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

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
Unclear 00:03:00.560 - 8:01:31 AM	General Working Session	Unclear

Unclear: Charlie Arlinghouse, Commissioner of Administrative Services Information Only00:03:00.560 - 8:01:31 AM; Commissioner Charlie Arlinghouse presented an overview of the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), emphasizing the department's efficiency and reduced spending from 2019 to 2025. He highlighted that DAS's general fund allocation decreased by 4% while other agencies like HHS increased by 66%. Arlinghouse discussed the department's administrative roles and the management of attached boards, which operate independently but for which DAS provides back-office support. He noted an increase in staff positions from one to five due to these responsibilities and mentioned potential future additions. Arlinghouse stressed the department's low spending and the significant impact of retiree health strategy on their budget.
Unclear: Cassie Keane, Deputy Commissioner of Administrative Services Information Only00:07:40.639 - 8:06:11 AM; Cassie Keane, Deputy Commissioner, elaborated on the retiree health benefits administered by DAS. She discussed the division between non-Medicare and Medicare retirees, explaining the costs and strategies implemented to manage these expenses. Keane detailed historical challenges and successes, including a partnership with the fiscal committee to address a $10 million deficit in 2016. She highlighted the shift to Medicare Advantage plans, which led to significant savings, particularly with a zero-premium contract with Etna. Keane also addressed the future concerns about maintaining these savings and the potential impact of federal changes on Medicare funding.
Unclear: Sherry Rockburn, Assistant Commissioner of Administrative Services Information Only00:42:13.880 - 8:40:44 AM; Sherry Rockburn provided an overview of DAS's budget and spending across its various divisions, including the Commissioner's Office, Accounting Services, Public Works, and others. She explained the functions of each division, such as managing the state's accounting system, overseeing construction projects, and handling procurement. Rockburn discussed the increase in spending over the last six years, attributing it to factors like salary increases, utility costs, and new initiatives like the Paid Family Medical Leave program. She also touched on the department's use of ARPA funding for HVAC upgrades and other maintenance projects.
Unclear: Representative Rung Information Only00:18:47.840 - 8:17:18 AM; Representative Rung asked questions about the nature of the expenditures for retiree health, specifically whether they were for claims or contributions to post-retirement liabilities. He sought clarification on the differences in costs between non-Medicare and Medicare retirees and the impact of moving to Medicare Advantage plans on co-pays and out-of-pocket expenses.
Unclear: Representative Wer Information Only00:26:36.080 - 8:25:07 AM; Representative Wer congratulated the Commissioner on the department's achievements and discussed a constituent's complaint about a pharmacy contractor, Caroline. He inquired about changes in the contract and the department's response to the issues faced with the contractor. The Commissioner explained the bidding process, the challenges with Caroline, and the steps taken to improve service, including withholding payments and assessing performance guarantees.
Unclear: Representative Evil Information Only00:30:26.760 - 8:28:57 AM; Representative Evil asked about the frequency of bidding for services and the details of the retiree health plan in law. He also inquired about the potential for centralizing procurement across state agencies. The Commissioner responded by explaining the three-year bidding cycle and the department's limited authority to change retiree health benefits without legislative action. He also discussed the feasibility and challenges of centralizing procurement.
Unclear: Representative Mths Information Only00:31:57.480 - 8:30:28 AM; Representative Mths asked follow-up questions on retiree health benefits, specifically about contractual obligations with state employees. The Commissioner clarified that retiree health benefits are not collectively bargained and are subject to legislative appropriation.
Unclear: Representative Lehman Information Only00:37:32.599 - 8:36:03 AM; Representative Lehman inquired about the status of the new legislative parking garage and the move to Granite Place. The Commissioner provided an update on the project, noting that remediation was nearly complete and construction would soon begin. He confirmed that the project was within budget.
Unclear: Representative Griffin Information Only00:22:12.360 - 8:20:43 AM; Representative Griffin asked about the Paid Family Medical Leave program, specifically about employer obligations and the cost of the benefit. The Deputy Commissioner explained the voluntary nature of the program, the tax credit for employers, and the cost structure, noting that state employees' contributions are less than 1% of their salary.
