Committee Summary for House Finance Division I (01/22/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
Unclear 00:05:23.680 - 8:04:04 AM	General Working Session	Unclear

Unclear: Rob Dpis, Executive Director of New Hampshire Housing, joined by Jack Rudderman Information Only00:05:23.680 - 8:04:04 AM; Rob Dpis, the Executive Director of New Hampshire Housing, along with Jack Rudderman, provided an overview of the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority's operations and its role in addressing the state's housing needs. They explained that New Hampshire Housing is a state-created entity that finances multifamily affordable rental housing projects using a combination of federal and state resources. They highlighted the use of the state affordable housing trust fund as gap financing to make projects financially feasible. They also discussed the administration of the lead paint hazard remediation fund, which has been crucial in addressing lead hazards in homes, particularly for families above federal income limits for lead grant programs. They mentioned the leveraging effect of state funds, which results in significant federal and private investment. Additionally, they noted the historic appropriations to the affordable housing fund in recent budgets and discussed the operational model of New Hampshire Housing, emphasizing that it does not take administrative fees from the fund itself but from federal programs. They also addressed questions regarding general fund allocations, staff positions, total revenues, and the specifics of the lead paint remediation program, including the challenges and the impact of the program.
Unclear: Representative Ms Information Only00:19:27.600 - 8:18:08 AM; Representative Ms engaged with Rob Dpis, discussing the total general fund allocations received by New Hampshire Housing, confirming the figure of $33 million for FY 24. They also inquired about the size of the organization, learning that it has approximately 130 to 135 positions, down from a higher number due to efficiency measures and ended COVID programs. Lastly, they asked about the total revenues, which were reported to be around $300 million, with an administrative budget of $22 million.
Unclear: Representative Griffin Information Only00:21:45.320 - 8:20:26 AM; Representative Griffin asked about the typical rental prices of general occupancy units financed by New Hampshire Housing and how these prices are controlled. Rob Dpis explained that the rental prices are set based on area median income, ensuring affordability for residents at various income levels. He also detailed the compliance and asset management process to ensure that owners adhere to the agreed-upon rent caps and maintain the quality of the housing.
Unclear: Representative Rang Information Only00:25:05.120 - 8:23:46 AM; Representative Rang asked about the lead paint remediation program, specifically regarding the median and average cost of remediation and the coverage of the $177,000 grant assistance per unit. Rob Dpis noted that the costs have been rising and are close to the maximum grant amount due to increased labor and construction costs. They also confirmed that the program receives federal funding and can be used preventively if lead hazards are detected in a unit before a child is poisoned.
Unclear: Representative Bble Information Only00:28:15.200 - 8:26:56 AM; Representative Bble inquired about the challenges in deploying funds for affordable housing and whether the funds were fully utilized. Rob Dpis responded that the funds are fully committed, though not necessarily spent, and outlined obstacles such as local and state permitting processes, rising construction costs, and labor shortages. They also discussed the issue of municipal infrastructure and how the affordable housing fund cannot be used for infrastructure improvements, though other programs like the Housing Champions grant might be available for such purposes. They briefly touched on environmental issues affecting water supply in some areas and the progress on lead remediation, admitting a lack of comprehensive data on the latter.
Unclear: Representative Cells Information Only00:35:33.480 - 8:34:14 AM; Representative Cells inquired about the frequency of lead paint issues and the management of funds allocated for lead remediation. They wanted to know if the funds are fully utilized each year and whether any unspent funds could be rolled over or repurposed. The response indicated that lead paint remains a significant issue, and while funds are not always spent in a single year, they are exclusively used for lead hazard elimination. The current balance of state lead funds was mentioned to be around $300,000 before additional funding from ARPA.
Unclear: Representative Run Information Only00:38:39.839 - 8:37:20 AM; Representative Run followed up on the sources of lead in remediation projects, asking about the proportion of lead coming from paint versus fixtures or piping. It was clarified that the vast majority of lead issues come from paint, with occasional instances from fixtures, such as a case in Merrimack involving school water systems. The inquiry also touched on the types of projects listed under 'acquisition rehab,' which can involve either rehabbing existing occupied housing or repurposing abandoned structures into new housing units.
