Committee Summary for House Judiciary (01/15/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
N/ 00:08:03.400 - 9:07:29 AM	General Working Session	Unclear
HB88 03:16:34.800 - 12:16:00 PM	Public Hearing	establishing community property trusts.	McGuire, Dan(R)[A+]2024
HB98 03:38:48.359 - 12:38:14 PM	Public Hearing	relative to professional limited liability company (PLLC) assistant manager status.	Turer, Eric(D)[CT]2024
HB111 03:59:39.000 - 12:59:05 PM	Public Hearing	(New Title) extending the position of right-to-know ombudsman for 2 years and exempting individuals who assist in the preparation of a right-to-know complaint at no charge from the unauthorized practice of law.	Lynn, Bob(R)[A]2024
HB111 05:04:42.638 - 2:04:08 PM	Public Hearing	(New Title) extending the position of right-to-know ombudsman for 2 years and exempting individuals who assist in the preparation of a right-to-know complaint at no charge from the unauthorized practice of law.	Lynn, Bob(R)[A]2024
HR6 05:08:31.798 - 2:07:57 PM	Public Hearing	condemning the judicial doctrine of "disparate impact".	Belcher, Mike(R)[A]2024
Unclear 05:19:26.600 - 2:18:52 PM	General Working Session	Unclear

N/: Bob Lynn, Representative from Windham Information Only00:08:03.400 - 9:07:29 AM; Representative Bob Lynn introduced himself as a member of the Judiciary Committee for his third term, representing Windham as a Republican. He highlighted his previous experience as a judge in New Hampshire, which fuels his interest in the Judiciary. Lynn mentioned that while most of his proposed bills this year are not under the Judiciary Committee, he is involved in a bill concerning end-of-life options, co-sponsored with Representative Smith. He also expressed interest in amending the right to know law, referencing past efforts and ongoing needs for improvement.
N/: Dennis Manion, Representative from Salem Information Only00:09:45.800 - 9:09:11 AM; Representative Dennis Manion, serving his second term and newly appointed as Vice Chair of the Judiciary Committee, introduced himself. Previously a member of the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee, Manion brings 30 years of law enforcement experience, including time as a police prosecutor. He discussed his interest in criminal justice-related bills, particularly those concerning assaults on police officers, false reports, and the timely return of firearms after court interventions.
N/: Mar Smith, Representative Information Only00:10:40.360 - 9:10:06 AM; Representative Mar Smith, in her 14th term, shared her long-standing involvement with the Judiciary Committee and her previous work in finance. She emphasized the significance of the Judiciary Committee in handling life-and-death issues and core principles like personal privacy and accountability through the right to know. Smith described herself as nonpartisan in her committee role despite being a Democrat, expressing eagerness to work collaboratively with all members to advance their collective objectives.
N/: Jonathan Morton, Representative from Manchester Information Only00:12:39.680 - 9:12:05 AM; Representative Jonathan Morton from Manchester introduced himself, explaining his involvement with the Judiciary Committee stems from his belief in balancing law and order with freedom. He mentioned his connections to law enforcement through family and friends and his role in starting the Comfort Dog program, indicating a community-oriented approach to his legislative duties.
N/: Timothy Horgan, Representative from Strafford County District 10, Durham Information Only00:13:23.920 - 9:12:49 AM; Representative Horgan introduced himself, noting his seventh term on the committee and a previous term on a now-defunct committee with overlapping responsibilities. He expressed his commitment to preserving the rule of law and personal freedoms. He mentioned his involvement with perennial landlord-tenant bills, which have moved to another committee, and his anticipation of working with Representative Alexander, who also serves on that committee.
N/: Richard Trip, Representative from Derry Information Only00:14:56.759 - 9:14:22 AM; Representative Trip introduced himself, mentioning his fourth term overall and second term on the Judiciary Committee. He highlighted his long service on municipal boards, which he believes provides him with valuable perspectives on local governance and community issues.
