Committee Summary for House Judiciary (02/20/2026)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB1217 00:00:20.651 - 9:00:01 AM	Public Hearing	permitting classification of individuals based on biological sex under certain limited circumstances.	Peternel, Katy(R)[A]2025
HB1299 00:51:20.651 - 9:51:01 AM	Public Hearing	permitting classification of individuals based on biological sex under certain limited circumstances and establishing that certain biological sex distinctions do not qualify as discrimination.	Kofalt, Jim(R)[A+]2025
HB1299 00:51:20.651 - 9:51:01 AM	Public Hearing	permitting classification of individuals based on biological sex under certain limited circumstances and establishing that certain biological sex distinctions do not qualify as discrimination.	Kofalt, Jim(R)[A+]2025
HB1442 01:30:20.651 - 10:30:01 AM	Public Hearing	limiting the use of certain facilities on the basis of sex and redefining the term "gender identity."	Layon, Erica(R)[A+]2025
HB1447 02:50:00.000 - 11:49:41 AM	Public Hearing	restricting the use of certain public and private facilities on the basis of sex and establishing that such restriction does not qualify as discrimination.	Mazur, Lisa(R)[A]2025
HB1299 2026-0854h 03:45:00.000 - 12:44:41 PM	Executive Session	permitting classification of individuals based on biological sex under certain limited circumstances and establishing that certain biological sex distinctions do not qualify as discrimination.	Kofalt, Jim(R)[A+]2025
HB1447 04:10:00.000 - 1:09:41 PM	Executive Session	restricting the use of certain public and private facilities on the basis of sex and establishing that such restriction does not qualify as discrimination.	Mazur, Lisa(R)[A]2025
HB1217 04:20:00.000 - 1:19:41 PM	Executive Session	permitting classification of individuals based on biological sex under certain limited circumstances.	Peternel, Katy(R)[A]2025
HB1442 04:22:00.000 - 1:21:41 PM	Executive Session	limiting the use of certain facilities on the basis of sex and redefining the term "gender identity."	Layon, Erica(R)[A+]2025
HB1564 04:24:54.171 - 1:24:35 PM	Public Hearing	removing all references of gender identity in New Hampshire statutes.	King, Seth(R)[B+]2025
HB1564 04:54:54.171 - 1:54:35 PM	Public Hearing	removing all references of gender identity in New Hampshire statutes.	King, Seth(R)[B+]2025
HB2026 2026-0860H 05:36:54.000 - 2:36:35 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the state 10-year transportation improvement plan.	Milz, David(R)[B]2025
HB1389 2024-0855h 05:55:00.000 - 2:54:41 PM	Public Hearing	relative to PFAS facility liability.	Murphy, Nancy(D)[CT]2025
HB1422 06:00:00.000 - 2:59:41 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the time to petition for a new trial.	Mannion, Tom(R)[A+]2025

HB1217: Representative Katie Peternell Support00:00:20.651 - 9:00:01 AM; Representative Peternell introduced House Bill 1217, which permits classification based on biological sex in limited circumstances such as lavatory facilities, locker rooms, and athletic events. She explained that the bill is part of a series of six pieces of legislation aimed at affirming that men are men and women are women, ensuring safety and privacy for women in certain spaces. It differs from similar bills by excluding prisons.
HB1217: Representative Alice Wade, Stratford 15 and Dover Ward 2 Oppose00:02:20.651 - 9:02:01 AM; Representative Wade opposed the bill, noting it is one of several attacking transgender people. She argued that transgender issues ranked last in voter concerns from 2024 election polls, behind economy, housing, and healthcare. She highlighted the bill's unenforceability, stating that accusing someone of being transgender without proof is impossible and could lead to cisgender people being wrongly accused, as seen in other states like Arizona and Florida.
HB1217: Claudia Stewart, Independent Women's Network Southern New Hampshire chapter Support00:04:20.651 - 9:04:01 AM; Claudia Stewart supported HB 1217 and similar bills (HB 1299, 1442, 1447, 1564), urging the committee to pass them to protect women's privacy and safety in restrooms, lockers, and single-sex spaces. She emphasized that the legislation preserves traditional private spaces for women and girls, respects biological differences, and sets clear rules without controversy, defending women's rights that have always existed.
HB1217: Bronwyn Sims, Independent Women's Network Southern New Hampshire chapter Support00:06:20.651 - 9:06:01 AM; Bronwyn Sims supported the bills, sharing personal experiences as a survivor of male violence, including being held up at gunpoint, mugged multiple times, and trapped by a man identifying as transgender at the Keene YMCA. She argued that the bills provide common-sense protections for women and girls in intimate spaces like restrooms, locker rooms, prisons, and sports, preserving privacy and safety while respecting all residents' rights.
HB1217: Pam Sinnott, Concord resident Oppose00:08:20.651 - 9:08:01 AM; Pam Sinnott opposed HB 1217, arguing it fails to address transgender women who have undergone gender reassignment surgery and are no longer anatomically male. She gave examples of two trans women, Jessica and Sue, who have had surgeries and would not use men's bathrooms. She noted the bill's practical issues, as women like Sue could pass as cisgender, leading to enforcement challenges.
HB1217: Unnamed speaker on sports (possibly continuation or next witness) Oppose00:15:20.651 - 9:15:01 AM; The speaker addressed competition fairness in sports, stating that after a year on hormone replacement therapy, transgender individuals have no competitive advantage. They responded to questions comparing the bill to historical segregation in baseball, arguing that excluding transgender youth from sports ignores the purpose of youth sports, which is teamwork and enjoyment, and that puberty blockers eliminate any physical advantages.
