Committee Summary for House Transportation (01/14/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
Unclear 00:06:28.560 - 9:05:24 AM	General Working Session	Unclear

Unclear: Unnamed Committee Chair Information Only00:06:28.560 - 9:05:24 AM; The committee chair welcomed everyone back to the Transportation Committee after a break, indicating a restart after the summer and fall. They suggested introductions among new and returning members, mentioned feeling 'Rusty', and called for the Pledge of Allegiance. They also encouraged committee members to briefly introduce themselves, stating their interest in the committee, and noted that this committee is unique as all members requested to be part of it.
Unclear: Representative Seth Miller, Dover, NH Information Only00:09:13.760 - 9:08:09 AM; Representative Seth Miller introduced himself as a first-term representative from Dover, NH, representing wards 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6. He expressed his excitement about being on the Transportation Committee, particularly interested in aerospace transportation, though he acknowledged that the committee might not focus much on that area. He is generally interested in all aspects of transportation.
Unclear: Representative Charlie St. Clair, Laconia, NH Information Only00:09:13.760 - 9:08:09 AM; Representative Charlie St. Clair from Laconia, District 5, introduced himself. He mentioned his interest in transportation due to his personal use of roads and the frequent feedback he receives from constituents on transportation issues. He is starting his fourth term and is thrilled to be back on the committee.
Unclear: Representative Charlie Foote, Derry, NH Information Only00:10:05.160 - 9:09:01 AM; Representative Charlie Foote from Derry, Rockingham 13, introduced himself as serving his second term. He mentioned that he specifically requested to be on the Transportation Committee, having grown fond of it the previous year, along with the committee members and support staff. He is looking forward to the new year.
Unclear: Representative Greg Hill Information Only00:10:26.200 - 9:09:22 AM; Representative Greg Hill introduced himself, noting his long tenure since 2010 and his role as chair of Legislative Administration. He humorously admitted that he did not request to be on the Transportation Committee but joined because of Representative Charlie Sinclair. He expressed his pleasure in being part of the committee.
Unclear: Representative Ted Gorski, Bedford, NH Information Only00:10:26.200 - 9:09:22 AM; Representative Ted Gorski from Bedford introduced himself, stating this is his third term. He likened his recurring involvement with the committee to 'The Godfather', saying every time he tries to leave, he gets pulled back in. He mentioned being asked to serve as Vice Chair again and looked forward to working with the chairman and the committee.
Unclear: Tom Welsh, Hooksett and Dunbarton, NH Information Only00:11:27.240 - 9:10:23 AM; Tom Welsh introduced himself as the chair of the Transportation Committee, noting his seventh term in the position and his continuous service on the committee. He expressed his fascination with transportation despite it not being his career, highlighting his interest in anything that 'has got wheels, flies or floats.'
Unclear: Dan Be, Amherst, NH Information Only00:11:56.639 - 9:10:52 AM; Representative Dan Be introduced himself as a member of the Transportation Committee in his third term and second as deputy ranking member. He shared his background in trucking and as a private pilot and boater, which fueled his interest in the committee. He described the committee as the best in the house and expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming session.
Unclear: Henry Gon, Goffstown, NH Information Only00:12:45.399 - 9:11:41 AM; Henry Gon, a freshman representative from Goffstown, introduced himself and explained his request to join the Transportation Committee due to his passion for transportation. He mentioned his experience driving trucks in the military, his expertise in wielding, and his involvement in motorcycle riding and training, emphasizing his interest in road safety and freedoms.
Unclear: Drew Fox, Keene, NH Information Only00:12:59.240 - 9:11:55 AM; Representative Drew Fox, from Keene, shared that this was his third term on the Transportation Committee. He expressed feeling more comfortable and knowledgeable about the committee's work after two terms and highlighted the committee's focus on safety as a positive aspect.
Unclear: Eric Johnson, Lee, Madbury, and Dover, NH Information Only00:13:32.920 - 9:12:28 AM; Eric Johnson introduced himself as a representative for Lee, Madbury, and Dover, serving his first full term after a special election. He mentioned being placed on the Transportation Committee due to his lack of prior knowledge, and he decided to continue based on the committee's wisdom.
Unclear: Ponden, Nashua, NH Information Only00:14:06.279 - 9:13:02 AM; Representative Ponden from Nashua introduced himself, noting this was his second term. He shared his previous role as chairman of the infrastructure committee in Nashua, his experience driving commercial vehicles, and his motorcycle license. He also mentioned his work with various law enforcement agencies and his current position with the Hillsboro County Sheriff's Department, stating his fit for the Transportation Committee.