Unclear: Representative Eel Information Only00:40:58.680 - 8:39:39 AM; Representative Eel asked about how individuals find out about the lead remediation program, aside from referrals from doctors. The response detailed various outreach efforts, including events with community action agencies, distributing flyers, and setting up informational tables at community events. The program can also be accessed through the department's website, and efforts are made to educate the public before lead exposure occurs.
Unclear: Chair Information Only00:42:01.280 - 8:40:42 AM; The chair commented on the flexibility of questioning within the committee, allowing follow-up questions but reserving the right to interrupt if necessary to ensure everyone has a chance to speak. They also mentioned the scheduling of a business finance authority meeting that was rescheduled and their personal scheduling conflicts, including leaving at 10:00 AM and having a bill hearing later in the day.
Unclear: Lindsay Stepp, Commissioner at the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration Information Only01:02:46.480 - 9:01:27 AM; Commissioner Lindsay Stepp presented an overview of the Department of Revenue Administration's operations and budget. She discussed the department's mission, interaction policy with taxpayers, organizational structure, and the various divisions and their functions. She detailed the administration of different taxes, the implementation of the Revenue Information Management System (RIMS), and its impact on revenue collection. She also addressed budget priorities, technology upgrades funded by ARPA, and the department's approach to customer service. Lastly, she responded to specific questions about general fund appropriations, ARPA fund usage, and the impact of the repeal of the interest and dividends tax.
Unclear: Lindsay Stepp, Commissioner at the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration Information Only01:02:46.480 - 9:01:27 AM; Commissioner Stepp concluded her remarks by discussing the efficiency of the railroad tax administration, which involves less than one full-time equivalent (FTE) staff member. She highlighted the department's efforts to streamline operations and manage with a reduced headcount, projecting a decrease to 135 employees, the lowest since 2008. She emphasized the department's ability to meet its goals despite vacancies and expressed a desire for budget flexibility to fill unfunded positions if necessary. Additionally, she discussed the costs and benefits of implementing the RIMS system and the need for an additional $1.5 million in future fiscal years to fully operationalize it.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:40:32.760 - 9:39:13 AM; The speaker questioned the efficiency of the railroad tax, noting its small revenue contribution and the effort required to administer it. They also inquired about the department's headcount reduction and whether it could still fulfill legislative tasks with fewer staff. The discussion touched on the department's efficiency measures and the potential need for legislative flexibility to manage unfunded positions.
Unclear: Lindsay Stepp, Commissioner at the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration Information Only01:41:20.119 - 9:40:01 AM; Commissioner Stepp responded to queries about the railroad tax and headcount reduction. She explained that the railroad tax requires minimal staff effort and discussed the department's efficiency improvements, including the RIMS system. She expressed confidence in meeting goals despite the reduced headcount and requested flexibility to manage unfunded positions within the budget constraints.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:48:16.920 - 9:46:57 AM; The speaker asked about the department's operational budget and whether there were any statutory requirements that could be removed to improve efficiency. They also inquired about the Statewide Education Property Tax (SWEP) collection and the low and moderate property tax relief program.
Unclear: Lindsay Stepp, Commissioner at the New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration Information Only01:50:38.880 - 9:49:19 AM; Commissioner Stepp provided details on the SWEP, noting that municipalities collect and retain the tax locally. She explained the low and moderate property tax relief program, which offers rebates based on income and property value, and highlighted the department's efforts to assist residents with the application process.
Unclear: Kathy Frederickson, Director of Finance with the Department of Business and Economic Affairs Information Only02:16:46.400 - 10:15:27 AM; Kathy Frederickson presented the department's budget for fiscal years 2026-2027, focusing on the agency's core functions, including business recruitment, workforce development, international trade, travel and tourism, and housing initiatives. She detailed the department's organizational structure and proposed changes, such as formalizing the planning office into a division to encompass housing and broadband. She also discussed the budget's financial prudence and prioritized needs.
Unclear: Taylor Caswell, Commissioner at the Department of Business and Economic Affairs Information Only02:35:27.279 - 10:34:08 AM; Commissioner Caswell apologized for his late arrival and explained the department's organizational changes, including the creation of the Division of Planning and Community Development to manage planning, housing, and broadband more efficiently. He discussed the distinction between the operational functions of welcome centers and marketing programs, and the unique role of the Office of Outdoor Recreation in economic development.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only02:37:23.479 - 10:36:04 AM; The speaker questioned the difference between an office and a division, and the rationale for the proposed organizational change. They also inquired about the classification and salary structure of the position managing the new division.
