement, increasing penalties for speeding in those zones by 50 percent, and establishing the enhanced enforcement zone fund to assist with funding enhanced enforcement.	Pearson, Stephen(R)[B]2024
HB245 03:35:01.160 - 12:03:52 PM	Public Hearing	establishing the speed enforcement and awareness fund and providing for grants to municipal law enforcement for speed enforcement and speed awareness traffic equipment.	Ammon, Keith(R)[A+]2024
HB592 2025-the 04:32:39.080 - 1:01:30 PM	Public Hearing	relative to magistrates and the standards applicable to and the administration of bail.	Berry, Ross(R)[A-]2024
HB75 05:35:41.400 - 2:04:32 PM	Executive Session	legalizing cannabis for persons 21 years of age or older.	Verville, Kevin(R)[B+]2024
HB91 05:39:08.040 - 2:07:59 PM	Executive Session	relative to the presence of a fire department at a fireworks display.	St. Clair, Charlie(D)[D-]2024
HB183 05:41:29.280 - 2:10:20 PM	Executive Session	relative to reporting requirements for emergency medical services personnel.	Proulx, Mark(R)[B]2024
HB416 05:50:04.638 - 2:18:55 PM	Executive Session	prohibiting the intentional disposal of yard waste into the surface waters of the state.	Rung, Rosemarie(D)[CT]2024
HB291 2025-the 05:54:55.520 - 2:23:46 PM	Executive Session	removing certain penalties for incorrect application of fertilizers.	Layon, Erica(R)[A]2024
HB57 06:03:18.120 - 2:32:09 PM	Executive Session	relative to a person’s release from prison for the purpose of participating in certain post-secondary education programs in the community.	Meuse, David(D)[CT]2024

HB257: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:34:57.400 - 9:03:48 AM; The speaker opened the subcommittee work session on House Bill 257, which is referred to as Charlotte's Law. The bill aims to establish the crime of criminal neglect of a child. The speaker read the bill's content, which defines criminal neglect as negligently failing to provide necessary care, food, clothing, medical care, shelter, and protection from ingestion or exposure to drugs, which seriously endangers the child's physical, mental, or emotional health. The bill specifies that a violation resulting in a child's death is a class A felony, bodily injury or becoming a victim of certain offenses is a class B felony, and any other violation is a class A misdemeanor. The speaker mentioned that the committee discussed the necessity of class A and B felonies for different levels of neglect.
HB257: Representative Shar Information Only00:38:02.520 - 9:06:53 AM; Representative Shar expressed appreciation for the County attorneys who brought forward the bill. They discussed the broader issue of when the criminal justice system should intervene, especially when parents are already involved in the Division for Children, Youth and Families (DCF) process, which can result in termination of parental rights. They noted that DCF is underfunded and may not address as many families as needed. The testimony highlighted the struggle County attorneys face with the existing child endangerment statute (RSA 639:3) due to the requirement of proving 'purposely' causing harm, which is difficult in many cases. Representative Shar proposed changing 'purposely' to 'knowingly' to make it easier to prove cases and address the issues in HB257.
HB257: County Attorney Information Only01:31:48.639 - 10:00:39 AM; The County Attorney discussed the challenges of prosecuting under the existing statutes. They explained that the proposed bill aims to address cases with a negligent mental state, which are not covered by existing laws. They mentioned that similar legislation in the Senate (SB23) does not fully address the need for a criminal statute alongside civil avenues. The attorney emphasized the importance of having a criminal statute to provide law enforcement options and deterrence, as well as offering services to offenders to help them comply with DCF plans.
HB257: Chief Alex Lee, Newport Support01:39:39.360 - 10:08:30 AM; Chief Alex Lee from Newport expressed support for the bill from a law enforcement perspective. He emphasized the need for a provable culpable mental state in the legislation to ensure it can be effectively used. Chief Lee highlighted the importance of having the right tools for different child protection cases and noted that the current bill's framework is useful for law enforcement. He offered to work with the committee on any amendments needed to address various scenarios.
