Committee Summary for House Public Works and Highways (03/18/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB25 00:08:53.440 - 9:06:44 AM	Public Hearing	making appropriations for capital improvements.	Milz, David(R)[B-]2024
HB25 01:04:53.599 - 10:02:44 AM	General Working Session	making appropriations for capital improvements.	Milz, David(R)[B-]2024

HB25: Representative David Mills, Rockingham 13, Derry Information Only00:08:53.440 - 9:06:44 AM; Representative Mills introduced House Bill 25A, which makes appropriations for capital improvements and extends certain lapses for previous appropriations. The bill is based on Governor Sununu's budget. Due to high interest in the public hearing, Mills chose not to take questions and closed his presentation.
HB25: Shannon Reed, Community College System of New Hampshire Support00:10:45.720 - 9:08:36 AM; Shannon Reed requested the committee to consider adding $2.6 million to House Bill 25A for the community colleges. This amount is broken down into three components: $800,000 for IT infrastructure to address cybersecurity and service needs for online education, $1.3 million for critical maintenance to replace failing boilers at Manchester, Lakes Region, and River Valley Community Colleges, and to repair the NHTI library roof, and $500,000 for energy management systems at NHTI and Lakes Region Community College. Reed emphasized the importance of these investments for the community colleges to continue meeting workforce and regional needs across the state.
HB25: Representative John Graham, Bedford, representing New Hampshire Veterans Home Support00:16:18.279 - 9:14:09 AM; Representative Graham requested support for an additional $1.5 million in House Bill 25A for ADA compliance at the New Hampshire Veterans Home. He highlighted the necessity of these funds for safety improvements, such as replacing floors and widening doors for wheelchair accessibility. Graham also mentioned an upcoming VA inspection and the importance of addressing these issues to maintain VA funding for the home.
HB25: Lance Whitehead, Milford School District Support00:19:32.000 - 9:17:23 AM; Lance Whitehead, representing the Milford School District, spoke in support of maintaining the $9.9 million in the budget for their Career and Technical Education (CTE) project. He highlighted that the project was originally submitted by the Department of Education but did not make it into the budget. He mentioned that Milford had a recent vote with 58% approval but below 50% turnout, and they are requesting another chance to vote after downsizing the project. Whitehead emphasized the need for updated equipment in their CTE center, which is currently using 25 to 30-year-old technology, and provided examples of past successful CTE projects funded by the committee that increased enrollment and completers.
HB25: Lance Whitehead, Milford School District Information Only00:20:59.640 - 9:18:50 AM; In response to questions, Whitehead explained that the original proposal for the Milford CTE project was a $60 million complete rebuild, scaled down to $30 million last year, which included $10 million from the committee. They are now proposing to focus solely on CTE education and scale back the high school improvements. He noted that the actual CTE request was for $18 million for Jaffrey-Rindge, which was voted down, making Milford the backup school. He also mentioned that the Board of Education determines the order of school funding and that a committee is working on revising the funding process to be based on need rather than a pecking order.
HB25: Lance Whitehead, Milford School District Information Only00:23:46.240 - 9:21:37 AM; Whitehead responded to further questions about funding, stating that the town voted to appropriate $13.6 million locally to match the committee's $9.9 million for both high school and CTE. If focusing solely on CTE, the local funding would be around $3.8 million. He explained that the school board is considering reworking the project but has not finalized plans. Due to being an SB2 town, they cannot immediately hold another vote but need time for posting and turnout.
HB25: Lance Whitehead, Milford School District Information Only00:25:52.960 - 9:23:43 AM; Whitehead discussed the potential timing of another vote, suggesting that it might be scheduled for the next March election due to the normal citizen process and the need for higher turnout. He noted that special articles tend to have lower turnout and emphasized the importance of getting people to understand the process and attend the polls.
HB25: Tim Thompson, Assistant Director of Community Development, City of Concord Support00:26:35.559 - 9:24:26 AM; Tim Thompson, representing the City of Concord, emphasized the importance of the Concord Municipal Airport as part of an economic development strategy. He urged the committee to reinstate the NHDOT Bureau of Aeronautics matching funds for FAA funding, noting that a state contribution of $3.6 million could leverage over $65 million in federal funds, crucial for safety and infrastructure improvements at New Hampshire's airports.
HB25: Margaret Burns, Executive Director, New Hampshire Municipal Association Support00:28:33.760 - 9:26:24 AM; Margaret Burns from the New Hampshire Municipal Association supported the reinstatement of FAA funds in the capital budget. She highlighted that the omission of approximately $62 million in federal funds and $4.7 million in state matching funds would prevent local public airports from accessing critical federal funding. Burns stressed the economic value generated by local airports, estimated at $2.2 billion and $32 million in state taxes, underscoring their importance to the state's economy.
