Committee Summary for House Finance Division III (03/04/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
Unclear 00:01:32.320 - 9:00:13 AM	General Working Session	Unclear

Unclear: Nathan White, Chief Financial Officer, Department of Health and Human Services Information Only00:01:32.320 - 9:00:13 AM; Nathan White introduced the session on the Division of Public Health Services budget, which spans from page 98 to 984 of the governor's operating budget. He mentioned that Public Health Services manages about 100 accounts and provided the committee with a 66-page budget briefing book focusing on accounts exceeding a million dollars.
Unclear: Patricia Tilly, Associate Deputy Commissioner, Department of Health and Human Services Information Only00:02:47.440 - 9:01:28 AM; Patricia Tilly, standing in for Director Ian Watt, provided a detailed overview of the Public Health Services budget and operations. She highlighted that Public Health Services has the smallest budget among the major divisions within the Department of Health and Human Services, primarily supported by federal funds and other funds from fees and licensing. She discussed the complexity of public health operations, the impact of federal funding changes, and the department's commitment to public health issues such as clean water, safe food, and disease prevention. She also explained how the budget had shifted due to the reorganization of programs and the movement of funds within the department.
Unclear: Representative Priest Information Only00:13:10.880 - 9:11:51 AM; Representative Priest asked about the organizational structure regarding the bird flu virus. Patricia Tilly explained that bird flu involves both human and animal health aspects, with the Department of Health and Human Services focusing on human health and collaborating with the Department of Agriculture for animal health. She detailed the department's roles in testing milk supplies and preparing for potential human infections.
Unclear: Representative Edwards Information Only00:07:53.479 - 9:06:34 AM; Representative Edwards sought clarification on the shifting of programs within the department that affected the Public Health budget. Patricia Tilly explained the reorganization and movement of programs such as the Bureau for Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Recovery, which was moved into the Division of Public Health Services, causing the budget to appear increased.
Unclear: Representative Seaworth Information Only00:17:43.240 - 9:16:24 AM; Representative Seaworth inquired about the use of the 18% General funds in the Public Health budget, specifically whether they were used for matching funds or maintenance of effort. Patricia Tilly explained that the use varies depending on specific grants, but generally, Public Health has many small, grant-specific accounts.
Unclear: Representative NV Information Only00:19:51.159 - 9:18:32 AM; Representative NV asked about the number of positions in the Public Health budget, noting an increase. Patricia Tilly clarified that the increase was due to reorganization, with a net reduction of one unclassified position overall. She also mentioned a 15% vacancy rate across the division.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only00:22:25.960 - 9:21:06 AM; An unspecified representative asked about the full-time position cap and the department's ability to recruit. Patricia Tilly explained the current 3,000 full-time authorized position cap and the department's flexibility in managing unfunded positions, which is crucial for responding to emerging needs.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only00:27:36.240 - 9:26:17 AM; Another representative asked about the difference between full-time positions and full-time equivalents. Patricia Tilly clarified the types of positions in the state system, including classified, unclassified, and temporary positions, and how they are budgeted.
