Committee Summary for House Finance Division II (01/29/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
Unclear 00:00:46.399 - 9:30:37 AM	General Working Session	Unclear
Unclear 04:10:33.960 - 1:40:24 PM	General Working Session	Unclear

Unclear: Stephanie Simi, Executive Director, New Hampshire Fish and Game Information Only00:00:46.399 - 9:30:37 AM; Stephanie Simi, the new Executive Director of New Hampshire Fish and Game, introduced herself and outlined the agency's role and challenges. She highlighted the agency's mandate to conserve, manage, and protect fish, wildlife, and marine resources, emphasizing their importance to the state's economy and residents' well-being. She discussed the increasing public demand for these resources and the corresponding challenges such as disease, climate resilience, and habitat changes. Simi mentioned the agency's reliance on hunting and fishing license sales for funding and the need to explore other revenue sources. She stressed the agency's efforts to improve efficiencies, build collaborative relationships, and seek alternative funding. Simi also mentioned critical needs for permanent environmental review staff, infrastructure and technology modernization, and the potential impact of budget cuts on services.
Unclear: Kathy Leonti, Chief of the Business Division, New Hampshire Fish and Game Information Only00:08:28.680 - 9:38:19 AM; Kathy Leonti, Chief of the Business Division, provided detailed information on the agency's budget development. She explained that the budget met the governor's general fund targets but could not meet the targets for using Fish and Game funds without significant cuts to programs and services. She noted that the budget relies on over $18 million in Fish and Game funds each year, with a deficit of over $4 million, necessitating the use of surplus funds. Leonti discussed the agency's staffing, with 193 full-time employees and five unfunded positions, and the small amount of general funds in the budget. She offered to answer further questions about the agency's budget submission.
Unclear: Representative Murray Information Only00:10:49.040 - 9:40:40 AM; Representative Murray asked about the most impactful diseases the agency is dealing with, specifically chronic wasting disease and hemorrhagic disease, and the efforts to prevent their spread. He also inquired about the Hike Safe program, mentioning its success and the potential for increasing the fee due to the number of rescues and unprepared hikers. Murray questioned the tracking of individuals who leave rescue scenes without paying and the preparedness of hikers.
Unclear: Representative Pap Information Only00:15:20.440 - 9:45:11 AM; Representative Pap discussed the potential for a similar program to Hike Safe for boating, acknowledging the logistical challenges involved. He also inquired about the trends in license sales post-COVID and the agency's response to those trends.
Unclear: Representative D Information Only00:19:59.760 - 9:49:50 AM; Representative D asked about diseases coming from other states through bait and the agency's stance on a related bill. They also questioned the potential for revenue from out-of-state boaters and the impact of these visitors on local water quality, suggesting it as another revenue stream for environmental monitoring.
Unclear: Representative Information Only00:23:06.840 - 9:52:57 AM; The representative inquired about the frequency of federal fund draw-downs and their impact on the agency's budget. They also asked about the budgeting process for license revenues, noting discrepancies between budgeted and actual revenues in past years.
Unclear: Representative RBS on Hack PHS Information Only00:27:28.520 - 9:57:19 AM; Representative RBS on Hack PHS asked about the process for accepting gifts and donations at the Fish and Game Department, including the approval process and the use of such funds.
Unclear: Representative Pap Information Only00:29:39.159 - 9:59:30 AM; Representative Pap discussed the difficulty in obtaining licenses due to full classes and the impact on potential revenue. He urged the agency to consider offering more classes to meet demand and increase revenue, emphasizing the importance of not disappointing potential license holders.
Unclear: Representative Kelly Information Only00:34:19.079 - 10:04:10 AM; Representative Kelly inquired about the last license fee increase and its amount, noting the agency's high fees compared to surrounding states. He also asked about potential adjustments to fees like the habitat fee to address inflation without impacting license fees.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:37:08.640 - 10:06:59 AM; The speaker questions the Fish and Game Department's budget increase over recent years, noting a general 10% rise for state employees due to inflation. They inquire about additional factors contributing to the budget increase, expressing concern over revenue not keeping pace.
Unclear: Fish and Game Representative Information Only00:37:55.319 - 10:07:46 AM; The Fish and Game representative explains that the budget increase is primarily driven by salary and benefit costs, including increases for both Fish and Game employees and other state agencies, such as transfers to the Department of Information Technology (DOIT) and the Department of Administrative Services (DAS). They mention the need for detailed information on these transfers for future meetings.