Unclear: Taylor Caswell, Commissioner at the Department of Business and Economic Affairs Information Only02:38:09.160 - 10:36:50 AM; Commissioner Caswell clarified the difference between an office and a division, explaining the management decision to establish the Division of Planning and Community Development. He discussed the reclassification of a position to manage the new division and the reasons for separating certain functions within the department.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only02:43:56.840 - 10:42:37 AM; The speaker sought clarification on the number of staff members within the department, noting a discrepancy between the total and the sum of individual divisions. They also asked about the locations of welcome centers and the revenue generated from vendors operating there.
Unclear: Kathy Frederickson, Director of Finance with the Department of Business and Economic Affairs Information Only02:44:44.080 - 10:43:25 AM; Kathy Frederickson apologized for the discrepancy in staff numbers, explaining that the reported numbers included part-time positions and 9T's, which were not part of the budgeted positions. She provided the locations of the welcome centers and clarified that the department does not receive revenue from vendors operating at these centers.
Unclear: Taylor Caswell, Commissioner at the Department of Business and Economic Affairs Information Only02:47:03.800 - 10:45:44 AM; Commissioner Caswell discussed the use of broadband expansion to attract businesses and remote workers, particularly in rural areas. He also provided an overview of the allocation and expenditure deadlines for ARPA funds, emphasizing the focus on one-time investments in infrastructure and housing.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only02:48:36.600 - 10:47:17 AM; The speaker requested information on the number of work hours and foot counts at welcome centers, and sought an overview of the effectiveness of the Invest NH and Housing Champions programs.
Unclear: Taylor Caswell, Commissioner at the Department of Business and Economic Affairs Information Only02:53:18.520 - 10:51:59 AM; Commissioner Caswell provided details on the effectiveness of the housing programs funded by ARPA, including the completion of multifamily rental units and the support for municipalities in affordable housing initiatives. He also discussed the Housing Champions program and the use of funds for infrastructure improvements.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only02:57:53.120 - 10:56:34 AM; The speaker asked about the return on investment for the Department of Travel and Tourism, requested an annual report with financial statements, and inquired about the increase in general funds for the department since 2019.
Unclear: Taylor Caswell, Commissioner at the Department of Business and Economic Affairs Information Only02:59:25.479 - 10:58:06 AM; Commissioner Caswell explained that the increase in general funds was due to the transfer of the Office of Planning and Development from the Office of Strategic Initiatives and the shift of welcome center funding from highway funds to general funds. He also discussed the department's efforts to manage federal flood plane programs and assist municipalities with planning and zoning.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:01:10.160 - 10:59:51 AM; The speaker apologized to colleagues for repeating questions previously asked of another department. They inquired about the adequacy of the current and requested headcount for 2025 in fulfilling statutory responsibilities. The response focused on the challenges faced at the welcome centers, which are managed with a mix of part-time and full-time staff. Issues such as maintenance, third-party involvement, and the use of portable bathrooms were highlighted. Additionally, the speaker mentioned dealing with societal issues like homelessness and drug use at these facilities, as well as the need for staff training on topics like trafficking and Naran use. The speaker affirmed that statutory requirements are generally met, except at the welcome centers. They also discussed outdated statutory responsibilities and commissions, indicating that most have been eliminated since the department's establishment in 2017. The speaker mentioned the potential for performance audits and the existence of committees and commissions that might be unnecessary.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:05:44.439 - 11:04:25 AM; The speaker discussed the potential for inviting commercial enterprises to manage welcome centers, particularly in areas where it might be feasible. They noted that regulations differ between welcome centers on interstates and those on turnpikes, with the former being under stricter federal rules that prohibit commercial activities. The speaker mentioned ongoing discussions with local chambers and the possibility of disposing of the property to allow private management. However, they emphasized operating within the current regulatory constraints.
Unclear: Sarah Stewart, Commissioner, Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Information Only04:17:46.479 - 12:16:27 PM; Sarah Stewart introduced herself as the Commissioner of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and provided an overview of the department's broad mission, established in 2017. She highlighted the department's responsibility for state parks, forests, lands, historical resources, the state library, and the arts, emphasizing their role in protecting, preserving, and promoting New Hampshire's unique attributes. Stewart noted that only 17% of the department's funding comes from the general fund, and discussed the challenge of making this funding work effectively. She detailed the department's management of extensive public lands, buildings, and infrastructure, and praised the team's resourcefulness and efficiency. Stewart also discussed revenue generation, particularly from state parks, which fully fund operations through fees, and the department's strategic use of federal matching funds to maximize impact across various programs.
