Committee Summary for House Executive Departments and Administration (01/29/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB233 00:02:55.040 - 9:01:40 AM	Public Hearing	requiring meetings of the New Hampshire vaccine association to be audio and video recorded and published on its website within 48 hours, and requiring that questions put to it in writing or at a meeting be answered and posted on its website within 14 days.	Comtois, Barbara(R)[A]2024
HB156 00:55:13.880 - 9:53:58 AM	Public Hearing	establishing a committee to review state procurement policies and make recommendations to encourage local food production and conservation.	Bixby, Peter(D)[CT]2024
HB278 01:18:53.719 - 10:17:38 AM	Public Hearing	relative to proxy carbon pricing in state procurement.	Germana, Nicholas(D)[CT]2024
HB516 03:03:25.000 - 12:02:10 PM	Public Hearing	relative to establishing a new full-time position at Volunteer NH.	Wilhelm, Matthew(D)[CT]2024
HB516 03:15:38.040 - 12:14:23 PM	Executive Session	relative to establishing a new full-time position at Volunteer NH.	Wilhelm, Matthew(D)[CT]2024
HB469 03:31:53.960 - 12:30:38 PM	Public Hearing	relative to membership of the public deposit investment pool advisory committee.	Maggiore, Jim(D)[CT]2024
HB570 04:02:58.520 - 1:01:43 PM	Public Hearing	relative to membership of the prescription drug affordability board and the definition of public payor for purposes of board administration.	Edwards, Jess(R)[B+]2024
HB469 04:42:29.080 - 1:41:14 PM	Executive Session	relative to membership of the public deposit investment pool advisory committee.	Maggiore, Jim(D)[CT]2024

HB233: Barbara Comto, representing Belknap 7, Barnstead, NH Support00:02:55.040 - 9:01:40 AM; Barbara Comto introduced House Bill 233 and proposed an amendment that would add transparency to the New Hampshire Vaccine Association's operations. She emphasized the need for public trust and transparency, especially given the controversies surrounding vaccines. Comto's amendment includes establishing a physical location for meetings to allow public attendance and a requirement for a complete list of vaccines and pharmaceutical products purchased by the Association. She highlighted that the current setup where meetings are held via Zoom and only minutes are available post-meeting is insufficient for public transparency. She also noted that while questions can be asked during meetings, answers are not provided immediately, which further reduces transparency.
HB233: Representative Sellers Information Only00:06:01.080 - 9:04:46 AM; Representative Sellers inquired about the nature of the New Hampshire Vaccine Association, specifically whether it was a private company. Barbara Comto clarified that it was established by the legislature, not a private entity. Sellers also asked about the number of vaccines required for children from ages 0 to 18, to which Comto responded that the number is significant but deferred to more qualified individuals for exact figures.
HB233: Representative Peerson Information Only00:06:56.479 - 9:05:41 AM; Representative Peerson expressed concerns about the transparency and operations of the Vaccine Association, particularly regarding the establishment of a physical meeting location and the potential costs such as mileage for members. He questioned whether the legislative charter covered such expenses, to which Comto replied that the charter does not specify the location of meetings or the necessity for in-person gatherings.
HB233: Representative Howard Information Only00:08:30.639 - 9:07:15 AM; Representative Howard asked about the average response time for questions posed to the Vaccine Association. Barbara Comto was unsure of the exact timeframe but assured that someone from the Association would provide the information.
HB233: Representative Long Information Only00:09:17.079 - 9:08:02 AM; Representative Long clarified that the Vaccine Association does not receive public money or set policy directly, to which Comto confirmed the Association's not-for-profit status and its role in recommending vaccines, while the actual purchasing is handled by DHHS.
HB233: Representative Argie Information Only00:10:02.480 - 9:08:47 AM; Representative Argie questioned why the bill focused specifically on the Vaccine Association rather than applying transparency measures to all committees. Barbara Comto responded that she would be open to such an amendment to apply transparency measures universally. However, she noted that the Vaccine Association was highlighted due to issues that came to light during discussions in the special committee on COVID.