HB25: Trisha Lambert, Administrator, Bureau of Aeronautics; Andrew Pomroy, President, Granite State Airport Management Association Support00:30:39.120 - 9:28:30 AM; Trisha Lambert and Andrew Pomroy, representing the Bureau of Aeronautics and Granite State Airport Management Association respectively, spoke in support of adjusting the funding request to $3.6 million from an initial higher amount due to updated project needs. They explained the funding mechanism, where 90% of the funds come from the FAA via the Airports and Airways Trust Fund, and emphasized the necessity of state matching funds for the airports to access federal funding. They also answered questions about project selection and the impact of not having state funds, highlighting the importance of state funding for smaller airports to afford necessary projects.
HB25: Mr. Shay, Legislative Budget Assistant Information Only01:04:53.599 - 10:02:44 AM; Mr. Shay, from the Legislative Budget Assistant's office, distributed five documents to the committee members. The first document detailed the cost of the Glen Cliff home elevator as requested by the Department of Health and Human Services. The second document was an email from the Veterans Home concerning ADA compliance at Tar South and Tar North. The third was a spreadsheet listing projects not included in the governor's capital budget. The fourth was a comparison worksheet for tracking committee decisions on projects listed in House Bill 25A. The final document was a status report from the Lapse Subcommittee's recent meeting.
HB25: Chair Information Only01:08:05.680 - 10:05:56 AM; The Chair explained that the committee would be discussing various projects and taking straw polls, which are non-binding, to gauge the committee's direction. The governor's budget of $143 million was mentioned as a starting point, with adjustments to be made by the committee. The Chair noted the removal of $18.5 million allocated for CTE due to lack of matching funds from the towns of Milford and another unspecified town, reducing the budget to $133 million and leaving $8.5 million to repurpose.
HB25: Chair Information Only01:10:01.280 - 10:07:52 AM; The Chair proposed funding the Department of Transportation's Federal Aviation budget with $3,626,831 as the state match for FAA funds. This amount would be added to the Department of Transportation's general fund capital appropriation on the committee's worksheet.
HB25: Mr. Shay Information Only01:11:39.000 - 10:09:30 AM; Mr. Shay clarified where to add the $3,626,831 for the FAA state match on the worksheet, specifying it should be under the Department of Transportation's general fund capital appropriation on page five, starting at row 139.
HB25: Representative Newman Information Only01:12:42.760 - 10:10:33 AM; Representative Newman sought clarification on whether the $3.6 million for the FAA state match was included in the governor's budget of $143 million, and if it had been, how it would affect the total budget.
HB25: Representative Jack Support01:15:08.280 - 10:12:59 AM; Representative Jack strongly supported funding the FAA state match, highlighting that every $5 million invested would leverage $100 million in federal funds due to the 90% federal match rate. He emphasized the importance of having state funds ready when the FAA decides to proceed with projects.
HB25: Representative Brown Information Only01:15:58.760 - 10:13:49 AM; Representative Brown informed the committee that he had spoken with those who testified, confirming that the projects funded by the FAA state match are essential for safety and operational needs at the airports.
HB25: Mr. Shay Information Only01:17:08.400 - 10:14:59 AM; Mr. Shay discussed funding requests from the Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services, including a $1 million request for the Plymouth Readiness Center, which would leverage $3 million in federal funds for a total of $4 million. Additional requests for the Pembroke Readiness Center and an aviation hangar were mentioned, which would be fully federally funded.
HB25: Representative Jack Support01:18:24.880 - 10:16:15 AM; Representative Jack supported funding the three projects under the Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services, noting that an expenditure of $1 million in general funds would leverage $20 million worth of work, including federal funds.
HB25: Representative Claudia Information Only01:19:29.760 - 10:17:20 AM; Representative Claudia sought clarification on the additional funding proposed under the Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services, confirming it was $1 million in general fund bonding that would leverage $20 million in federal funds.
HB25: Representative Buer Information Only01:20:28.960 - 10:18:19 AM; Representative Buer confirmed that the discussion was focused on the three projects under the Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services at that moment.
HB25: Chair Information Only01:22:13.760 - 10:20:04 AM; The Chair moved the discussion to the Veteran's Home, approving an additional $1.5 million for ADA and IPC compliance at Tar South and Tar North, noting that the Veterans Home could lose federal funding without these upgrades.
HB25: Representative Jack Information Only01:23:06.800 - 10:20:57 AM; Representative Jack mentioned a project on line 73 of the capital budget compare worksheet that the agency requested to be deleted, which would free up $1,579 for repurposing.