HB1217: Cameron Munns, New Hampshire resident Oppose00:17:20.651 - 9:17:01 AM; Cameron Munns, a transgender person, strongly opposed the bill, criticizing the obsession with transgender issues and multiple similar bills. They highlighted enforceability issues, questioning which bathroom to use given their anatomy and appearance, and argued that it encourages judgment based on stereotypes, violates privacy, and casts the trans community as guilty. Existing laws already protect privacy without needing this legislation.
HB1217: Kelly Twist, Kingston resident Oppose00:19:20.651 - 9:19:01 AM; Kelly Twist opposed HB 1217, noting it is one of five similar bills addressing a non-problem repeatedly vetoed. She argued there is no evidence of incidents in bathrooms justifying the bill, and it risks implying transgender people are risks. Enforcement is impractical, with no guidelines for businesses, potential discrimination from signage, and safety concerns from vigilante enforcement.
HB1217: Pasha Roberts, Wilmot resident, 603 Equality board Oppose00:21:20.651 - 9:21:01 AM; Pasha Roberts, an intersex person, opposed the bill for lacking a clear definition of biological sex and causing pain to transgender and intersex individuals. They noted the governor's three vetoes due to unenforceability, predicting harassment, lawsuits, and invasive inspections. They cited incidents like the Liberty Hotel case and argued it invites chaos, affecting even non-trans women.
HB1217: Jennifer Smith, retired family physician, transgender Oppose00:23:20.651 - 9:23:01 AM; Jennifer Smith, a transgender retired physician, called the bill ridiculous and prejudicial. She questioned how she would know if a restaurant enforced it and lacked private options. She argued it stems from ancient prejudice against transgender people and fails to address real issues.
HB1217: Amy Taravakia (inferred) Oppose00:30:20.651 - 9:30:01 AM; The speaker opposed the bill, emphasizing enforcement creates privacy and safety concerns for all. They noted it invites costly lawsuits, as in the recent Liberty Hotel case, and anti-LGBTQ legislation harms the economy by decreasing tourism and affecting workforce retention, issues New Hampshire is already facing.
HB1217: Ty Thompson, Nottingham resident, transgender non-binary Oppose00:32:20.651 - 9:32:01 AM; Ty Thompson opposed the legislation as part of an assault on trans and gender-divergent people, erasing their access to everyday spaces like restrooms. They argued it solves no proven safety threat, threatens trans safety and dignity, especially youth, and follows a national political strategy scapegoating minorities, as seen in election spending and historical authoritarian tactics.
HB1217: Simon Amaya Price Support00:34:20.651 - 9:34:01 AM; Simon Amaya Price shared his experience of identifying as trans at 14 but detransitioning, arguing affirmation does not prevent regret. He relayed a conversation with a sexual assault survivor afraid to use bathrooms due to lack of protections. He claimed men commit assaults at higher rates, cited disproportionate sex crimes by transgender-identified men in prisons, and urged protecting women's spaces and sports.
HB1217: Claire Abernathy, 21-year-old detransitioner, IWF ambassador Support00:36:20.651 - 9:36:01 AM; Claire Abernathy supported HB 1217, sharing her experience of transitioning in eighth grade with testosterone and mastectomy, but still being perceived as female in boys' spaces, leading to assaults in restrooms and locker rooms. She argued sex differences in strength and aggression persist despite hormones, and protections are needed to prevent harm to girls.
HB1217: Representative Seth King Support00:45:20.651 - 9:45:01 AM; Representative Seth King supported the bill, discussing ID reliability muddled by recent changes and the need to address it. He advocated for freedom of association, allowing private businesses like hotels to exclude anyone, opposing anti-discrimination laws even for groups like Jews or people of color.
HB1217: Diana George, Hancock resident Oppose00:47:20.651 - 9:47:01 AM; Diana George, mother of a transgender son and nurse at women's prison, opposed the bill as ridiculous and repetitive since 2018 anti-discrimination laws. She noted most pedophiles and sex offenders are cisgender, and existing laws handle assaults; targeting transgender people, a small group, is torturous and unnecessary.
HB1217: Chris Urchal, attorney, GLBTQ Legal Advocates and Defenders Information Only00:49:20.651 - 9:49:01 AM; Chris Urchal provided information on excluding transgender people from sports, noting the existing ban was enjoined by federal court and is litigated. He argued new legislation is senseless amid ongoing lawsuit, as it raises constitutional issues and harms no one to allow trans participation, emphasizing opportunities for women and girls in athletics.
HB1299: Representative Jim Cofall, Hillsborough District 32 (Wilton, Temple, New Ipswich) Support00:51:20.651 - 9:51:01 AM; Representative Cofall introduced HB 1299 off the cuff, denying it is anti-trans and supporting anti-discrimination laws. He explained the bill permits public and private entities to establish policies distinguishing spaces by sex, without mandating usage. He cited the success of women-only gyms like Curves for psychological safety and argued it provides flexibility against predators exploiting gender identity claims, covering gaps for gender fluid or non-binary individuals.
HB1299: Representative [Sponsor, name not fully specified in snippet] Support00:51:20.651 - 9:51:01 AM; The sponsor responds to questions during Q&A, clarifying that the bill provides a definition of biological sex based on birth certificate at or near birth, allowing flexibility for school districts and private entities without requiring genital inspections. Emphasizes local policy enforcement and addresses concerns about intersex individuals and birth certificate changes.
HB1299: Representative Alice Wade, Dover Ward 2 Oppose01:00:20.651 - 10:00:01 AM; Representative Wade opposes the bill, arguing it lacks enforcement mechanisms leading to wrongful accusations and police involvement. States it criminalizes normal bathroom use for trans people without preventing actual crimes like harassment, and discriminates by dehumanizing trans individuals.