Unclear: Representative Daniels Information Only00:35:53.359 - 9:34:34 AM; Representative Daniels inquired about the follow-up on free radon tests distributed by the department. Patricia Tilly mentioned that they do not require results to be reported back to the division and committed to finding out how they evaluate the use of these tests.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only00:37:46.680 - 9:36:27 AM; An unspecified representative asked about the potential for privatizing the therapeutic cannabis program. Patricia Tilly discussed the current state control over the program to ensure safety and suggested that privatization might not be suitable due to New Hampshire's more restrictive approach.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only00:44:05.920 - 9:42:46 AM; Another representative asked if therapeutic cannabis reduces the use of medical pharmaceuticals. Patricia Tilly noted that while anecdotal evidence suggests it might, there are no clinical studies due to federal scheduling restrictions.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only00:46:10.359 - 9:44:51 AM; An unspecified representative questioned the unemployment compensation in the budget. Patricia Tilly explained that it is a standard amount dictated by the Department of Administrative Services and part of a larger system.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only00:51:35.680 - 9:50:16 AM; Another representative asked about the pharmaceutical rebates in the budget. Patricia Tilly clarified that the rebates mentioned were specific to the Ryan White program for HIV and AIDS medications, which are relatively small compared to Medicaid rebates.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only00:54:42.720 - 9:53:23 AM; An unspecified representative inquired about the potential impact of changing the Youth Risk Behavior Survey from an opt-out to an opt-in system. Patricia Tilly explained that such a change would likely skew the data and affect its representativeness, which is crucial for regional policy decisions.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only00:54:42.720 - 9:53:23 AM; The representative was discussing the importance of identifying individuals in public health data and mentioned that smart people have noted that the data is not fully anonymous. They expressed readiness to engage in further conversations on this topic.
Unclear: Representative Priest Information Only00:57:42.920 - 9:56:23 AM; Representative Priest asked about the number of clients serviced in fiscal year 24 for each activity accounting unit on page 17. The response clarified that some units, such as informatics and health statistics, focus on infrastructure work and do not provide direct services. However, specific units like the cancer registry can provide such numbers.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only00:58:49.280 - 9:57:30 AM; The representative inquired about what happens to the data collected from surveys like the Behavioral Risk Factor Survey (BRFSS) and the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS). The response detailed that the data is collected electronically, anonymized, analyzed by the CDC, and made publicly available on the New Hampshire data portal. The data is used by schools and advocacy organizations to focus on health priorities.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only00:59:52.119 - 9:58:33 AM; The representative asked about the frequency of conducting the YRBS and BRFSS. The response stated that YRBS is conducted every other year, with the current cycle in 2025, and BRFSS is done annually.
Unclear: Representative Daniels Information Only01:00:49.319 - 9:59:30 AM; Representative Daniels inquired about the participation rate in the voluntary YRBS program. The response noted that participation is decided by school boards, and there is an opt-out process for parents. The exact participation rate was not immediately available but would be provided later.
Unclear: Representative Daniels Information Only01:01:54.599 - 10:00:35 AM; Representative Daniels expressed concerns about the opt-out process for the YRBS, suggesting that it is unethical and advocating for an opt-in approach instead. The response explained the logistical challenges of managing an opt-in process and cited experiences from other states with lower participation rates.
Unclear: Representative Daniels Information Only01:02:54.920 - 10:01:35 AM; Representative Daniels asked if students could opt out of the YRBS. The response confirmed that students can choose not to participate or can stop at any time. It was noted that the opt-out process is managed at the school district level.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only01:03:56.440 - 10:02:37 AM; The representative discussed the role of the Bureau of Population Health Services in handling data requests, emphasizing careful stewardship to protect identifiable information. They highlighted the transition to electronic case reporting and the availability of health outcome data on the New Hampshire data portal.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only01:04:53.359 - 10:03:34 AM; The representative explained how the New Hampshire data portal allows for data manipulation without identifying individuals, aiding in understanding state health status. They discussed the work of the Bureau of Public Health Protection in preventing foodborne illness, radiological health issues, and lead poisoning.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only01:05:59.400 - 10:04:40 AM; The representative discussed the historical role of the Department of Health in ensuring food and milk safety since the 1880s. They detailed the budget and functions of the food protection program, including the self-funded radiological health fees and the lead poisoning prevention fund.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only01:08:08.039 - 10:06:49 AM; The representative discussed the lead remediation program, which uses funds from the Department of Environmental Services to support child care facilities in reducing lead in drinking water. They clarified that asbestos is handled by the Department of Environmental Services, not DHHS.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only01:09:16.158 - 10:07:57 AM; The representative explained the lead prevention fund, which includes various revenue sources such as CDC funds, Environmental Protection Agency funds, and federal grants. They described how these funds support surveillance, case management, and legal support for the lead poisoning program.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only01:10:11.840 - 10:08:52 AM; The representative discussed the challenges of identifying the source of lead poisoning in children and the importance of remediating lead in housing. They shared a personal story about their child's lead poisoning due to unsafe home repairs and emphasized the effectiveness of housing remediation in reducing lead levels.