HB25: Representative Rockmore Information Only01:23:06.800 - 10:20:57 AM; Representative Rockmore recalled a preference from the Department of Information Technology for cybersecurity enhancements over cloud solutions and services, noting a $130,000 difference between the two on line 66 of the compare report.
HB25: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:24:23.199 - 10:22:14 AM; The speaker discussed the Department of Information Technology's request for cybersecurity enhancements, which is listed at $2.38 million in the informational handouts. They also mentioned a reduction in the funding for cloud solutions from $2.15 million to $850,000, as requested by the department. This adjustment would add approximately $1.3 million back to the budget, leading to a total of about $3.1 million needed for these requests.
HB25: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:26:17.320 - 10:24:08 AM; The speaker clarified the budget adjustments, confirming that the cloud solutions budget should be reduced to $850,000, and cybersecurity should be added at $2.38 million. This would result in a total increase of $1.3 million to the budget, bringing the available balance to approximately $1.46 million.
HB25: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:27:43.199 - 10:25:34 AM; The speaker reiterated the budget adjustments, confirming the reduction of cloud solutions to $850,000 and the addition of $2.38 million for cybersecurity, which would increase the budget by $1.3 million, leaving a balance of $1,469,119.
HB25: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:28:55.040 - 10:26:46 AM; The speaker confirmed the budget adjustments on the capital budget worksheet, stating that line 66 should now read $850,000 for cloud solutions and a new line for cybersecurity should be added at $2,380,000.
HB25: Representative Cluder Support01:29:26.679 - 10:27:17 AM; Representative Cluder expressed support for Representative Rockmore's request to reduce funding for cloud solutions and increase funding for cybersecurity.
HB25: Representative Boger Information Only01:29:26.679 - 10:27:17 AM; Representative Boger noted that the combined adjustments for cloud solutions and cybersecurity would increase the total budget to $3,230,000, which is a slight increase of over $1 million.
HB25: Representative Jack Information Only01:30:49.440 - 10:28:40 AM; Representative Jack discussed a memo from the Department of Safety regarding a 100-year-old license plate machine that needs replacement. The cost is $13,295, proposed to be funded from the reflectorized plate inventory fund under RSA 228:25. An amendment was drafted to reflect this change in the capital budget.
HB25: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:32:18.560 - 10:30:09 AM; The speaker explained the amendment related to the license plate machine, confirming that it would be funded through the plate fund under RSA 228:25, and would not impact the general fund.
HB25: Representative Newman Support01:33:09.480 - 10:31:00 AM; Representative Newman expressed support for the $2.6 million request from the community colleges for infrastructure, maintenance, energy management, and maintenance infrastructure, clarifying that the current discussion was focused on the additional agency requests.
HB25: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:34:25.520 - 10:32:16 AM; The speaker confirmed the addition of $800,000 for IT infrastructure at the community colleges and discussed additional projects presented by Shannon Reed, which were added via email.
HB25: Representative Edgar Information Only01:35:40.360 - 10:33:31 AM; Representative Edgar discussed an email that outlined additional funding requests from the community colleges, totaling $3.3 million, including $800,000 for IT infrastructure, $1.3 million for critical maintenance, and $500,000 for energy systems.
HB25: Representative Jack Support01:36:59.280 - 10:34:50 AM; Representative Jack supported adding all three items requested by the community colleges, emphasizing the value they bring and the relatively small amount of money involved.
HB25: Representative Brown Information Only01:36:59.280 - 10:34:50 AM; Representative Brown inquired about additional information on the energy management system's cost savings, which was not provided in the email but could be addressed by Shannon Reed from the community college system.
HB25: Shannon Reed, Community College System Information Only01:38:16.400 - 10:36:07 AM; Shannon Reed explained that the energy management system would save operating and personnel costs by monitoring critical infrastructure, preventing damage from system failures.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:38:48.880 - 10:36:39 AM; The speaker sought clarification on whether the system discussed in the previous testimony would allow all energy systems to be managed remotely. The response confirmed that the system would automate critical building management facilities, equipment, and systems.
HB25: Representative Vom Information Only01:39:49.239 - 10:37:40 AM; Representative Vom inquired about the financial tracking and the current spending status. They were informed that prior to the discussion, there was an outstanding credit of $669,900 for IT infrastructure, and after deducting $2.5 million, the balance would be in the red by approximately $1.8 million.
