Committee Summary for House Election Law (04/22/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
SB44 00:02:35.280 - 9:01:16 AM	Public Hearing	relative to hand counts of ballots in elections.	Avard, Kevin(R)[C+]2024
SB212 00:21:32.520 - 9:20:13 AM	Public Hearing	changing references from "votes" to "ballots" in the laws regarding elections.	Rochefort, David(R)
SB218 00:43:03.119 - 9:41:44 AM	Public Hearing	relative to absentee ballot outer envelopes.	Gray, James(R)[C+]2024
SB222 01:01:58.480 - 10:00:39 AM	Public Hearing	relative to moving the state primary date.	Lang, Timothy(R)[C+]2024
SB103 01:21:35.440 - 10:20:16 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the number of polling stations that are available for certain towns.	Murphy, Keith(R)[B+]2024
SB43 01:55:19.679 - 10:54:00 AM	Public Hearing	removing articles of clothing from the definition of electioneering.	Lang, Timothy(R)[C+]2024
SB16 03:12:05.439 - 12:10:46 PM	Public Hearing	requiring municipalities to post a copy of election return forms on their websites and in public locations.	Gray, James(R)[C+]2024
SB16 03:14:33.920 - 12:13:14 PM	Executive Session	requiring municipalities to post a copy of election return forms on their websites and in public locations.	Gray, James(R)[C+]2024
SB45 03:22:15.399 - 12:20:56 PM	Public Hearing	(New Title) clarifying the placement of advertising signs on state-owned property.	Gray, James(R)[C+]2024
SB212 2025-1695H 03:29:31.080 - 12:28:12 PM	Executive Session	changing references from "votes" to "ballots" in the laws regarding elections.	Rochefort, David(R)
SB215 03:41:39.200 - 12:40:20 PM	Public Hearing	requiring an unorganized town or unincorporated place to elect town officers for the purpose of conducting elections.	McConkey, Mark(R)
SB213 04:01:46.359 - 1:00:27 PM	Public Hearing	relative to absentee voting.	Gray, James(R)[C+]2024
SB221 04:22:49.359 - 1:21:30 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the verification of the checklist.	Avard, Kevin(R)[C+]2024
SB213 04:43:16.200 - 1:41:57 PM	Public Hearing	relative to absentee voting.	Gray, James(R)[C+]2024
SB287 04:55:06.600 - 1:53:47 PM	Public Hearing	requiring applicants for absentee ballots to present a copy of their photo identification with their application.	Pearl, Howard (R)[C+]2024
SB222 2025-1621H 05:23:55.520 - 2:22:36 PM	Public Hearing	relative to moving the state primary date.	Lang, Timothy(R)[C+]2024

SB44: Grant Bossi, Deputy Chief of Staff, New Hampshire Senate Support00:02:35.280 - 9:01:16 AM; Grant Bossi introduced Senate Bill 44 on behalf of Senator Kevin Avard. The bill aims to allow voters to request a hand count of their ballot instead of a machine count, increasing confidence in accurate vote counting. This was seen as a response to constituent requests and is intended to enhance public faith in elections without adding significant time or expense for local election officials.
SB212: Senator David Roert, New Hampshire Senate District 1 Support00:21:32.520 - 9:20:13 AM; Senator David Roert introduced Senate Bill 212, which seeks to change references from votes to ballots in election laws. This change was requested by the Secretary of State's office to ensure consistency in language used during election business and recounts.
SB212: Aaron Hennessy, Deputy Secretary of State Support00:22:57.520 - 9:21:38 AM; Aaron Hennessy explained that Senate Bill 212 aims to clarify election laws by changing the term from votes to ballots cast. This change is intended to make the law clearer, particularly in cases involving recounts and the calculation of fees, ensuring that the number of ballots cast equals the number of voters and the sum of all votes.
SB218: Representative Toner, Belknap 4 Support00:43:03.119 - 9:41:44 AM; Representative Toner introduced Senate Bill 218, stating that he would not be taking any questions on the bill.
