Committee Summary for House Finance Division II (03/18/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB713 00:05:18.840 - 9:04:04 AM	General Working Session	relative to mile markers along Route 112.	Stringham, Jerry(D)[CT]2024
HB563 00:22:21.440 - 9:21:07 AM	General Working Session	(New Title) relative to the cost of an opportunity for an adequate education, extraordinary need grants, fiscal capacity disparity aid, and determination of education grants.	Ladd, Rick(R)[B+]2024
HB675 00:28:21.480 - 9:27:07 AM	Public Hearing	(New Title) limiting the authority of school districts to make certain appropriations.	Sweeney, Joe(R)[A-]2024
HB675 01:06:30.599 - 10:05:16 AM	Executive Session	(New Title) limiting the authority of school districts to make certain appropriations.	Sweeney, Joe(R)[A-]2024
HB773 01:06:30.599 - 10:05:16 AM	Executive Session	relative to aid to school districts for the cost of special education.	Ladd, Rick(R)[B+]2024
HB781 01:11:25.120 - 10:10:11 AM	Executive Session	(New Title) requiring school districts to adopt policies establishing a cell phone-free education.	Litchfield, Melissa(R)[A-]2022
HB2 03:06:16.560 - 12:05:02 PM	General Working Session	relative to state fees, funds, revenues, and expenditures.	Weyler, Kenneth(R)[B+]2024

HB713: Representative Stringham Support00:05:18.840 - 9:04:04 AM; Representative Stringham presented HB713, which aims to install mile markers along a 32-mile stretch of Route 112, known as the Kancamagus Highway, from Lincoln to Conway. He highlighted the lack of cell and emergency radio service along this route, which leads to difficulties in locating accidents or breakdowns, especially in winter. The bill was supported unanimously by local police and emergency services, who see it as a solution to a major public safety issue. The project would be funded entirely by federal funds, and Representative Stringham mentioned a potential friendly amendment to adjust the placement of mile markers based on local input and DOT's flexibility.
HB713: Representative Hacken Phillips Information Only00:09:53.560 - 9:08:39 AM; Representative Hacken Phillips inquired about the potential amendment to HB713, expressing interest in understanding the proposed changes for future discussions. Representative Stringham explained that the amendment would define specific sections of the road needing mile markers and ensure the Department of Transportation has the flexibility to place them appropriately, considering aesthetics and practical needs.
HB713: Representative Papovich Information Only00:12:11.920 - 9:10:57 AM; Representative Papovich discussed the possibility of retaining HB713 with the intent of including it in HB2, the budget bill. Representative Stringham expressed a preference for the bill to continue independently, citing its straightforward nature and no impact on the budget.
HB713: Representative Wilder Information Only00:14:49.399 - 9:13:35 AM; Representative Wilder raised concerns about the cost of the mile markers project, questioning the fiscal note's figures. He explained that the costs included in the fiscal note were for a standalone project, and combining it with other projects could spread the mobilization costs. He also discussed the potential for extending the project to include the stretch from Bath to Lincoln, noting the isolation and similar needs in that area.
HB713: Representative Papovich Support00:19:25.919 - 9:18:11 AM; Representative Papovich moved to recommend HB713 for an Ought to Pass (OTP) with the understanding that Representative Stringham might bring a friendly amendment directly to the finance committee. The motion was seconded by Representative Murray, and the committee voted unanimously in favor of the OTP recommendation.
HB563: Representative Luna Support00:22:21.440 - 9:21:07 AM; Representative Luna discussed HB563, which passed the Ed Funding Committee with a unanimous vote of 18 to 0. The bill proposes two main changes: adding fiscal capacity disparity aid as part of targeted grants for FY 27 at a cost of $13.3 million, and increasing the special education differentiated aid factor from $2100 to $3140 per student.