N/: Zoe Manos, Representative from Stratham Information Only00:15:55.720 - 9:15:21 AM; Representative Manos, an attorney in her second term, expressed her enthusiasm for the Judiciary Committee. She mentioned her interest in issues like domestic violence and the Death With Dignity bill, and praised the collegial nature of the committee despite differing opinions.
N/: Christine Perez, Representative from Londonderry Information Only00:16:12.240 - 9:15:38 AM; Representative Perez introduced herself, noting her second term on the Judiciary Committee. She expressed her surprise and pleasure at being placed on the committee, mentioning her interests in education and parental rights. She also highlighted her belief in the First and Second Amendments and mentioned her involvement with bills not directly related to the Judiciary Committee.
N/: Paul Burch, Representative from West Milan Information Only00:17:21.919 - 9:16:47 AM; Representative Burch, in his sixth term overall and on the Judiciary Committee, shared his background as a senior public defender in Vermont. He humorously noted his extensive experience with judicial denials and expressed his broad interests in the committee's work, mentioning his recent health update regarding a kidney transplant.
N/: Joe Alexander, Representative from Goffstown Information Only00:18:00.640 - 9:17:26 AM; Representative Alexander introduced himself, mentioning his fourth consecutive term on the committee. He emphasized his non-lawyer status, which he believes adds a different perspective. He discussed his passion for housing and landlord-tenant policies, which have moved to another committee, and his interest in the right to know law.
N/: Representative from Brentwood Information Only00:18:47.760 - 9:18:13 AM; The representative, a non-lawyer in his second term, highlighted his background in healthcare access policy. He shared his initial interest in the Health and Human Services Committee but expressed satisfaction with his placement on the Judiciary Committee. He mentioned his co-sponsorship of the Death With Dignity bill and his interest in broader issues of citizenship and personal freedom.
N/: Katherine Romo, Representative from Bedford Information Only00:20:25.919 - 9:19:51 AM; Representative Romo, an attorney in her second and a half term, introduced herself, mentioning her previous service on the Transportation Committee and her experience as a town counselor. She expressed her excitement about applying her professional experience on the Judiciary Committee and her pride in her previous work on a bill that eliminated patient costs for follow-up breast cancer screenings.
N/: Donald McFarland, Representative from Orange Information Only00:21:47.559 - 9:21:13 AM; Representative McFarland introduced himself as a freshman representative from Orange with four decades of experience in engineering, science, technology, and risk management. He expressed his interest in serving on the Judiciary Committee and his commitment to upholding the rule of law. He mentioned his personal and constituent interests in technology privacy, anti-trust policy, landlord rights, right to work, and abortion, which are relevant to the committee's work. He also noted that he is awaiting committee assignment on several bills he is sponsoring.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:22:43.799 - 9:22:09 AM; The speaker discussed the distribution of a list of members' contact information, asking members to verify and update their details, particularly phone numbers and email addresses. They mentioned an upcoming change in legislative email addresses and the importance of having correct contact information for communication.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:24:21.559 - 9:23:47 AM; The speaker continued the discussion about contact information, emphasizing the importance of having the most current phone numbers, especially cell phone numbers, for effective communication. They also welcomed a new clerk, Representative Katie Peternell from Wolfeboro, who shared her interest in being on the Judiciary Committee after experiencing sensory overload on the Education Committee the previous year.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:26:06.279 - 9:25:32 AM; The speaker discussed the seating arrangement in the committee room, which was designed to foster communication between members of different parties. They also mentioned the expected workload for the committee, noting that they had 34 bills assigned and expected more, similar to the previous year's total of 43 or 44 bills. They highlighted the committee's shared room with other committees and the typical meeting days, which would be Wednesdays, with potential additional meetings on Mondays.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:27:58.840 - 9:27:24 AM; The speaker explained the policy on quorums for hearings and executive sessions. They stated that there is no requirement for a quorum during hearings, encouraging attendance but noting it's not critical if someone cannot attend. However, for executive sessions, a quorum is necessary, and members were urged to inform the chair or vice-chair if they cannot attend so a substitute can be arranged, especially for controversial bills.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:28:54.519 - 9:28:20 AM; The speaker addressed a rule change concerning the notice of executive sessions, stating that the traditional policy allows for executive sessions on any bill that has had a hearing during the day without further notice. They explained their intention to use this policy when there is an overwhelming consensus or if everyone is present, but not to call executive sessions on controversial bills if someone is missing.