SB218: Kaylee Estrada, Durham, Open Democracy Support00:43:50.000 - 9:42:31 AM; Kaylee Estrada, representing Open Democracy, supported SB218, explaining that the bill seeks to remove the mailing envelope for absentee ballots turned in person and allows the opening of outer envelopes four days prior to election day. She highlighted the benefits experienced in 2020 from pre-processing, which saved time on election day and allowed voters to correct their ballots. She referenced the 2022 Special Committee on Voter Confidence's report which supported pre-processing, stating it aided local officials without compromising accuracy or security. She urged the committee to pass the bill to support election officials and enhance voter participation.
SB218: Kristen Evans, AEL New Hampshire Support00:46:13.880 - 9:44:54 AM; Kristen Evans, Director of Policy at AEL New Hampshire, briefly expressed support for the bill, stating that AEL supports SB218.
SB218: Sarah Shannard, New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights Support00:47:19.440 - 9:46:00 AM; Sarah Shannard, representing the New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights, supported SB218, emphasizing the benefits of the proposed changes. She noted that processing absentee ballots four days in advance would give election officials more time, and removing the outer envelope for hand-delivered ballots would allow for early detection and correction of errors. She concluded that these changes would strengthen the integrity and efficiency of elections.
SB218: Senator James Gray, Senate District 6 Support00:48:23.280 - 9:47:04 AM; Senator James Gray, representing Senate District 6 which includes Alton, Gilmanton, Strafford, and Rochester, supported SB218. He emphasized the need for the bill to allow the examination of signatures on absentee ballot applications against affidavits. He argued that removing the outer envelope for in-person submissions would facilitate this process. He shared his experience as a moderator, noting instances where signatures did not match and the importance of having a process to correct these issues to ensure voter intent is honored.
SB218: Representative Weary Information Only00:51:08.960 - 9:49:49 AM; Representative Weary asked Senator Gray a logistical question regarding the pre-processing of ballots on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, and the marking of the checklist. Senator Gray clarified that highlighting the checklist is allowed, but other marks are not. He also explained that if a voter who has applied for an absentee ballot decides to vote in person, they can rescind their absentee ballot at that time. Highlighting the checklist does not preclude this opportunity.
SB218: Representative Lavoie Information Only00:52:22.599 - 9:51:03 AM; Representative Lavoie asked Senator Gray about the comparison of handwriting under the statute. Senator Gray clarified that the statute does not mention handwriting comparison but provides a way to cure issues with ballots. He mentioned that the statute allows for pre-processing to identify issues in time for curing, and that they would need to meet the court's requirements for comparing signatures.
SB218: Representative Newsome Information Only00:53:37.680 - 9:52:18 AM; Representative Newsome asked about the process for curing errors noticed during pre-processing, specifically about the role of the Secretary of State. Senator Gray explained that the Secretary of State's election manual outlines procedures for various tasks, and that the contact information provided on the application would be used to reach out to the voter if an error was found.
SB222: Senator Tim Lang, District 2, Lakes Region Support01:01:58.480 - 10:00:39 AM; Senator Lang introduced Senate Bill 222, which proposes moving the state primary from September to early June. He explained that this change would give voters more time to vet candidates, especially in open seat primaries with many candidates. He mentioned that the bill had been amended in the Senate to adjust related dates and expressed no objection to further amendments if they improve the bill. He emphasized that the goal is to provide voters with more time to make informed decisions.
SB222: Representative Se Information Only01:03:55.839 - 10:02:36 AM; Representative Se asked about adjusting the deadline for filing the declaration of candidacy. Senator Lang expressed willingness to adjust this if it would improve the bill.
SB222: Representative Wayne Information Only01:05:09.280 - 10:03:50 AM; Representative Wayne raised concerns about voter fatigue due to the proximity of town meetings and elections. Senator Lang acknowledged the issue but noted that the bill does not add a new election, only changes when the primary occurs, aiming to provide a larger gap between the primary and the general election for voter decision-making.