HB563: Representative Papovich Information Only00:23:20.279 - 9:22:06 AM; Representative Papovich clarified that the $13.7 million related to fiscal capacity disparity aid is balanced by a reduction in the extraordinary needs grant, making it a net neutral cost. He also mentioned that the committee focused on large school districts like Manchester and Nashua, noting specific changes in Manchester's allocation.
HB563: Representative Luno Information Only00:24:31.919 - 9:23:17 AM; Representative Luno acknowledged the budget neutrality of the fiscal capacity disparity aid and the extraordinary needs grant changes. He expressed concern that the $13.3 million allocated for fiscal capacity disparity aid is insufficient compared to the $65 million in 2019, impacting fewer communities. He advocated for more meaningful aid to property-poor towns to address high property tax burdens.
HB675: Brian Chirichello, Derry, NH Support00:28:21.480 - 9:27:07 AM; Brian Chirichello, a former State Representative and County Commissioner from Derry, NH, supported the bill. He highlighted the issue of high property taxes in Derry, the third largest school district in the state, despite having a tax cap since 1993. He discussed the confusion and low voter turnout at deliberative sessions, and the significant difference between the town's and school's budgets. He suggested merging the town and school governance under a tax cap, similar to Manchester and Nashua, to manage costs better and address the financial strain on seniors and young people trying to enter the housing market.
HB675: Representative Luno Oppose00:50:33.920 - 9:49:19 AM; Representative Luno opposed the bill, arguing that it insults voters who have rejected local budget caps in over 12 communities across the state. He believes that imposing a state-determined budget cap goes against the clear message from local voters.
HB675: Representative Murray Oppose00:38:38.079 - 9:37:24 AM; Representative Murray argued that the issue should be handled locally, as each community's situation is unique. He believes that the bill does not support local control and that communities should have the freedom to address their issues in ways that best suit them.
HB675: Representative Phillips Oppose00:39:41.440 - 9:38:27 AM; Representative Phillips discussed the importance of checks and balances in government, suggesting that the current system, including the democratic process and court rulings, already provides these. He noted that while the bill might not work for all communities, like his with an interstate school district, local control should prevail. He suggested that increasing state support to local districts could be a better solution to relieve property tax burdens.
HB675: Chairman Wilder Support00:46:07.119 - 9:44:53 AM; Chairman Wilder strongly supported the bill, emphasizing the need for a spending cap due to the continuous increase in school spending despite declining enrollment. He criticized the lack of limits on school boards and the influence of spenders on these boards, suggesting that a cap is necessary to control costs.
HB675: Representative D Information Only00:48:12.400 - 9:46:58 AM; Representative D inquired about the per pupil cost at Pinkerton Academy in Derry compared to other schools. Brian Chirichello responded that he did not have the exact figures but believed it was on par with the state average, noting the unique situation of Pinkerton as a semi-private school.
HB675: Representative Pap Oppose00:51:04.040 - 9:49:50 AM; Representative Pap argues that the decision-making process for school budgets should be aligned with those who are responsible for raising the funds, emphasizing the importance of local control over school finances. They express concern that increasing state funding to local schools could lead to a loss of local control, where spending decisions are made by individuals not directly accountable for raising the funds. They also point out that the bill does not remove local control but rather supports towns needing assistance where residents are not in favor of significant budget increases.
HB675: Brian Hawkins, representing NEA New Hampshire Oppose00:53:59.559 - 9:52:45 AM; Brian Hawkins, representing NEA New Hampshire, argues against the bill by highlighting the public support for schools and educators. He points out that recent votes on spending caps failed to achieve a majority, suggesting that communities value their schools and educators. Hawkins urges the state to focus on providing necessary resources to schools rather than expanding voucher programs for the wealthy. He believes the bill could impose a cap that might hinder schools from meeting their needs, requiring a two-thirds override.