HB25: Robert Z. Fauler Information Only01:40:54.280 - 10:38:45 AM; Robert Z. Fauler asked about unspent funds from previously approved critical maintenance projects for community colleges. It was confirmed that there are always unspent funds which could potentially be used for further maintenance projects.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:42:14.719 - 10:40:05 AM; The speaker suggested keeping the budget at the $800,000 mark approved earlier, before addressing other needs such as those at Glencliff, and mentioned the importance of not exhausting the $8 million recovery funds before addressing other needs.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:43:35.440 - 10:41:26 AM; The speaker discussed the strategy of using lapse fund balances, suggesting to keep it aside for use at the end of the process to manage the budget more effectively.
HB25: Mr. Shay Information Only01:44:43.199 - 10:42:34 AM; Mr. Shay explained the past practice of using lapse funds, indicating that while it's possible to split appropriations between lapse funds and new appropriations, the committee usually tries to keep lapse funds together for one specific item.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:45:28.360 - 10:43:19 AM; The speaker mentioned an additional agency request under HHS for a Glencliff home elevator costing $450,000, which was not included in the original budget columns because it was a later request.
HB25: Representative Newman Information Only01:46:25.360 - 10:44:16 AM; Representative Newman used an analogy of shopping for reduced items to discuss budget management, questioning the use of $3.6 million in aviation funds that were not included in the governor's budget, suggesting they might have been inadvertently left out.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:47:46.880 - 10:45:37 AM; The speaker clarified that the committee's focus is on hard numbers rather than assumptions about the governor's intentions and confirmed the use of the $3.6 million for aviation, not for other purposes.
HB25: Robert Z. Fauler Information Only01:48:48.679 - 10:46:39 AM; Robert Z. Fauler discussed the target budget number of $133 million, which was below the governor's original proposal of $143 million, and expressed comfort with being slightly above or below this target.
HB25: Representative Boyd Information Only01:50:05.360 - 10:47:56 AM; Representative Boyd outlined the needs for Glencliff, including a home elevator costing $450,000, and other projects with federal matches totaling $1.29 million, leaving a balance of approximately $22,000.
HB25: Representative Brown Information Only01:50:52.960 - 10:48:43 AM; Representative Brown confirmed the numbers provided by Representative Boyd, clarifying that the total included the home elevator request and other projects with significant federal funding.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:52:01.239 - 10:49:52 AM; The speaker raised a concern that the document management and multilanguage support projects might not be specific to Glencliff but rather for the entire department, suggesting other needs might be more appropriate.
HB25: Representative Jack Information Only01:53:21.199 - 10:51:12 AM; Representative Jack proposed starting with agreeing on the $450,000 for the Glencliff home elevator, which was agreed upon by the committee, adjusting the remaining balance to $868,000 before taking a lunch break.
HB25: Representative Rockmore Information Only03:03:46.720 - 12:01:37 PM; Representative Rockmore discussed changes to the budget, specifically mentioning the removal of Cloud Solutions and Services funding of $850,000 from the Information Technology Department and keeping the cybersecurity funding at $2,380,000 due to unexpected costs.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:05:29.120 - 12:03:20 PM; The speaker facilitated the continuation of the meeting by proposing to review the capital budget from the beginning, starting with the Statewide Emergency Fund at $1.5 million. They also confirmed the funding for the State House Annex renovation Phase 2 at $1,225,000, sprinkler replacement at $550,000, and main building elevator replacement at $1.1 million, all under the Department of Administrative Services.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:07:31.319 - 12:05:22 PM; The speaker continued to review budget items, confirming funding for the Great Bay Community College Workforce capacity building in welding at $700,000 and an additional $800,000 for infrastructure.
HB25: Representative Edgar Information Only03:07:49.800 - 12:05:40 PM; Representative Edgar mentioned two items he hoped to include: critical maintenance at $1.3 million and energy management systems at $500,000. The discussion was noted as ongoing and not finalized.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:08:45.920 - 12:06:36 PM; The speaker reviewed several budget items including three items for the Department of Corrections totaling $1 million, adjustments to the Department of Education budget removing $188,000, and multiple items under Environmental Services including dam repairs, drinking water and clean water state revolving fund matches, and the Pasak River Basin program. They also confirmed budget items for Fish and Game and Health and Human Services, including funding for Medicaid Enterprise modular strategy and modernized eligibility services.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:12:08.000 - 12:09:59 PM; The speaker concluded their remarks on the Glen Cliff elevator project, which is budgeted at $450,000. They also mentioned zeroing out funds for Cloud Solutions and services in favor of allocating additional funds for cybersecurity, amounting to $2,380,000.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:12:53.040 - 12:10:44 PM; The speaker discussed zeroing out the digitization of court records project expansion at the judicial branch, amounting to $7,950. They also mentioned a reduction of $157,950 from the judicial branch's request, which they opted not to pursue. Additionally, they discussed the replacement of the case management system at the Justice Department for $2,231,696.