HB233: Representative Schmidt Information Only00:11:06.800 - 9:09:51 AM; Representative Schmidt raised concerns about the contentious nature of vaccines and the potential for misinformation. They questioned whether requiring an answer on such a controversial topic could be problematic, suggesting that some might perceive any answer as untruthful.
HB233: Representative Argie Information Only00:11:56.440 - 9:10:41 AM; Responding to Representative Schmidt, Representative Argie expressed trust in the truthfulness of answers provided and emphasized the importance of taking people's words in good faith. They acknowledged the controversial nature of vaccines but maintained that questioning the information should be directed at the relevant association.
HB233: Representative Broa Information Only00:13:27.920 - 9:12:12 AM; Representative Broa inquired about the annual reports required by RSA 126q, specifically if the commission's reports had been read. The response was that they had not been read.
HB233: Representative Salers Information Only00:13:32.160 - 9:12:17 AM; Representative Salers asked about the method of vaccine administration mentioned in the amendment, specifically if all vaccines are administered by shot. The response indicated personal experience with the polio vaccine not being a shot, suggesting not all vaccines are administered in this manner.
HB233: Representative Law Information Only00:14:20.600 - 9:13:05 AM; Representative Law questioned if other private entities in New Hampshire are subject to similar requirements proposed in the bill. The response was unable to provide an answer but expressed a personal opinion that all political subdivisions should have live-streamed meetings.
HB233: Representative Re Information Only00:15:06.199 - 9:13:51 AM; Representative Re sought clarification on the number of required vaccines, asking who mandates them. The response indicated that the vaccine association would be better suited to answer this, but mentioned that the Department of Health and Human Services has a childhood vaccination schedule required for school entry.
HB233: Patrick Miller, Vaccine Association Oppose00:15:43.199 - 9:14:28 AM; Patrick Miller from the Vaccine Association testified in opposition to HB233. He explained the association's role as a not-for-profit, voluntary corporation formed under RSA 292 and created by state statute 126q in 2002. He emphasized the association's function as a structural funding mechanism for immunizations, not a policy maker, and its partnership with 80 commercial health insurers, over 220 healthcare practice locations, and state departments. Miller opposed the bill due to its unprecedented administrative costs and unnecessary governmental interference with a private entity. He detailed the association's current transparency measures, including public access policies, meeting notices, and annual reports. Miller concluded by expressing strong opposition to HB233, arguing it would burden the association unnecessarily and interfere with its charitable purpose.
HB233: Representative L Information Only00:21:55.480 - 9:20:40 AM; Representative L asked if Miller was aware of any other private entities subject to similar requirements or any public entities required to answer public questions. Miller responded that he was not aware of any such entities.
HB233: Representative Powered Information Only00:22:40.880 - 9:21:25 AM; Representative Powered inquired about the average response time to public inquiries by the Vaccine Association. Miller responded that they log all emails and aim to respond within a few days to a week, sometimes needing to refer questions to the Department of Health.
HB233: Representative Pearson Information Only00:23:24.799 - 9:22:09 AM; Representative Pearson questioned the Vaccine Association's stance on transparency, particularly regarding the availability of Zoom meetings for later viewing. Miller reiterated opposition to all aspects of the bill, citing existing transparency measures as sufficient.
HB233: Mark McHugh, Hanley Allen, representing New Hampshire Vaccine Association Information Only00:25:10.760 - 9:23:55 AM; Mark McHugh discussed the operations of the New Hampshire Vaccine Association, emphasizing its limited role and the voluntary nature of public comment periods at their meetings. He highlighted that much of the public commentary received is beyond the association's scope and purpose, often containing inaccurate or irrelevant information. McHugh argued that including such commentary in the meeting records does not contribute to transparency, as it does not pertain to the association's business. He noted that the association's decisions, processes, and materials are transparent and available online, suggesting that this sufficiently addresses concerns about the organization's function.
HB233: Representative L Information Only00:26:43.559 - 9:25:28 AM; Representative L inquired about the rules governing vaccine requirements for children in schools and other situations. The response detailed that vaccine requirements start with FDA approval at the federal level, followed by recommendations from the CDC's advisory committee, which the state then considers. The Commissioner of Health and Human Services can add these to the program for funding, but the New Hampshire Vaccine Association itself has no role in these decisions.