HB675: Representative Murray Oppose01:00:04.799 - 9:58:50 AM; Representative Murray acknowledges the close vote on the bill in the House, indicating a lack of overwhelming support. They emphasize the importance of adequate education funding and express concerns about the bill's impact on local communities. Murray notes that the unique challenges faced by different communities in New Hampshire should be addressed at the local level, and Democrats will oppose the bill due to its blanket approach to a local issue.
HB675: Representative Luno Oppose01:02:07.760 - 10:00:53 AM; Representative Luno questions whether the current school district budgets across the state provide an equal opportunity for all students. They suggest that the bill could lock in disparities between districts, particularly affecting less-resourced areas like Newport, Pittsfield, and Berlin, and potentially disenfranchising students in those districts by imposing a state budget cap.
HB675: Representative Wer Support01:02:48.720 - 10:01:34 AM; Representative Wer supports the bill, arguing that constant increases in school budgets above inflation rates are affecting the state budget. They criticize school boards for pressuring for more state funding while misusing local communication systems to influence votes. Wer believes that without controlling this out-of-control spending, the state budget will never have enough funds, and thus, the bill is crucial for budget management.
HB675: Committee Vote01:06:30.599 - 10:05:16 AM; The committee voted to retain HB675 for inclusion in the normal budget process. The vote was 5 yes and 3 no.
HB773: Committee Vote01:06:30.599 - 10:05:16 AM; The committee discussed HB773, which aims to set a proration floor for special education aid at 80%. The bill was previously approved with a voice vote of 18-0 on the floor. The committee voted unanimously 7-0 to retain the bill with the intention of including it in the HB2 discussions for funding.
HB781: Committee Vote01:11:25.120 - 10:10:11 AM; The committee discussed HB781, which requires school districts to adopt cellphone-free education policies. The bill's appropriation was removed, and it was noted that many schools already have such policies in place. The committee voted unanimously 8-0 to retain the bill, with no further funding or grants from the state required.
HB781: Committee Information Only01:28:23.119 - 10:27:09 AM; The committee resumed from recess to discuss and vote on three items listed on a sheet distributed by Representative Landrian. The first item discussed was item number seven, which involved an operator agreement with transit facilities in Portsmouth, concerning the segregation of funds for specific purposes under House Bill 1 and a forthcoming amendment to House Bill 2.
HB781: Committee Information Only01:29:16.360 - 10:28:02 AM; The committee discussed item number seven further, which involved setting up an account in House Bill 1 for specific amounts and a forthcoming amendment to House Bill 2 to restrict revenue use. The committee voted unanimously to approve the changes related to item number seven.
HB781: Committee Information Only01:32:16.440 - 10:31:02 AM; The committee moved to discuss item 13A, which involved the Department of Education's list of vacant positions. The committee had previously approved item 13B, which dealt with federal-funded positions. Item 13A concerned four general-funded positions that the department was unwilling to fill. Representative Papovich argued for removing these positions from the budget to ensure fiscal discipline, while others expressed concerns about the impact on early childhood and school nurse coordination.
HB781: Committee Information Only01:37:13.280 - 10:35:59 AM; The discussion on item 13A continued with Representative Papovich proposing a motion to abolish the four vacant positions. The motion was seconded, and after a vote, it passed with five in favor and three opposed.
HB781: Committee Information Only01:38:02.320 - 10:36:48 AM; The committee then discussed a proposed budget amendment for the Community College System of New Hampshire. The amendment involved flat funding, which was passed through the House and Education Committee. It included maintaining the dual and concurrent enrollment program and math learning communities at current funding levels, but did not provide additional funds for tuition freezing or workforce credentials.
HB781: Committee Information Only01:41:56.119 - 10:40:42 AM; Further discussion on the Community College System budget amendment clarified that the flat funding would not support a tuition freeze, potentially leading to tuition increases. The committee also discussed enrollment trends and the success of workforce training programs, with a reminder that the community college system is a priority for additional funding if new money becomes available.