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:32:30.600 - 9:31:56 AM; The speaker discussed the committee's starting times, recalling past discussions and preferences. They mentioned that starting times could vary between 9 AM, 9:30 AM, and 10 AM, depending on the workload, and asked members for their preferences. Concerns about travel time and evening commitments were raised by some members.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:34:47.159 - 9:34:13 AM; The speaker continued the discussion on starting times, noting the compromise of starting at 9:30 AM. Representative Paris expressed concerns about driving home after dark, while Representative McFarland supported maximizing daytime work hours due to his own long commute. Representative Alexander suggested a flexible approach to starting times based on the type of session.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:35:44.320 - 9:35:10 AM; The speaker suggested that having two committee meetings a week could resolve the issue of starting times. They then introduced Chief Justice Gordon McDonald and General Counsel Aaron Krian, who were present to discuss the Judiciary.
N/: Gordon McDonald, Chief Justice Information Only00:36:36.079 - 9:36:02 AM; Chief Justice Gordon McDonald and General Counsel Aaron Krian provided an overview of the judicial branch's structure and discussed challenges and opportunities. They detailed the organization of the judicial branch, including the Circuit Court, Superior Court, and Supreme Court, along with their respective jurisdictions and case types. They highlighted the high volume of cases, particularly in the Circuit Court, and discussed recent legislative initiatives like the creation of magistrate positions and the use of paraprofessionals.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:56:05.119 - 9:55:31 AM; The speaker asked Chief Justice McDonald about the geographical distribution of the access to justice issue, to which the Chief Justice responded that it is a statewide issue.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:56:54.200 - 9:56:20 AM; The speaker asked about the paraprofessional representation program, and Chief Justice McDonald explained its purpose and how it helps address the access to justice gap by providing legally trained individuals to assist self-represented litigants.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:58:54.039 - 9:58:20 AM; The speaker praised the paraprofessional representation program as an example of effective work by the Judiciary Committee, attributing it to the efforts of former committee members and legislators.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only00:59:50.160 - 9:59:16 AM; The speaker asked about the new land use docket in the Superior Court, and Chief Justice McDonald acknowledged the docket's operation but noted he lacked specific data on its performance, offering to provide it later.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:01:17.760 - 10:00:43 AM; The speaker asked Chief Justice McDonald about the increased threat environment, to which the Chief Justice responded by citing national incidents and local concerns, emphasizing the importance of security in the judicial branch.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:03:06.680 - 10:02:32 AM; The speaker inquired about the judicial branch's IT department and the impact of a potential ransomware attack. Chief Justice McDonald explained the separation of the IT department and the benefits of electronic case management, particularly during the pandemic.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:05:55.000 - 10:05:21 AM; The speaker asked about the non-competitive fee structure for public defenders, and Chief Justice McDonald provided details on salary comparisons and the funding needed to address the issue.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:06:52.839 - 10:06:18 AM; The speaker asked if the Chief Justice had requested additional staff support in the governor's budget, to which the Chief Justice responded that they had not due to budget constraints but identified it as a priority.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:09:40.439 - 10:09:06 AM; The speaker inquired about the relationship between the courts and the bar association, and Chief Justice McDonald explained the unified bar system in New Hampshire and its administrative function for the court.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:12:41.000 - 10:12:07 AM; The speaker raised concerns about the unified bar system potentially inhibiting attorneys from questioning judicial procedures. Chief Justice McDonald clarified that regulation of the practice of law is a judicial branch function, regardless of the bar association's form.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:14:21.679 - 10:13:47 AM; The speaker asked about access to justice and recidivism, and Chief Justice McDonald explained the constitutional right to an attorney for criminal cases and the challenges in the civil system, highlighting the importance of the paraprofessional program.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:17:45.040 - 10:17:11 AM; The speaker discussed the issue of defendants failing to appear in court and the use of text reminders to reduce failure to appear rates. Chief Justice McDonald noted the success of this initiative in reducing FTAs by 40%.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:20:39.679 - 10:20:05 AM; The speaker discusses the history and implications of 'felonies first' legislation, which shifted felony cases from Circuit Court to Superior Court in 2016. They explain that this change was reversed in 2022, with cases returning to Circuit Court as of January 1st, 2024. The speaker suggests that this reversion was influenced by the perceived opportunity for case resolution at the Circuit Court level.