Unclear: Fish and Game Representative Information Only00:39:34.079 - 10:09:25 AM; The representative continues to discuss budget increases, highlighting the significant rise in IT costs over the last decade. They also mention other factors contributing to budget increases, such as inflation affecting the costs of supplies like fence posts, shipping, and utilities at various Fish and Game facilities.
Unclear: Fish and Game Representative Information Only00:40:20.520 - 10:10:11 AM; The representative discusses the volume of shipping done by the department, including regulations and educational materials to license agents, and the associated costs. They acknowledge the suggestion to move towards electronic training materials but note the agency's technological limitations.
Unclear: Fish and Game Representative Information Only00:42:02.720 - 10:11:53 AM; The representative commits to working on technological improvements and innovation to address the agency's technological challenges, as discussed with the committee.
Unclear: Representative Papi Information Only00:42:49.559 - 10:12:40 AM; Representative Papi reiterates previous discussions about the need for detailed data on unfunded obligations added to Fish and Game's responsibilities. They stress the importance of understanding these obligations to address any legislative oversights and properly fund programs like search and rescue.
Unclear: Representative Murray Information Only00:45:07.839 - 10:14:58 AM; Representative Murray seeks clarification on whether experienced hunters must take a hunter education class annually. The Fish and Game representative explains it's a one-time requirement that can be completed in another state.
Unclear: Fish and Game Representative Information Only00:45:54.040 - 10:15:45 AM; The representative explains that the hunter education program includes a mandatory field day component, which cannot be completed through Zoom due to the physical handling of guns.
Unclear: Fish and Game Representative Information Only00:46:40.880 - 10:16:31 AM; The representative discusses the potential impact of a federal funding pause on their programs, expressing optimism about not being affected and their readiness for contingency planning if necessary.
Unclear: Fish and Game Representative Information Only00:48:59.839 - 10:18:50 AM; The representative clarifies that they provided a handout, not a slide presentation, at a recent Ways and Means meeting and agrees to send an electronic version to the committee.
Unclear: Fish and Game Representative Information Only00:49:45.160 - 10:19:36 AM; The representative explains the department's funding structure, detailing how various programs are self-funded through dedicated accounts. They discuss the challenges with the unrestricted Fish and Game fund, which supports overhead costs not covered by federal or dedicated funds.
Unclear: Representative Papichi Information Only00:54:53.319 - 10:24:44 AM; Representative Papichi congratulates Director Simic on her appointment and apologizes for not doing so earlier. They request a list of fees that the department might need legislative authority to increase, along with projections of appropriate fees and their budget impact.
Unclear: Fish and Game Representative Information Only00:57:12.880 - 10:27:03 AM; The representative confirms that they will provide the requested information on fees and budget impacts. They discuss the health of dedicated accounts and the challenges with the unrestricted Fish and Game fund, emphasizing the need for more funding to cover support areas.
Unclear: Fish and Game Representative Information Only00:58:00.160 - 10:27:51 AM; The representative explains the difference between restricted and unrestricted funds, noting that unrestricted funds support the department's operational overhead, while restricted funds are earmarked for specific projects.
Unclear: Fish and Game Representative Information Only00:58:47.240 - 10:28:38 AM; The representative discusses the composition of the unrestricted Fish and Game fund, mentioning various revenue sources, including licenses and indirect cost recoveries. They explain the difficulty in raising license fees due to potential drops in volume.
Unclear: Fish and Game Representative Information Only01:01:53.119 - 10:31:44 AM; The representative acknowledges the suggestion to raise fees on other licenses to support overhead costs but notes that most fees are already high compared to other states. They commit to providing a detailed analysis of dedicated funds and potential legislative changes.
Unclear: Representative Papichi Information Only01:08:24.759 - 10:38:15 AM; Representative Papichi emphasizes the agency's history of self-funding and the desire to match revenues with expenses through user fees before considering general fund support. They request detailed data on dedicated funds to guide decisions.
Unclear: Representative Kelly Information Only01:09:57.760 - 10:39:48 AM; Representative Kelly inquires about any federal funds requiring matching funds from the state's general fund, confirming that no such matching is needed, ensuring no loss of federal funds.