Unclear: Representative Blman Information Only01:09:54.640 - 9:08:25 AM; Representative Blman raised concerns about decaying buildings in Laconia and asked about their management. The Commissioner explained the stabilization efforts and the challenges in obtaining capital budget funds for maintenance and demolition.
Unclear: Jan Goodwin, Executive Director of NHRS, with Marie Mullen, Chief Financial Officer, and Rald Lec, Chief Investment Officer Information Only01:42:48.960 - 9:41:19 AM; Jan Goodwin introduced the NHRS team and provided an overview of the New Hampshire Retirement System (NHRS). She explained that NHRS is a contributory multi-employer defined benefit plan established in 1967, offering retirement and disability benefits. The system is funded through employee and employer contributions and investment income, with investment returns playing a significant role. NHRS operates as a component unit of state government, distinct from other state agencies as it is not funded by the general fund. It is overseen by a Board of Trustees and an independent investment committee, both acting as fiduciaries. Goodwin highlighted the importance of following statutes, rules, policies, and the Internal Revenue Code to maintain the plan's qualified status. She discussed constitutional protections under Article 36a, which ensure funds are used exclusively for providing benefits and require employer contribution rates based on sound actuarial practices. Goodwin also touched on the basic equation of pension plans, relying on contributions and investment income to match benefits and expenses, emphasizing the compounding of interest.
Unclear: Marie Mullen, Chief Financial Officer of NHRS Information Only01:47:34.800 - 9:46:05 AM; Marie Mullen discussed recent financial updates and changes within NHRS. She mentioned the implementation of PGB 3 and the structural changes made to the employer reporting group to improve service by assigning relationship managers to employers. This has been well received and has helped address challenges faced by employers during the transition. Mullen also talked about employer listening sessions that provided feedback on the new system, leading to additional functionalities and improved reporting. She highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance investment fee transparency and plans for a financial software upgrade in the coming year.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:49:46.760 - 9:48:17 AM; The speaker asked about the delinquency rate among employers and the percentage of overall collections it represents. Marie Mullen responded that the delinquency rate is about 10%, but all employers eventually pay, with some delays of a month or two. NHRS follows up to ensure collections are complete and reconciles accounts regularly.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:50:33.040 - 9:49:04 AM; The speaker inquired whether the state is considered one employer or if agencies like HHS and Corrections are separate employers. Marie Mullen clarified that the state is considered one employer, except for certain component units like NHRS, which is a separate employer.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:51:11.920 - 9:49:42 AM; The speaker asked about the percentage of participants employed by non-state entities. Marie Mullen stated that approximately 20% are state employees, and the other 80% are from municipalities, state police, fire departments, and other entities. She also noted that nearly 50% of the total membership consists of state employees and municipal and county employees, with teachers making up almost a third.
Unclear: Jan Goodwin, Executive Director of NHRS Information Only01:52:44.800 - 9:51:15 AM; Jan Goodwin discussed NHRS's plans to purchase a new building, as their current lease expires in March 2026. A real estate committee was appointed to review lease and purchase options, and they engaged a broker to find the most cost-effective space. After reviewing options, the board approved purchasing a property at 80 Commercial Street in the Corporate Center at Horseshoe Pond for $5 million, with an expected closing in March.
Unclear: Jan Goodwin, Executive Director of NHRS Information Only01:55:02.920 - 9:53:33 AM; Jan Goodwin highlighted significant developments since 2007, including the 30-year amortization of the unfunded liability in 2010, which has grown due to changes in the assumed rate of return. The rate was reduced three times since 2010 and now stands at 6.75%. She explained that the assumed rate of return affects the present value of liabilities and employer contribution rates. Goodwin also discussed the change in actuarial methodology from open group aggregate to entry age normal in 2008, which is considered more standard practice.
Unclear: Jan Goodwin, Executive Director of NHRS Information Only01:57:23.480 - 9:55:54 AM; Jan Goodwin summarized benefit changes since 2020, including ad hoc inflation protection for retirees and restoration of group two benefits reduced in 2011. She mentioned that NHRS is preparing to implement a change in the multiplier for some group two members. Goodwin also provided an overview of NHRS membership, which covers a broad range of public employees in New Hampshire, divided into group one (state, city, municipal employees, and teachers) and group two (police and fire). The largest exception to membership is Manchester employees, but their teachers, police, and fire are covered.