N/: Representative Bergeron, Manchester Information Only01:23:11.960 - 10:22:37 AM; Representative Bergeron inquires about the role and staffing challenges of paraprofessionals in schools, expressing curiosity about whether similar challenges are faced by New Hampshire Legal Assistance, an organization mentioned as a partner. The response indicates that New Hampshire Legal Assistance does not directly train but is involved with supervised paraprofessionals.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:24:53.119 - 10:24:19 AM; The speaker introduces themselves as the general counsel for the court system, offering to be a single point of contact for the committee members to obtain necessary information from the court system. They emphasize their availability and encourage committee members to reach out for assistance.
N/: Representative McFarland Information Only01:25:47.159 - 10:25:13 AM; Representative McFarland questions the impact of the absence of an Associate Supreme Court Justice on court operations, specifically regarding the appointment of judges on a pro tem basis. The response details established procedures for handling such absences and reassures that the court's productivity remains high.
N/: Unnamed Speaker, Winnam Information Only01:28:20.400 - 10:27:46 AM; The speaker, serving their second term and representing Cat Cab, expresses interest in the Judiciary Committee due to significant issues encountered in the judicial system during their previous term.
N/: Representative Virg Information Only01:29:08.719 - 10:28:34 AM; Representative Virg shares their motivation for joining the Judiciary Committee, citing their long service on the school board as relevant experience and a suggestion from someone to run for the position to represent their ward and district.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:30:07.159 - 10:29:33 AM; The speaker discusses the committee's scheduling preferences, indicating a preference for starting hearings at either 9:30 or 10 AM unless there is a compelling reason to start at 9 AM. They also mention scheduling hearings for a specific week and the absence of certain members.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:31:50.560 - 10:31:16 AM; The speaker announces their upcoming absence from February 5th to February 24th due to a trip to Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. They plan to schedule hearings during their absence and address how executive sessions will be managed, suggesting to delay complex bills until their return.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:35:33.000 - 10:34:59 AM; The speaker discusses the practice of holding caucuses before executive sessions to discuss bills and gauge positions. They mention the importance of leadership priorities but emphasize individual freedom in decision-making, encouraging respectful discourse within the committee.
N/: Representative Perez Information Only01:38:07.920 - 10:37:33 AM; Representative Perez expresses concerns about the interruption of public hearings, citing last year's experience with the end-of-life bill. They request that hearings be conducted without interruption to accommodate public testimony, and the response acknowledges the challenge but commits to doing the best possible.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:40:46.599 - 10:40:12 AM; The speaker emphasizes the importance of treating each other with dignity and respect within the committee, acknowledging strong disagreements but stressing the need for a respectful environment. They also address the protocol for asking questions during hearings, encouraging one question at a time to allow all members to participate.
N/: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:44:15.440 - 10:43:41 AM; The speaker discusses their own learning curve with legislative procedures and encourages committee members to ask questions freely, emphasizing that there are no dumb questions. They also address scheduling and the importance of committee members understanding the procedures.