HB1299: Dr. [Unnamed, former pediatrician/family practitioner] Oppose01:15:20.651 - 10:15:01 AM; The speaker, a former pediatrician, shares experiences assigning sex at birth and notes it may not fit the individual. Discusses personal friend Pasha's comfort in men's room and safety concerns. Criticizes multi-user facilities enforcement and athletic competitions for trans girls, highlighting disadvantages due to testosterone levels.
HB1299: Simon Meyer-Price Support01:15:20.651 - 10:15:01 AM; Meyer-Price supports the bill, asserting humans can differentiate sexes visually without inspections. References recent shootings by trans-identified men and personal death threats. Discusses overlaps between trans-identified men, incels, and misogyny, and 'transmaxing' for access to women. Notes current bathroom honor system lacks verification.
HB1299: David Trumbull, Ware Oppose01:15:20.651 - 10:15:01 AM; Trumbull opposes, arguing the bill permits government-sanctioned discrimination. Focuses on mental health and prisons: in mental health, it would force trans women into male wards harming treatment; in prisons, trans people face high assault risks, leading to double punishment via rape and solitary confinement.
HB1299: Ty Thompson, Nottingham, New Hampshire Oppose01:15:20.651 - 10:15:01 AM; Thompson opposes, stating the bill deputizes the public to police gender based on appearance, enforcing archaic norms. Shares personal discomfort in restrooms due to perceived threats online. Suggests structural changes like single-occupancy or gender-neutral bathrooms for privacy and safety without policing bodies.
HB1299: Pasha Roberts, Wilmette, New Hampshire, board of 603 Equality Oppose01:30:20.651 - 10:30:01 AM; Roberts opposes HB1299, noting the governor vetoed similar bills. Argues biological sex isn't clearly defined biologically without methods for determination, leading to invasive checks. Cites Utah case of punitive inspection. Calls for small government against 'gender police' and urges ITL to avoid veto.
HB1299: Chris Erkel, attorney with GLBTQ Legal Advocates and Defenders Oppose01:30:20.651 - 10:30:01 AM; Erkel highlights conflict with federal Title VII, which prohibits trans discrimination in employment per Bostock ruling. NH's carve-out creates state-federal law conflict, complicating enforcement by NH Commission for Human Rights.
HB1299: Kelly Twist Oppose01:30:20.651 - 10:30:01 AM; Twist opposes, noting birth certificates aren't carried daily and bill lacks enforcement standards, leading to appearance-based judgments and surveillance. Risks privacy invasions, inconsistent treatment, and legal challenges; extends to correctional facilities without addressing federal protections.
HB1299: Diana George, nurse at Department of Corrections Oppose01:30:20.651 - 10:30:01 AM; George shares experience: DOC has policies housing trans inmates appropriately (e.g., female-to-male with women) with no issues among cisgender inmates. Uses private stalls; disciplinary issues handled per policy without problems.
HB1442: Representative Erica Layot, Derry, Rockingham 13 Support01:30:20.651 - 10:30:01 AM; Layot, sponsor, explains definitions recognizing biological sex via SRY gene and differences of sexual development, clarifying statutory gender terms to prevent men accessing women-only services. Addresses improper gender identity assertions, indecent exposure in sex-separated spaces, and need for enforcement against bad actors while protecting trans people.
HB1442: Representative Alice Wade, Dover Ward 2 Oppose01:45:20.651 - 10:45:01 AM; Wade opposes, stating it would criminalize normal restroom use as trespass, even without harm. Argues harassment and assault are already crimes; bill mandates trespass in all facilities, targeting trans people baselessly amid numerous similar bills nationwide.
HB1442: Claire Abernathy, detransitioner Support01:45:20.651 - 10:45:01 AM; Abernathy supports, sharing trauma from lack of single-sex spaces in schools leading to assault. States bill could protect girls and trans-identified girls from males in intimate spaces. Cites Pew poll showing majority American support.
HB1442: Anne Zumwalt, associate professor at Boston University School of Medicine Oppose01:45:20.651 - 10:45:01 AM; Zumwalt opposes, using example of Callie with androgen insensitivity syndrome (XY but female appearance) who would be classified male under bill, facing penalties. Argues sex can't be binary; variations at anatomical, genetic, hormonal levels leave people out; no single factor categorizes into two sexes.
HB1442: Representative Alessandra Murray, Hillsborough District 20, Manchester Ward 9 Oppose02:00:20.651 - 11:00:01 AM; Murray opposes, noting bills foster vitriol toward trans community without data on need; paints trans people as dangerous despite higher victimization rates (4x cisgender, especially trans women of color). Creates suspicion and hostility.
HB1442: Medical Advocate (Unnamed) Oppose02:15:20.651 - 11:15:01 AM; The speaker discusses intersex conditions, explaining that a woman can have XY chromosomes and an SRY gene, arguing the bill's definition would force such individuals into men's rooms. They note the Olympics discontinued SRY testing in 2000 due to false readings and that the discoverer advised against its use for sex categorization. They highlight that many men lose Y chromosomes with age, potentially allowing older men into women's rooms under the bill. They cite medical articles and urge marking the bill inexpedient to legislate, offering a medical professor for questions.
HB1442: Chris Urcell, GLBTQ Legal Advocates and Defenders Oppose02:20:00.000 - 11:19:41 AM; Urcell opposes the bill, appreciating the sponsor's willingness to remove criminalization but urging the committee to do so as it targets transgender people cruelly. They reference Rep. Murray's testimony on harms to transgender individuals from exclusion. They address sexual assault concerns, citing research showing no increase in incidents with transgender protections in bathrooms. In response to Rep. Burch, Urcell explains probable cause as a high standard for police actions, not mentioned in the bill, requiring articulable observations of crime.