HB781: Representative Luno Information Only01:44:35.520 - 10:43:21 AM; Representative Luno discussed the financial implications of not cutting into the tuition hold funds, questioning how much additional money would be needed over the $68 million currently allocated. He mentioned that the figures involved are unusual, with $1.4 million, $1.3 million, and $2.8 million being the relevant numbers. He expressed concern about the potential impact on tuition freeze and the decision-making process for the community college system, emphasizing that these recommendations are not final until the budget is voted on.
HB781: Representative Papovich Information Only01:46:53.599 - 10:45:39 AM; Representative Papovich highlighted the priority of education, particularly in relation to the tuition hold. He mentioned that the community college system's top priority is to keep tuition flat, which has been the case for the last five years.
HB781: Representative Murray Information Only01:48:08.199 - 10:46:54 AM; Representative Murray sought clarification on the budget numbers, specifically for FY 2025, which was $63 million, and the governor's recommendation of $66 million. He discussed the allocation of funds for dual and concurrent enrollment and math learning, noting that these funds are captured in the amendment and should be visible in one place for clarity in future budget cycles.
HB781: Representative Phillips Information Only01:50:09.080 - 10:48:55 AM; Representative Phillips added that the discussed changes align with what was presented by the CCSNH (Community College System of New Hampshire) and that understanding these changes made him more comfortable with the budget discussions.
HB781: Committee Information Only01:51:20.199 - 10:50:06 AM; The committee discussed the tracking of budget priorities and the need to revisit certain funding decisions. They noted that the recent amendment addressed some retained money and that they would continue to monitor and possibly adjust funding as needed. They also discussed the progress towards their budgetary goals and the dependency on lottery and UNH funding.
HB781: Committee Information Only01:53:20.199 - 10:52:06 AM; The committee addressed the absence of the Vice Chair of the Enhanced 911 Commission due to an emergency and planned to reconvene at 1:00 PM as scheduled.
HB2: Chairman Earth Information Only03:06:16.560 - 12:05:02 PM; Chairman Earth called the Finance Division 2 meeting to order and apologized for being late due to an unrelated constituent service issue. He invited the Commissioner of Safety to proceed with the agenda.
HB2: Amy Newbery, Director of Administration, Department of Safety Information Only03:07:26.239 - 12:06:12 PM; Amy Newbery outlined the agenda for the meeting, which included discussions on the Division of Emergency Services and Communications and the Division of Motor Vehicles. She provided a packet with relevant documents and planned to go through each item with subject matter experts.
HB2: Tim Scott and Robert Lucier, Assistant Directors, Division of Emergency Services and Communications Information Only03:13:09.720 - 12:11:55 PM; Tim Scott and Robert Lucier presented on the proposed language change for HB2 regarding the radio communication system. They explained the system's role in supporting 911 calls and other functions, including support for State Police and county sheriff radios.
HB2: Representative F Information Only03:15:41.040 - 12:14:27 PM; Representative F expressed concerns about the use of Enhanced 911 funds for the Department of Safety's radio communication system. He highlighted that the original purpose of the fund did not include supporting the radio system, and questioned the solvency of the fund, suggesting a policy change might be necessary. He noted that local dispatch systems do not use their surcharge funds for radio communications, questioning the fairness of the state's use of the funds.
HB2: Committee Information Only03:23:14.000 - 12:22:00 PM; The committee discussed the potential need for a separate account for components of the radio communication system currently funded by the 911 fund, in light of increasing fees to ensure the solvency of the Department of Safety. They also considered the historical context and technological changes that have affected the use of the fund.
HB2: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:24:01.960 - 12:22:47 PM; The speaker discussed a motor vehicle accident that resulted in the disruption of operations due to damage to a telephone pole. They emphasized the importance of the microwave communication system to 911 operations, stating that without the system, they would not have been able to accept 911 calls. They highlighted other redundancies in place for system failures and stressed the critical role of the microwave system in maintaining 911 services.