Unclear: Brian Wilson, Director, Division of Parks and Recreation Information Only04:22:22.119 - 12:21:03 PM; Brian Wilson introduced himself as the Director of the Division of Parks and Recreation and provided detailed insights into the division's operations. He emphasized the division's mission to provide recreational, educational, and inspirational experiences through responsible management of the state's resources. Wilson highlighted the efficiency of New Hampshire's state park system, being one of the few fully self-funded by operating revenue. He shared statistics from 2024, including nearly 3 million visitors and high campground occupancy rates, and discussed efforts to improve infrastructure using federal funds. Wilson also detailed the division's programming, partnerships, and special use permit programs, which facilitate events and generate revenue for various organizations. He discussed the division's role in administering grant programs and the economic impact of outdoor recreation in New Hampshire.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only04:30:47.119 - 12:29:28 PM; The speaker inquired about the interaction between the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and the Department of Travel and Tourism, to which it was responded that there is significant collaboration, including cross-marketing strategies and visitor use management campaigns. The speaker also asked about the implications of high park occupancy rates, suggesting a potential need for fee adjustments. It was explained that campground rates had been increased recently, and day-use fees were under review. The discussion touched on the fee-setting process, which involves approval by the fiscal committee, and the importance of aligning fees with market considerations. Lastly, the speaker raised concerns about park maintenance and capital infrastructure, to which it was responded that while the self-funded model works well, reinvestment from the state is necessary to maintain and improve park facilities, particularly given the high costs associated with infrastructure projects.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only04:38:39.639 - 12:37:20 PM; The speaker expressed gratitude to the commissioner and director for their work at Hampton Beach, highlighting the spectacular improvements and the resulting development. They also praised the lifeguards at the beach for their professionalism and the numerous awards they have won, mentioning specific statistics such as 166 ocean rescues and 85 major medical incidents handled by the lifeguard squad. Additionally, the speaker noted the efforts of the park staff in conducting 42 mountain rescues at Mount Monadnock. They also acknowledged the support provided to local businesses, particularly mentioning the growth of the Seafood Festival over the past 30 years.
Unclear: Patrick Hackley, Director for the Division of Forest and Lands Information Only04:41:07.320 - 12:39:48 PM; Patrick Hackley provided a comprehensive overview of the Division of Forest and Lands' activities and responsibilities. He mentioned that the state manages about 170,000 acres of land, including significant areas like Nash Stream Tract, Pisgah State Forest, Bear Brook State Park in Allenstown, and Pawtuckaway State Park. He detailed the division's structure, including its eight bureaus, and its partnership with UNH Cooperative Extension for education and outreach. Hackley also reported on fiscal year 2024 achievements, including managing about 2,000 acres of forest and generating $11.75 million in timber revenue. He discussed a 5,000-acre Forest Legacy project and the work of smaller bureaus like Forest Health and Natural Heritage. He mentioned the role of forest protection, including fire prevention efforts and the use of ARPA funding for fire tower renovations, although these towers will not be staffed this summer. Hackley also touched on the state nursery's operations, including a new irrigation system and plans for cooler room renovations.
Unclear: Representative Ms Information Only04:51:04.160 - 12:49:45 PM; Representative Ms inquired about the involvement of the Division of Forest and Lands in carbon offset programs, specifically whether state-controlled land could be used for generating carbon credits. Patrick Hackley responded by discussing the controversy around carbon credit programs in the North Country, explaining how these programs work and mentioning related bills in the legislature. He indicated that while there is potential for using state land for carbon credits, it is a controversial topic and the state is currently focused on negotiating with Aurora at the Connecticut Lakes headquarters before considering broader policy changes.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only04:54:58.958 - 12:53:39 PM; The speaker asked about the number of acres burned in New Hampshire the previous year and how it compared to previous years. Patrick Hackley responded that typical burns are less than 10 acres, but they have been averaging over 200 fires per year recently. He noted concerns about climate change affecting fire frequency and the state's preparedness, promising to provide more detailed statistics later.