HB1442: David Trumbull, Warner Oppose02:25:00.000 - 11:24:41 AM; Trumbull from Warner opposes the bill, arguing it imposes a binary definition of biological sex that ignores the reality of intersex conditions as a continuum with 40 variations. He criticizes the bill for superficially addressing intersex and urges committee members to research it thoroughly. He notes UN resolutions on intersex rights and that such bills enable harmful practices. He argues the bill fails to protect transgender rights and erodes civil rights for intersex and transgender people.
HB1442: Cameron Moons, Manchester Oppose02:27:00.000 - 11:26:41 AM; Moons from Manchester questions why anyone's chromosomes or birth certificate should be privileged for bathroom access, criticizing stereotypes. They argue the bills stem from discomfort with transgender people, not safety, and suggest addressing actual perpetrators regardless of group. They note the sponsor's admission that most transgender people are not perpetrators but some are, comparing to other groups like Catholic priests.
HB1442: Kelly Twist Oppose02:30:20.651 - 11:30:01 AM; Twist opposes the bill, noting it redefines sex statewide, mandates sex-based separations in public entities including dorms, and shields from discrimination claims, shifting civil rights. They argue it violates equal protection without justifying a problem in NH, lacking tailoring. They criticize the circular enforcement via birth certificates or chromosomes, predicting unenforceability, veto, and court challenges, accusing intent to exclude transgender people.
HB1442: Reed Pescapo Oppose02:33:00.000 - 11:32:41 AM; Pescapo, formerly from NH now in MA, opposes as it would make him uncomfortable visiting family, forcing him into women's restrooms as a cisgender man, leading to accusations. He argues it deters visitors, impacting tourism and finances, requiring costly gender-neutral spaces or genetic testing not covered by insurance. He invokes NH's 'Live Free or Die' motto against such restrictions.
HB1442: Sarah Smith Oppose02:36:00.000 - 11:35:41 AM; Smith, a cisgender woman, questions enforcement like checks or appearance-based judgments, citing instances of cis women being examined. She urges welcoming everyone, warning the bill signals discrimination, deterring tourism like skiing, and leads to judging all based on appearance, ironic for a freedom-proud legislature.
HB1442: Jamie Grasso, Provincetown MA Oppose02:39:00.000 - 11:38:41 AM; Grasso, a trans US Marine veteran from Provincetown MA, opposes all anti-trans bills, stating they endanger lives and restrict travel to states like FL and TX. As biologically female, the bill would force women's room use, risking jail. With architecture background from UNH, they left NH due to hate crimes, spending education and business money in MA, highlighting financial impacts.
HB1442: Ty Thompson, Nottingham Oppose02:45:20.651 - 11:45:01 AM; Thompson from Nottingham reads testimony from Dr. Susan Stred, pediatric endocrinologist, explaining complex sex determination involving 80+ genes, not just SRY on Y chromosome. No single factor categorizes sex; simplistic views are dangerous for legislation. Questions if women must carry birth certificates, emphasizing biology shouldn't determine gender access.
HB1442: Andrea Lucas Oppose02:48:00.000 - 11:47:41 AM; Lucas, a 40-year NH native, sarcastically notes no news of bathroom depravity, questioning safety focus without bills for assault penalties, rape kits, or survivor services. Argues true safety targets behavior by anyone, not <1% transgender population; hyperfocus diverts from real insidious perpetrators like community leaders.
HB1447: Representative Lisa Mazur, Hillsborough District 44, Goffstown and Warner Support02:50:00.000 - 11:49:41 AM; Mazur, sponsor from Goffstown and Warner, supports the bill for clarity and safety in private spaces like bathrooms, citing panicked parents about biological boys in girls' restrooms. She shares personal discomfort hearing a man's voice in the state house ladies' room. The bill defines sex in RSA 21:3, allows policies by biological sex without discrimination claims, with exemptions for emergencies. It mandates public entities and permits private ones, balancing rights and privacy, reflecting majority NH views. In response to questions, clarifies it adds biological sex definition to gender-neutral RSA 21:3, similar to prior bills.
HB1447: Claire Abernathy Support03:00:20.651 - 12:00:01 PM; Abernathy supports, defining female as biology organized around ova/gestation, male around sperm, applicable to disorders of sexual development (DSD) via Müllerian/Wolffian pathways. No human has both functional ovaries and testes. Argues desexing DSD leads to medical abuse; shares message from intersex person with androgen insensitivity syndrome feeling fetishized by trans arguments, viewing gender dysphoria as mental illness.
HB1447: Amy Taravikia, 603 Equality Oppose03:03:00.000 - 12:02:41 PM; Taravikia from 603 Equality opposes, urging listening to prior testimonies from scientists, intersex, trans, and cis people on biology, lived experiences, and risks. The bill increases privacy/safety risks in restrooms and spaces despite enforcement attempts.
HB1447: Simon Amaya Price Support03:06:00.000 - 12:05:41 PM; Price, formerly trans-identified, calls this the best spaces bill, arguing trans is a delusion; sex recognition is 99% accurate visually. Notes majority American/Democrat support. Opposes infringing women's rights for delusions, citing Geneva Convention provisions for separate women POW spaces. In response, says Convention didn't define as unnecessary until recently.
HB1447: Jennifer Smith Oppose03:09:00.000 - 12:08:41 PM; Smith, a transgender woman and monogamous Christian lesbian, opposes, rejecting delusion/illness labels. Notes historical recognition of sexual development variations like eunuchs in Matthew 19:11-12, not disorders. Seeks recognition to continue life, like playing on women's tennis team.
HB1447: Beth Scare, Nashua Support03:12:00.000 - 12:11:41 PM; Scare from Nashua questions forcing businesses/organizations to allow self-ID access to women's spaces/sports, violating liberty/religious beliefs. Cites examples like ex-Rep. Stacy Lawton, recent shootings by trans-identified men. Describes man watching women/girls in YWCA locker room, ignoring family option; opposes housing criminal men with women in prisons.