HB257: Attorney Lisa Massio, Office of the Child Advocate Oppose01:43:11.000 - 10:12:02 AM; Attorney Lisa Massio from the Office of the Child Advocate expressed concerns about the bill as written. They noted that neglect is a defined term in RSA 169-C and the bill's language is broad and vague. The Office of the Child Advocate has been working on other bills (SB23 and HB553) that they believe can fill the gaps in the system more effectively. They are hesitant to add another crime, as it could complicate family reunification and service provision, and prefer enhancing existing statutes rather than creating new ones.
HB405: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:43:42.319 - 9:12:33 AM; The speaker opened the subcommittee work session on House Bill 405, which addresses sex trafficking storefronts in New Hampshire. They noted that the committee had previously decided to move forward with legislation instead of further study. The speaker invited anyone with specific language proposals to come forward and share them.
HB405: Representative Charles Foot, Derry Support00:44:28.359 - 9:13:19 AM; Representative Charles Foot from Derry expressed support for the bill, highlighting the need for affirmative action to address sex trafficking. He noted that surrounding states and communities have made it a class B felony to harbor or knowingly allow these businesses to operate. Foot encouraged the committee to amend the bill to make it a felony in New Hampshire to effectively stop these activities. He also mentioned ongoing discussions with law enforcement and Homeland Security about the issue.
HB405: Dave Karen, Town Administrator, Derry Support00:49:54.799 - 9:18:45 AM; Dave Karen, the Town Administrator from Derry, supported the bill and emphasized the challenges faced by law enforcement due to language barriers and lack of cooperation from workers in massage parlors. He proposed a three-pronged approach: a Statewide database for licensure without reciprocity, requiring workers to be licensed to specific locations, and having landlords assume responsibility for tenants. He noted the success of similar measures in other states.
HB405: Pamela, Coalition Support00:50:42.079 - 9:19:33 AM; Pamela from the Coalition supported the bill and suggested focusing on the business practice aspect within the prostitution statute. She proposed raising the misdemeanor in paragraph E to a felony to give more teeth to the law. Pamela emphasized the need for both law enforcement and regulatory approaches and mentioned ongoing efforts to explore licensing and regulatory solutions.
HB405: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:53:00.000 - 9:21:51 AM; The speaker discussed the possibility of creating a commission to address human trafficking in all its aspects, rather than just focusing on the issue at hand. They noted the need for ongoing monitoring and the ability to change statutes as necessary. The speaker suggested that the commission could cover immigration, missing children, and other related issues.
HB405: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:54:32.160 - 9:23:23 AM; The speaker mentioned the existing multi-disciplinary task force in New Hampshire that deals with human trafficking, including Homeland Security and crisis center advocates. They suggested that having a legislator involved in the task force could improve communication and legislative action. The speaker also noted that the task force is restructuring and has completed a Statewide needs assessment, which could help shape future legislation.
HB405: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:56:51.760 - 9:25:42 AM; The speaker discussed the challenges of regulating massage establishments and individual therapists, noting that establishments are not licensed, only individual therapists. They suggested empowering municipalities to require licensing or registration for massage businesses to allow local health departments to check licenses. The speaker also mentioned the difficulty of holding landlords accountable and the passive nature of the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification (OPLC).
HB405: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:02:15.319 - 9:31:06 AM; The speaker mentioned that the task force works closely with Homeland Security officers, who support the idea of making the ownership or control of establishments involved in sex trafficking a felony. They noted the challenge of proving a 'knowingly' mental state and suggested alternative language like 'recklessly' could be considered. The speaker also emphasized the importance of having a legislator on the task force to improve the flow of ideas to the legislature.
HB500: Representative Steve Pearson, Rockingham District 13 (Derry) Support02:34:39.680 - 11:03:30 AM; Representative Steve Pearson from Derry introduced House Bill 500, which aims to establish enhanced enforcement zones on divided highways to address speeding issues. He shared his experience as a firefighter in Manchester, noting the significant speed problem on interstates. Pearson proposed that fines for speeding 15 miles per hour over the limit within these zones be increased by 50%, with the additional revenue going into a non-lapsing fund to pay for enhanced enforcement by the state police. He emphasized that the goal is to increase compliance and safety on highways, not to generate revenue.