Unclear: Fish and Game Representative Information Only01:11:32.040 - 10:41:23 AM; The representative offers to provide a report on dedicated accounts, which includes a 10-year history and statutory references, to assist the committee in understanding the financial situation.
Unclear: Fish and Game Representative Information Only01:12:18.239 - 10:42:09 AM; The representative expresses gratitude for the committee's support and looks forward to working together, acknowledging their new role and the committee's new approach to budget discussions before the governor's budget is released.
Unclear: Commissioner Robert Quinn, Department of Safety Information Only02:31:37.160 - 12:01:28 PM; Commissioner Quinn introduces himself and Director Amy Newbery, outlining the Department of Safety's mission and budget requests for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. He discusses the department's structure, challenges, and goals.
Unclear: Director Amy Newbery, Department of Safety Information Only02:33:08.319 - 12:02:59 PM; Director Newbery presents an overview of the Department of Safety's budget request, detailing the funding structure and staffing levels. She discusses the office of the commissioner, its oversight roles, and specific divisions' responsibilities and budget allocations.
Unclear: Representative Papichi Information Only02:38:32.560 - 12:08:23 PM; Representative Papichi asks a brief question about the Department of Safety's budget, specifically requesting clarification on what 'other revenues' represents.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:38:34.880 - 12:08:25 PM; The speaker inquired about the nature of audits conducted by the department, specifically related to license audits and what generally happens during these audits. They were reassured that the topic would be covered later in the session.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:39:21.560 - 12:09:12 PM; The speaker discussed the funding structure of the department, emphasizing the significant portion of operations supported by indirect cost recovery and dedicated funds. They highlighted that indirect cost recovery is tied to administrative services like human resource management and invoice processing.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:40:09.120 - 12:10:00 PM; The speaker transitioned to discussing the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), outlining its mission to enhance public safety by ensuring proper credentialing of drivers and vehicles. They detailed the DMV's budget request and operational statistics for fiscal year 24, including the issuance of motor vehicle titles, skills and road tests, and driver licenses.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:40:55.240 - 12:10:46 PM; The speaker continued discussing the DMV's services, highlighting licensing, real ID issuance, accident reporting, and vehicle-related services. They also mentioned the funding sources for the DMV, primarily from cost of collection.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:42:28.000 - 12:12:19 PM; The speaker shifted focus to the Division of State Police, discussing its budget request and funding sources, which include state and federal resources. They noted the increase in general funds and explained it was due to salary and benefits increases and internal reallocations.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:44:01.240 - 12:13:52 PM; The speaker addressed a question about the increase in general funds for the State Police, attributing it to salary and benefits adjustments and internal reallocations. They explained the process of reclassification and step increases within the department.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:45:34.200 - 12:15:25 PM; The speaker provided statistics on State Police activities in fiscal year 24 and discussed budget adjustments, including funding for body cameras and overtime costs due to staffing gaps.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:46:20.200 - 12:16:11 PM; The speaker introduced the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, detailing its budget request and funding sources, primarily federal grants. They also discussed the division's activities, such as activating the state's Emergency Operations Center and approving local hazard mitigation plans.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:47:55.920 - 12:17:46 PM; The speaker clarified that the division receives federal grants and state funding, with some grants being pass-through funds. They agreed to provide details on these grants.
Unclear: Representative Henphelips Information Only02:48:41.840 - 12:18:32 PM; Representative Henphelips asked for clarification on the funding sources represented in the budget charts, specifically whether the larger portion of each bar graph was federal or general funding. They also mentioned their personal challenge with color blindness and requested more contrast in the charts.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:49:28.600 - 12:19:19 PM; The speaker reiterated the funding sources for Homeland Security and Emergency Management, mentioning emergency response programming and RSA 107-b Section 3 related to Seabrook Station. They highlighted the division's comprehensive approach to emergency management.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:51:01.720 - 12:20:52 PM; The speaker discussed the Division of Emergency Services and Communications, detailing its budget request and the funding mechanism through a dedicated surcharge on communication systems. They answered questions about the 911 fund and its sources.