SB222: Representative Prudum O'Brien Information Only01:06:56.960 - 10:05:37 AM; Representative Prudum O'Brien inquired about the impact of the bill on college students. Senator Lang explained that students can vote if they are in the state or request an absentee ballot if they consider their home residence to be out of state.
SB103: Senator Murphy Support01:21:35.440 - 10:20:16 AM; Senator Murphy introduced Senate Bill 103 FN Local, which requires one polling place for every 15,000 registered voters in presidential election years, with an exemption process. He explained that the bill aims to reduce wait times at the polls, citing an example of a town with long waits in the previous election. He noted that the bill was amended in the Senate to lower the threshold from 20,000 to 15,000 voters and added criteria for exemptions.
SB103: Representative C Information Only01:23:29.719 - 10:22:10 AM; Representative C expressed concern about confusion caused by changing polling places and suggested a provision for towns to make a compliance plan. Senator Murphy welcomed the amendment, stating that the bill isn't meant to burden communities but to facilitate easier voting.
SB103: Representative Lane Information Only01:25:44.159 - 10:24:25 AM; Representative Lane inquired about deadlines for submission and return of compliance plans and potential penalties for non-compliance. Senator Murphy suggested that lines 8 through 21 of the bill could be amended to include deadlines and noted that non-compliance could lead to legal action by voters or action by the Secretary of State's office.
SB103: Representative Harvey Bulby Information Only01:26:57.199 - 10:25:38 AM; Representative Harvey Bulby asked about the logistics of vote counting and voting machines under the new bill. Senator Murphy explained that towns with multiple polling locations should have enough voting machines to handle the volume, and these could be redistributed to different locations as needed.
SB103: Dan Healey, Derry Oppose01:28:07.280 - 10:26:48 AM; Dan Healey from Derry opposed the bill, arguing that control should remain with local officials who know their communities best. He highlighted issues such as traffic congestion, the suitability of alternative polling locations, and the potential confusion and additional costs for communities with multiple polling places.
SB103: Representative Prudum O'Brien Information Only01:30:24.480 - 10:29:05 AM; Representative Prudum O'Brien asked Dan Healey if there were any new elements in the bill that could improve voting in Derry. Healey mentioned that the only new element was the use of poll books, but he believed local control should remain with town officials.
SB103: Deputy Secretary of State Aaron Hennessy Support01:33:21.360 - 10:32:02 AM; Deputy Secretary of State Aaron Hennessy supported the bill, emphasizing the Secretary of State's role in ensuring efficient elections. He noted concerns about long wait times and praised Derry's efforts to manage large polling places. He clarified that the bill would affect few locations, mainly those with large single polling places, and that the Secretary of State's office would monitor and assist if needed.
SB103: Tina Guilford, Derry Town Clerk Oppose01:40:20.400 - 10:39:01 AM; Tina Guilford, the Town Clerk of Derry, testified about the town's efforts to improve voting processes. She detailed the challenges faced during previous elections in 2016, 2018, and 2020, including long lines and traffic issues at multiple polling locations. In 2022, they consolidated to one location at Pinkerton Academy, which provided ample parking and space, significantly reducing wait times. Despite these improvements, Guilford expressed concerns about the bill's requirement for municipalities to submit and get approval for their voting plans, fearing it could lead to unnecessary changes based on external decisions rather than local needs. She emphasized that Derry's current system works well and should not be subjected to additional bureaucratic hurdles.
SB103: Sarah Burke Cohen, New Hampshire Municipal Association Oppose01:48:41.920 - 10:47:22 AM; Sarah Burke Cohen from the New Hampshire Municipal Association (NHMA) opposed SB103, arguing that local municipalities should retain control over determining their polling sites based on their understanding of voter turnout and local traffic patterns. She highlighted the potential additional costs to municipalities for renting facilities and the lack of a penalty for not complying with the bill's requirements. Cohen stressed that municipalities are best equipped to handle election-related issues and should not be subject to state mandates that might not align with local conditions.