HB1447: Representative Alessandra Murray, Hillsborough District 20, Manchester Ward 9 Oppose03:15:20.651 - 12:15:01 PM; Murray opposes HB1447, arguing it premises transgender presence in restrooms as suspect without evidence, constituting discrimination and unconstitutional under equal protection. (Testimony cuts off, but continues opposition theme.)
HB1447: Ty Thompson, Nottingham Oppose03:15:20.651 - 12:15:01 PM; Thompson from Nottingham opposes as redundant legislation othering trans/non-binary people nationally/statewide. Argues for real safety solutions like assault prevention, not targeting 1%. Suggests structural strategies like all-gender bathrooms. Notes trans existence across millennia. In response to Rep. Alexander, says yes, more comfortable if passed? Wait, no: 'Would you feel more comfortable if this bill was passed?' 'Yes, I would.' Wait, but context is oppose, perhaps misphrased; overall opposes.
HB1447: Nancy Brennan, Warner Oppose03:18:00.000 - 12:17:41 PM; Brennan from Warner opposes, noting sign-ins show opposition majority (639 no, 20 yes). Calls for education on trans reality per medical associations, distinguishing sex/gender. Shares pictures of misgenderable people, including cis, trans, and sponsor misgendering a man, showing enforcement issues.
HB1447: David Trumbull, Warner Oppose03:21:00.000 - 12:20:41 PM; Trumbull from Warner opposes, reiterating binary sex definition mismatches science/reality continuum. All bills share enforcement issues without real definition. Takes constitutional rights without narrow tailoring; suggests all-gender bathrooms as less restrictive. Urges respectful language for trans people.
HB1447: Sarah Smith, Pembroke Oppose03:24:00.000 - 12:23:41 PM; Smith from Pembroke opposes, calling laws futile attempts to legislate trans out of existence. Existing assault/harassment laws suffice for safety; discomfort isn't illegal. People don't fit boxes, laws won't work, will be overturned; trans exist without bothering others.
HB1447: Sam Hawkins, NAMI New Hampshire Oppose03:27:00.000 - 12:26:41 PM; Hawkins from NAMI NH opposes HB1447 and similar bills for promoting discrimination harming mental health, especially trans/non-binary with higher anxiety/depression/suicidality due to discrimination. Cites 89% LGBTQ+ youth reporting politics' negative impact. Urges inexpedient to legislate for all Granite Staters' healthy lives.
HB1447: Joseph Barton Information Only03:30:00.000 - 12:29:41 PM; Barton begins testimony questioning why male/female bathrooms exist initially, noting divisions. (Testimony cuts off.)
HB1447: Cameron Munns, New Hampshire resident Oppose03:30:20.651 - 12:30:01 PM; Cameron Munns criticizes the Republican obsession with transgender issues, noting multiple similar bills. He shares that as a trans person with a supportive community, he thinks about transgender topics less than legislators do. He highlights public opposition to similar past bills like HB 148 and SB 268, with thousands opposing online. He offers support to trans individuals needing a safe bathroom companion.
HB1447: Jamie Grasso, Provincetown, Massachusetts resident, veteran and pre-licensed architect Oppose03:35:00.000 - 12:34:41 PM; Jamie Grasso, a Marine Corps veteran and architect, references the Geneva Conventions and UN Conventions that protect LGBTQ people with higher civil rights standards than the US, urging familiarity with them. He debunks the idea of a 'radical liberal plumbing union,' noting plumbing unions are conservative and have contributed to the International Building Code (IBC 2023), which addresses bathroom safety. The code shows data that attacks decrease when diverse people share spaces, as behavior improves.
HB1447: Kelly Twist, New Hampshire resident Oppose03:40:00.000 - 12:39:41 PM; Kelly Twist opposes HB 1447 and similar bills, calling them solutions to non-existent problems, unenforceable, harmful, and vetoed repeatedly. They lack compelling state interests and ignore constituents' priorities. The bills rely on flawed logic around birth certificates and chromosomes, leading to discrimination. She views them as bad faith efforts to demoralize and drive out trans people and supporters, which won't succeed.
HB1299 2026-0854h: Representative Qutob Support03:45:00.000 - 12:44:41 PM; Representative Qutob moves amendment 2026-0854h, which incorporates definitions from prior bills HB 396 and 148, allowing biological sex classifications in locker rooms, athletic events, and correctional facilities. It adds a provision requiring at least one single-occupancy bathroom in buildings implementing lab/locker provisions to address governor's veto concerns on enforceability and compromise.
HB1299 2026-0854h: Unnamed Representative (debating implications) Oppose03:45:20.651 - 12:45:01 PM; The representative argues against claims that sex can't be determined, stating it implies no sex-segregated facilities at all, which is impractical. They share personal anecdotes of using opposite-sex restrooms due to lines and emphasize restrooms are for use, not assault. They criticize repeating hearings on similar bills and advocate for libertarian privacy over government intrusion.
HB1299 2026-0854h: Representative Mann Support03:50:00.000 - 12:49:41 PM; Representative Mann counters that not passing the bill protects 1% of the population (trans) at the expense of 50% (women), emphasizing protection for the majority.
HB1299 2026-0854h: Representative Turr Oppose03:52:00.000 - 12:51:41 PM; Representative Turr notes the amendment's single-occupancy bathroom doesn't address broader issues like locker rooms, prisons, or schools with multiple levels, failing to mitigate concerns.
HB1299 2026-0854h: Representative Baugh Support03:54:00.000 - 12:53:41 PM; Representative Baugh, a women's rights advocate, expresses discomfort with biological males in women's spaces, fearing exposure risks to granddaughters. She highlights the double standard of indecent exposure outside vs. inside bathrooms and calls for balancing safety for all.