HB25: Representative Bogert Information Only03:13:59.319 - 12:11:50 PM; Representative Bogert stepped out for a moment during the discussion on military affairs and veteran services. The committee approved funding for the Milford Readiness Center addition and renovation for $1 million, to be matched by $3 million in federal funds, Manchester land replacement for $5 million, and Statewide Readiness Center roof replacements for $2,550,000, matched by federal funds.
HB25: Mr. Shay Information Only03:15:12.800 - 12:13:03 PM; Mr. Shay confirmed the inclusion of the Plymouth Readiness Center design and construction at $1 million in general funds and $3 million in federal funds, the Pembroke Readiness Center addition at $8 million in federal funds, and the aviation hangar addition at $9 million in federal funds.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:16:20.439 - 12:14:11 PM; The speaker discussed funding for natural and cultural resources, including the Canon Mountain Aerial Tramway at $20 million, Bog Amog Lake State Park Marina and Facilities at $475,000 to be bonded and matched by federal funds, and Connecticut Lake Headwaters Road repairs at $1.4 million.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:17:25.920 - 12:15:16 PM; The speaker mentioned funding for the Police Standards and Training Council's main entrance security improvements at $480,000 and discussed the Department of Safety's software automated fuel tax system at $2,862,000.
HB25: Representative Kazinski Oppose03:17:25.920 - 12:15:16 PM; Representative Kazinski expressed concern over the $2.3 million price tag for the gun range training facility, considering it extravagant for the needs described. They suggested putting the decision on hold until more information could be gathered about potential consolidation of safety facilities.
HB25: Representative Vulmer Information Only03:18:44.560 - 12:16:35 PM; Representative Vulmer noted that the amounts discussed for the gun range facility were similar to those considered for community colleges, suggesting a possible pattern in funding.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:19:33.640 - 12:17:24 PM; The speaker mentioned adding modernization of plate production equipment at the Department of Safety for $1,329,000, to be paid out of another bond.
HB25: Representative Rockmore Information Only03:20:41.760 - 12:18:32 PM; Representative Rockmore sought clarification on whether funding for plate production equipment would come out of a dedicated plate fund, thus not affecting the general fund bonding limit of $133 million.
HB25: Representative Kazinski Information Only03:21:37.040 - 12:19:28 PM; Representative Kazinski asked for clarity on whether the Department of Corrections would continue producing license plates or start a new operation. They were advised to review RSA 228:25, which outlines the arrangement between Corrections and Safety for plate production.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:22:42.160 - 12:20:33 PM; The speaker discussed funding for the University System of New Hampshire, including $4 million for Plymouth State University Hyde Hall renovations, $12 million for University of New Hampshire Morse Hall improvements, and $4 million for Keene State College Elliot Center renovations.
HB25: Representative Boydd Oppose03:23:58.439 - 12:21:49 PM; Representative Boydd objected to the $12 million price tag for Morse Hall renovations, suggesting that the funds could be better used elsewhere given the university's potential for additional funding.
HB25: Representative Brown Information Only03:24:31.439 - 12:22:22 PM; Representative Brown mentioned that Keene State College might reallocate funds from Elliot Center renovations to other projects, such as Morrison Hall and the Redford Art Center, and awaited specific language from the university on this.
HB25: Representative Cler Information Only03:25:36.880 - 12:23:27 PM; Representative Cler confirmed that Keene State College intended to reallocate the funds from Elliot Center to Morrison Hall and the Redford Art Center, maintaining the same total amount of funding.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:26:33.000 - 12:24:24 PM; The speaker suggested approving the $4 million each for Hyde Hall and Elliot Center renovations and revisiting the Morse Hall project along with the gun range safety concerns at a later time.
HB25: Representative Fauler Support03:27:49.319 - 12:25:40 PM; Representative Fauler argued against reducing funding for higher education, noting that New Hampshire is at the bottom of the list in state support for higher education and that increasing tuition could be a consequence of such cuts.
HB25: Chairman Mills Information Only03:29:00.199 - 12:26:51 PM; Chairman Mills clarified that the University System of New Hampshire had requested changes to the funding amounts, reducing Hyde Hall to $1 million and increasing Keene State College to $7 million, with a suggestion for a single appropriation of $8 million for the projects.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:29:47.479 - 12:27:38 PM; The speaker listed approved items for the Veterans Home, including replacing air handlers for $1.3 million, a diesel tank replacement for $60,000, tubs and a bariatric stretcher shower trolley for $140,000, 50 veteran resident beds for $155,000, 20 medical lifts for $180,000, and south-north ADA compliance for $1.5 million.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:30:51.960 - 12:28:42 PM; The speaker approved funding for transportation matching funds for transit vehicles at $390,000 and $3,626,833 for FAA state match.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:32:09.920 - 12:30:00 PM; The speaker confirmed funding for statewide salt and sand shed replacements at $4,650,000 from highway bonds.