SB43: Senator Tim Lang, District 2 Support01:55:19.679 - 10:54:00 AM; Senator Tim Lang introduced SB43, which aims to clarify the law regarding what constitutes electioneering in polling places. He referenced a 2016 Minnesota Supreme Court decision that wearing apparel during voting is a form of free speech. The bill seeks to amend the definition of electioneering to exclude clothing worn by individuals actively and expeditiously engaged in voting. Lang cited a past incident where strict enforcement of the law led to an unintended consequence and emphasized the need for the law to align with constitutional rights and the court's decision.
SB43: Representative Wood Information Only01:58:41.199 - 10:57:22 AM; Representative Wood engaged in a discussion with Senator Lang about the implications of the Mansky case from 2018, which was a Supreme Court decision that struck down Minnesota's law on apparel at polling places as a violation of the First Amendment. He clarified whether the ruling applied to all types of speech on apparel or specifically to political speech, confirming that the ruling was limited to political speech.
SB43: Kaylee Estradio, Durham voter and public policy fellow with Open Democracy Oppose02:00:32.000 - 10:59:13 AM; Kaylee Estradio expressed opposition to SB43, arguing that the existing regulation helps maintain high voter turnout and enthusiasm in New Hampshire. She highlighted the potential for increased drama and polarization at polling places if the law were repealed, pointing out the ambiguous language in the amendment concerning the expeditious nature of voting. She urged the committee to vote ITL (Inexpedient to Legislate) on SB43 to preserve the nonpartisan environment of polling places and prevent electioneering.
SB43: Representative Wearing Information Only02:02:20.080 - 11:01:01 AM; Representative Wearing asked Kaylee Estradio if she was familiar with the Minnesota Voting Alliance vs. Mansky decision, suggesting it could clarify some of the issues raised about SB43. He recommended she review the decision online.
SB43: Kaylee Estradio, Durham voter and public policy fellow with Open Democracy Oppose02:03:24.880 - 11:02:05 AM; Kaylee Estradio reiterated Open Democracy's stance against allowing electioneering in polling places, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a nonpartisan voting environment. She clarified that their position is not to turn voters away but to ensure no electioneering occurs once a voter has a ballot in hand. She supported interventions like wearing an orange vest to cover political apparel as a means to comply with current laws without disenfranchising voters.
SB43: Representative Mirhead Information Only02:04:28.480 - 11:03:09 AM; Representative Mirhead shared a personal anecdote about voting with a political t-shirt and being asked to cover it with an orange vest. He asked Kaylee Estradio if Open Democracy would endorse such an intervention, to which she agreed, provided it maintains the nonpartisan nature of the voting space.
SB43: Representative Ward Information Only02:06:42.000 - 11:05:23 AM; Representative Ward mentioned stylish white polo shirts provided in Portsmouth for covering political apparel, suggesting a similar solution could be used elsewhere.
SB16: Senator James Gray, Senate District 6 (Alton, Gington, Straford, Rochester) Support03:12:05.439 - 12:10:46 PM; Senator James Gray introduced SB16, explaining it was a constituent request aimed at addressing the difficulty some towns face in posting final vote counts online promptly. He mentioned the bill requires municipalities to post election return forms on their websites and in public locations.
SB16: Chairman Information Only03:14:33.920 - 12:13:14 PM; The Chairman announced the closure of the public hearing on Senate Bill 16 and initiated an executive session to vote on the bill. The motion to recommend Senate Bill 16 as 'ought to pass' was made and seconded by Representative Weary. No discussion was held on the motion, and a roll call vote was conducted, resulting in a unanimous vote of 14 to 0 in favor of the bill. The bill was then placed on the consent calendar without objection.
SB45: Senator James Gray, Senate District 6 (Alton, Gilmanton, Strafford, Rochester) Information Only03:22:15.399 - 12:20:56 PM; Senator Gray introduced Senate Bill 45, explaining the need for clarification in the statute regarding the placement of advertising signs on state-owned property. He discussed the issues with the current law, which does not allow individuals to remove signs placed in front of their property on state roads, and how the bill aims to clarify these rights. He mentioned that the bill was adjusted following discussions with the Attorney General's office to focus solely on state roads, leaving municipal regulations to the municipalities. He also noted that the bill does not add new requirements but restructures the existing language for clarity.