HB1299 2026-0854h: Representative Alexander Support04:00:00.000 - 12:59:41 PM; On the main motion, Representative Alexander distinguishes LGB from TQ communities, rejecting association with extreme elements like fetishes on minors, and supports the bills fully.
HB1299 2026-0854h: Representative Chir Oppose04:00:20.651 - 1:00:01 PM; Representative Chir questions birth certificate definitions, noting legal revisions vs. original. They argue biological sex is clear except for rare cases and criticize removing simple definitions.
HB1299 2026-0854h: Representative Smith Oppose04:05:00.000 - 1:04:41 PM; After the OTPA vote passes on party lines, Representative Smith apologizes for assuming bipartisan study, surprised by the partisan decision despite controversy, hoping for veto.
HB1447: Representative Ball Support04:10:00.000 - 1:09:41 PM; Representative Ball moves Ought to Pass (OTP) on HB 1447, appreciating testimonies especially a young woman's story, and stresses finding ways to keep everyone safe.
HB1447: Representative Turr Oppose04:12:00.000 - 1:11:41 PM; Representative Turr opposes OTP, warning of town-by-town pandemonium as the bill mandates sex-specific policies without specifying them, leading to inconsistency. Notes flawed sex definitions (reproductive, birth certificate, Y chromosome).
HB1447: Representative Perez Support04:14:00.000 - 1:13:41 PM; Representative Perez repeats that equity for 100% isn't possible, but safety and comfort for the majority in sensitive areas is the responsibility.
HB1447: Representative McFarland Support04:16:00.000 - 1:15:41 PM; Representative McFarland supports OTP but notes the bill needs work to avoid impacting coed facilities like sleeping quarters; plans floor amendment 2026-0864h and asks majority report consider comments.
HB1447: Representative Kuchab Support04:18:00.000 - 1:17:41 PM; Representative Kuchab clarifies the bill requires policies based on sex but doesn't mandate specifics or ban coed facilities.
HB1447: Representative McFarland (follow-up) Support04:19:00.000 - 1:18:41 PM; Representative McFarland explains concern is forcing exclusive sex designations on current coed outdoor facilities in NH, needing amendment to preserve essence.
HB1217: Representative Rombau Information Only04:20:00.000 - 1:19:41 PM; Representative Rombau moves interim study on HB 1217.
HB1442: Representative Turr Information Only04:22:00.000 - 1:21:41 PM; Representative Turr moves interim study on HB 1442, noting testimony already in record.
HB1564: Representative King, Prime Sponsor Support04:24:54.171 - 1:24:35 PM; Representative King supports HB 1564, which removes 'gender identity' from dozens of RSAs added in 2018-2019, arguing it reverts to rationality by allowing institutions to regulate facilities freely without mandates. He calls it a 'fix-it' solution using a bazooka on radical transgender ideology, not half-measures, to prevent future issues for generations. Clarifies it's about ideology, not harming people, and affirms allowing discrimination via freedom of association.
HB1564: Representative Alice Wade, Dover Ward 2 Oppose04:39:54.171 - 1:39:35 PM; Representative Wade criticizes the bill for repealing anti-discrimination protections for transgender people, noting the sponsor's explicit desire for discrimination. She condemns defamatory claims linking trans people to fetishes and references the gay panic defense, emphasizing non-discrimination laws protect against historical assaults on LGBTQ communities in education, housing, employment, etc.
HB1564: Chris Erkel, Attorney with GLBTQ Legal Advocates and Defenders Oppose04:42:00.000 - 1:41:41 PM; Chris Erkel opposes HB 1564, recalling bipartisan passage of gender identity protections in 2018-2019 with no subsequent problems. He decries nationwide political attacks scapegoating trans people, who pose no threat and are vulnerable. Repealing protections allows denial of housing, etc., without basis.
HB1564: Claire Abernathy, Ambassador for Independent Women's Forum, Detransitioner Support04:45:00.000 - 1:44:41 PM; Claire Abernathy shares her detransition experience, assaulted due to school policy placing her in boys' facilities. She suffered irreversible physical harm from hormones and surgery, pain, and lost years affirmed in delusion over biology. Acknowledging sex differences isn't discrimination; urges eliminating the ideology from law.
HB1564: Nancy Brennan, New Hampshire resident Oppose04:48:00.000 - 1:47:41 PM; Nancy Brennan condemns 'transgenderism' as dehumanizing term from extremists. Calls the bill legalized discrimination, citing intent to drive trans people out, like Nazi tactics. Recalls pre-2018 stories of trans harassment, e.g., restaurant ejection. Urges opposition.
HB1564: Sarah Terrell, Plymouth resident, Mother Oppose04:51:00.000 - 1:50:41 PM; Sarah Terrell, mother of a 17-year-old trans daughter, opposes HB 1564 for stripping protections in employment, housing, public accommodations, creating gaps. Non-discrimination names groups due to history; removing gender identity excludes trans people. Her family contributes to NH; bill makes protections negotiable, concerning all. Urges ITL and offers to introduce her daughter.
HB1564: Eileen Sahagian, Durham resident, Retired Teacher Oppose04:54:00.000 - 1:53:41 PM; Eileen Sahagian, 45-year teacher nearing 70, urges examining motives for targeting trans people, questioning if they've caused harm. Shares knowing trans students' struggles, including a suicide. Calls legislation un-American and cruel; everyone deserves protections.
HB1564: Eric Cole Johnson, Newbury, NH, educator and parent Oppose04:54:54.171 - 1:54:35 PM; Eric Cole Johnson, an educator and parent of a transgender daughter, opposes HB1564 and urges the committee to vote inexpedient to legislate (ITL). He shares that his daughter, now out of high school, works as an EMT, responds to emergencies, and plans to attend fire academy. He emphasizes her contributions to the community regardless of identity and stresses the need for legal protections against discrimination in jobs, housing, and daily life. Removing gender identity protections would signal that transgender people do not matter, affecting families like his.