Unclear: Representative Priest Information Only01:19:31.760 - 10:18:12 AM; Representative Priest asked about the number of children tested with high blood lead levels in fiscal year 24 and the measures to remediate it. The response noted that the data for 2024 has not been analyzed yet, but nurse case managers address environmental causes and provide support for remediation.
Unclear: Representative Daniels Information Only01:20:43.960 - 10:19:24 AM; Representative Daniels asked if the threshold for determining lead poisoning had changed between 2019 and 2023. The response indicated that the threshold had changed, but the exact date was not immediately available.
Unclear: Representative Torkey Information Only01:21:38.199 - 10:20:19 AM; Representative Torkey expressed concern about the higher incidence of lead poisoning among children on Medicaid and asked about the impact of proposed changes to the CHIP program on identifying and treating these children. The response highlighted the emphasis on screening rates in Medicaid contracts and the role of primary care physicians in screening.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only01:24:38.760 - 10:23:19 AM; The representative discussed the radiological health program, noting that a significant number of machines are in dental and chiropractic facilities. They described the role of physicists in inspecting these machines and responding to radiological incidents, such as a recent vehicle accident involving radiological equipment.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only01:26:08.280 - 10:24:49 AM; The representative discussed the Bureau of Family Health and Nutrition, which was split to manage over 20 accounting units more effectively. They detailed programs like the Pregnancy Risk Monitoring System (PRAMS), WIC food rebates, and the Maternal and Child Health Block Grant, which supports infrastructure for pregnant individuals and infant health.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only01:30:20.960 - 10:29:01 AM; The representative explained the newborn screening program, which involves charging hospitals for filter paper used in screening newborns for various conditions. They noted the importance of timely screening and the low opt-out rate for parents, and clarified that the program does not include screening for conditions like TACS.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only01:33:12.000 - 10:31:53 AM; The representative discussed the WIC supplemental nutrition program, which serves low-income pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age five. They also mentioned the promotion of breastfeeding within the WIC program and the family planning program, which is funded by Title 10 and does not include abortion funding.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only01:37:17.920 - 10:35:58 AM; The representative discussed the community collaboration program, which is funded by general funds and supports various family support services, including home visiting programs aimed at preventing involvement with the Division for Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF).
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only01:39:16.840 - 10:37:57 AM; The representative explained the home visiting program, which is a voluntary program for low-income families and aims to prevent involvement with DCYF. They also discussed the SUID case registry, which tracks sudden unexpected infant deaths and helps in prevention efforts.
Unclear: Representative Priest Information Only01:43:19.040 - 10:42:00 AM; Representative Priest asked about post-SUID bereavement services for parents. The response indicated that DHHS connects parents with available bereavement services.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only01:44:27.840 - 10:43:08 AM; The representative discussed the early hearing detection and intervention program, which screens infants for hearing issues at birth to enable early interventions. They also mentioned the small funding for poison control, which is contracted with Maine Medical Center.
Unclear: Representative Priest Information Only01:45:25.159 - 10:44:06 AM; Representative Priest asked for clarification on the acronym AIMH on page 31. The response explained that it stands for Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health, which works with hospitals on maternal health safety bundles for substance use and perinatal mental health.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only01:46:33.280 - 10:45:14 AM; The representative discussed the Family Resource Centers and Child and Family Support Services, which support healthy relationships, co-parenting, and economic stability. They mentioned the use of TANF funds and the similarities and differences with Nebraska's two-parent program.