N/: Representative Dan McGuire, Epsom Support03:05:40.880 - 12:05:06 PM; Representative McGuire introduces HB 88 FN, which proposes the establishment of community property trusts in New Hampshire. He explains the bill's motivation, which is to address a federal tax disadvantage faced by New Hampshire widows or widowers compared to those in community property states. The bill allows married couples to create a trust that provides a step-up in basis for all inherited property, thus avoiding federal capital gains tax. He also mentions an amendment to address issues with property with mortgages and notes the fiscal note's mention of potential impacts on real estate transfer taxes, though he believes there should be no cost associated with the bill.
HB88: Representative Birch Information Only03:16:34.800 - 12:16:00 PM; Representative Birch inquired about the potential reduction in state's general and education funds due to the bill. He specifically asked Representative McGuire if he would object to an amendment removing a section that makes an otherwise taxable transfer non-taxable, questioning the bill's intent regarding tax shelters.
HB88: Representative McGuire, Epsom Information Only03:17:22.359 - 12:16:48 PM; Representative McGuire responded to Representative Birch's query about the tax implications of the bill. He mentioned that he would need to consult with an attorney to understand the real estate transfer tax implications fully. He expressed that the bill's intention was not to create a tax shelter but to align with existing exemptions for estate planning trusts.
HB88: Representative Manos Information Only03:21:29.239 - 12:20:55 PM; Representative Manos questioned the specifics of the trust's dissolution upon marriage, focusing on the grantor's ability to decide property division. Representative McGuire clarified that the trust's intent is for property to go to the surviving spouse upon death, not primarily for divorce scenarios, and that he was not certain about its impact on divorce proceedings.
HB88: Representative Tur Information Only03:27:06.000 - 12:26:32 PM; Representative Tur sought clarification on whether the bill establishes a new type of trust or modifies existing ones. Representative McGuire explained that it introduces a new type of trust, akin to those in five other states, and while it's an either-or situation with existing trusts, it could be beneficial for new estate plans.
HB88: Representative B Information Only03:30:07.880 - 12:29:33 PM; Representative B asked Representative McGuire about the experiences of other states with similar trusts, focusing on any positive or negative outcomes. McGuire noted that the tax advantage is the primary benefit and he hadn't observed any significant negatives, given the trusts' relative newness.
HB88: Ryan Hail, Vice President of Government Relations for the New Hampshire Bankers Association Information Only03:32:55.479 - 12:32:21 PM; Ryan Hail introduced himself and Rob Deedle, the general counsel, indicating their availability to answer questions regarding an amendment proposed by Representative McGuire. They confirmed that the amendment ensures that banks and other creditors are not harmed by the establishment of community property trusts, addressing concerns about mortgage and property tax liens.
HB88: Rob Deedle, General Counsel from the Gallagher Calihan Garel Law Firm, Concord, NH Information Only03:33:44.720 - 12:33:10 PM; Rob Deedle elaborated on the amendment's impact, confirming that it protects the interests of banks and other lien holders, including municipal tax liens. He also clarified language concerning obligations incurred before or during marriage to cover scenarios of unmarried couples later marrying.
HB88: Unnamed Attorney Information Only03:36:24.760 - 12:35:50 PM; The attorney responded to a question about the impact of the bill on existing trusts, stating that existing trusts would not be automatically transformed into community property trusts. They would need specific amendments to be treated as such, and there would be no affirmative harm, just a lack of benefit if not amended.
HB98: Eric Tur, Representative from Brentwood Support03:38:48.359 - 12:38:14 PM; Representative Eric Tur from Brentwood introduced House Bill 98, noting that it is similar to House Bill 1082 from the previous session. He explained that the bill was originally proposed due to a constituent's request and aims to address issues related to professional limited liability corporations (PLLCs), particularly in solo practices. He discussed the bill's journey in the previous session, where it faced some opposition but passed the House. The bill then went to the other body, where it was sent to interim study due to concerns from the bar association. Tur emphasized that the bill modifies RSA 304-D:12 to allow for the appointment of an assistant manager in solo PLLCs who is not required to be a licensed professional. This amendment would help prevent the dissolution of the corporation if the sole professional becomes unavailable, allowing for a more orderly transition or continuation of the business. The amendment clarifies that the assistant manager cannot perform professional duties and is limited to a one-year term.