Unclear: Jan Goodwin, Executive Director of NHRS Information Only02:01:18.639 - 9:59:49 AM; Jan Goodwin discussed the demographic breakdown of NHRS members, noting that the average age of active members is under 46 with about 11 years of service, while retirees average 72.2 years with an average benefit of just over $21,000. She highlighted that in fiscal year 24, NHRS paid over $1 billion in retirement benefits and nearly $40 million in post-retirement medical subsidies, which significantly impact local economies. Goodwin also provided a breakdown of benefits by county, noting higher amounts in urban counties.
Unclear: Jan Goodwin, Executive Director of NHRS Information Only02:02:53.520 - 10:01:24 AM; Jan Goodwin explained the four types of retirement available to NHRS members and how pension benefits are calculated using years of service, average final compensation, and a benefit multiplier. She noted the differences between group one and group two members, with group two not participating in Social Security, leading to higher retirement benefits. Goodwin also discussed the distribution of benefits among retirees, with over two-thirds receiving less than $25,000 annually, and the cost implications of cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs).
Unclear: Jan Goodwin, Executive Director of NHRS Information Only02:04:44.239 - 10:03:15 AM; Jan Goodwin provided details on member and employer contributions, noting that member contributions are set by statute while employer contributions are determined by actuaries and certified by trustees. She discussed the timeline for employer contribution certifications and mentioned that since 2020, local employers have paid 100% of contributions. Goodwin also touched on the state's contribution to temporary supplemental allowances (TSAs) and the impact of removing state contributions in 2012.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only02:06:17.239 - 10:04:48 AM; The speaker asked about the state's contributions to retirees and the impact of removing state contributions in 2012. Jan Goodwin explained that state contributions were removed to manage budget predictability, as the costs were increasing significantly. She highlighted that even when the state contributed 7.5%, it had little impact on tax rates, and larger refunds to taxpayers were often offset by school budget increases.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only02:10:26.440 - 10:08:57 AM; The speaker asked about the benefits to municipalities in joining the state retirement fund. Jan Goodwin explained that it allows municipalities to avoid administering their own pension benefits, resulting in significant administrative savings. She also noted that the retirement system benefits from a larger pool of members, ensuring a steady flow of contributions and growth of assets.
Unclear: Jan Goodwin, Executive Director of NHRS Information Only02:12:46.079 - 10:11:17 AM; Jan Goodwin discussed the biennial actuarial valuation process, which calculates NHRS's funding status and establishes employer contribution rates. She explained that the contribution rates include normal costs, unfunded liability amortization, and medical subsidies, based on assumptions from the most recent experience study. Goodwin mentioned that the latest study did not require a reduction in the actuarial rate of return, avoiding an increase in the unfunded liability. She also mentioned an upcoming actuarial audit to ensure the accuracy of assumptions.
Unclear: Jan Goodwin, Executive Director of NHRS Information Only02:16:43.439 - 10:15:14 AM; Jan Goodwin provided details on the components of employer contributions, noting that the majority goes towards amortizing the unfunded liability. She also discussed the differences in employer rates for fiscal years 24-25 and the upcoming biennium, noting a reduction due to strong investment performance. Goodwin highlighted the roles of the Board of Trustees and the Independent Investment Committee in overseeing investments and ensuring compliance with policies.