Unclear: Representative Priest Information Only01:53:45.000 - 10:52:26 AM; Representative Priest asked for past numbers showing progress in the areas mentioned on page 37. The response noted that the data is tracked over time, but some programs have been flexible, making comparisons difficult.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only02:46:47.840 - 11:45:28 AM; The representative discussed the coordination between lead testing by Public Health and the Department of Environmental Services (DES). They explained the division of labor, with DES handling schools and DHHS focusing on child care facilities, and the health impacts of lead on childhood development.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only02:48:11.399 - 11:46:52 AM; The representative provided updates on previous questions, including school participation in the YRBS and the involvement of fathers in home visiting programs. They also discussed the Bureau of Infectious Disease Control, which manages various infectious diseases and plays a role in emergency response.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only02:54:11.680 - 11:52:52 AM; The representative detailed the Ryan White Part B program, which provides medication and care for people with HIV and AIDS. They also mentioned the Boston EMA Part A funding, which serves residents of Hillsborough, Rockingham, and Strafford counties in New Hampshire.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only02:55:10.120 - 11:53:51 AM; The representative discussed the tracking of infectious diseases and outbreaks by the Disease Control program, noting the high number of reports and outbreaks managed annually. They also addressed questions about potential upticks in diseases like Hepatitis B associated with immigration, stating no such uptick has been observed.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only02:55:10.120 - 11:53:51 AM; The representative concluded their discussion on public health matters, indicating that there was no significant uptick in population health issues they were aware of.
Unclear: Representative Mooney Information Only02:56:50.600 - 11:55:31 AM; Representative Mooney discussed a constituent's concern about a head lice outbreak at a school. They contacted the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and were redirected to the Department of Education, questioning why contagious conditions were managed by different departments. They were informed that head lice are not a significant health risk, and thus, handled by school nurses under the Department of Education.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only02:57:59.319 - 11:56:40 AM; The DHHS representative explained that head lice are not handled by their department due to the lack of significant risk to human health. They noted that such conditions are managed by school nurses under the Department of Education.
Unclear: Representative Tori Information Only02:58:58.520 - 11:57:39 AM; Representative Tori inquired about the handling of bed bugs by DHHS. They were informed that bed bugs are dealt with at the local level by health officers, with DHHS providing training and support.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only02:58:58.520 - 11:57:39 AM; The DHHS representative explained that bed bugs are primarily addressed at the local level by health officers, with DHHS providing training and support. They also mentioned that the health officer budget includes a position for a liaison to these officers.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:00:01.640 - 11:58:42 AM; The representative discussed the mosquito control fund, noting it is a small reserve for emergencies related to mosquito-borne illnesses. They then moved to discuss funding from the New Hampshire Vaccine Association for universal access to childhood vaccines.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only03:01:12.840 - 11:59:53 AM; The representative discussed a bill to eliminate the New Hampshire Vaccine Association, highlighting arguments about value and potential state incentives to increase vaccine registry entries. They sought clarification on the association's role.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:01:12.840 - 11:59:53 AM; The DHHS representative clarified the function of the New Hampshire Vaccine Association, explaining it as an independent organization that assesses rates from commercial payers to enable bulk purchasing of vaccines. They emphasized that the association does not set immunization policy or receive state funds.
Unclear: Representative Tori Information Only03:02:14.800 - 12:00:55 PM; Representative Tori raised concerns about the financial impact of the bill on pediatricians, particularly in rural areas like the North Country, questioning whether it might lead to vaccine shortages.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:03:19.399 - 12:02:00 PM; The DHHS representative confirmed that a lack of bulk purchasing could lead to vaccine shortages, citing a recent RSV vaccine example. They explained the importance of managing vaccines to ensure timely availability.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only03:04:14.800 - 12:02:55 PM; The representative discussed the potential impact of the bill on vaccine availability and its implications for disease outbreaks, referencing a measles outbreak in Texas.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:05:14.359 - 12:03:55 PM; The DHHS representative expressed concern about reduced vaccination rates and the potential for outbreaks of highly contagious diseases like measles, noting a recent outbreak in the Upper Valley.