HB233: Representative Howard Information Only00:27:31.159 - 9:26:16 AM; Representative Howard followed up on points made by Representative Pearson and asked about the possibility of administrative rules to ensure the association's meetings are uploaded to YouTube. The response was that while they would consider it, they currently do not see it as necessary.
HB233: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:27:50.640 - 9:26:35 AM; An unnamed speaker asked about potential increases in administrative costs if the bill were to pass, to which it was confirmed that costs would rise. These increased costs would be borne by insurance companies, as the association is funded entirely by them and functions as a pass-through organization. The speaker also clarified that the association's existence allows for significant savings and administrative efficiency by utilizing a federal contract.
HB233: Representative Broa Information Only00:29:26.880 - 9:28:11 AM; Representative Broa raised concerns about the lack of a fiscal note with the bill, despite potential cost increases to businesses. The response was that fiscal notes are not typically required for costs borne by businesses rather than the state. The discussion also touched on why the bill was labeled as an early bill, with no clear answer provided.
HB233: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:30:12.000 - 9:28:57 AM; The speaker sought clarification on the association's role, confirming it does not decide which vaccines to purchase but rather raises funds based on the Department of Health and Human Services' list of vaccines for children under 19. The association's function was described as purely transactional, involving the collection of funds from insurers to cover vaccine costs without any policy-making authority.
HB233: Representative Pearson Information Only00:33:19.039 - 9:32:04 AM; Representative Pearson asked about the specifics of the association's meetings, to which it was explained that meetings are transactional and focus on financial reporting and the approval of rates for the upcoming year. The association's operations are detailed in a plan of operation available online, and they also choose an auditor annually.
HB233: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:35:01.760 - 9:33:46 AM; The speaker emphasized the association's role as an agent that raises funds without any purchasing authority, highlighting that the Department of Health and Human Services handles the actual purchasing of vaccines for all children under 19. The association's operations and financial audits are publicly available online.
HB233: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:35:56.599 - 9:34:41 AM; The speaker inquired about the number of vaccines purchased for children up to age 19, to which it was responded that the number varies based on the CDC's clinical schedule and that the association could provide last year's purchase list for clarity.
HB233: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:36:43.839 - 9:35:28 AM; The speaker questioned the financial model of the vaccine program, confirming that the costs are covered by insurance companies, not the state or federal government. The benefits to the insurers include access to discounted CDC vaccine prices and reduced administrative costs, leading to better clinical care.
HB233: Unnamed Speaker Oppose00:38:48.880 - 9:37:33 AM; The speaker expressed concerns about the feasibility of the bill's requirement for timely responses to public questions, noting that many questions received by public bodies often lack immediate or definitive answers, especially in contentious areas like medicine. They argued that the demand for quick responses within 48 hours is not workable, particularly for a non-public entity like the vaccine association, which does not have the mandate or resources to answer such questions.
HB233: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:43:02.520 - 9:41:47 AM; The speaker, who arrived late due to a flat tire, had been following the hearing via YouTube. They asked about the policy regarding charges to providers for unused vaccines, particularly in cases where a child opts out of vaccination due to religious or other exemptions. The response clarified that the association does not charge providers for unused vaccines; instead, the funding comes from insurance companies, and any adjustments are made by the Department of Health and Human Services.
HB233: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:43:49.599 - 9:42:34 AM; The speaker continued to inquire about the specifics of vaccine wastage and whether providers have to pay for unused doses at the manufacturer's list price. The response clarified that this was a federal issue related to the CDC's wastage rates, and not something managed by the association.
HB233: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:45:20.599 - 9:44:05 AM; The speaker asked for confirmation on whether the association implements directives from the CDC as set by the Department of Health and Human Services. The response confirmed that the state, through the Department of Health and Human Services, determines the vaccine schedule, and the association funds it accordingly.
HB233: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:46:18.440 - 9:45:03 AM; The speaker asked about the specifics of vaccine purchasing by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and whether the association sells vaccines directly to providers. The response clarified that the state manages a universal purchasing program, and the association only provides funding, not direct sales to providers.