Unclear: Representative Eel Information Only04:56:31.718 - 12:55:12 PM; Representative Eel expressed appreciation for the Cooperative Extension Service and sought insights on forest health and invasive species. Patrick Hackley discussed the impact of spongy moths, a late May frost, and other invasive species on forest health, stating that overall, New Hampshire's forests are in good condition. He mentioned ongoing monitoring efforts, especially for Spruce budworm, and the influence of climate on insect and disease populations.
Unclear: Representative Msen Information Only04:59:35.878 - 12:58:16 PM; Representative Msen raised concerns about fire risks given the warm and dry conditions and questioned the decision not to staff fire towers. Patrick Hackley explained that despite not staffing the towers, the state would increase ranger patrols and use aerial flights for monitoring, funded partly by federal grants.
Unclear: Mindy Atwood, Assistant State Librarian and Administrator for Library Operations Information Only05:01:06.280 - 12:59:47 PM; Mindy Atwood introduced herself and paid tribute to Michael York, the former state librarian, emphasizing the State Library's role as the oldest in the nation and its duties as outlined in various RSA statutes. She detailed the library's holdings, including government documents and New Hampshire-related books, and the services provided to state government and citizens, such as genealogy research and inter-library loan programs. Atwood also mentioned the library's support for public libraries across the state and its efforts to facilitate resource sharing and access to e-content.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:08:50.360 - 1:07:31 PM; The speaker inquired about the presence of coins in the State Library's collection, expressing interest as a coin collector. Mindy Atwood responded that while they might have books on coin collecting, she was unsure about actual coin holdings but mentioned a new curator discovering historical items in the library's collection.
Unclear: Adele, Overseer of the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts Information Only05:10:23.120 - 1:09:04 PM; Adele celebrated the 60th anniversary of the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts, discussing the division's structure, funding, and programs. She highlighted the economic, social, and cultural impacts of the arts in New Hampshire, the various grant areas, and the challenges of matching federal funds with state funds. Adele also mentioned the council's role in adjudicating grants and the involvement of the governor and executive council in approving larger awards.
Unclear: Representative Evil Information Only05:12:46.400 - 1:11:27 PM; Representative Evil asked about New Hampshire's ranking in arts and cultural employment growth, referencing a national assessment. Adele acknowledged the lower ranking and mentioned that the assessment reflects investment in arts compared to other states.
Unclear: Ben Wilson, Director of the Division of Historical Resources and State Historic Preservation Officer Information Only05:14:19.878 - 1:13:00 PM; Ben Wilson provided an overview of the Division of Historical Resources, noting its role in reviewing compliance for projects with federal or state funding, managing national and state register programs, and handling federal tax credits. He detailed other programs like certified local government grants, Moose Plate grants for municipalities, and the responsibilities of the state archaeologist, including field schools and handling unmarked graves. Wilson also mentioned the division's management of easements and the historic highway marker program.
Unclear: Representative Lehman Information Only05:18:59.958 - 1:17:40 PM; Representative Lehman inquired about the budget cuts mentioned in the division's cover letter and whether additional cuts were expected. Ben Wilson responded that the provided budget number was publicly available and part of the November presentation, with no final analysis on further cuts yet.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:20:11.360 - 1:18:52 PM; The speaker thanked the presenters for their input and mentioned the distribution of additional spreadsheets for review. They humorously noted a request for the archaeologists to check for coins in their collection.
Unclear: Deana Jurus, Executive Director, Office of Professional Licensure and Certification Information Only05:22:09.958 - 1:20:50 PM; Deana Jurus, the Executive Director of the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification (OPLC), presented an overview of the office's operations and responsibilities. She highlighted that the OPLC oversees the administration of over 50 occupational licensing boards, councils, and commissions within New Hampshire. She emphasized the office's mission to protect public health, welfare, safety, and the public trust. Jurus detailed the office's functions, including licensing and ensuring compliance through investigations and inspections, averaging about 100 complaints per month and 2,000 annual inspections. She discussed the office's structure, including the divisions of enforcement, licensing and board administration, and operations, and noted the significant volunteer involvement in board activities. Jurus also touched on the responsibilities of the executive director, including supervision of staff, employment, examination processing, and coordination of rulemaking, which accounted for 27% of rule proposals in 2024. She mentioned the processing of over 80% of licenses within 30 days and the absence of a backlog. Additionally, she addressed the funding of the OPLC, noting it has not received general funds since 2018 and operates with a dedicated fund established by House Bill 409 in 2023. Jurus also mentioned ongoing projects like the new licensing system, funded by ARPA funds managed by the Department of Information Technology, and strategic objectives including a public docketing system and an in-house status center. She concluded by addressing staffing requests and the budgetary considerations for the upcoming fiscal year.