Unclear: Rald Lec, Chief Investment Officer of NHRS Information Only02:20:04.680 - 10:18:35 AM; Rald Lec discussed the diversification of the NHRS investment portfolio, emphasizing investments in equities, bonds, and private markets. He explained the long-term approach to reviewing investment managers and asset classes to ensure retirement outcomes for members and beneficiaries. Lec also detailed investment performance over various periods and the differences between target and actual asset allocations, noting the challenges with private markets. He addressed questions about Bitcoin, stating NHRS does not hold any, and explained the forward-looking nature of the assumed rate of return.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only02:26:25.680 - 10:24:56 AM; The speaker expressed concerns about the volatility of NHRS's investment returns over the past 25 years, suggesting it was unacceptable and impacting the unfunded liability. Rald Lec responded by explaining that volatility is inherent in seeking higher returns and highlighted the consistent positive returns above the line in the performance charts. He discussed how market conditions, such as the 2012 debt ceiling debate and the global financial crisis, affected returns and emphasized the long-term view of investments.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only02:31:40.160 - 10:30:11 AM; The speaker asked about the high equity allocation in the portfolio and whether NHRS was divesting from equities to reduce volatility. Rald Lec confirmed that they are rebalancing from equities into private markets, particularly infrastructure, to mitigate risk while maintaining the target return of 6.75%. He emphasized that reducing equities would lower the risk profile but must be done without compromising the ability to achieve the target return.
Unclear: Rald Lec, Chief Investment Officer of NHRS Information Only02:33:59.399 - 10:32:30 AM; Rald Lec discussed NHRS's performance relative to peers, noting that over the last 15 years, NHRS outperformed 84% of public plans with over $1 billion in assets. He emphasized that NHRS aims to continue this outperformance in the future.
Unclear: Griffin Information Only02:34:18.720 - 10:32:49 AM; Griffin requested a list of peers from the NHRS Chief Investment Officer, Rald Lec, who confirmed that such a list could be provided through their investment consultant, Kalen.
Unclear: Slide 35 Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer Information Only02:35:05.760 - 10:33:36 AM; The executive director and CFO discussed initiatives to ensure secure retirement outcomes for beneficiaries. They proposed changes to asset allocation, aiming to reduce equities and increase investments in private credit and infrastructure to reduce volatility and achieve long-term goals. They also outlined a five-year strategic plan for the investment office, focusing on reducing costs, retaining investment talent, and investing in systems for portfolio oversight and transparency.
Unclear: Rald Lec, Chief Investment Officer of NHRS Information Only02:36:36.800 - 10:35:07 AM; Rald Lec discussed the forward expectations of return rates, noting a historical decrease from 8% to a more realistic 6.34%. He emphasized the importance of providing strong investment returns to members and beneficiaries, and highlighted the need for transparency in reporting across private markets.
Unclear: Executive Director Information Only02:37:23.520 - 10:35:54 AM; The executive director provided a recap of 2024, mentioning 14 bills affecting NHRS, with three enacted into law. They highlighted NHRS's role in providing data and analysis to the legislature, and discussed the organization's efforts to manage its unfunded liability and improve its funded ratio.
Unclear: Executive Director Information Only02:39:48.600 - 10:38:19 AM; The executive director continued to discuss NHRS's progress toward 100% funding, aiming to extinguish the unfunded liability by 2039. They explained the amortization of new liabilities over 20-year periods, as recommended by the 2017 denial commission, and compared New Hampshire's progress to that of Maine.
Unclear: Executive Director Information Only02:46:52.200 - 10:45:23 AM; The executive director emphasized the constitutional and statutory foundation of NHRS and the importance of maintaining a path toward sustainability. They expressed pride in the progress made and determination to continue the efforts.
Unclear: Representative Rung Information Only02:47:17.399 - 10:45:48 AM; Representative Rung inquired about the number of employees at NHRS and the strategy for attracting and retaining investment talent. The response included current employee numbers and plans to hire for the investment division, despite challenges in attracting talent due to low unemployment rates in New Hampshire.
Unclear: Executive Director Information Only02:48:51.479 - 10:47:22 AM; The executive director explained the medical subsidy, noting it is a payment to a finite group of former public employees who were working in the year 2000. They clarified that it is a grandfathered benefit no longer offered to new retirees.
Unclear: Executive Director Information Only02:51:56.680 - 10:50:27 AM; The executive director responded to questions about the authorization of employees and the setting of actuarial rates of return, explaining that these are responsibilities of the NHRS board, not the state legislature.
Unclear: Commissioner Scott, Department of Environmental Services Information Only04:16:19.080 - 12:14:50 PM; Commissioner Scott introduced the Department of Environmental Services' budget and programs. He highlighted the complexity of the department's operations and the need for discussion on funding for state-owned dams, referencing Representative Leechman's bill.