Unclear: Representative Novum Information Only03:06:13.920 - 12:04:54 PM; Representative Novum sought clarification on the role of the New Hampshire Vaccine Association in managing vaccine supply, learning it primarily deals with financial transactions and rate negotiations.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:07:14.040 - 12:05:55 PM; The DHHS representative clarified that the New Hampshire Vaccine Association's role is financial and not physical management of vaccines, which is handled by the Department of Health and Human Services.
Unclear: Representative Seaworth Information Only03:08:01.640 - 12:06:42 PM; Representative Seaworth inquired about the fiscal note of a bill and whether it would come before their committee if passed, learning it might be waived by the Finance Committee.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only03:09:00.880 - 12:07:41 PM; The representative asked about Triple E, a communicable disease, and was informed it would be discussed later in the presentation.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:10:01.479 - 12:08:42 PM; The DHHS representative discussed programs related to hospital-acquired infections, STD and HIV prevention, and noted New Hampshire's low rates of sexually transmitted infections.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only03:10:50.439 - 12:09:31 PM; The representative questioned the allocation of 2% general funds for STD prevention, seeking to understand the rationale behind this allocation.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:10:50.439 - 12:09:31 PM; The DHHS representative suggested that the 2% allocation might be due to certain positions being ineligible for federal funds, promising to verify the details.
Unclear: Representative Priest Information Only03:12:05.800 - 12:10:46 PM; Representative Priest asked about the impact of eliminating vaccine funding programs, learning that nearly every child in New Hampshire would be affected as these programs ensure vaccine availability for school and childcare entry.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:13:09.359 - 12:11:50 PM; The representative discussed various disease outbreaks, including measles in the Upper Valley, Legionnaire's Disease linked to a cooling tower, and a tuberculosis exposure. They also mentioned increased arboviral activity in 2024.
Unclear: Representative Daniels Information Only03:14:08.600 - 12:12:49 PM; Representative Daniels asked about efforts to rebuild trust in vaccines following the COVID-19 experience, learning that transparency and communication with medical providers are key.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:15:09.479 - 12:13:50 PM; The DHHS representative explained the importance of trust in vaccines, emphasizing the long history and safety of routine childhood vaccinations, and the need to address public concerns.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only03:16:05.600 - 12:14:46 PM; The representative discussed issues with the DHHS website's links to CDC information on vaccines, expressing concerns about building trust and admitting mistakes.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:17:09.279 - 12:15:50 PM; The DHHS representative acknowledged efforts to fix website links and stressed the importance of open conversations to build trust.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only03:18:08.000 - 12:16:49 PM; The representative discussed the changing definitions of vaccines, particularly with mRNA vaccines, and the need to address these changes to maintain public trust.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:19:17.960 - 12:17:58 PM; The DHHS representative noted the annual updates to vaccines like flu due to changing strains and the traditional methods of vaccine production, acknowledging the need for clarity on vaccine definitions.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only03:20:18.399 - 12:18:59 PM; The representative discussed the epidemiology contract with UNH, seeking clarification on its funding and scope.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:21:22.840 - 12:20:03 PM; The DHHS representative provided details on the epidemiology contract with UNH, explaining the funding and flexibility in the use of epidemiological support.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only03:22:25.439 - 12:21:06 PM; The representative inquired about the laboratory testing for disease prevention and control, learning about various testing programs and their funding.
Unclear: Representative Daniels Information Only03:22:52.960 - 12:21:33 PM; Representative Daniels asked about the mandatory testing of private wells and the reporting of results, learning that testing is not mandatory and results are not reported to the state.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:24:02.880 - 12:22:43 PM; The DHHS representative discussed various laboratory testing programs, including water, food, and shellfish testing, and the funding for these programs.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only03:26:12.239 - 12:24:53 PM; The representative inquired about external benchmarking for laboratory workload, learning about collaborations with associations and quality improvement work.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:27:11.359 - 12:25:52 PM; The DHHS representative explained the workload metrics and the flexibility in staffing during the COVID-19 response, suggesting potential comparisons with the Army Medical Department's standards.