HB233: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:48:33.599 - 9:47:18 AM; The speaker inquired about the management of vaccine spoilage and expiration dates. The response explained that the Vaccine for Children program, managed by the Department of Health and Human Services, includes provider contracts specifying inventory management to prevent loss and spoilage.
HB233: Representative Jonah Orion Wheeler, Peterboro and Sharon Support00:50:25.119 - 9:49:10 AM; Representative Wheeler expressed general support for the idea of filming the audio and video of the board, emphasizing the importance of transparency in the 21st century. He mentioned that while he supports the amendment and the broader application of this requirement to all state-chartered boards, he believes the current focus on this specific board is appropriate. He also responded to questions about extending these requirements to all nonprofit boards, clarifying that his support would be for any board chartered by the state.
HB233: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:53:56.160 - 9:52:41 AM; The speaker noted that no further individuals wished to testify on House Bill 233 and mentioned that they had asked a researcher to look into why it was an early bill and where the fiscal note was, indicating a need for further information before closing the hearing.
HB156: Representative Peter Bixby from Dover, New Hampshire, Strafford County, Strafford District 13 Support00:55:13.880 - 9:53:58 AM; Representative Bixby introduced HB156, a bill aimed at implementing aspects of the New Hampshire Food and Agriculture Strategic Plan. The goal of the plan is to increase the state's ability to provide food from local farms, fisheries, and other producers, thereby reducing dependence on food from distant sources. Bixby mentioned that the bill was inspired by Julie Davidson, who worked on the strategic plan and is the board president of the Northeast Organic Farmers Association of New Hampshire. Due to Davidson's illness, Bixby presented her testimony alongside his own. The bill proposes the creation of a study committee to explore ways state and local procurement can provide stable and broader markets for New Hampshire food producers. Bixby highlighted the importance of New Hampshire agriculture for food production, land stewardship, and local economies, and emphasized the need for a study to effectively implement procurement practices that support local agriculture.
HB156: Representative Pearson Information Only01:05:22.880 - 10:04:07 AM; Representative Pearson, who sits on the State Procurement Commission, discussed the relevance of the commission to the proposed study committee under HB156. He explained that the commission receives information about procurement practices and suggested that the study committee could report to this commission. Pearson offered to support an amendment to the bill to include this reporting requirement and noted that the commission could be a valuable source of information for meeting the bill's goals.
HB156: Representative Leam Support01:07:47.760 - 10:06:32 AM; Representative Leam expressed support for HB156, noting the increasing demand for locally sourced food in New Hampshire. They highlighted the existing efforts like community-supported agriculture (CSA) and farmers' markets and questioned whether the demand for local food could be met more sustainably. Bixby responded by affirming the strategic plan's focus on connecting farmers directly with consumers and explained that a procurement program could provide a stable demand base for farmers, supplementing the variable nature of direct sales.
HB278: Representative Nick Trahan from Cheshire 15, representing Chesterfield, Hinsdale, Keene Wards 1 and 3-5, Swanzey, Walpole, and Westmoreland Support01:18:53.719 - 10:17:38 AM; Representative Trahan introduced HB278, which aims to save New Hampshire taxpayers money by considering long-term costs, including the impact of carbon pricing, in state purchasing decisions. He explained that carbon pricing is a global trend adopted by major trading partners like Canada, Mexico, China, and European countries. The bill proposes using a proxy carbon pricing model to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of state purchases over their lifetime, particularly in new constructions and HVAC systems. Trahan emphasized that the bill does not mandate purchasing based on carbon emissions but on cost efficiency, considering future carbon pricing impacts. He confirmed having discussions with the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) about implementing the policy, though the specifics on staffing requirements were not detailed.
HB278: Unknown Information Only01:35:43.360 - 10:34:28 AM; The speaker discusses the idea of having a national model for carbon pricing instead of a state-by-state approach. They mention that there has been some momentum in Congress, with Congresswoman Kuster supporting a national carbon pricing model, but there hasn't been enough will within Congress to implement it. The speaker also responds to a follow-up question.