HB25: Representative Edgar Information Only03:33:08.680 - 12:30:59 PM; Representative Edgar asked about additional items not included in the governor's list that the Department of Transportation could handle up to $10 million, indicating a need for further discussion and potential approval.
HB25: Representative Jack Information Only03:33:56.560 - 12:31:47 PM; Representative Jack inquired about the situation of the highway funds, noting they are in short supply and the potential interplay with the operating budget to fund winter maintenance. He confirmed understanding that the highway fund is projected to be close to zero or even negative by the end of the biennium. He also sought clarification on whether the Department of Transportation had included debt service for new projects in their operating budget, and if this budget could be adjusted by the House Finance Division 2 to offset other needs.
HB25: Representative Brown Information Only03:35:21.520 - 12:33:12 PM; Representative Brown asked about other methods to offset the potential shortfall in the highway funds. He was informed that discussions were ongoing in the House Finance Division 2, considering options like increasing tolls or vehicle registration fees, but no resolution had been reached yet. He also confirmed figures from a DOT presentation regarding general fund and highway fund requests.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:37:46.040 - 12:35:37 PM; An unnamed speaker confirmed the figures from the DOT presentation and discussed the funding for a salt shed, indicating a reduction in requested funds from $4.6 million to $3 million, which they believed they could manage. They also explained how certain projects listed in the presentation could be funded and discussed the repurposing of older capital items for railroad replacement and ties.
HB25: Representative Jack Information Only03:39:57.600 - 12:37:48 PM; Representative Jack sought clarification on whether certain items in the budget had been repurposed or if they still stood as written. He was informed that the items discussed were not repurposed but were part of a lapse extension where the balance would be repurposed for replacement rail and ties on state-owned railroad lines.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:40:47.880 - 12:38:38 PM; An unnamed speaker further clarified the proposal to repurpose funds for replacement rail and ties, stating that this would adequately fund the discussed items. They offered to provide specific language to the committee to show exactly what the Department was asking to do.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:41:54.279 - 12:39:45 PM; The speaker explained the amendment to HB25A, which involves repurposing $825,000 from two lapsed capital projects (206 and 207) for the maintenance of rails and ties on state-owned active railroads. The amendment specifies the appropriation of the funds until June 30, 2027, and ensures that all contracts and projects follow the appropriate processes as defined in RSA 21. There were questions about which rail lines this would affect, with clarification that it pertains to state-owned lines, including some freight and recreational lines. The speaker confirmed that the funds would be used for materials only, with labor supplied by the railroad or the special railroad fund. There was a discussion about the maintenance responsibilities of freight rail lines, with the speaker noting that generally, freight liners maintain their rails but could not provide detailed expertise on the matter.
HB25: Representative Kazinski Information Only03:44:04.880 - 12:41:55 PM; Representative Kazinski asked for clarification on which rail lines the amendment would affect, specifically if it included freight rail lines. The response confirmed that some of the funds would be used for freight rail lines, but the primary focus was on state-owned lines.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:45:13.960 - 12:43:04 PM; The speaker addressed further questions about the remaining funds from the two lapsed projects, stating that repurposing the $825,000 would help with failing rails and ties, supporting the safety of the lines. The speaker mentioned that they would not ask for the remainder of the funds in the current session. A straw poll was conducted to gauge the committee's agreement on including this money in the bill.
HB25: Representative Alone Information Only03:46:15.439 - 12:44:06 PM; Representative Alone inquired whether the amendment was supplementing or replacing the additional agency request for railroad track replacement. The response clarified that it was repurposing lapsed funds, not supplementing anything yet.
HB25: Representative Edgar Information Only03:47:30.080 - 12:45:21 PM; Representative Edgar asked if the amendment was part of the general fund or a combination of sections three and four in the project requests document. The response confirmed it was a combination of those sections.
HB25: Unnamed Speaker Information Only03:48:25.880 - 12:46:16 PM; The speaker discussed the highway fund section, noting that the original request of $4,650,000 in the governor's budget was reduced to $3 million. The department believed they could work within this reduced amount by constructing fewer salt sheds.