Unclear: Sue Carlson, Chief Operating Officer, Department of Environmental Services Information Only04:21:48.600 - 12:20:19 PM; Sue Carlson presented the agency's efficiency budget for 2026-2027, explaining the department's funding sources and uses. She detailed the State Revolving Fund (SRF) program, which accounts for a significant portion of the budget, and discussed the department's efforts to meet budget goals.
Unclear: Representative Information Only04:28:53.319 - 12:27:24 PM; The representative asked for clarification on the SRF program, and Sue Carlson explained that it consists of two programs for wastewater and drinking water, funded by federal grants and state matches, with loans being repaid to fund additional loans.
Unclear: Representative Information Only04:36:08.520 - 12:34:39 PM; The representative inquired about the reduction in the budget for loans and reimbursements, and Sue Carlson clarified that it was due to a reduction in bill money received in previous years, but existing commitments to communities were not being cut.
Unclear: Representative Information Only04:37:08.278 - 12:35:39 PM; The representative asked about the matching funds for EPA Section 319 grants, and it was explained that these funds are documented by the recipients and recorded in the department's grant management system.
Unclear: Cathy Beam, Air Resource Division Information Only04:37:54.480 - 12:36:25 PM; Cathy Beam provided an overview of the Air Resource Division's responsibilities, including permitting, environmental health, compliance, and technical services. She discussed the division's work with federal and state permits, compliance monitoring, and air quality management.
Unclear: Rung Information Only04:44:32.440 - 12:43:03 PM; Rung inquired about the number of sources contributing to air quality complaints, specifically asking if there are a few bad actors causing the majority of the complaints. The response indicated that most complaints are related to outdoor wood-fired boilers and neighbor-to-neighbor issues such as open burning, rather than industrial sources.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only04:45:19.480 - 12:43:50 PM; An unnamed speaker clarified that PM subset 2.5 refers to particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter, which can affect lung health. They also discussed the financial self-sustainability of their bureau, mentioning that 30% of their funding comes from grants and federal programs, with the rest from fees. Fines collected under statute 125 go to the general fund.
Unclear: Mike Whimet, Director of the Waste Management Division, New Hampshire DES Information Only04:46:42.400 - 12:45:13 PM; Mike Whimet provided an overview of the Waste Management Division, which includes five bureaus focused on the safe handling of waste and materials. The division manages programs for hazardous waste, solid waste, petroleum products, and site remediation. He detailed specific programs like the oil remediation and compliance bureau, safe tank program for home heating oil tanks, and the green yards program for auto salvage yards. He also discussed the solid waste and hazardous waste bureaus' roles in compliance and permitting, and mentioned the landfill closure grant program and emergency spill response capabilities.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only04:56:35.920 - 12:55:06 PM; An unnamed speaker discussed the funding from the Department of Defense for remediation of DOD sites in the state, explaining that federal grants cover the costs associated with oversight. They also provided a breakdown of other funds, mentioning the oil discharge and disposal cleanup fund, the drinking water and groundwater trust fund, and their respective budgets.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only04:59:18.920 - 12:57:49 PM; An unnamed speaker discussed the expected disbursements from the MTBE lawsuit settlement, which would fund the drinking water and groundwater trust fund. They clarified that the trust fund's money goes to the DES for reimbursement to impacted water systems, and that the state is receiving a significant portion of the settlement money, though it might not fully cover the costs incurred.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:03:12.360 - 1:01:43 PM; An unnamed speaker explained the Waste Management Division's role in managing contaminants like PFAS and MTBE, which are not natural contaminants like arsenic. They mentioned the division's efforts to prevent releases and manage remediation, including the PFAS loan and grant program, the rebate program for impacted homeowners, and the firefighting foam takeback program.
Unclear: Randy P, Director of The Water Division Information Only05:08:41.600 - 1:07:12 PM; Randy P discussed the Water Division's operations, which include 258 staff members and eight programs. He highlighted the alteration of terrain program for managing stormwater runoff, the subsurface systems program for septic systems, the Shoreland program for regulating development near water bodies, and the drinking water and groundwater program for public wells. He also mentioned the dam bureau's responsibilities and the challenges associated with state-owned dams.