HB278: Unknown Information Only01:36:30.400 - 10:35:15 AM; The speaker addresses a question about the novelty of carbon credits and the need for a carbon pricing model now. They explain that the concept of carbon pricing dates back to the 1980s and was initially proposed by members of the Reagan Administration as an alternative to capping carbon emissions. The speaker also discusses how recent adoptions of carbon pricing by major trading partners like Canada, Mexico, China, and European states have made it more pressing.
HB278: Unknown Information Only01:38:50.679 - 10:37:35 AM; The speaker clarifies that the carbon pricing model discussed applies only to state purchasing decisions and does not affect private parties. They explain that while the market price of carbon may increase, this bill specifically addresses state procurement decisions.
HB278: Unknown Information Only01:39:07.199 - 10:37:52 AM; The speaker discusses the application of the carbon pricing model to state transportation costs, particularly the fleet of automobiles. They mention that this would involve calculations to determine the cost-effectiveness of different types of vehicles for state purposes.
HB278: John Gage from Windham Support01:41:02.679 - 10:39:47 AM; John Gage, from Windham and the volunteer New Hampshire State coordinator for Citizens' Climate Lobby, supports the bill. He discusses his group's advocacy for a federal carbon fee and dividend legislation, which involves a steadily rising carbon fee on fossil fuel producers and importers, with rebates to households. He also talks about the global trend of carbon pricing, the anticipated federal carbon price, and how this bill can help New Hampshire anticipate future costs and save taxpayer money. He emphasizes the importance of considering the life cycle cost of state purchases, particularly in heating systems and vehicles, in light of future carbon pricing.
HB278: Unknown Information Only01:52:56.280 - 10:51:41 AM; The speaker, responding to a question about gas prices in California, mentions that California's cap and trade system might contribute to higher gas prices, though they are unsure if gasoline is included in the state's carbon market. They also address a question about the future price of carbon, stating that it would depend on inflation rates. The speaker clarifies that surrounding states like Massachusetts and Maine have adopted similar policies through the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), which puts a price on carbon emissions from electricity generators.
HB278: Unknown Information Only01:55:59.480 - 10:54:44 AM; The speaker discusses the total energy usage by the state government and the potential savings from adopting carbon pricing. They share a personal example of replacing a furnace and a car, highlighting the financial benefits of energy-efficient choices. They also address a question about considering the probability and worst-case scenarios of carbon pricing in state procurement decisions, suggesting that consulting with a state economist might be necessary.
HB516: Representative Matt Wilhelm, Manchester Ward 1 Support03:03:25.000 - 12:02:10 PM; Representative Matt Wilhelm introduced House Bill 516 FN, which aims to establish a new full-time position at Volunteer New Hampshire focused on creating post-service pathways for AmeriCorps and Peace Corps alumni. He explained that Volunteer New Hampshire is a quasi-governmental agency established in the 1990s that supports civilian national service programs and community volunteering across the state. Wilhelm highlighted the importance of volunteerism in New Hampshire and referenced a 2020 commission's report that recommended enhancing pathways for service year alumni into postsecondary education and employment. He discussed two programs, AmeriCorps Schools of Service and Employers for National Service, which could benefit from a dedicated position to build post-service infrastructure in the state. The fiscal note for the bill estimates a cost of approximately $75,000 in FY26.
HB516: Representative Schmidt Information Only03:08:42.520 - 12:07:27 PM; Representative Schmidt asked about the nationwide situation regarding the recognition of AmeriCorps and Peace Corps alumni and their integration into post-service pathways. Wilhelm responded that while some states are more proactive, the approach varies, with some states having dedicated positions and others facilitating connections organically through institutions of higher education.
HB516: Representative Hel Wilham Information Only03:11:00.640 - 12:09:45 PM; Representative Hel Wilham inquired about the reporting structure of the proposed new position. Wilhelm explained that the position would report to the executive director of Volunteer New Hampshire, which is overseen by a governor-appointed commission and administratively attached to the Department of Administrative Services.
HB516: Representative Leon Information Only03:11:19.520 - 12:10:04 PM; Representative Leon asked if this would be the first state expenditure on Volunteer New Hampshire and whether the state directly funds employees at nonprofits. Wilhelm clarified that aside from in-kind office space, no state funds currently go to Volunteer New Hampshire, and the new position would technically be a state employee, though employed by the nonprofit.