HB25: Representative Voy Information Only03:49:23.199 - 12:47:14 PM; Representative Voy asked if the department had prioritized the salt sheds based on need, to which the response was affirmative, stating they follow a priority list.
HB25: Representative Jack Information Only03:50:14.840 - 12:48:05 PM; Representative Jack proposed amending the bill to include items 2, 3, 4, and 5 from the highway fund, specifying the amounts for each item.
HB25: Unidentified Speaker Information Only03:51:09.840 - 12:49:00 PM; The speaker discusses the addition of funds to the highway bond, mentioning a total of over $6 million and later correcting it to $10 million after including new items such as salt and sand shed replacements and four new items. The discussion involves ensuring the total matches the planned budget.
HB25: Representative Brown Information Only03:52:49.840 - 12:50:40 PM; Representative Brown confirms the addition of four items to the highway funds, ensuring that these additions do not affect the targeted goal number as they are covered by highway funds. The items include Statewide underground storage tank replacement, Mechanical Services Twin Mountain garage roof replacement, Lister Patrol facility replacement, and Pinkham Patrol facility replacement preconstruction.
HB25: Mr. Shay Information Only03:54:24.600 - 12:52:15 PM; Mr. Shay discusses the current status of the budget, confirming that the $10 million addition to the highway fund is already included in the operating budget before Division Two. He also mentions that the judicial branch is present to discuss repurposing lapses rather than requesting additional funds.
HB25: Judicial Branch Representatives Information Only03:56:29.880 - 12:54:20 PM; Representatives from the judicial branch, including A. Harris, Donna Raymond, and Matthew Seon, discuss the repurposing of existing capital funds. They have withdrawn a request for additional funds for a digitization program and are instead focusing on extending lapses for other projects related to New Hampshire eCourt and critical infrastructure. They also mention plans for future technology upgrades, including digital evidence systems, online payment portals, and cloud-based hosting services for electronic filing.
HB25: Representative Juras Information Only03:58:33.600 - 12:56:24 PM; Representative Juras inquires about the judicial branch's decision to withdraw the digitization request and asks about future technology needs. The judicial branch explains that due to budget constraints, they could not proceed with the digitization of old records but are planning other technological enhancements to improve court operations and public interaction.
HB25: Representative Bogert Information Only04:02:14.720 - 1:00:05 PM; Representative Bogert seeks clarification on the judicial branch's request, confirming that they are only looking to repurpose two of the three requests and will lapse the third. The discussion concludes with a straw poll to check for any objections to the proposed changes.
HB25: Representative Jack Information Only04:03:06.239 - 1:00:57 PM; Representative Jack discussed the repurposing of funds from laps extensions and presented changes to military projects. Specifically, he mentioned three projects needing title changes to facilitate access to federal funds. These projects are related to the Pease Regional Training Institute upgrades and a minor military construction in Strafford County. He also mentioned a number of line deletions in the capital budget that would lapse existing lines totaling $649,513, and one addition at the request of the Department of Transportation for Carolyn Strafford Freight rail improvements.
HB25: Representative Jack Information Only04:06:28.439 - 1:04:19 PM; Representative Jack continued to clarify that the House Finance Committee is divided into three sections, and he specifically referred to Division Two which deals with Transportation, Education, and Department of Safety. He also reiterated the lapsing of funds totaling $649,513 and the addition for the Carolyn Strafford Freight rail improvements, and mentioned the need to fix the effective date of House Bill 25.
HB25: Representative Jack Information Only04:08:31.680 - 1:06:22 PM; Representative Jack discussed the possibility of repurposing the lapsed funds to cover the $800,000 line for community colleges, suggesting a lump sum approach to simplify the process and avoid extending the bill's length. He mentioned a previous capital budget where a similar approach was used.
HB25: Representative Jack Information Only04:09:38.199 - 1:07:29 PM; Representative Jack addressed a new request from the Department of Transportation for $450,000 for Strafford and Carolyn Freight rail improvements. He noted that this request did not appear in the governor's original capital budget request.
HB25: Representative Jack Information Only04:11:46.920 - 1:09:37 PM; Representative Jack brought up an oversight in the governor's capital budget regarding the Pease Development Authority's needs for Harbor dredging. He mentioned three specific items: Market Street Marine Terminal main Wharf dredging at $1,417,000, Rye Harbor and Hampton Harbor riprap repair at $765,000, and the Market Street Marine Terminal Warehouse removal and office replacement at $1,620,000, totaling $3,802,000.
HB25: Representative Jack Information Only04:12:24.040 - 1:10:15 PM; Representative Jack clarified that the Pease Development Authority's projects are not frivolous and are necessary. He mentioned that the office at the Market Street Marine Terminal cannot be repurposed due to safety concerns during high winds. He supported approving all three projects and opened the floor for discussion on federal funding.