HB500: Unidentified Representative Information Only02:51:16.520 - 11:20:07 AM; The unidentified representative raised concerns about increasing awareness of speed enforcement to deter speeding rather than relying solely on enforcement after violations occur. They suggested that signs indicating speed enforcement might be beneficial, particularly at state borders, and questioned the necessity of explicit signage about speed limit enforcement.
HB500: Matt Amuchi, New Hampshire State Police Information Only02:53:26.960 - 11:22:17 AM; Matt Amuchi from the New Hampshire State Police provided statistics and information on speed violations. He noted a significant increase in speed-related summons from 2022 to 2024, particularly in zones with speed limits of 65 mph and above, and suggested that increasing fines by 50% could serve as a deterrent. He also discussed the potential effectiveness of strategically posting enhanced enforcement zones based on crash and speed data. Amuchi emphasized the importance of education and warnings in deterring speeding and was neutral on the bill, stating that the State Police did not propose it.
HB500: Representative Newman Information Only02:59:00.880 - 11:27:51 AM; Representative Newman inquired about the effectiveness of speed enforcement by aircraft. They were curious if the presence of aircraft served as a deterrent even when not actively enforcing speed limits. Amuchi confirmed that the aircraft is effective and explained that signs are used to warn drivers of enforcement ahead, suggesting that this could act as a deterrent.
HB500: Unidentified Representative (concerned about youth accidents) Information Only03:02:22.920 - 11:31:13 AM; The unidentified representative, a parent of two children, expressed concern about youth accidents and inquired whether speed was a significant factor. Amuchi responded that speed, along with distracted and impaired driving, is a common factor in fatalities across all age groups, including youth.
HB500: Representative Lell Information Only03:03:56.239 - 11:32:47 AM; Representative Lell asked about the use of technology for speed enforcement, specifically if sensors could be used to track vehicle speeds over a distance and issue citations. Amuchi was unaware of such technology being used for speed enforcement but mentioned that license plate readers are used for other purposes like identifying stolen vehicles.
HB500: Representative Murray Information Only03:05:39.960 - 11:34:30 AM; Representative Murray sought clarification on whether citations are ever issued by mail based on speed enforcement technologies. Amuchi confirmed that citations are issued in person, except in rare cases where a ticket might be mailed due to equipment issues, but this would require identifying the driver. Murray also inquired about arrests for speeding, to which Amuchi explained that traveling at speeds of 100 mph or more could lead to a reckless operation charge, which is arrestable but subject to officer discretion.
HB500: Representative Sher Information Only03:08:45.520 - 11:37:36 AM; Representative Sher discussed different types of deterrents for speeding, including fines, increased insurance rates, and loss of license. Amuchi noted that the effectiveness of these deterrents varies based on individual circumstances but emphasized the importance of education alongside enforcement to improve road safety.
HB245: Keith Adman, Representative from Hillsborough District 42 (Mount Vernon, Lyndeborough, New Boston) Support03:35:01.160 - 12:03:52 PM; Representative Keith Adman introduced House Bill 245, which aims to establish a speed enforcement and awareness fund. The fund would provide grants to municipal law enforcement for speed enforcement equipment and speed awareness traffic devices. The idea for the bill originated in New Boston, where Adman resides, due to the town's need for better traffic enforcement tools. Adman emphasized that the bill does not raise or lower fees but redirects a small portion of ticket fees into a state-level pool from which municipalities can apply for grants based on need. He addressed concerns about perverse incentives by explaining that the funds would be distributed to towns with the greatest need, not directly to the departments issuing the tickets. Adman also expressed openness to removing automated speed cameras from the bill if the committee deemed it necessary.
HB245: Matt Amuchi, New Hampshire State Police Information Only03:39:46.640 - 12:08:37 PM; Matt Amuchi from the New Hampshire State Police provided a neutral stance on House Bill 245. He discussed the mission of the Office of Highway Safety, which focuses on reducing traffic-related injuries and fatalities through various strategies, including speed enforcement. Amuchi explained that the office administers federal highway safety funds as a pass-through entity, primarily from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). He noted that NHTSA does not fund automated speed cameras except in school and work zones. Amuchi mentioned that local agencies and state police have not utilized all allocated funds due to staffing issues, suggesting that additional state funding could be beneficial once staffing improves. He encouraged agencies to reach out to the Office of Highway Safety to explore available funds.