HB1564: Rosie Emick, Hooksett, NH, parent Oppose04:57:54.000 - 1:57:35 PM; Rosie Emick, a parent of a nine-year-old trans child, opposes HB1564. She recounts how her family considered leaving New Hampshire due to anti-trans legislation, causing anxiety for her children. She shares a poignant conversation with her daughter, who felt hated by strangers and feared family rejection. Emick notes the harmful messages sent by such bills, even without passage, and highlights that hurtful comments in the room impact her child indirectly.
HB1564: Lisa Boadwin, Executive Director, New Hampshire Council of Churches Oppose05:00:54.000 - 2:00:35 PM; Lisa Boadwin, representing the New Hampshire Council of Churches with seven denominations and 300 churches, urges ITL on HB1564. She argues the bill conflicts with the U.S. Supreme Court's Bostock v. Clayton County decision, which protects transgender people from sex discrimination under federal law, potentially leading to litigation and harm. From a Christian perspective, she cites Jesus' teachings on loving neighbors without exception and condemns laws that burden the marginalized.
HB1564: Scott Files, Somersworth, NH, transgender individual Oppose05:03:54.000 - 2:03:35 PM; Scott Files, a transgender man from Somersworth, opposes HB1564. He describes his normal life post-transition, which improved his family connections and well-being. He warns that such bills contribute to anti-transgender discrimination and stages of genocide, as identified by experts, including dehumanization and violence. He expresses fear for transgender lives and appreciates the committee's respect for personal testimonies.
HB1564: Steven Skarr, Nashua, NH Support05:06:54.000 - 2:06:35 PM; Steven Skarr from Nashua supports HB1564. He criticizes the circular definition of gender identity in law as based on stereotypes and imaginary concepts. He argues transgenderism acts as a state religion preying on vulnerable groups like effeminate boys and autistic individuals, violating First Amendment rights and privacy. He claims no discrimination occurs if access to facilities is based on biological sex and urges passing the bill to remove this 'cruel nonsense' from policy.
HB1564: Mary Wilkie, representing Kent Street Coalition and herself Oppose05:09:54.171 - 2:09:35 PM; Mary Wilkie testifies on behalf of Kent Street Coalition and herself in opposition to HB1564. She references historical persecution of marginalized groups and condemns the bill's repeal of anti-discrimination provisions and 'random acts of cruelty,' such as removing bullying protections based on gender identity. She argues passing the bill would jeopardize Granite Staters' health, safety, livelihoods, and lives, urging ITL.
HB1564: Reverend Linda Hurst, Transitional Associate Conference Minister, New Hampshire Conference, United Church of Christ Oppose05:12:54.000 - 2:12:35 PM; Reverend Linda Hurst, representing 130 churches in the New Hampshire Conference of the United Church of Christ, opposes HB1564 and shares a statement from Reverend Gordon Rankin. They affirm all people as created in God's image, regardless of gender identity, citing Galatians. The bill harms real people loved by God and neighbors, urging ITL as it contradicts theological imperatives of inclusion and divine reflection in diversity.
HB1564: Amy Teravakia, 603 Equality Oppose05:15:54.000 - 2:15:35 PM; Amy Teravakia from 603 Equality opposes HB1564, distributing written testimony. She reminds the committee that gender identity protections were enacted bipartisanship in 2018 and are popular. Removing them would reverse civil rights progress, harm all protected classes, and lead to economic costs from lawsuits and discrimination. She highlights benefits to all Granite Staters from maintaining these protections.
HB1564: Beth Skara, Nashua, NH Support05:18:54.000 - 2:18:35 PM; Beth Skara from Nashua supports HB1564, shocked by gender identity's embedding in 15 pages of law. She views it as labeling feminine men and masculine women for special rights, leading to body modification and access to women's spaces, destroying lives and families. She shares personal experience of family fracture due to a trans-identified niece's overdose death, urging ought to pass to restore sanity and protect vulnerable women and children.
HB1564: Pasha Roberts, Wilmot, NH, 603 Equality Oppose05:21:54.000 - 2:21:35 PM; Pasha Roberts from Wilmot, with 603 Equality, opposes HB1564. She notes gender diversity in history, like Sumerian records, and criticizes the bill's broad deletion of gender identity from 50 areas of law, akin to removing race protections. She shares a 1990s housing discrimination experience during AIDS panic, comparing it to current trans panic, which fosters bias and a meaner society, urging ITL.
HB1564: Alex Blake, Bow, NH Oppose05:24:54.171 - 2:24:35 PM; Alex Blake from Bow, a lifelong LGBTQ ally, opposes HB1564 to protect a young trans family member. Informed by scientific literature confirming youth gender certainty, he transitioned from passive to protective allyship. He condemns efforts to erase transgender people from statutes as promoting fear and exclusion, not special treatment but equal liberty and justice, urging focus on productive issues.
HB1564: Dork Sahigan, Durham, NH Oppose05:27:54.000 - 2:27:35 PM; Dork Sahigan from Durham opposes HB1564, emphasizing protection from discrimination. He describes transgender identity as a medical condition, not choice, causing internal conflict and suicides. He argues it's a matter for patients and doctors, not government, in the 'Live Free or Die' state. He warns of veto, lawsuits conflicting with federal law, and the bill's intent to discriminate and drive people out, urging ITL and name removal.
HB1564: Jennifer Smith Oppose05:30:54.000 - 2:30:35 PM; Jennifer Smith opposes HB1564, reflecting on culture wars and past immutable gender norms ignoring intersex people. She shares her mid-40s coming out as improving her happiness after struggles. She refutes criminality stereotypes, noting no interest in children, and explains PFLAG supported parents listening to trans children without leading them. She attributes increased visibility to cultural shifts allowing kids to speak.