HB98: Roger Gown, representing his wife, Dr. Jody Kaufman, a retired veterinarian Support03:47:16.319 - 12:46:42 PM; Roger Gown spoke in support of HB 98, explaining its relevance to small professional practices, specifically mentioning his wife's veterinary practice. He highlighted the challenges of succession planning in single-member PLLCs, where the absence of an assistant manager can lead to significant delays and loss of business value upon the owner's death. Gown noted that current law requires the assistant manager to be licensed in the same profession, which posed a personal challenge for him as he managed the finances but was not a veterinarian. HB 98 would allow a non-licensed professional to serve as an assistant manager in such cases, with limitations on their role and duration, thereby preserving the business's value and facilitating smoother transitions.
HB111: Representative Lynn Support03:59:39.000 - 12:59:05 PM; Representative Lynn introduced HB 111, which aims to extend the life of the Right to Know Ombudsman for another two years, as it is set to expire on June 30th of the current year. He mentioned being unaware of the expiration until informed by the Ombudsman and believed the extension would be non-controversial. However, he acknowledged hearing concerns about the Ombudsman's role and suggested that the committee should consider these views. Lynn also noted that eliminating the Ombudsman might require changes to other related laws, including recent legislation about costs associated with excessive email requests. He emphasized the importance of gathering more input before making a decision on the bill.
HB111: Representative Bergeron Information Only04:10:05.880 - 1:09:31 PM; Representative Bergeron inquired about the current situation with the Ombudsman's office, specifically asking if the position would be overwhelming and whether additional staff might be necessary. The response indicated that the Ombudsman is busy and handles all tasks himself, suggesting that additional resources might be needed if the position is extended.
HB111: Representative Strip Information Only04:12:53.680 - 1:12:19 PM; Representative Strip asked if the Ombudsman would be testifying and if someone from his office would be present. It was confirmed that the Ombudsman was expected to testify and would be able to provide detailed information about his office.
HB111: Representative Bron Information Only04:13:47.159 - 1:13:13 PM; Representative Bron questioned whether the Ombudsman's office, as an alternative to the superior court, was a better option for constituents. The response highlighted that while the court has more resources, the Ombudsman's office does divert some cases from the court system.
HB111: Representative Kab Information Only04:15:48.760 - 1:15:14 PM; Representative Kab asked if not passing the bill would make enforcing right to know cases cost-prohibitive due to higher court filing fees. It was acknowledged that the cost difference could be an issue for some parties.
HB111: Thomas Kerr, Right to Know Ombudsman Support04:16:59.840 - 1:16:25 PM; Thomas Kerr, the Right to Know Ombudsman, provided an overview of his office, which was established in 2022 and staffed by him alone. He supports HB 111 to extend the office for two more years, as it takes time for an agency to establish itself. He detailed the office's workload, including 277 inquiries and 77 filed cases, and explained the process from filing to resolution. Kerr emphasized the need for the office to continue as an alternative to the more costly and formal superior court system.
HB111: Robert Beville, Marlow, New Hampshire Support04:40:57.520 - 1:40:23 PM; Robert Beville, a resident of Marlow, New Hampshire, supported HB 111 but suggested the Ombudsman's office needs more resources, including staff and a better office location. He highlighted the Ombudsman's authority and effectiveness despite limited resources and called for a citizen-friendly forum to access public records without fear of retaliation.