Unclear: Representative Mary H Information Only02:52:34.560 - 12:22:25 PM; Representative Mary H inquired about the contributions of other communication organizations to the 911 fund, beyond the surcharge on phone bills. The speaker clarified that the surcharge is the primary funding source and that individual communities have separate funding for local services.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:53:23.680 - 12:23:14 PM; The speaker provided operational details about the Division of Emergency Services and Communications, including its support for first responders and the management of 911 call centers. They explained the 988 hotline for behavioral health.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:54:56.439 - 12:24:47 PM; The speaker discussed the Division of Fire Standards and Training and EMS, outlining its budget request and the services it provides, including training and certification of emergency responders. They addressed questions about fire certification levels.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:56:35.680 - 12:26:26 PM; The speaker detailed the Division of Fire Safety's budget request and its activities, such as fire investigations and safety inspections. They explained the funding of the fire fund through fees for motor vehicle records.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:58:11.200 - 12:28:02 PM; The speaker clarified the process of requesting motor vehicle records and addressed questions about the judicial branch's access to these records. They discussed the driver privacy statute and the process for individuals to request their own records.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only03:00:31.840 - 12:30:22 PM; The speaker discussed the fire fund, explaining a requested $4 million transfer to maintain service levels and the relevant RSA. They addressed questions about the transfer's origin and the management of non-lapsing funds.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only03:03:45.279 - 12:33:36 PM; The speaker answered questions about the department's hiring challenges and the management of vacancy funds, explaining that these funds lapse back to the general or highway fund at the end of the biennium.
Unclear: Representative Bean Information Only03:11:00.680 - 12:40:51 PM; Representative Bean inquired about the turnaround time for background checks in Belknap County, expressing concerns about delays. The speaker clarified that the department provides records quickly and there is no backlog, suggesting confusion with additional checks required by employers.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only03:11:45.800 - 12:41:36 PM; The speaker discussed the department's efforts to improve the background check process through a multi-agency task force and offered to assist with any issues directly with the department.
Unclear: Representative Hacken Phillips Information Only03:16:15.319 - 12:46:06 PM; Representative Hacken Phillips speculated that delays in background checks for nursing home employees might be due to additional health care protocols not directly related to the department's record checks.
Unclear: Representative D Information Only03:17:06.640 - 12:46:57 PM; Representative D expressed concerns about revenue generation from traffic enforcement and requested historical data on fines collected by state troopers. The speaker acknowledged the issue and discussed the department's recruitment and enforcement strategies.
Unclear: Representative Papi Information Only03:19:24.760 - 12:49:15 PM; Representative Papi emphasized the importance of public safety over revenue generation from traffic enforcement and commended the department's efforts in balancing these priorities.
Unclear: Representative Murray Information Only03:20:05.800 - 12:49:56 PM; Representative Murray asked about the use of federal funds in 2024, the impact of their reduction, the pause on grant funding, and how the department addressed a requested 4% budget decrease. The speaker explained the significant reduction was due to the cessation of COVID-19 funds and discussed ongoing efforts to address budget cuts.
Unclear: Representative Arpa Information Only03:23:33.640 - 12:53:24 PM; Representative Arpa emphasized the importance of using ARPA funds as intended for one-time projects rather than creating a need for permanent funding. They expressed confidence in the division's understanding of the one-time nature of these funds and the appropriate use of them so far.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:24:20.960 - 12:54:11 PM; The speaker inquired about the impact of rescue costs on the department, specifically referencing activities in the White Mountains primarily handled by Fish and Game. They also mentioned issues with firearm procurement in Rockingham County due to lack of response from Sig Sauer, and asked about the decision-making process for new firearms within the State Police division.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:25:06.680 - 12:54:57 PM; The speaker discussed the process for evaluating and selecting new firearms within the State Police, which involves a team of experts and instructors. They also addressed concerns about increased accidents on Interstate 95, mentioning the department's response with increased enforcement and collaboration with other agencies like the Department of Transportation to address potential causes such as speed or road design.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:25:53.319 - 12:55:44 PM; The speaker continued discussing the response to accidents on Interstate 95, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach involving enforcement, education, and engineering. They mentioned the ongoing process of analyzing fatal accident reports to identify root causes and the collaboration with other agencies to improve road safety.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:27:25.040 - 12:57:16 PM; The speaker discussed the cooperation between Fish and Game and other agencies during search and rescue operations, noting that there has never been an issue requiring billing for resources shared among agencies. They expressed respect for Fish and Game's work under challenging conditions.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:28:10.840 - 12:58:01 PM; The speaker mentioned a request for a breakdown of various funding categories and fees, indicating that Amy would provide detailed information later. They emphasized that the funds are dedicated by division and cover specific costs.