HB2: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:24:48.520 - 12:23:34 PM; The speaker mentioned their role in extending services to local dispatch centers and mentioned a potential cost-saving opportunity for the Hanover Police Department by joining their core system. They noted quarterly meetings with ECCs and efforts to include local dispatch centers in the 911 service chain. They also discussed a potential $200,000 saving for the Hanover Police Department.
HB2: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:25:49.600 - 12:24:35 PM; The speaker inquired about the matching state expenditure if the Hanover Police Department were to join their core system. They discussed the benefits and costs to the 911 system and the state police radio system. They noted that the system could support the entire state and mentioned the focus on improving interoperability among agencies.
HB2: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:26:55.800 - 12:25:41 PM; The speaker highlighted the importance of the state radio system for interoperability and cost savings. They discussed the appropriateness of using 911 funds for the radio system and mentioned the need for equitable distribution of benefits across the state, not just for state police. They also noted the addition of redundancy and intercommunications.
HB2: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:27:53.479 - 12:26:39 PM; The speaker questioned whether the E911 surcharge on phone bills had increased and if it covered all phones. They expressed concern over the lack of communication to the public about service improvements and potential surcharge increases. They stressed the importance of informing the public about the use of funds and the benefits of the system.
HB2: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:28:56.279 - 12:27:42 PM; The speaker discussed the public's expectation of interoperability among emergency services, citing the assassination attempt on the president as an example. They questioned the funding source for the radio system and emphasized the need for transparency and public support for any potential increases in the E911 surcharge.
HB2: Representative Hacken Phillips Information Only03:32:58.479 - 12:31:44 PM; Representative Hacken Phillips referenced the Enhanced 911 Commission meeting minutes discussing surcharge rates and the need for fund solvency. They noted that spending $2 million from the fund on the radio system may not be appropriate under state law and could affect other emergency services. They stressed the importance of accounting and the potential impact of diverting funds.
HB2: Representative Hacken Phillips Information Only03:34:11.680 - 12:32:57 PM; Representative Hacken Phillips continued to discuss the use of the 911 fund for the radio system, emphasizing that the system is critical but should be funded appropriately. They expressed concern over setting a precedent that could allow other departments to use dedicated funds inappropriately and suggested that the issue be addressed to prevent future misuse.
HB2: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:37:40.399 - 12:36:26 PM; The speaker inquired about alternative funding sources for the radio system, suggesting the use of general or safety funds instead of the 911 fund. They sought clarification on how the funding should be allocated within the Department of Safety's budget and requested more information to make an informed decision.
HB2: Tim Kin Information Only03:41:55.040 - 12:40:41 PM; Tim Kin, an IT manager, explained the technical importance of the radio system to the 911 operations. He detailed how the system supports interoperability across the state, including the use of the code plug for frequency sharing. He emphasized the system's role in delivering data and maintaining communication during emergencies.
HB2: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:44:46.640 - 12:43:32 PM; The speaker acknowledged the importance of the radio system but reiterated the concern over funding it through the 911 surcharge. They suggested that the department should determine how much of the radio system's costs should be supported by the 911 fund and how much should come from other state funds. They emphasized the need for a clear funding model.
HB2: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:45:43.680 - 12:44:29 PM; The speaker noted the department's complex funding sources and the need to allocate costs appropriately between the 911 fund and other state funds. They expressed willingness to work with the department to develop a funding proposal that reflects the system's importance to both 911 and other state functions.
HB2: Representative Hacken Phillips Information Only03:46:44.960 - 12:45:30 PM; Representative Hacken Phillips emphasized the critical need to maintain the 911 fund for its intended purposes, citing an example of a server failure that required immediate attention. They supported the idea of an apportionment model to ensure funds are used appropriately and expressed readiness to assist in communicating with the director to achieve this.