HB245: Bill McFaden, Chair of the Select Board of New Boston Support03:44:19.000 - 12:13:10 PM; Bill McFaden, Chair of the Select Board of New Boston, supported House Bill 245. He discussed the speeding issues in New Boston and other small municipalities with tight budgets. McFaden proposed a grant program funded by a portion of traffic ticket revenue to help towns purchase necessary equipment like LIDAR guns and digital speed control devices. He emphasized the effectiveness of these devices in encouraging drivers to adhere to speed limits. McFaden also mentioned the lack of a commercial tax base in New Boston, highlighting the reliance on residential taxes for funding. He confirmed that New Boston works with the Space Force base's security and receives funding for programs like the K9 unit. McFaden noted he would investigate potential grants from NHTSA and report back.
HB592 2025-the: Representative Rosbury, representing the towns of Goffstown and Weare in Hillsborough 39 Support04:32:39.080 - 1:01:30 PM; Representative Rosbury introduced House Bill 592, focusing on magistrates and bail reform. He highlighted the ongoing issues with PR bail, citing recent incidents involving violence by individuals out on bail. He emphasized the need for legislative changes to address these problems, suggesting that the amendment he proposed, developed with the governor's office, aims to end the 'revolving door' of bail by ensuring that those arrested while out on bail or violating bond conditions are not automatically released. He expressed hope that the changes would finally resolve the issues with bail reform.
HB592 2025-the: Miles Mat from the Governor's Office and Tom Valardi, Director of the Division of Public Protection, Department of Justice Support04:35:45.919 - 1:04:36 PM; Miles Mat and Tom Valardi testified in support of the amendment to HB592. They highlighted the amendment's focus on protecting communities and law enforcement by addressing the 'revolving door' issue, particularly for repeat offenders. They referenced empirical evidence supporting the need for reform, emphasizing the governor's commitment to bail reform and the amendment's common-sense approach to detaining individuals who pose a danger or have a history of non-compliance. They discussed specific cases where current laws failed to detain dangerous individuals, underscoring the necessity for the proposed changes.
HB592 2025-the: Jay Rue, Mayor of Manchester Support04:46:19.878 - 1:15:10 PM; Mayor Jay Rue of Manchester expressed support for further bail reform, emphasizing the importance of city safety. He provided examples of violent crimes committed by individuals out on PR bail in Manchester, stressing the need to hold such individuals accountable. He highlighted the strain on police resources due to repeat offenders and suggested that removing these offenders could significantly improve city safety and police morale. He appreciated the committee's efforts and encouraged continued progress on this issue.
HB592 2025-the: Aaron Krian, General Counsel for the Judicial Branch Information Only04:50:56.680 - 1:19:47 PM; Aaron Krian from the Judicial Branch provided information on the impact of the amendment on the judicial system. He noted that the amendment would abolish magistrate positions, which are cost-effective and help manage court workloads. He suggested considering a sunset of these positions at the end of their current terms as an alternative. He also mentioned potential drafting errors in the amendment that could affect detention options and victim testimonies, and logistical concerns about court operations. He expressed willingness to work with the legislature on implementing their policy decisions.
HB592 2025-the: Melissa Davis, representing the New Hampshire Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers Oppose04:56:22.480 - 1:25:13 PM; Melissa Davis opposed the bill, emphasizing the positive outcomes of previous bail reforms, such as reducing the incarceration of individuals for minor crimes due to inability to pay bail. She highlighted the complexities of dealing with individuals with co-occurring disorders and the overall decrease in violent crime in New Hampshire. She expressed concerns that the new bill could lead to cash bail issues again and suggested that the recent bail reform should be given more time to show its effectiveness, including new initiatives like text reminders for court dates and improved data systems.