Unclear: Representative Priest Information Only03:28:17.399 - 12:26:58 PM; Representative Priest sought clarification on the sharing of water analysis data with federal organizations, learning that such data is not specifically sent to the CDC but is used in regional collaborations.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:30:24.080 - 12:29:05 PM; The DHHS representative discussed the biom monitoring grant, explaining the advantages of having it in the budget to quickly utilize funds if available.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only03:32:11.479 - 12:30:52 PM; The representative asked about the number of schools covered by lead testing, learning it was a partnership with the Department of Environmental Services to identify and remediate lead sources.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:34:07.160 - 12:32:48 PM; The DHHS representative provided details on the epidemiological support contract with UNH, clarifying the funding and its annual allocation.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only03:36:09.520 - 12:34:50 PM; The representative inquired about the testing for influenza strains and the role of wastewater testing in early detection, learning about the multi-pronged approach to influenza surveillance.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:38:13.000 - 12:36:54 PM; The DHHS representative discussed emergency preparedness and response, including radiological incidents, hospital preparedness, and the funding for these programs.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only03:40:11.920 - 12:38:52 PM; The representative questioned the increase in general funds for emergency preparedness, learning about the reasons behind the budget adjustments.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:41:02.560 - 12:39:43 PM; The DHHS representative explained the budget adjustments for emergency preparedness, noting the impact of unfunded positions and the flexibility in spending.
Unclear: Representative Novum Information Only03:46:56.199 - 12:45:37 PM; Representative Novum asked about the management of biohazard waste from hospitals, learning that it is not managed by public health but possibly by the Department of Environmental Services.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:47:54.560 - 12:46:35 PM; The DHHS representative discussed the public health crisis response fund, explaining its role as a placeholder for quick fund utilization during emergencies.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:48:59.120 - 12:47:40 PM; The representative discussed the radiological emergency response and the training of volunteers for mass casualty events, citing a recent example in Concord.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:50:57.560 - 12:49:38 PM; The representative provided an overview of the Bureau of Prevention and Wellness, discussing chronic diseases, cancer, and opioid data programs.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only03:53:57.880 - 12:52:38 PM; The representative inquired about the tobacco prevention program, learning about its effectiveness and the stable funding despite inflation.
Unclear: Unspecified DHHS Representative Information Only03:55:14.159 - 12:53:55 PM; The DHHS representative discussed the tobacco prevention program, its impact on reducing smoking rates, and the challenges with new vaping products among youth.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only03:58:21.840 - 12:57:02 PM; The representative asked about the allocation of funds for contracts in the tobacco prevention program, learning that a significant portion goes to vendors for services like the Quit Line.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only03:58:21.840 - 12:57:02 PM; The representative concluded their discussion on the allocation of funds in public health, expressing a desire to delve deeper into the specifics of certain budget lines. They noted the significant portion of funds being spent on these areas and requested detailed information for further review.
Unclear: Representative Mooney Information Only03:59:50.479 - 12:58:31 PM; Representative Mooney inquired about the potential impact of marijuana legalization on the public health budget line related to smoking. They were curious whether the line would increase, decrease, or become irrelevant. The response indicated that it would likely not become irrelevant and that separate funds for cannabis prevention might be established, though specifics would depend on legislative outcomes.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only04:02:19.520 - 1:01:00 PM; The representative discussed the potential health effects of secondhand cannabis smoke and the growing use of edibles, suggesting a shift away from smoking cannabis. They highlighted the need to consider environmental impacts and public health management in relation to cannabis use.