HB2: John Morasco, Director of the DMV Information Only03:49:39.319 - 12:48:25 PM; John Morasco, Director of the DMV, discussed the fiscal impact of eliminating state inspections as proposed in House Bill 649. He provided updated revenue loss figures from Gordon Derby, indicating a potential loss of about $6 million per year if the program were eliminated. He also mentioned the number of inspection stations and the staff involved in managing them.
HB2: Jennifer Bailey, Assistant Director of DMV Information Only03:58:10.439 - 12:56:56 PM; Jennifer Bailey, Assistant Director of DMV, provided details on the cost savings if state inspections were eliminated. She mentioned that eight positions are currently dedicated to the program, with potential savings of around $1.5 million in positions and benefits. She noted that additional savings in equipment and fleet costs would be realized over time.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:00:16.479 - 12:59:02 PM; The speaker discussed the fiscal year 25 budget and the need to work offline with the Department to clarify the budget figures. They mentioned that the budget item referred to as 'bium' was for fiscal year 25 and amounted to $8.1 million. The speaker suggested working with the Department to resolve the budget issues.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:01:24.600 - 1:00:10 PM; The speaker commented on the self-funded nature of a program, noting that 25 cents of the fee goes to the general fund and another 25 cents to the air pollution fund. They also mentioned receiving numerous emails about expired vehicle inspection stickers, suggesting that the complaints were primarily from lawbreakers.
HB2: Representative Murray Information Only04:02:22.319 - 1:01:08 PM; Representative Murray expressed no strong feelings on the issue but had two questions. They inquired about complaints regarding inspection stations scamming people and the provisions for dealing with unsafe vehicles on the road.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:03:19.520 - 1:02:05 PM; The speaker addressed Representative Murray's questions about inspection stations. They explained that modern inspection stations use technology to enhance transparency, such as at Groni Mazda in Concord, where customers can watch the inspection and receive a video report. They also mentioned that out of 1.7 million inspections in 2024, only 23 complaints were received, indicating a low rate of issues. They highlighted the importance of safety inspections in identifying vehicle defects.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:05:18.640 - 1:04:04 PM; The speaker continued discussing the safety inspection program, noting that law enforcement can address visibly unsafe vehicles on the road. They emphasized the program's role in public safety and the enforcement mechanisms available to police.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:06:06.359 - 1:04:52 PM; The speaker moved on to discuss the initial driver's license fee, explaining that $5 of the fee goes to the driver training fund, with the remainder going to the highway fund. They noted the high volume of licenses issued annually but lacked specific data on initial licenses.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:07:07.159 - 1:05:53 PM; The speaker introduced the next agenda item about expanding language to include 'authorized agent' and discussed a spreadsheet detailing DMV fees. They acknowledged the efforts of Jen and Melanie in preparing the spreadsheet and mentioned that it had been emailed to the committee.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:07:59.960 - 1:06:45 PM; The speaker explained the need to add 'authorized agent' to RSA 260:15 to allow federal agencies to use third-party data analysts for Selective Service purposes. They noted that current law prevents this and the change would align with other parts of the statute.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:09:18.479 - 1:08:04 PM; The speaker clarified that Mullen Low, a contracted data analyst for the Department of Defense, cannot currently access data due to statutory restrictions. Adding 'authorized agent' would allow this access and ensure privacy guidelines are followed.
HB2: Representative Ro Information Only04:10:19.159 - 1:09:05 PM; Representative Ro expressed concerns about privacy, particularly regarding third-party access to data on children. They suggested keeping the data tightly controlled to protect privacy.
HB2: Representative Phillips Information Only04:11:30.479 - 1:10:16 PM; Representative Phillips suggested that the current system might be the best way to protect privacy, as it involves the federal government sharing data with contractors without state involvement. They questioned whether allowing federal agencies to designate agents would change the privacy situation.