Unclear: Heather Kelly, Director of Operations, Office of Professional Licensure and Certification Information Only05:22:09.958 - 1:20:50 PM; Heather Kelly, Director of Operations at the OPLC, provided additional information during the presentation, particularly regarding the office's budget and fee structures. She explained the statutory mandate for setting fees, which cannot exceed 125% of board expenses, and described the process of dividing indirect costs among licensing accounts and attributing direct costs to specific boards. Kelly also discussed the analysis of license fees compared to other states, noting that for some boards like the Board of Medicine, New Hampshire's fees are substantially lower. She mentioned ongoing efforts to consolidate all fee-related rules into one place for clarity and efficiency.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:31:44.600 - 1:30:25 PM; The unnamed speaker asked about the backlog in rulemaking, inquiring about potential issues such as staffing, technology, and the use of AI to speed up the process. Deana Jurus responded by explaining the current evaluation of resources, including the use of part-time rule drafters and new software that has helped streamline processes. She noted the challenge of statutory changes and the need to assess whether current staffing is sufficient or if more resources are needed to get over the hump of rulemaking backlog.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:39:59.360 - 1:38:40 PM; The unnamed speaker inquired about policy board changes proposed by the previous director and whether similar changes would be forthcoming. Deana Jurus responded that she had requested a year to focus on implementing existing statutory mandates without adding new changes, aiming to address the rules lag and process improvements before considering further policy changes.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:40:45.558 - 1:39:26 PM; The unnamed speaker asked about potential fee increases in the upcoming budget cycle. Deana Jurus explained that, as the OPLC is entirely fee-funded, any budget authorization would necessitate corresponding fee adjustments, though she could not provide definitive figures during the budget process. Heather Kelly provided context on the statutory mandate for setting fees, ensuring they align with the board's expenses.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:42:19.478 - 1:41:00 PM; The unnamed speaker asked about the list of license fees and their comparison to other states. Deana Jurus responded that the current fees are listed in the OPLC rules, specifically in PLC 1002, but noted that not all fees are included due to ongoing rulemaking for newer boards. She mentioned that the office now has the authority to set fees, previously held by the boards, and plans to consolidate all fees into one rule section. Heather Kelly provided a general comparison of fees, noting that New Hampshire's fees for some boards are lower than other states, and offered to provide a detailed analysis if requested.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:44:40.360 - 1:43:21 PM; The unnamed speaker inquired about the types of vacant positions within the OPLC and the distribution of complaints across occupations. Deana Jurus listed the various vacant positions, ranging from licensing service representatives to professional roles like attorneys and investigators. She noted that the complaints are primarily concentrated in the fields of medicine and nursing, which are the highest by far.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:45:53.760 - 1:44:34 PM; The speaker discussed the challenge of managing existing statutes and the reluctance to suggest policy changes due to their role in implementing rather than making policy. They emphasized understanding the rationale behind current laws but refrained from offering specific recommendations to remove or alter them, citing the importance of maintaining separation between legislative and executive functions.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:46:40.680 - 1:45:21 PM; The speaker continued discussing the implementation of laws and the operational challenges they face. They mentioned the need to evaluate license fees and the difficulty of setting them appropriately to cover costs without exceeding the statutory maximum of 125%. They highlighted the complexity of ensuring that fees from various boards do not result in cross-subsidies.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:49:41.558 - 1:48:22 PM; The speaker addressed the issue of commissions and the time spent by staff attending them. They mentioned that they are mostly involved in short-term study committees rather than long-standing ones. They acknowledged the legislative effort to reduce the number of commissions and expressed support for this goal.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:51:14.958 - 1:49:55 PM; The speaker provided insights into the licensing process across various professions. They explained that standards are set by boards composed of profession members, and the processes can vary widely. Some professions require passing an exam before licensure, while others include exam results in the application process. The speaker emphasized the role of third-party vendors in exam administration and the importance of objective criteria set by the boards.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:52:46.878 - 1:51:27 PM; The speaker concluded by addressing questions about the criteria for licensure and the role of boards in evaluating applications. They explained that the boards set objective standards and the application process involves universal and profession-specific criteria. They also mentioned the need for more detailed information on employee costs and other expenses.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only06:16:17.600 - 2:14:58 PM; The speaker introduced a budget spreadsheet that provides an overview of the state's ongoing budget from fiscal year 2019 to 2025. They highlighted the total funds and changes over time, noting that the state's budget has increased by about 32-33% over the period, which is slightly higher than inflation and population growth combined. They cautioned about the need to understand agency reorganizations when comparing year-over-year figures.