Unclear: Representative N VanO Information Only04:02:19.520 - 1:01:00 PM; Representative N VanO raised concerns about the link between dental health and inflammation-related diseases. They questioned the efforts made to connect dental hygiene to overall disease prevention and suggested more education is needed in this area. The response detailed the oral health programs funded by public health, which focus on school-based clinics for children and previously included community programs for adults.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only04:05:25.239 - 1:04:06 PM; The representative discussed the 'Wise Women' program, which is funded by CDC funds and focuses on lifestyle factors to mitigate cardiovascular disease in women. They also mentioned the combined chronic disease program, which works on quality improvements in health centers and promotes self-management of chronic diseases.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only04:06:21.960 - 1:05:02 PM; The representative discussed the state loan repayment program, which aims to attract medical professionals to underserved areas. They highlighted the importance of this program for workforce recruitment and mentioned the contractual obligations required for participants.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only04:07:23.720 - 1:06:04 PM; The representative questioned the increase in general funds allocated to rural health and primary care, expressing a concern about fairness in incentivizing other essential skills in underserved areas. They discussed the need for a balanced approach in supporting various professionals in rural communities.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only04:08:40.319 - 1:07:21 PM; The representative inquired about the specifics of the scholarship amounts and income eligibility for the state loan repayment program, expressing a desire to understand the fairness of the program's distribution. The response explained the tiered system based on professional credentials and the requirement to serve in medically underserved areas.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only04:11:58.760 - 1:10:39 PM; The representative discussed the prescription drug monitoring program, which moved from the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification to the Department of Health and Human Services. They also mentioned the opioid surveillance funding for comprehensive overdose data analysis.
Unclear: Unspecified Representative Information Only04:15:01.319 - 1:13:42 PM; The representative asked about the extent to which public health should monitor Alzheimer's and dementia, learning that this falls under the division of long-term services and healthy aging. They also discussed the need for better licensing reciprocity for nurses, noting that this issue is handled by the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification.
Unclear: Representative Price Information Only04:16:39.239 - 1:15:20 PM; Representative Price inquired about the effectiveness of certain programs and the recruitment of medical professionals through the state loan repayment program. They received assurance that the program has been successful in attracting providers to underserved areas and requested specific numbers on this.
Unclear: Kate Fry, Vice President of Advocacy, New Futures Support04:19:17.080 - 1:17:58 PM; Kate Fry expressed appreciation for the division of Public Health Services and supported various prevention programs from birth through the lifespan. She highlighted support for family resource centers, childhood lead poisoning prevention, and universal childhood vaccination programs. She also mentioned concerns about House Bill 524 and shared a personal anecdote about the effectiveness of the Quit Line for vaping cessation. When asked about over-resourced areas, she acknowledged the difficulty in identifying such areas within the public health budget.
Unclear: Mike Rolo, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network Information Only04:22:11.040 - 1:20:52 PM; Mike Rolo, representing the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, briefly supported the budget priorities mentioned by Kate Fry. He emphasized the importance of funding for the cancer registry, tobacco control program, comprehensive cancer line, and the office of rural health. He did not suggest any areas within the Department of Public Health where funding could be reduced, affirming that the budget presented was reasonable.
Unclear: Christine Stoddard, Bi-State Primary Care Association Information Only04:24:29.960 - 1:23:10 PM; Christine Stoddard, from the Bi-State Primary Care Association, highlighted the role of New Hampshire's community health centers in serving over 100,000 Granite Staters in medically underserved areas. She discussed the centers' reliance on federal funding, state contracts, and commercial insurance, and their service to a diverse patient population. Stoddard emphasized the importance of prevention and the responsible investments made by the Division of Health. She also spoke about the state's recruitment efforts for healthcare professionals, including the state loan repayment program and the need for both in-state development of clinicians and out-of-state recruitment. She addressed questions about the effectiveness of relocation packages versus loan forgiveness programs, and the need for scholarships and loan repayment programs to support different types of clinicians. Stoddard noted the high demand for the state loan repayment program and suggested exploring other funding opportunities. She also mentioned the area health education centers and their role in training programs.