HB2: Representative Papovich Information Only04:12:34.560 - 1:11:20 PM; Representative Papovich sought to understand the practical implications of the language change regarding authorized agents. They expressed concerns about privacy but struggled to see how the change would affect it, suggesting it might only be a logistical improvement for the DMV.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:13:40.279 - 1:12:26 PM; The speaker explained that the DMV already releases bulk data to third parties under strict regulations and contracts. They believed that adding 'authorized agent' would allow better monitoring and guidance of data use, potentially enhancing privacy.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:14:38.359 - 1:13:24 PM; The speaker presented a spreadsheet detailing DMV fees, noting that many fees had not been updated in over 25 years. They proposed fee increases to increase revenue, citing examples of low-cost fees for agricultural vehicles and comparing them to surrounding states.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:15:33.560 - 1:14:19 PM; The speaker continued discussing the proposed fee increases, explaining the rationale behind each increase and the potential revenue impact. They noted that even with the proposed increases, New Hampshire's fees would remain below those of surrounding states.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:16:41.720 - 1:15:27 PM; The speaker detailed specific fee increases for various vehicle types and categories, including trailers and motorcycles. They provided estimated revenue increases and noted that some fees were based on weight.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:17:58.040 - 1:16:44 PM; The speaker corrected a fee on the spreadsheet and continued discussing proposed fee increases for dealer plates, certificates of title, and other DMV services. They emphasized that the proposed figures were starting points for consideration.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:18:48.159 - 1:17:34 PM; The speaker discussed the cost of producing license plates and proposed an increase to cover production costs. They also mentioned mailing costs and the need to align fees with other states.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:19:57.119 - 1:18:43 PM; The speaker provided context for the proposed fee increases, emphasizing that they were meant to be starting points for the committee's consideration. They noted the total potential revenue increase and the need to update fees that had not been adjusted in over 25 years.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:20:49.319 - 1:19:35 PM; The speaker discussed proposed fee increases for boating fees and other DMV services, noting that some fees were close to those of surrounding states. They highlighted specific areas where increases were proposed, such as replacement licenses and non-driver IDs.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:21:53.040 - 1:20:39 PM; The speaker clarified that the voter ID is free and separate from the non-driver ID. They discussed the cost of producing licenses and proposed increases to cover these costs, including postage.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:22:48.159 - 1:21:34 PM; The speaker discussed the cost of producing license plates and proposed an increase to cover production costs. They also mentioned mailing costs and the need to align fees with other states.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:28:51.840 - 2:27:37 PM; The speaker discussed the potential for video lottery machines in New Hampshire, drawing comparisons to Oregon's successful implementation. They mentioned that the machines could generate significant revenue, similar to Oregon's experience, and suggested that the technology for implementing these machines is simpler now than when the bill was initially written. The speaker also mentioned a fiscal note projecting $217 million in revenue by the third year and planned to meet with the lottery director to discuss further.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:30:08.240 - 2:28:54 PM; The speaker continued discussing the fiscal note, explaining that the projected revenue of $217 million comes from an estimated $230 per machine per day and anticipates 700 machines. They suggested that the actual revenue might be lower in the second year but could still be significant.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:32:05.080 - 2:30:51 PM; The speaker elaborated on the number of machines, stating that the bill allows up to six machines per location, and they expect around 700 locations to participate. They also mentioned that the revenue would go to the education trust fund, replacing other funds that were previously swept.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:33:31.878 - 2:32:17 PM; The speaker clarified that the bill would allow video lottery machines in establishments with liquor or Kino licenses, without requiring both. They also mentioned that the bill would remove the need for city or town approval for Kino, as gambling is more accepted now.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:34:51.000 - 2:33:37 PM; The speaker discussed the timeline for implementing the bill, hoping to have a draft ready by Friday and meet with the lottery director. They also mentioned the possibility of skipping a session to work on the budget.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:35:44.920 - 2:34:30 PM; The speaker noted that the governor had included video lottery machines in HB2, planning to use the revenue for group two, which was unconstitutional. They discussed the revenue split between the state and operators, with 2/3 going to the state and 1/3 to the operator.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:36:57.160 - 2:35:43 PM; The speaker clarified that the bill does not include a charitable component, unlike Representative Sweeny's bill, which focuses on casinos. They mentioned that the education trust fund could be considered a form of charity.