HB592 2025-the: Major Chris Bashaw of the Rockingham County Sheriff's Office Support05:02:52.000 - 1:31:43 PM; Major Chris Bashaw supported the bill and amendment, discussing the challenges faced by the Sheriff's Office with repeat offenders and the frequent issuance of arrest warrants with PR bail. He described situations where individuals mocked the system, knowing they would be quickly released, and the dangers this posed to law enforcement. He stressed the resource strain and the demoralizing effect on officers, advocating for changes to prevent such occurrences and enhance community safety.
HB592 2025-the: Amanda Zod, Policy Director at the ACLU of New Hampshire Oppose05:05:54.160 - 1:34:45 PM; Amanda Zod opposed HB592, emphasizing the importance of the bail process in ensuring justice and the progress made with previous reforms. She argued that pre-trial detention increases recidivism and negatively impacts individuals and communities, advocating for maintaining the current system to avoid wealth-based incarceration. She highlighted New Hampshire's safety record and the lack of crime increase, urging the committee not to reverse the bipartisan efforts on bail reform. She stressed the need to allow the recent changes more time to operate effectively.
HB592 2025-the: Patrick Sullivan, Executive Director, New Hampshire Association of Chiefs of Police, retired Police Chief from Gtown Support05:12:58.320 - 1:41:49 PM; Patrick Sullivan supports HB592 and its amendment, representing the New Hampshire Association of Chiefs of Police. He emphasizes that the amendment restores the bail statute to its pre-2018 condition, which he believes is essential for allowing defendants to be released while ensuring they appear in court and do not pose a danger to the community. Sullivan criticizes the 2018 bail reform changes (SB 556) for going too far, citing frustration among law enforcement due to dangerous individuals not being held. He appreciates the governor's initiative on this bill and looks forward to collaborating with the committee.
HB592 2025-the: Chad Lavoy, Major, New Hampshire State Police, representing Department of Safety Support05:14:44.200 - 1:43:35 PM; Chad Lavoy supports HB592, stating that the amendment simplifies the bail process and reverts it to the pre-2018 status. He trusts the bail commissioners' ability to determine bail based on multiple factors such as the level of crimes, defendant's history, and public safety. Lavoy highlights that the amendment would save time, resources, and money for their agency, enabling them to focus more on proactive public safety enforcement. He emphasizes the importance of setting appropriate bail to ensure those who are a danger to themselves or others are held accountable.
HB75: Representative Rhods Information Only05:35:41.400 - 2:04:32 PM; Representative Rhods moves for inexpedient to legislate (ITL) on HB75. He explains that the sponsor was unable to testify and hopes that similar language might be addressed in other cannabis-related bills during the session.
HB75: Representative Pro Information Only05:36:27.600 - 2:05:18 PM; Representative Pro seconds the motion for ITL on HB75. He adds that there are multiple cannabis bills coming up and this bill might not be a high priority.
HB75: Representative Murray Oppose05:36:47.240 - 2:05:38 PM; Representative Murray votes against ITL for HB75, expressing support for cannabis expansion and legalization, including home grow, in the state.
HB75: Representative Sher Oppose05:36:47.240 - 2:05:38 PM; Representative Sher votes against ITL for HB75, aligning with Representative Murray's principles on cannabis legalization.
HB91: Representative Pro Information Only05:39:08.040 - 2:07:59 PM; Representative Pro moves ought to pass on HB91, which removes the necessity for a fire department detail to be present from the moment fireworks arrive until they are completely discharged. He believes it gives discretion to the fire department on when their presence is necessary.
HB91: Representative Pette Information Only05:39:57.120 - 2:08:48 PM; Representative Pette seconds the motion for ought to pass on HB91, stating it's a cost-saving measure supported by fire departments, allowing them to decide when their presence is needed during fireworks events.
HB183: Representative Appro Information Only05:41:29.280 - 2:10:20 PM; Representative Appro moves ought to pass on HB183, which aims to remove the unfunded mandate of paying overtime when EMS calls occur near the end of a shift. He notes this would be used for routine calls, with overtime still applicable for significant calls.