Unclear: Unnamed Speaker Information Only05:21:10.480 - 1:19:41 PM; An unnamed speaker detailed three new general fund programs over the last five years: the cyanobacteria program, the PCB program, and the solid waste food waste diversion program. They explained the funding allocations, the status of each program, and the need for administrative rules before issuing grants. They also discussed the number of new positions created over the last five years, funded by general, federal, and other sources.
Unclear: James Key Wallace, Executive Director of the New Hampshire Business Finance Authority Information Only05:27:50.360 - 1:26:21 PM; James Key Wallace provided an overview of the New Hampshire Business Finance Authority (BFA), which is a self-funded independent authority helping businesses and nonprofits access capital. He explained the BFA's structure, mission, and programs like the Capital Access Program (CAP), loan guarantees, and conduit bonds for public infrastructure projects. He emphasized the BFA's partnership with the private sector and its financial stability, with no state appropriations or additions to staff in recent years.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:40:47.798 - 1:39:18 PM; The speaker raised questions about the student loan forgiveness program administered by the New Hampshire Business Finance Authority (BFA). They inquired about the criteria for selecting recipients, the focus on New Hampshire citizens, and whether payments were made to in-state or out-of-state institutions. They expressed a need for understanding how the funds were spent, given potential future considerations.
Unclear: James Key Wallace, Executive Director of the New Hampshire Business Finance Authority Information Only05:41:35.040 - 1:40:06 PM; James Key Wallace responded to the questions about the student loan forgiveness program. He explained that the BFA administers the program, but selection and criteria are set by the legislature. The program focuses on New Hampshire residents working in the state, with a maximum forgiveness of $50,000. Payments go directly to loan providers, and the program is aimed at workforce development, specifically targeting the regenerative medicine industry as a recruitment tool for talent.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:43:58.878 - 1:42:29 PM; The speaker inquired about the Rustic Crust bankruptcy, asking who lost out financially and expressing familiarity with the company. They were concerned about the impact on shareholders and the business.
Unclear: James Key Wallace, Executive Director of the New Hampshire Business Finance Authority Information Only05:44:47.200 - 1:43:18 PM; James Key Wallace explained the BFA's involvement with Rustic Crust, mentioning two loans guaranteed by the BFA: one for equipment and another for purchasing a manufacturing facility. He detailed the liquidation process and expressed confidence that the bank debt would be paid from the sale of assets or from the BFA's reserve if necessary. He noted that the business faced unexpected liquidity issues due to withdrawn investor capital.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:47:57.240 - 1:46:28 PM; The speaker shared personal experiences with Rustic Crust, mentioning their long-term investment and connection to the company. They noted the company's location in Pittsfield and reminisced about the local food scene.
Unclear: James Key Wallace, Executive Director of the New Hampshire Business Finance Authority Information Only05:48:44.798 - 1:47:15 PM; James Key Wallace discussed the state's grant program for regional development corporations, explaining the BFA's role in distributing the funds. He mentioned the program's 10-year authorization and the reduction from 10 to 9 recipients due to a merger.
Unclear: Chief Justice Information Only05:52:13.360 - 1:50:44 PM; The Chief Justice introduced the judicial branch team, including Donna Raymond, Ellen Christo, Beth Kissinger, Mark Howard, and Diane Martin. They outlined the agenda, which included discussing the structure of the judicial branch, challenges and opportunities, and the efficiency budget submitted in September.
Unclear: Ellen Christo, Administrative Judge of the Circuit Court Information Only05:53:44.040 - 1:52:15 PM; Ellen Christo provided an overview of the Circuit Court, emphasizing its role as the 'People's Court' with high self-representation rates. She detailed the court's structure, including the three divisions (district, family, and probate), and the various programs and units managed by the court, such as the information center, domestic violence registry, and mediation services.
Unclear: Beth Kissinger, Deputy Administrative Judge of the Circuit Court Information Only06:01:37.878 - 2:00:08 PM; Beth Kissinger discussed the new magistrate program, explaining its role in handling bail determinations, arraignments, and warrant reviews. She highlighted the program's efficiency in freeing up judicial resources for other case types and its importance in rural areas where finding bail commissioners is challenging.