SB45: Representative C Information Only03:25:19.640 - 12:24:00 PM; Representative C asked Senator Gray if anything new was added to the bill beyond restructuring. Senator Gray clarified that no new requirements were added, and some suggestions from the Attorney General's office were removed to avoid complicating the bill with property rights issues.
SB45: Representative Mirhead Information Only03:26:26.880 - 12:25:07 PM; Representative Mirhead sought clarification on the existing law regarding the placement of signs on state-owned rights of way. Senator Gray explained that signs placed on state-owned property, other than in front of one's own property with permission, are illegal and would remain so under the proposed bill, though enforcement is unlikely.
SB212 2025-1695H: Representative Lane Information Only03:29:31.080 - 12:28:12 PM; Representative Lane moved that Senate Bill 212 be recommended as 'ought to pass' and introduced amendment 2025-1695H to the bill. The amendment was seconded by Representative Gafki. Representative Lane explained that the amendment corrects awkward language in the original bill regarding votes on a ballot, changing it to 'ballots cast for that party in the state primary election'.
SB212 2025-1695H: Representative Ward Information Only03:30:03.760 - 12:28:44 PM; Representative Ward discussed an amendment to the bill, mentioning that it addressed awkward language in the state primary election ballot. The amendment was sent to Deputy Secretary Hennessy, who agreed with the changes.
SB212 2025-1695H: Chair Information Only03:33:32.479 - 12:32:13 PM; The chair managed the session, called for a recess, and later resumed the discussion on the amendment. The chair then proceeded with a roll call vote on adopting the amendment, which passed unanimously.
SB212 2025-1695H: Chair Vote03:35:20.479 - 12:34:01 PM; The chair conducted a vote on the motion to pass Senate Bill 212 as amended with amendment 2025-1695H. The vote was unanimous, and the bill was placed on the consent calendar.
SB215: Peter O'Neal, Senate Communications Director Information Only03:41:39.200 - 12:40:20 PM; Peter O'Neal introduced Senate Bill 215 on behalf of Senator Mark McConi. The bill requires unincorporated places with a population of 100 or more voters to organize for the purpose of conducting elections. Currently, these places are assigned to adjacent towns for election purposes, which can pose logistical challenges. O'Neal mentioned that Hart's Location, Dixville, and Millsfield are already organized for elections, and Hales Location would be required to do so by this bill.
SB215: Erin Hennessy, Deputy Secretary of State Information Only03:43:52.800 - 12:42:33 PM; Erin Hennessy, Deputy Secretary of State, discussed the specifics of unincorporated places in New Hampshire. She noted that some unincorporated places have no voters but occasionally individuals from these areas come to vote. These places are assigned to different polling locations, which manage their own elections with separate checklists and ballot boxes. She mentioned working with Senator McConi on the bill, specifically referencing Hail's Location, an unincorporated place with about 140 registered voters assigned to Bartlett after redistricting. Bartlett finds it challenging to conduct elections for both itself and Hail's Location simultaneously, thus supporting the bill. Hennessy offered to provide further information on how organizing meetings for unincorporated places would be conducted, noting that all residents would be notified and officials elected.
SB215: Unidentified Committee Member Information Only03:46:03.600 - 12:44:44 PM; An unidentified committee member expressed confusion about the number of towns or unorganized places that would be affected by the legislation. Erin Hennessy clarified that only one unincorporated place would meet the requirements of the bill, primarily due to the number of people involved.
SB215: Unidentified Committee Member Information Only03:47:06.920 - 12:45:47 PM; Another committee member asked if voters from unincorporated places have their own ballots when voting in a different town. Erin Hennessy explained that these places are organized by state representative district, sharing the same offices but having their own ballots. She listed several unincorporated places managed by Gorham, each with its own ballot for state and federal elections.
SB215: Unidentified Committee Member Information Only03:48:18.880 - 12:46:59 PM; A committee member inquired about the population and number of voters in the unincorporated places mentioned. Erin Hennessy responded that most of these places have zero voters, but places like Hail's Location have roads and houses, suggesting a consistent population. Other locations are primarily logging lands without residences.