HB516: Representative Sellers Information Only03:13:06.880 - 12:11:51 PM; Representative Sellers questioned the current role of Volunteer New Hampshire in supporting post-service pathways. Wilhelm explained that without the proposed position, it would be up to individual employers and educational institutions to discover and opt into programs like Employers for National Service and Schools of Service on their own.
HB516: Unnamed Committee Member Oppose03:15:38.040 - 12:14:23 PM; During the executive session, a motion was made to find House Bill 516 inexpedient to legislate, which was seconded. The speaker argued that while the proposed position at Volunteer New Hampshire might be beneficial, it is a 'nice to have' rather than a 'necessary to have.' Concerns were raised about adding more state employees during a time of hiring freeze, especially for functions that other organizations are already managing on their own.
HB516: Unnamed Committee Member Information Only03:15:38.040 - 12:14:23 PM; The speaker was finishing their remarks at 03:15:38.040, but no new details about their testimony were provided in the snippet.
HB516: Unnamed Committee Member Oppose03:17:01.960 - 12:15:46 PM; The speaker expressed appreciation for the intention to keep Peace Corps and AmeriCorps volunteers in New Hampshire but opposed the creation of a new position due to budget constraints. They suggested that the $75,000 budget could be better used elsewhere to have a direct impact on more lives and felt that it was not the right time for such a move.
HB516: Representative Scitec Oppose03:17:49.720 - 12:16:34 PM; Representative Scitec acknowledged that the proposal had a reasonable chance but was concerned about the economic argument. They suggested that while the idea might be good, the state might not be able to or should afford it at the moment.
HB516: Representative De Support03:18:34.840 - 12:17:19 PM; Representative De expressed mixed feelings about the bill but supported it, emphasizing the need for updated numbers on volunteer numbers. They highlighted the multiplying effect of having a volunteer manager which could lead to greater benefits for the state, outweighing the cost of $75,000.
HB516: Executive Director Information Only03:19:22.479 - 12:18:07 PM; The executive director, believed to be paid with federal funds, explained their authority to hire staff, organize programs, and collaborate with other organizations. They also noted the ability to accept gifts, grants, and donations. The director suggested that if the volunteer program is important, they have the authority to raise funds or connect with other organizations to support it.
HB516: Representative Wilham Oppose03:19:22.479 - 12:18:07 PM; Representative Wilham expressed that national organizations were not being pushed to their partners, which should be the first step before considering the new position.
HB516: Representative Sers Oppose03:20:07.960 - 12:18:52 PM; Representative Sers was concerned that the initiative had not even been attempted part-time yet. They questioned the need to start a whole new program without prior trials, suggesting uncertainty about its effectiveness.
HB516: Unnamed Committee Member Information Only03:21:09.359 - 12:19:54 PM; The committee member concluded the discussion, noting the good intentions behind the bill but moving to vote on the motion to find it inexpedient to legislate.
HB516: Various Committee Members Information Only03:21:58.439 - 12:20:43 PM; The committee members voted on the motion to find HB516 inexpedient to legislate, with a vote count of 10 to 2. There was discussion about a potential minority report, but Representative Re decided not to write one, allowing the bill to go on the consent agenda.
HB469: Representative Jim Magori, Northampton, NH Support03:31:53.960 - 12:30:38 PM; Representative Magori expressed strong support for HB469, emphasizing the importance of direct access to funding for town managers and administrators. He advocated for adding a municipal manager to the advisory council, replacing one of the banker seats, to enhance direct input from municipalities. He mentioned the history of the Public Deposit Investment Pool (PDIP) but focused on the bill's specific change.
HB469: Representative Lean Information Only03:33:41.319 - 12:32:26 PM; Representative Lean asked if the removal of a banker seat was crucial to Representative Magori, to which Magori responded that it was more about maintaining the same number of members on the board.