HB183: Representative Paquette Information Only05:42:15.558 - 2:11:06 PM; Representative Paquette seconds the motion for ought to pass on HB183, agreeing with the cost-saving measures mentioned by Representative Appro.
HB183: Department of Safety, Fire Safety Information Only05:43:04.958 - 2:11:55 PM; The Department of Safety, Fire Safety, submitted online testimony emphasizing the national trend of states requiring EMS records to be submitted within 24 hours of the event. They recommend similar requirements in New Hampshire to reduce errors and ensure timely hospital report submission.
HB183: Representative Appro Information Only05:44:37.680 - 2:13:28 PM; Representative Appro addresses concerns from the Department of Safety, Fire Safety, stating that while 24-hour submission is desirable, it shouldn't come as an unfunded mandate. He opposes such mandates.
HB183: Representative Sherff Oppose05:46:58.600 - 2:15:49 PM; Representative Sherff opposes HB183 without an amendment specifying that Delta or Echo calls be done within 24 hours. He believes management should handle overtime issues internally.
HB416: Representative Saborn D Information Only05:50:04.638 - 2:18:55 PM; Representative Saborn D moves to retain HB416, expressing doubts about the legislation's effectiveness in reducing cyanobacteria plumes and viewing it as an expansion of state power into private properties.
HB416: Representative Roads Information Only05:50:50.040 - 2:19:41 PM; Representative Roads seconds the motion to retain HB416, agreeing with concerns about enforcement and suggesting education as a potential solution. He supports looking into the issue further over the break.
HB416: Chairman Roy Information Only05:51:35.760 - 2:20:26 PM; Chairman Roy supports retaining HB416, expressing concerns about dumping in lakes and wanting to explore if this is the right approach or if it should be part of a broader environmental strategy.
HB291 2025-the: Chairman Roy Information Only05:54:55.520 - 2:23:46 PM; Chairman Roy moves ought to pass with amendment 2025-the on HB291, which adjusts penalties for fertilizer application near lakes. The amendment proposes a warning for first-time offenders, a $250 fine per acre for the second offense, and a misdemeanor for third or subsequent offenses.
HB291 2025-the: Representative Pro Information Only05:58:25.320 - 2:27:16 PM; Representative Pro agrees with the amendment but suggests that professional agents should receive a violation for the first offense, not a warning, due to their expected knowledge and responsibility.
HB291 2025-the: Representative Newman Information Only05:59:12.400 - 2:28:03 PM; Representative Newman supports the amendment for its simplicity and consistency, noting that a $250 fine could quickly escalate for large companies. He believes it helps clarify responsibility and impacts business reputation.
HB291 2025-the: Representative Rich Information Only06:00:45.000 - 2:29:36 PM; Representative Rich agrees with the amendment, mentioning the significance of fertilizer use and its impact on the environment, but withdraws his initial motion to ITL in favor of the amendment.
HB57: Representative Muse Information Only06:03:18.120 - 2:32:09 PM; Representative Muse moves ought to pass on HB57, which was requested by the Department of Corrections to expand alternative home confinement to include post-secondary educational opportunities. He highlights its potential to change lives for those eligible for release, using the example of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard's apprenticeship program.
HB57: Representative Murray Information Only06:04:06.440 - 2:32:57 PM; Representative Murray seconds the motion for ought to pass on HB57, emphasizing the importance of reducing recidivism through educational opportunities.

Roy, Terry(Chairman)(R)[B]2024	Murray, Alissandra(Clerk)(D)[D-]2024	Rhodes, Jennifer(V Chairman)(R)[B]2024
Harriott-Gathright, Linda(D)[CT]2024	Proulx, Mark(R)[B]2024	Lascelles, Richard(R)[B+]2024
Morency, Pete(R)	Paquette, Kathleen(R)	Murphy, Nancy(D)[CT]2024
Newman, Ray(D)[CT]2024	Meuse, David(D)[CT]2024	Devoid, Ricky(R)
Newell, Jodi(D)[D-]2024	Scherr, Buzz(D)	Valerino, Brian(R)
Sabourin dit Choinière, Matt(R)