HB1564: Rebecca Hoskins, Concord, NH Oppose05:33:54.000 - 2:33:35 PM; Rebecca Hoskins, a lifelong New Hampshire resident and gender nonconforming person, opposes HB1564. Raised in a welcoming family, church, and state pioneering civil unions, she advocates for future generations. She questions repeated attacks on identities amid other priorities, citing a quote on demoralizing the left to leave. Removing protections harms nonconforming people like her, opening doors to further discrimination.
HB2026 2026-0860H: David Kovick, Representative Support05:36:54.000 - 2:36:35 PM; Representative David Kovick, sponsor, supports HB2026 with amendment 2026-0860H, proposing a commission to study enhancing New Hampshire's business environment like Delaware's Court of Chancery for corporate domiciles. He addresses online opposition misattributions, emphasizes no special favors but rule of law, low taxes, and predictability via specialized dockets. The commission examines opportunities without cost, aiming to retain talent, attract businesses, and boost revenue, learning from other states like Texas and Nevada.
HB1389 2024-0855h: Representative Nancy Murphy, Merrimack, NH Support05:55:00.000 - 2:54:41 PM; Representative Nancy Murphy introduces HB1389 with replace-all amendment 0855h to hold closing PFAS facilities responsible for decontaminating sites exceeding 500 ppt under federal regulations, preventing taxpayer burden like in Merrimack's Saint-Gobain disaster. Linked to higher kidney cancer rates, the bill ensures polluters clean up, amends hazardous waste laws without conflict, and motivates safer practices. She urges ought to pass, noting bipartisan support and public testimony.
HB1422: Representative Tom Mannion, Pelham, NH Support06:00:00.000 - 2:59:41 PM; Representative Tom Mannion introduces HB1422 to allow motions for new trial beyond the three-year limit with newly discovered evidence, new forensic testing, or scientific understanding, ensuring due process for innocents. New Hampshire's absolute deadline denies opportunities, as in exoneree Scott Hornoff's case. The bill upholds liberty, fairness, and corrects wrongful convictions without changing other standards.
HB1422: DOJ Representative (Stratford County Attorney) Oppose06:09:54.171 - 3:09:35 PM; The witness explains that current New Hampshire law allows access to courts for exonerating information without denial, citing personal experience reopening a case as Stratford County Attorney that led to a vacated conviction. They note that New Hampshire's three-year limit for new trials aligns with many states, and only 12 states define newly discovered evidence similarly, requiring it to be material and undiscoverable with due diligence. Concerns are raised about undefined language in the bill regarding 'evidence that can be subjected to new scientific understanding,' lacking peer-review requirements, and the phrase 'upon request' for reactivating victim services, which may conflict with RSA 21-M. The witness suggests excising the scientific understanding clause and removing 'upon request' to address issues. They affirm the prima facie determination as an improvement but maintain concerns about eroding standards.
HB1422: Bill Supporter (Innocence Project Representative) Support06:24:54.171 - 3:24:35 PM; The speaker counters concerns about flooding courts, noting guardrails in the bill to dismiss non-meritorious cases. They reference historical 1878 law allowing new trials for justice not done but argue for updating due to evolving science. The bill is narrow, adjusting only the time limit without changing standards, and has incorporated prior feedback. Frustration is expressed over DOJ raising new concerns annually despite addressed issues, like scientific understanding language present for three sessions and victim services clarification added last year. They support applying to misdemeanors due to collateral consequences like gun restrictions or sex offender registry. On prima facie dismissal, they believe courts have permission to dismiss but discretion exists.
HB1422: Michael von Allman, Exoneree, Louisville, Kentucky Support06:30:00.000 - 3:29:41 PM; Von Allman shares his wrongful conviction story from 1981 for rape and robbery based on misidentification and a composite sketch leading to arrest near a neighbor's green car. Despite discovering DNA in 1988, evidence was reportedly discarded. Paroled after 16 years, he contacted the Kentucky Innocence Project 16 years later. They located hair samples in another suspect's file, all matching the victim, and overwhelming evidence against the real perpetrator led to his conviction being vacated after a hearing, ending a nearly 30-year ordeal.
HB1422: Cynthia Musso, Attorney, New England Innocence Project Support06:39:54.171 - 3:39:35 PM; Musso, the only full-time innocence attorney in New Hampshire, states the bill is essential for advancing cases, as current mechanisms like habeas corpus and coram nobis require proving constitutional violations per cases like Pepin and Rando, limiting their use for newly discovered evidence. She notes only one coram nobis granted recently, far fewer than expected if viable, emphasizing the need for this pathway. She quotes Justice Lynn's opinion requiring constitutional error for habeas. The committee chair was impressed by changes, suggesting tweaks like 'indigent' for counsel appointment and using 'Shell' standard in prima facie section.

Lynn, Bob(Chairman)(R)[B]2025	Kuttab, Katelyn(Clerk)(R)[B]2025	Mannion, Dennis(V Chairman)(R)[B+]2025
Smith, Marjorie(D)[F]2025	Bergeron, Dan(D)[F]2025	Horrigan, Timothy(D)[F]2025
Berch, Paul(D)[F]2025	Turer, Eric(D)[F]2025	Scully, Kevin(R)[A-]2025
Tripp, Richard(R)[B]2025	Andrus, Louise(R)[C+]2025	Ball, Lorie(R)[B+]2025
Manos, Zoe(D)[CT]2025	Perez, Kristine(R)[B+]2025	Alexander, Joe(R)[A+]2025
McFarlane, Donald(R)[A]2025	Rombeau, Catherine(D)[CT]2025	Paige, Mark(D)[D-]2025