HB25: Representative Jack Information Only04:14:44.600 - 1:12:35 PM; Representative Jack confirmed that the total request from the Pease Development Authority would cost $3,802,000, all from general funds. He then discussed the potential removal of $12 million for Morse Hall, indicating his willingness to reinstate $3 million if the budget allowed.
HB25: Representative Jack Information Only04:17:04.479 - 1:14:55 PM; Representative Jack discussed the status of the budget at approximately $124 million, mentioning the pending decision on a $2.3 million gun range project, awaiting direction from the speaker's office. He confirmed the approval of the Pease Development Authority's three items and indicated there was room to consider further allocations for community colleges.
HB25: Representative Brown Information Only04:18:08.159 - 1:15:59 PM; Representative Brown expressed concerns about the current state of the gun range facility used by the state police, noting it lacks basic amenities like toilets and wash facilities. He mentioned the need for a proper facility for both male and female troopers, suggesting that the proposed $2 million might not be the right amount but stressed the necessity for improvements.
HB25: Representative Boger Information Only04:19:11.040 - 1:17:02 PM; Representative Boger suggested the use of Porta Potties at existing gun ranges in Belknap County as a cost-effective solution for providing facilities. He highlighted the lack of infrastructure like water and sewer systems at the current state police gun range, questioning the need for such a large expenditure.
HB25: Representative Boyd Information Only04:21:07.119 - 1:18:58 PM; Representative Boyd emphasized the need for a long-term solution for law enforcement training facilities, not just for state police but also for correctional and local law enforcement. He suggested leveraging the existing Police Standards Academy's facilities to meet these needs, questioning the necessity and location for a new facility.
HB25: Representative Brown Information Only04:21:33.600 - 1:19:24 PM; Representative Brown clarified that the state police gun range is used for specialized training, such as force on force scenarios, which differs from regular pistol or rifle ranges. He suggested that the state police should provide more detailed information about their training needs to the committee.
HB25: Representative Kazinski Oppose04:22:31.159 - 1:20:22 PM; Representative Kazinski criticized the proposed $2.3 million for the gun range as excessive, especially given the current state of the facility. He suggested that a more reasonable amount might be acceptable but questioned the justification for such a high figure.
HB25: Representative Cludy Information Only04:23:32.279 - 1:21:23 PM; Representative Cludy expressed skepticism about the $2.3 million cost for the gun range, suggesting that the Department of Safety should consider combining their efforts with the Police Standards Academy to reduce costs. He emphasized the need for budget scrutiny and potential cuts across state agencies.
HB25: Representative Jurus Information Only04:24:00.720 - 1:21:51 PM; Representative Jurus highlighted the tactical training needs of the state police at the gun range, including vehicle and SWAT scenario training. He acknowledged the long-term use of the current facility and suggested considering a broader approach to law enforcement training facilities across the state.
HB25: Representative Jack Information Only04:27:15.560 - 1:25:06 PM; Representative Jack expressed discomfort in making decisions about the Department of Safety's training without their input. He suggested waiting for further information from the speaker's office before finalizing decisions on the gun range funding.
HB25: Mr. Shay Information Only04:28:13.760 - 1:26:04 PM; Mr. Shay provided an update on the amendment process, mentioning technical fixes needed for the Winnipesaukee River Basin reference and adjustments to the University System's appropriation. He outlined the timeline for finalizing the amendment and suggested that one meeting next week should suffice to finalize decisions.
HB25: Representative Edgar Information Only04:32:48.199 - 1:30:39 PM; Representative Edgar inquired about the discussion of community colleges, which was deferred to a later date after finalizing budget figures. He confirmed the schedule for the next meetings, including a potential executive session on April 1st.

Milz, David(Chairman)(R)[B-]2024	Boyd, Bill(Clerk)(R)[B]2024	Melvin, Charles(V Chairman)(R)[B+]2024
Cloutier, John(D)[CT]2024	Boehm, Ralph(R)[B+]2024	Jack, Martin(D)[F]2024
Kaczynski, Thomas(R)[A]2024	Newman, Sue(D)[CT]2024	Edgar, Michael(D)[CT]2024
Faulkner, Barry(D)[CT]2024	Fedolfi, Jim(R)[B]2024	Brown, Richard(R)[A]2024
Bogert, Steven(R)[B+]2024	Juris, Louis(D)[CT]2024	Suiter, John(R)
Vallone, Mark(D)[F]2024	Rockmore, Ellen(D)	Louis, Darrell(R)