SB213: James Gray, Senator District 6 Support04:01:46.359 - 1:00:27 PM; James Gray, representing Senate District 6, which includes Alton, Rochester, and Strafford, discussed Senate Bill 213. He explained that the bill aims to ensure that forms align with existing practices regarding voter registration. The bill specifies the proof required for first-time registrants or those moving within New Hampshire. For in-state moves, only identity and domicile need to be proven, while first-time registrants must prove identity, citizenship, domicile, and age. Gray also mentioned a future non-germane amendment that would involve DMV records and vital records to streamline voter registration processes, reducing issues like those seen in recent town elections where people were turned away. He emphasized the importance of the 'more likely than not' criterion for absentee voting and noted legislative changes affecting absentee ballot processing times.
SB213: Unidentified Committee Member Information Only04:07:46.640 - 1:06:27 PM; An unidentified committee member asked for clarification on the application process for absentee ballots under SB213. James Gray explained that the bill details what proof is required based on the voter's status, such as first-time registration or moving within the state. He further clarified the sections of the bill related to different voter scenarios and the specific section for individuals with physical disabilities registering for the first time.
SB213: Representative Burnham Information Only04:10:25.720 - 1:09:06 PM; Representative Burnham sought clarification on the language of the bill that refers to 'more likely than not' and expressed concern that it might lead to more absentee ballot requests than usual. They discussed the criteria for absentee voting with attorneys, who interpreted the statute to mean that a person must be more likely than not to meet the criteria for absentee voting. Representative Burnham highlighted the potential confusion among voters about whether they can check certain boxes on the absentee ballot application.
SB213: Linda Hodgegton, AARP New Hampshire Oppose04:12:48.720 - 1:11:29 PM; Linda Hodgegton, representing AARP New Hampshire, opposed SB213, arguing that it imposes stringent requirements on voters using absentee ballots. The bill requires proof of identity, domicile, age, and citizenship, and mandates notarization, which could be burdensome for older adults, especially those with limited mobility or access to technology. She stressed the potential disenfranchisement of older voters and those in rural or underserved areas due to these requirements.
SB213: Olivia Zinc, reading a letter from Linda Bundy, New Hampshire Oppose04:15:53.680 - 1:14:34 PM; Olivia Zinc read a letter from Linda Bundy opposing SB213. Bundy highlighted that the reasons for needing an absentee ballot are varied and that the bill's requirements could be a hurdle, particularly for nursing home or assisted care facility residents who might not have photo IDs. She suggested alternatives like verification by facility administrators or sworn affidavits to attest identity.
SB213: Bob Perry, Stratford Oppose04:18:14.720 - 1:16:55 PM; Bob Perry, from Stratford, opposed SB213 citing minimal voter fraud and the legal sufficiency of sworn affidavits. He noted the challenges of obtaining necessary documents like passports, especially for those who have changed names due to marriage, and the potential disproportionate impact on women. He urged the committee to vote the bill as inexpedient to legislate.
SB213: Kaylee Abstradio, Durham voter, Open Democracy Oppose04:20:57.840 - 1:19:38 PM; Kaylee Abstradio, representing Open Democracy, opposed SB213, arguing that absentee voting is nonpartisan and that the bill would create unnecessary barriers to voting, particularly for those with disabilities, people of color, and those without matching documentation due to name changes. She emphasized the importance of voter participation in democracy and urged the committee to vote the bill as inexpedient to legislate.
SB213: Kate Han, New Hampshire Association of Counties Oppose04:32:44.920 - 1:31:25 PM; Kate Han, representing the New Hampshire Association of Counties, expressed concerns about the financial impact of SB213 on counties, particularly regarding the costs associated with notary services for residents in county nursing homes and correctional facilities. She pointed out the logistical challenges and potential disenfranchisement of these residents due to the bill's requirements.