Unclear: Mark Howard, Chief Judge of the Superior Court Information Only06:06:52.680 - 2:05:23 PM; Mark Howard provided an overview of the Superior Court, noting its role as the general trial court jurisdiction in New Hampshire. He discussed the court's responsibilities, including jury trials, the land use docket, and various treatment courts. He mentioned the court's full complement of judges and the upcoming pilot program for a young adult treatment court.
Unclear: Diane Martin, Director of the Administrative Office of the Courts Information Only06:13:05.840 - 2:11:36 PM; Diane Martin described the Administrative Office of the Courts' role in supporting the judicial branch, including HR, accounting, and IT services. She highlighted the office's success in securing grants and implementing cost-saving measures, such as reducing costs for toners and envelopes.
Unclear: Chief Justice Information Only06:16:56.718 - 2:15:27 PM; The Chief Justice discussed the challenges faced by the judicial branch, including safety and security, the Youth Development Center (YDC) litigation, and access to justice. They highlighted the significant resource crisis caused by YDC cases and the impact of self-representation and public defender shortages on court operations.
Unclear: Mark Howard, Chief Judge of the Superior Court Information Only06:17:43.120 - 2:16:14 PM; Mark Howard provided further details on the YDC litigation, explaining the complexity and volume of cases and their impact on the Superior Court's resources. He noted that the cases would be ongoing for years and discussed the state's role as a defendant.
Unclear: Chief Justice Information Only06:20:48.320 - 2:19:19 PM; The Chief Justice continued discussing the challenges, focusing on access to justice. They emphasized the national problem of self-representation and the strain on public defenders. They commended the legislature for allowing paralegal representation in certain cases and mentioned the use of ARPA funds to assist self-represented litigants.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only06:23:19.000 - 2:21:50 PM; The speaker inquired about the percentage of self-represented litigants winning their cases and the challenges they face in court. They expressed concern over the national problem of access to justice and the legal profession's role in addressing it.
Unclear: Chief Justice Information Only06:24:26.160 - 2:22:57 PM; The Chief Justice discussed opportunities within the judicial branch, focusing on the success of the adult drug court program. They highlighted the program's high graduation rate and its cost-saving benefits over incarceration. They also mentioned the expansion of mental health courts and the creation of veterans courts.
Unclear: Mark Howard, Chief Judge of the Superior Court Information Only06:25:57.558 - 2:24:28 PM; Mark Howard provided more details on the drug court program, explaining its post-plea, post-sentence structure and the possibility of annulling convictions upon successful completion. He addressed the composition of the drug court team and the use of best practices.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only06:31:27.080 - 2:29:58 PM; The speaker asked about the interaction between the young adult court pilot and WellPoint's homeless shelter, indicating interest in potential collaborations.
Unclear: Ellen Christo, Administrative Judge of the Circuit Court Information Only06:32:13.558 - 2:30:44 PM; Ellen Christo discussed the family treatment courts, explaining their role in addressing substance use disorders in abuse and neglect cases. She highlighted the pilot program in Sullivan County and its expansion to Manchester, emphasizing the goal of reunifying families.
Unclear: Chief Justice Information Only06:34:34.440 - 2:33:05 PM; The Chief Justice discussed the sequential intercept model used to address mental health and substance use disorders, emphasizing the importance of diverting individuals from the justice system to treatment.
Unclear: Beth Kissinger, Deputy Administrative Judge of the Circuit Court Information Only06:36:06.920 - 2:34:37 PM; Beth Kissinger described the landlord-tenant diversion program, detailing its pre-filing and post-filing mediation processes. She highlighted the program's efficiency and dignity in resolving disputes, noting its national recognition by the American Bar Association.
Unclear: Mark Howard, Chief Judge of the Superior Court Information Only06:37:37.680 - 2:36:08 PM; Mark Howard discussed the implementation of a digital evidence platform in Superior Courts, explaining its benefits in managing evidence and records more efficiently. He mentioned the platform's expansion to jury trials and the goal of full implementation by the end of 2025.