HB2: Representative Sweeny Information Only05:38:11.878 - 2:36:57 PM; Representative Sweeny presented an amendment (2025-1080h) to HB2, which replaces the governor's proposal on video lottery terminals. The amendment sets a 30% tax rate on video lottery terminals, lower than the governor's 45% rate, to incentivize operators to invest in New Hampshire. They also discussed changes to charitable gaming laws to increase revenue and make facilities more competitive.
HB2: Representative Sweeny Information Only05:41:10.000 - 2:39:56 PM; Representative Sweeny continued discussing the amendment, explaining that the tax is on the gross revenue minus payouts. They projected $230 daily revenue per machine and detailed the allocation of the tax revenue, with 75% going to the state, a portion to problem gaming, and the remainder to the education trust fund.
HB2: Representative Sweeny Information Only05:43:19.558 - 2:42:05 PM; Representative Sweeny further explained the amendment, which removes limits on table games and video lottery terminals to make New Hampshire more competitive. They also proposed allowing 24-hour operations and extended liquor sales through local control, enabling municipalities to negotiate with operators.
HB2: Representative Sweeny Information Only05:47:08.080 - 2:45:54 PM; Representative Sweeny discussed the potential revenue from the amendment, projecting $125 to $135 million for the state over two years and $45 to $50 million for charities. They mentioned that removing limits could increase revenue further, similar to Massachusetts.
HB2: Representative Sweeny Information Only05:49:09.478 - 2:47:55 PM; Representative Sweeny responded to questions about the amendment, clarifying the local control options for municipalities and the distribution of proceeds. They noted that the amendment would not allow new facilities but would allow existing ones to extend hours of operation.
HB2: Representative Sweeny Information Only05:54:28.000 - 2:53:14 PM; Representative Sweeny provided details on the revenue share in the amendment, with 30% of gross video lottery revenue taxed, 25% going to charities, and the remainder split between problem gaming services and the education trust fund.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:57:58.638 - 2:56:44 PM; The speaker discussed the potential for a significant revenue increase from the proposed changes, totaling around $250 million. They emphasized the need for such revenue to meet budget goals.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:59:08.840 - 2:57:54 PM; The speaker discussed drafting an amendment for motor vehicle fees, suggesting that it should be broad to allow for future adjustments. They mentioned the need to increase fees more regularly and the potential impact on taxpayers.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only06:01:10.320 - 2:59:56 PM; The speaker continued discussing the motor vehicle fees amendment, suggesting that it should not include automatic indexing but should be reviewed regularly by the finance committee. They also mentioned the potential for a phased increase in fees.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only06:04:41.718 - 3:03:27 PM; The speaker discussed the need to adjust the 12% of fee revenue distributed back to cities and towns, given the significant increase in revenue. They suggested preparing language for potential changes to this percentage.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only06:07:30.160 - 3:06:16 PM; The speaker discussed various sections of the budget related to safety, including the Northern Shield, driver history records, and emergency communications. They mentioned ongoing discussions and potential amendments.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only06:09:32.760 - 3:08:18 PM; The speaker discussed further sections related to safety, including group two discussions and fire safety. They mentioned drafting amendments and the need for clean language in the bill.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only06:12:39.600 - 3:11:25 PM; The speaker discussed fishing and game fees, suggesting an amendment to mandate a minimum fee increase through rule-making. They also mentioned upcoming discussions with the Department of Education.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only06:15:27.000 - 3:14:13 PM; The speaker discussed the schedule for voting on various bills and amendments, including House Bill 115 and education-related bills. They mentioned the need to finalize decisions by the deadline.