SB213: Sarah Shannard, New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights Oppose04:36:27.359 - 1:35:08 PM; Sarah Shannard opposed SB213, emphasizing that it imposes unnecessary requirements on absentee voters, particularly the notarization of applications. She highlighted the barriers this would create for voters who cannot leave their homes, those with disabilities, and those with limited access to technology, urging the committee to vote the bill as inexpedient to legislate.
SB213: Karen Rosenberg and James Ziggra, Disability Rights Center Oppose04:37:20.639 - 1:36:01 PM; Karen Rosenberg and James Ziggra from the Disability Rights Center strongly opposed SB213, citing the barriers it would create for people with disabilities. They highlighted the cost of notarization and its potential to disenfranchise voters on fixed incomes. Additionally, they expressed concern that the bill might violate a settlement agreement regarding accessible absentee voting, as the notarization requirement could hinder the process for those with print disabilities.
SB221: Senator Kevin Avard, District 12 Information Only04:22:49.359 - 1:21:30 PM; Senator Kevin Avard introduced SB221, explaining that it changes the voter checklist verification from a 10-year to a four-year interval with a six-year look back period. This amendment aims to clean up the checklist more frequently and efficiently. He addressed questions from the committee about the timing and implementation of the bill, clarifying the process and expressing willingness to work on amendments to align the dates.
SB213: Kristen Evans, Director of Policy for ABLE New Hampshire Oppose04:43:16.200 - 1:41:57 PM; Kristen Evans, representing ABLE New Hampshire, a disability justice organization, testified in opposition to SB213. She argued that the bill creates unnecessary and harmful barriers to voting by restricting access to absentee voting, which is crucial for people with disabilities. The proposed changes, including stricter documentation, witness or notary affirmation, and vague eligibility standards, would not enhance election security but would make voting less fair for thousands of disabled individuals. She emphasized that absentee voting is often the only viable option for those with chronic illnesses, mobility limitations, or those relying on home and community-based services. Evans also expressed concern over the potential criminalization of voters for mistakes in eligibility, which could discourage civic participation among those already facing systematic oppression. She urged the committee to reject the bill to protect equal access to democracy for all.
SB213: Liz Tentterelli, President of the League of Women Voters of New Hampshire Oppose04:45:43.958 - 1:44:24 PM; Liz Tentterelli, President of the League of Women Voters of New Hampshire, expressed regret in opposing SB213, noting some positive aspects of the bill, such as the 'more likely than not' reason for absence and the provision for voting in advance of storms due to hazardous road conditions. However, she opposed the bill due to the requirement for notarization, which she argued could act as a poll tax, outlawed by federal law in 1964. She highlighted the difficulty in accessing notaries, especially in rural areas like the north country, suggesting that this creates two classes of voters. Tentterelli hoped the committee would consider these aspects and potentially incorporate the positive elements into future election laws.
SB213: Curtis Register, Durham resident Oppose04:48:35.798 - 1:47:16 PM; Curtis Register, a resident of Durham, opposed SB213, drawing from his experiences with voting absentee while serving in the military and moving frequently. He compared the ease of purchasing firearms without additional proof of citizenship or notarization to the proposed voting restrictions, arguing that such measures are unnecessary and could disenfranchise voters. Register highlighted the lack of evidence of widespread voter fraud in New Hampshire and criticized the legislature's focus on voting rights over other pressing issues like school shootings. He expressed concern that the bill would not secure elections but would reduce voter turnout and confidence, urging the committee to vote down SB213.
SB287: Senator Howard Pearl, Loudon Support04:55:06.600 - 1:53:47 PM; Senator Howard Pearl introduced Senate Bill 287, which aims to require a photo ID or a notarized signature for absentee ballot requests mailed to an address other than the voter's home. He emphasized the importance of this measure to prevent potential fraud by closing a loophole in the current election procedure. He mentioned a strong public directive from the previous election for securing votes and suggested that this bill is a small step towards ensuring election integrity.