Unclear: Amy Information Only03:28:55.960 - 12:58:46 PM; Amy provided information on the breakdown of different funding categories and fees within the department, including communications, agency income, and various fees like telephone surcharges and decal fees. She mentioned that a detailed report would be provided to answer specific questions about revenue and expenses.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:30:50.120 - 1:00:41 PM; The speaker asked about the adequacy of funding for different dedicated funds and whether the revenue sources were sufficient to cover the costs. They expressed interest in understanding if each fund was appropriately funded to address its intended need.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:31:36.279 - 1:01:27 PM; The speaker discussed the relationship between revenue and expenses in dedicated funds, indicating a belief in a direct correlation but also acknowledging that further data would be needed to confirm if funding was adequate for each fund's operation.
Unclear: Mr. LeRon Information Only03:32:23.399 - 1:02:14 PM; Mr. LeRon requested a refresher on the department's largest other funds, specifically the highway fund cost of collections, for both returning and new members of the committee. The discussion was set to continue after Amy retrieved the relevant information.
Unclear: Amy Information Only03:33:09.080 - 1:03:00 PM; Amy explained the concept of 'cost of collections' within the highway fund, detailing how all revenue collected by the Road Toll Bureau and the Division of Motor Vehicles is deposited into the highway fund, from which the expenses for operating these bureaus are then drawn.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:36:20.800 - 1:06:11 PM; The speaker asked about the highway fund's structural deficit and how it could be addressed without relying on general funds. They were told that the current budget did not consider future solutions, but the department would continue to operate within its targets.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:37:55.040 - 1:07:46 PM; The speaker questioned the significant amount of general funds requested for the fire fund, asking about potential alternatives to avoid large general fund inflows. They were informed that the department would continue working with the governor's office on the issue.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:39:25.560 - 1:09:16 PM; The speaker praised the decision to use a stoplight instead of a more costly roundabout at the intersection of 89 and Clinton Street. They highlighted the efficiency and lower cost of the stoplight solution and commended the team's efforts in improving road safety across various areas.
Unclear: Representative D Roy Information Only03:40:58.439 - 1:10:49 PM; Representative D Roy inquired about the analysis behind choosing rotaries over traffic lights, noting the high cost of rotaries due to land acquisition. The response directed them to the Department of Transportation for engineering studies and safety design information.
Unclear: R Papichi Information Only03:41:57.720 - 1:11:48 PM; R Papichi requested an update from Director John Marasco regarding a previous concern about a government inspection station's adherence to safety standards. They emphasized the importance of equal standards between public and private inspection stations.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:43:30.040 - 1:13:21 PM; The speaker provided an overview of the inspection station complaint process, highlighting the thorough investigations conducted by the State Police and the potential sanctions that could follow if violations were found.
Unclear: Representative Murray Information Only03:44:54.840 - 1:14:45 PM; Representative Murray requested an update on the improvements at the DMV, noting the reduction in backlogs and the increase in infrastructure and technology. The response credited the DMV team's focus on customer service and efficiency.
Unclear: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:47:15.279 - 1:17:06 PM; The speaker asked about potential impacts on the department due to immigrant deportation policies, particularly concerning manpower and monetary resources. They were informed that no decisions had been made and the department would adjust to any required changes.
Unclear: Bill Cass Information Only04:01:24.319 - 1:31:15 PM; Commissioner Bill Cass introduced himself and his team from the New Hampshire Department of Transportation, including Danielle Shandonnet, Dave Rodrig, and Steve Lante. He outlined the department's mission and organizational structure, emphasizing safety and asset management.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only04:10:33.960 - 1:40:24 PM; The speaker discussed the Department of Transportation's (DOT) wage studies and comparisons, indicating that such studies exist to compare compensation for similar jobs in other municipalities and states. They mentioned the willingness to share this information later and provided an overview of the DOT, highlighting its size with approximately 1,650 full-time positions and a 23-25% vacancy rate. They also detailed the DOT's responsibilities, including maintaining state and municipal bridges, and outlined the distribution of funding sources such as federal, highway, turnpike, and general funds. The speaker emphasized the restrictions on the use of federal funds, which are primarily for capital projects and require state matches. They also touched on the highway fund's role in supporting operations and maintenance, and how the turnpike system is funded by tolls and operates as an enterprise fund. They concluded by discussing challenges such as workforce vacancies and inflationary costs affecting productivity and maintenance priorities.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only04:27:36.319 - 1:57:27 PM; The speaker provided detailed information on the DOT's budget, focusing on the division of Aeronautics, Rail, and Transit, which administers federal grants to airports and oversees rail and public transit operations. They explained the unique role of New Hampshire in administering block grant funds to airports and clarified the operations of the Boston Express commuter bus service. The speaker also highlighted funding challenges, particularly the need for additional general fund revenue due to increased benefits and indirect costs. They discussed the project development bureau's role in managing federal highway funds for construction projects and the use of turnpike toll credits to leverage federal funds without state money. They concluded by discussing the highway fund's revenue sources, its allocation, and the impact of electric vehicles and fuel efficiency on future revenue, as well as the structural deficit in the highway fund.