Unclear: Joseph Mikica, Chairman of the New Hampshire Liquor Commission Information Only06:18:53.718 - 2:17:34 PM; Joseph Mikica provided an overview of the New Hampshire Liquor Commission, highlighting its role as a control jurisdiction and the value of the three-tier system in preventing counterfeit alcohol. He discussed the competitive landscape, particularly with the entry of Total Wine into the region, and the impact of national trends like declining alcohol sales and increasing cannabis use. Mikica also outlined operational aspects, including the NextGen project, store operations, and marketing strategies aimed at enhancing customer experience and competing with large retailers.
Unclear: Tina Demir, CFO of the New Hampshire Liquor Commission Information Only06:33:38.040 - 2:32:19 PM; Tina Demir presented the financial aspects of the Liquor Commission, detailing revenue transfers and budget requests for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. She highlighted the proposed budget reductions, major expense categories, and the breakdown by division. Demir emphasized the commission's efforts to align expenses with revenue estimates and the significant portion of the budget dedicated to salaries and benefits.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only06:48:02.478 - 2:46:43 PM; The speaker asked about the taxation of out-of-state wine club deliveries and THC beverages sold through beer wholesalers. They were informed that taxes are handled differently for each, with wine club deliveries being taxed at the point of sale and THC products through the beer wholesaler's total sales. The speaker also inquired about the commission's stance on non-alcoholic spirits, to which it was explained that the commission carries such products and recognizes their growing market.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only06:55:36.398 - 2:54:17 PM; The speaker, continuing from the previous discussion, references a chart presented by Chairman Maguire that shows a significant increase in expenses over recent years, noting a 55% rise between 2019 and 2025. They mention that expenses in 2014 were $48 million and have now escalated to over $120 million. The speaker questions the driving forces behind this increase, specifically mentioning IT personnel, insurance, and debt service. They express concern about the planned construction of two stores on Route 95 and inquire about the funding source for these projects, which is confirmed to be from liquor funds. Additionally, they request historical revenue data to compare with expenses and discuss the transfer of funds to HHS without a corresponding budget for the drug and alcohol fund.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only06:58:39.600 - 2:57:20 PM; The speaker discusses the competitive landscape with Total Wine, a major competitor in Massachusetts. They note that Total Wine, being a private company, pays federal income tax, which New Hampshire does not, suggesting this as a source of higher profits for New Hampshire. They ask about other potential cost advantages and are informed that competitive buying and long-standing supplier relationships are key factors in maintaining low prices. The speaker also learns about Total Wine's strategy of private labeling and bulk buying, which differs from New Hampshire's approach, where they operate on a 28% gross profit and a 20-21% net profit.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only07:02:35.280 - 3:01:16 PM; The speaker inquires about the sales of wine to grocery stores, learning that New Hampshire acts as the wholesaler to these stores, selling wine at competitive prices and providing monthly specials. They discuss the pricing strategy of grocery stores, noting that while some stores might mark up prices, the convenience factor influences consumer purchasing decisions. The speaker also asks about the sales split between on-premise, off-premise, and retail outlets, receiving detailed figures on the business distribution.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only07:07:16.000 - 3:05:57 PM; The speaker discusses licensing practices, explaining that New Hampshire licenses organizations and companies, particularly for direct shipping of wine and spirits from out of state. They highlight the state's progressive stance on allowing direct shipments, which benefits consumers by providing access to niche products. The speaker also touches on the minimal overlap with the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification (OPLC), noting that the two entities' licensing activities rarely intersect except in specific business scenarios.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only07:09:31.398 - 3:08:12 PM; The speaker briefly mentions an upcoming full committee meeting and notes that the chairman, Ken, will be absent due to attending his grandson's Green Beret ceremony.