SB287: Representative Greg Hill, Northfield Support04:58:25.520 - 1:57:06 PM; Representative Greg Hill supported Senate Bill 287, using an analogy of bank security to underline the need for identity verification in absentee voting. He cited an analysis from the 2016 election showing that 14,416 absentee ballots were mailed outside New Hampshire, with 1,400 of them sent to common addresses, suggesting a need for further investigation into these cases. He expressed concern over potential misuse of absentee ballots and the current limitations on investigating such cases under existing law.
SB287: Liz Tentterelli, President of the League of Women Voters of New Hampshire Oppose05:08:22.718 - 2:07:03 PM; Liz Tentterelli opposed Senate Bill 287, arguing that requiring a notarized signature could be considered a poll tax and would be burdensome for those out of state or unable to access a notary. She also highlighted the vagueness in the bill's wording regarding photo ID presentation and referenced a court ruling against signature matching, stating that it could lead to disenfranchisement.
SB287: Kaylee Stradio, Durham voter and Public Policy Fellow with Open Democracy Oppose05:10:50.080 - 2:09:31 PM; Kaylee Stradio opposed SB287, criticizing it as an unnecessary hurdle for absentee voters. She argued that it represents governmental overreach and could disproportionately impact elderly, disabled, student, and military voters. She also questioned the practicality and fairness of the bill's requirements for photo ID or notarized signatures, and referenced a court case where signature matching was deemed to disenfranchise voters.
SB287: Bob Perry, Strafford (statement read by Olivia Zinc) Oppose05:13:29.360 - 2:12:10 PM; Bob Perry opposed Senate Bill 287, stating that it would complicate absentee voting for those away from their polling place. He noted the challenges of accessing photo ID and the impracticality of signature matching, citing a court ruling against it. He also mentioned the cost and accessibility issues related to printing and notary services, suggesting that the bill would disenfranchise voters.
SB287: Kristen Evans, Director of Policy for ABLE New Hampshire Oppose05:15:47.840 - 2:14:28 PM; Kristen Evans strongly opposed Senate Bill 287, highlighting its negative impact on voters with disabilities. She argued that the bill's requirements for photo ID or notarized signatures create unnecessary obstacles for those with mobility issues or limited access to technology and notary services. She stressed that the bill would erode trust in the voting process by categorizing voters and potentially disenfranchising thousands of legitimate voters.
SB287: Amanda Azad, Policy Director at the ACLU of New Hampshire Oppose05:18:12.760 - 2:16:53 PM; Amanda Azad spoke in opposition to SB287, arguing that the bill creates unnecessary logistical burdens and hurdles for voters, essentially turning voting into an obstacle course. She highlighted issues such as signature matching, which has been previously litigated and struck down, and criticized the requirement for voters to appear in person with a driver's license to have their absentee ballot sent, which she believes defeats the purpose of absentee voting. Azad mentioned specific groups affected, like college students, snowbirds, and people in hospitals or nursing homes, who would face significant challenges under the proposed bill. She emphasized that voting should not be a luxury and shared personal anecdotes about the difficulties of navigating such a system, especially as a pregnant woman with young children.
SB222 2025-1621H: Representative Wilham Information Only05:23:55.520 - 2:22:36 PM; Representative Wilham mentioned that he was not prepared to present the non-germane amendment 2025-1621H to Senate Bill 222 at the time but indicated that they would continue working on it with the Office of the Secretary (OS) and potentially schedule a hearing for the following week.

Berry, Ross(Chairman)(R)[A-]2024	Burnham, Claudine(Clerk)(R)[A]2024	Qualey, James(V Chairman)(R)[A-]2024
Ward, Gerald(D)[CT]2024	Prudhomme-O'Brien, Katherine(R)[B+]2024	Gilmore, Gary(D)
See, Alvin(R)[A]2024	Grill, Jessica(D)[CT]2024	Wood, Clayton(R)[A-]2024
Bay, Luz(D)[F]2024	Wherry, Robert(R)[A]2024	Harvey-Bolia, Juliet(R)[A]2024
Muirhead, Russell(D)[CT]2024	Wilhelm, Matthew(D)[CT]2024	Lane, Connie(D)[F]2024
Newsom, James(D)	Toner, Travis(R)	Guzofski, James(R)