HB469: Ryan Hail, New Hampshire Bankers Association Oppose03:34:29.319 - 12:33:14 PM; Ryan Hail, representing the New Hampshire Bankers Association, opposed HB469 due to the removal of one of their seats on the advisory board. He supported the addition of a member from the Municipal Managers Association but was concerned about losing representation, especially given recent policy decisions to keep funds in New Hampshire banks. He highlighted the importance of their current members, including a retired banker with extensive knowledge.
HB469: Todd Selig, Municipal Management Association of New Hampshire, Durham, NH Support03:36:30.680 - 12:35:15 PM; Todd Selig, representing the Municipal Management Association of New Hampshire, supported HB469, advocating for the addition of a municipal manager to the advisory board. He emphasized the evolution of the Public Deposit Investment Pool and the benefits of having a municipal manager's perspective. Selig addressed concerns about competition between bankers and the pool, suggesting that reducing banker seats and adding a municipal representative would be a step forward. He also clarified the roles and eligibility criteria for members of the Municipal Management Association compared to other associations.
HB469: Dargy, Municipal Management Association of New Hampshire, Durham, NH Information Only03:44:24.680 - 12:43:09 PM; Dargy provided information regarding the size of the Municipal Management Association of New Hampshire, stating there are approximately 130 members. They highlighted that not every community in New Hampshire has a professional manager, and some rely on elected select people for daily decisions.
HB469: Mike McLof, PFM Asset Management Support03:45:25.840 - 12:44:10 PM; Mike McLof from PFM Asset Management spoke in support of HB469. He explained the evolution of the New Hampshire Public Deposit Investment Pool (PDIP), noting the transition of oversight from the Banking Department to the State Treasurer's Office, as recommended by a study committee in 2022. He emphasized the importance of removing inherent conflicts of interest, particularly with the involvement of bankers on the advisory board. McLof suggested that adding a member from the Municipal Management Association to the board would help mitigate these conflicts and align the PDIP more closely with other public deposit investment pools across the country. He clarified that the bill does not aim to remove all bankers from the board but to evolve the PDIP to be more neutral and effective in serving the interests of its depositors.
HB469: Representative Long Information Only03:51:35.920 - 12:50:20 PM; Representative Long asked a question about the potential benefits of having two competing bankers on the board, suggesting that competition could highlight the disadvantages of their products. Mike McLof responded by stating that having multiple bankers does not resolve the conflict of interest, as their primary allegiance is to their employers, not the PDIP.
HB469: Representative Sers Information Only03:56:06.720 - 12:54:51 PM; Representative Sers inquired if there were examples of the PDIP making suboptimal investments. Mike McLof replied that while he did not have specific analytics, the PDIP has provided a solid return on investment for the last 30 years without any shareholder losses. He explained that the PDIP focuses on secure, short-term investments and is evaluated quarterly by the advisory committee.
HB570: Representative Jess Edwards, Rockingham District 31, Auburn, Candia, Chester, and Deerfield, NH Support04:02:58.520 - 1:01:43 PM; Representative Jess Edwards, who also serves on the Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PAB), introduced HB570. He explained that the bill aims to fine-tune the organizational structure of the PAB to improve its effectiveness. Key changes include expanding the definition of payers to include the Department of Corrections to better capture state spending on prescription drugs, implementing a periodic review of the chair position, and providing job security for the executive director to encourage stability and continuity. Edwards noted that these adjustments were developed in collaboration with key PAB leadership and are intended to enhance the board's ability to provide valuable recommendations on drug pricing without being controversial.
HB570: Representative Leon Information Only04:07:20.239 - 1:06:05 PM; Representative Leon asked about the inclusion of the Granite Advantage plan in the PAB's data collection. Representative Edwards clarified that Medicaid money, which is part of the core data, is included through the Department of Insurance data feeds.
HB570: Representative Zitech Information Only04:08:07.920 - 1:06:52 PM; Representative Zitech questioned the necessity of a full-time board and executive director for the PAB, suggesting that the ongoing apparatus might be excessive for the task of fine-tuning drug pricing. Representative Edwards acknowledged the redundancy in some of the PAB's functions, particularly in reporting on expensive drugs, and noted the financial challenges of justifying the board's budget. He also mentioned the ongoing funding for the executive director position.