Unclear: Chief Justice Information Only06:39:58.680 - 2:38:29 PM; The Chief Justice introduced a pilot program for text message reminders in court, noting its success in reducing failure to appear rates. They discussed the program's expansion and potential future applications in other court divisions.
Unclear: Chief Justice Information Only06:41:31.798 - 2:40:02 PM; The Chief Justice outlined the judicial branch's efficiency budget request, explaining the fixed costs and the impact of the 4% reduction. They detailed the consequences, including court closures, restricted jury trials, and reduced security and program funding.
Unclear: Unidentified Speaker Information Only06:43:50.840 - 2:42:21 PM; The speaker expressed concern about the proposed closure of the Claremont Circuit Court, referencing past outcry and the potential for future pushback. They inquired about the rationale for choosing Claremont and the nature of the courthouse space.
Unclear: Chief Justice Information Only06:45:48.798 - 2:44:19 PM; The Chief Justice responded to the concerns about court security and the proposed cuts, explaining the difficult choices made in the budget. They outlined prioritized needs, including resources for processing YDC cases and addressing security concerns.
Unclear: Chairman Information Only06:49:41.958 - 2:48:12 PM; The Chairman expressed concerns about security issues mentioned by Representative Ms and inquired about the dollar amount proposed for curtailing appropriations per DM and the impact on county expenses. He requested clarification on how cuts and prioritized needs are managed, indicating that operational impacts are of utmost concern.
Unclear: Court Security Officer Information Only06:50:34.760 - 2:49:05 PM; The court security officer discussed the necessity of maintaining court security officers in courtrooms, highlighting that any reduction in their numbers or per diem availability would compromise courtroom functionality.
Unclear: Representative Eble Information Only06:51:25.120 - 2:49:56 PM; Representative Eble focused on the defunded positions in the Circuit Court and emphasized the legislature's priority to support the Family Division with additional staff attorneys and law clerks, as recommended by a special committee. He also mentioned the increasing interpreter costs due to the state's diversity.
Unclear: Representative Wy Information Only06:52:13.080 - 2:50:44 PM; Representative Wy suggested increasing filing fees as a potential solution to cover costs, noting that it has been ten years since the last fee increase. He believed this could generate significant revenue, mentioning that a $10 increase could yield a million dollars.
Unclear: Representative Information Only06:53:43.798 - 2:52:14 PM; The representative discussed the budget breakdown by funding source, expense type, and an overview. He answered questions regarding new general fund appropriations over the last five years, new positions funded, and the use of ARPA funds.
Unclear: Representative Information Only06:56:03.558 - 2:54:34 PM; The representative highlighted the unique nature of the judicial branch budget, noting that it receives a lump sum from general funds with internal allocation left to the branch. He also clarified that the budget request did not reflect revised health and dental rates.
Unclear: Representative Information Only06:57:36.600 - 2:56:07 PM; The representative inquired about the process of handling claims related to YDC, clarifying that the court system's role is limited to processing lawsuits, not settlement claims, which are managed by the AOC. He noted the complexity and volume of filings related to these cases.
Unclear: Representative Griff Oppose07:00:24.958 - 2:58:55 PM; Representative Griff expressed frustration with the YDC claims, likening it to a 'feeding frenzy' for lawyers and questioning the fairness of rewarding those who have 'misspent' their lives with large settlements. He suggested a cap on claims to prevent budgetary strain.
Unclear: Representative Information Only07:01:57.718 - 3:00:28 PM; The representative asked if settling with the state in the claims process would allow claimants to pursue contractors in court, receiving confirmation that such claims could proceed separately.
Unclear: Representative Camal Information Only07:03:26.280 - 3:01:57 PM; Representative Camal inquired if private companies involved in YDC cases were declaring bankruptcy to avoid lawsuits, and was informed that while most have insurance, not all are covered, and some are self-insured.
Unclear: Representative Information Only07:04:11.760 - 3:02:42 PM; The representative highlighted the broader impact of the YDC claims on the entire court system, noting the potential for a critical mass of cases that could delay justice for other cases. He mentioned the length and cost of a recent trial as an example.