HB111: Katherine Coko, Right to Know New Hampshire Support04:46:00.440 - 1:45:26 PM; Katherine Coko, representing Right to Know New Hampshire, strongly supported HB 111, emphasizing the Ombudsman's role as an alternative to the costly superior court. She shared personal experience with the Ombudsman's office, highlighting its effectiveness and need for more resources, including administrative support and a user's guide.
HB111: Joe Haas, Gilmanton Support04:54:57.160 - 1:54:23 PM; Joe Haas from Gilmanton supported the Ombudsman's office, sharing his experience with a right to know case and suggesting that the office could impose fines on non-compliant entities and offer a finder's fee to complainants to offset their expenses.
HB111: Lori Ortolano, Right to Know New Hampshire Support04:57:48.240 - 1:57:14 PM; Lori Ortolano, representing Right to Know New Hampshire, supported HB 111, sharing her positive experience with the BTLA and the need for the Ombudsman's office to continue. She emphasized the lower cost and user-friendliness of the Ombudsman's office compared to the court system and suggested metrics for evaluating the office's performance, such as the reduction in legal representation needed by municipalities and citizens.
HB111: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:04:42.638 - 2:04:08 PM; The speaker emphasized the importance of monitoring government efficiency. They expressed agreement with the view that the current system lacks safeguards to protect individuals from retaliatory actions by municipalities or agencies. They noted that the administrative rules did not foresee such issues and suggested the need for additional safeguards, although they were unable to specify these at the time.
HB111: Aon Crean, General Counsel for the Court System Information Only05:06:39.680 - 2:06:05 PM; Aon Crean provided data indicating a significant decline in Right to Know filings in the Superior Court System since the implementation of HB111. They noted a drop from approximately 40-45 cases annually to fewer than 10 cases in the last year. Crean suggested that the decline might be due to more people choosing the Ombudsman process over court proceedings.
HR6: Representative Perez Support05:08:31.798 - 2:07:57 PM; Representative Perez briefly introduced HR6, which condemns the judicial doctrine of disparate impact. They referenced a letter from Representative Belcher about a law enforcement case involving discrimination based on the inability of applicants of color to fill out forms due to their lack of education. Perez also mentioned past cases involving firefighters and women, suggesting that standards were lowered due to claims of discrimination. They noted the resolution's intent to address unintentional discriminatory practices and mentioned upcoming executive sessions to discuss further.
HR6: Max Gard Oppose05:14:46.600 - 2:14:12 PM; Max Gard opposed HR6, arguing that disparate impact is a recognized judicial doctrine dating back to the Civil Rights Act and upheld by recent Supreme Court decisions. He questioned the legality and purpose of the state attempting to overturn national judicial doctrines. Gard criticized the bill's wording, particularly its dismissal of univariate analysis as unscientific, and defended the concept of causality in understanding discrimination. He expressed concerns about the resolution's potential to undermine efforts to address discrimination.
Unclear: Committee Chair Information Only05:19:26.600 - 2:18:52 PM; The Committee Chair announced a change in the hearing schedule, adding a hearing on HB476, referred to as a 15-week abortion bill, set for Monday, January 27th at 9:30 AM, likely in Rep's Hall. They mentioned that the bill would be executed on the same day and requested members to arrange substitutes if unable to attend.

Lynn, Bob(Chairman)(R)[A]2024	Peternel, Katy(Clerk)(R)[A]2024	Mannion, Dennis(V Chairman)(R)[A-]2024
Smith, Marjorie(D)[CT]2024	Bergeron, Dan(D)	Horrigan, Timothy(D)[CT]2024
Berch, Paul(D)[INC]2022	Turer, Eric(D)[CT]2024	Tripp, Richard(R)[B+]2024
Andrus, Louise(R)[B+]2024	Manos, Zoe(D)[CT]2024	Perez, Kristine(R)[A]2024
Kuttab, Katelyn(R)[A-]2024	Alexander, Joe(R)[A]2024	McFarlane, Donald(R)
Rombeau, Catherine(D)[CT]2024	Paige, Mark(D)[CT]2024	Morton, Jonathan(R)