Unclear: Representative Papich Information Only04:45:20.560 - 2:15:11 PM; Representative Papich sought clarification on the interest rate of the Federal Loan used for the i93 project, noting it was fixed at 1.09% and suggesting that the repayment was structured to take advantage of this low rate. They also inquired about the potential impact of removing front license plate requirements on toll revenue, expressing a desire for an analysis on how tolls might need to adjust to compensate for any loss. They mentioned concerns from constituents about drilling holes in expensive vehicles to attach front plates and shared feedback on previous legislative attempts to remove this requirement.
Unclear: Representative Murray Information Only04:53:43.718 - 2:23:34 PM; Representative Murray asked about the Bedford toll plaza, confirming its continued operation and its transition to all-electronic tolling. They also inquired about the elimination of the Marac toll and its impact on revenue, suggesting that the loss might have been offset by increases at other tolls. They sought confirmation on the use of turnpike revenue, ensuring it is limited to the turnpike system itself.
Unclear: Representative Pap Information Only05:04:21.638 - 2:34:12 PM; Representative Pap continued the discussion from the previous speaker by questioning the structural deficit in the highway fund. He specifically inquired about the fairness of the current revenue collection from gas vehicles compared to electric vehicles, suggesting that one class might be bearing a disproportionate burden of the road tax. He asked for data to be provided either immediately or later to clarify this issue.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:05:06.718 - 2:34:57 PM; The unnamed speaker responded to Representative Pap's query about the fairness of revenue collection from different types of vehicles. They mentioned that a premium registration fee was placed on electric vehicles and hybrids in previous sessions, generating around $2 million in revenue. They acknowledged the complexity of the issue and committed to providing further data to assess if the current fee structure represents a fair share.
Unclear: Representative Murray Information Only05:06:38.920 - 2:36:29 PM; Representative Murray expressed appreciation for the efforts made in past budgets to address the maintenance and purchasing of new materials for plows and trucks. He noted that the fleet investment cycle was recognized and fully funded in the last budget, and that the department was on track despite challenges from supply chain issues rather than funding. He also mentioned that sustaining the recommended investment cycle would be a point of discussion in the upcoming budget.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:08:11.320 - 2:38:02 PM; The unnamed speaker discussed the budget line for public transportation affecting the Upper Valley, Nashua, and the Seacoast, which did not make it into the efficiency budget. They explained that the state historically provided minimal assistance for the operating match of local transit agencies, but last budget session, additional general funds were allocated to assist with local transit matches. However, these funds were not reflected in the current budget due to level budget targets.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:09:45.240 - 2:39:36 PM; The unnamed speaker detailed the collaboration with the Department of Environmental Services (DES) regarding coastal resilience, specifically mentioning the Coastal Risks and Hazards Commission's work on sea level change. They provided an example of a bridge project over Hampton Harbor where project planning was influenced by the commission's data. They also discussed the regular coordination and meetings with DES to ensure project alignment.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:11:16.200 - 2:41:07 PM; The unnamed speaker addressed the financial impact of extreme weather events on the budget, citing damage along the seawall and revetments along Route 1A. They mentioned the use of state funds for immediate repairs and the pursuit of federal grants, such as a $20 million Federal Highway Grant, to support rebuilding efforts. They also discussed the process of seeking FEMA and FHWA emergency relief funds to offset these costs.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:13:36.480 - 2:43:27 PM; The unnamed speaker responded to a query about the impact of not relying on tax credits for matching funds, explaining that in 2024, approximately $58 million in toll credits were used. This amount could have been applied elsewhere if not used for matching funds, indicating potential for increased project funding without these credits.