HB570: Representative Brother Information Only04:12:49.960 - 1:11:34 PM; Representative Brother raised concerns about the inclusion of job guarantees in the bill, suggesting that such decisions should be financial rather than policy-based. Representative Edwards admitted that including job security for the executive director was unusual but necessary to reach a compromise with other stakeholders on the bill.
HB570: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:14:04.159 - 1:12:49 PM; The speaker discussed the changes in drug pricing dynamics, mentioning a shift from a competitive marketplace to one influenced heavily by Medicaid rates. They expressed concerns about the value and redundancy of the Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDB), especially in light of budget constraints that forced the shutdown of other state positions. They questioned whether the PDB's benefits justified its costs, particularly the executive director's position and the overall budget, which is around $257,000 for the next year and slightly more in the following year. They also mentioned the possibility of cutting parts of the budget that are redundant, suggesting that such cuts could impact the PDB's effectiveness.
HB570: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:15:38.000 - 1:14:23 PM; The speaker continued the discussion on the PDB's budget, emphasizing the trade-offs required due to limited resources. They highlighted the subjective nature of assessing the PDB's value, noting that its annual report, while aesthetically pleasing, contains data that could be obtained from the Department of Insurance. They raised concerns about potential harm from defunding the PDB, mentioning the critical role of the executive director in advancing the board's work. They suggested that reducing the budget below the executive director's salary might effectively shut down the PDB.
HB570: Unknown Speaker Information Only04:17:13.479 - 1:15:58 PM; The speaker acknowledged the contributions of former Representative Gary Merchant in establishing the PDB and stressed the importance of the executive director's role. They suggested that the PDB's effectiveness was largely due to capable leadership but expressed ongoing concerns about redundancy, especially with changes in the prescription drug environment and the existence of similar boards in other states. They noted that while the current bill focused on restructuring, another related bill would address the PDB's responsibilities more directly.
HB570: Representative Edwards Information Only04:20:16.680 - 1:19:01 PM; Representative Edwards discussed the organizational structure of the PDB, indicating that the current bill was meant to be a cleanup of the PDB's structure. They mentioned another bill, which would be handled by a different committee, that would address the PDB's responsibilities and expectations more directly.
HB570: Peter Lehman, representing the towns of Peterborough and Sharon Oppose04:22:02.000 - 1:20:47 PM; Peter Lehman, representing the towns of Peterborough and Sharon, spoke against the legislation. He shared his experience with the PDB, noting that initial funding requests were rejected by the Joint Legislative Fiscal Committee. He argued that the PDB was redundant, particularly since the Department of Insurance already performs similar functions. Lehman emphasized budget constraints and questioned the justification for spending $500,000 on the PDB when similar services are already provided elsewhere in state government.
HB469: Unknown Speaker Support04:42:29.080 - 1:41:14 PM; The speaker moved for the bill to be passed as is (OTP). They supported the bill, stating it was well thought out and balanced the authorities among different groups, aligning with the mission of the public deposit investment pool.
HB469: Representative Schmid Support04:43:14.200 - 1:41:59 PM; Representative Schmid supported the bill, describing it as an improvement over the current situation. They highlighted the benefits to small towns in terms of investment returns and noted the board's approval of the changes.
HB469: Unknown Speaker Support04:44:01.520 - 1:42:46 PM; The speaker expressed interest in seeing how the changes would evolve into the next year but supported the inclusion of a sophisticated user on the board and the adjustment in the representation of bankers versus municipal managers.

McGuire, Carol(Chairman)(R)[A+]2024	Sytek, John(Clerk)(R)[B]2024	Layon, Erica(V Chairman)(R)[A]2024
Schmidt, Peter(D)[CT]2024	Thibault, James(R)	Howard, Heath(D)[F]2024
Sellers, John(R)[A-]2024	Sheehan, Vanessa(R)[A]2024	de Vries, Erica(D)
Dargie, Paul(D)	Davis, Fred(D)[F]2024	Bailey, Glenn(R)[A+]2024
Pearson, Stephen(R)[B]2024	Grote, Jaci(D)[CT]2024	Long, Patrick(D)
Slottje, Jeremy(R)