Unclear: Tom Welsh, Hooksett and Dunbarton, NH Information Only00:15:05.279 - 9:14:01 AM; Tom Welsh, the chair, noted the absence of several committee members and introduced the agenda for the session. He mentioned skipping the usual committee orientation to allow department heads to present first, starting with the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Department of Safety.
Unclear: Steve Lavoy, Assistant Commissioner, Department of Safety Information Only00:16:03.360 - 9:14:59 AM; Steve Lavoy, Assistant Commissioner at the Department of Safety, provided an overview of the department's structure and its seven divisions. He detailed the roles of each division, emphasizing their relevance to transportation, and discussed the department's collaborative approach with the legislature. He also touched on the importance of the highway fund, its revenue sources, and the challenges posed by a structural deficit in the fund, which has required General Fund transfers to meet legislative requirements.
Unclear: Captain Matt Amuchi, State Police Information Only00:22:29.640 - 9:21:25 AM; Captain Matt Amuchi provided an overview of the State Police, highlighting its diverse divisions and structure. He mentioned that when fully staffed, the division comprises 362 sworn state troopers, 40 state law enforcement officers, and 300 civilian support staff. The State Police is organized into three bureaus: Operations, Investigative Services, and Justice Information. He detailed the Operations Bureau, which is led by Major Brendan Davey and includes field troops covering various regions of New Hampshire, such as Troop A on the Seacoast, Troop B in Hillsboro and Rockingham, Troop C in Cheshire and Sullivan, Troop D in Merrimack, Troop E in Carroll and Belknap, Troop F in Coos and Grafton, and Troop G, which covers the entire state and focuses on transportation-related enforcement. Captain Amuchi also discussed the significant increase in calls for service and motor vehicle stops over the last few years, despite a 17% vacancy rate in sworn personnel. He outlined the various units within the Operations Bureau, including the K9 unit, crisis negotiation, drill team, drug recognition experts, bomb squad, and special enforcement units. Additionally, he provided statistics on the investigative services, such as narcotics seizures and major crime investigations, and mentioned the forensic laboratory's role in the state.
Unclear: Captain Tim Dunlevy, Marine Patrol Information Only00:43:01.200 - 9:41:57 AM; Captain Tim Dunlevy, now a program specialist after retiring from the Marine Patrol, discussed the duties and responsibilities of the Marine Patrol. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that individuals can enjoy New Hampshire's waterways safely. The Marine Patrol's statutory responsibilities include enforcing criminal and boating laws, providing boating education, and maintaining aids to navigation on inland waters. Captain Dunlevy noted that the Marine Patrol is facing recruitment challenges, with only 21 seasonal officers this year compared to 65-85 in the past. He also mentioned the Marine Patrol's role in homeland security on the Seacoast, including vessel escorts and perimeter security. Additionally, he touched on budget resources, which come from the navigation safety fund and recreational boating safety grants, and discussed the Marine Patrol's commercial boat inspection program.
Unclear: John Morasco, Director of the DMV Information Only00:54:41.880 - 9:53:37 AM; John Morasco, Director of the DMV, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to discuss the DMV's operations and support for the legislative session. He highlighted the DMV's extensive service with approximately 400,000 in-person transactions and a significant call volume. Morasco praised the DMV employees for their commitment and ability to detect fraudulent documents, thanks to training from the State Police. He outlined ongoing projects, including transitioning to a new license vendor and potentially moving to a new location in Raymond. Morasco discussed the importance of employee safety and security, mentioning initiatives like the safety monitor program and various training programs. He also emphasized the DMV's efforts to improve customer experience through better communication and faster license production. Morasco concluded by discussing the DMV's approach to legislative tracking and support, ensuring that the agency remains responsive to legislative needs.
Unclear: Jennifer Bailey, Assistant Director of the Division of Motor Vehicles Information Only01:11:53.000 - 10:10:49 AM; Jennifer Bailey introduced herself as the Assistant Director of the Division of Motor Vehicles, with 19 years of service at the agency. She stated her current role for the past six months involves overseeing the budget, contracts, leases, and projects. Bailey emphasized her extensive knowledge of DMV transactions, rules, and laws, having worked in various areas of the DMV.
Unclear: Liz Mad, Administrator of the Registration Bureau Information Only01:12:52.400 - 10:11:48 AM; Liz Mad, the administrator of the Registration Bureau, discussed her responsibilities, which include overseeing boat registrations, vehicle registrations, the International Registration Plan (IRP) for commercial trucks, and issuing dealership and inspection station licenses. She mentioned her transition from working in corrections in California to state government in New Hampshire, having been with the DMV for nearly a year.
Unclear: Jennifer Oi, Title Bureau Administrator Information Only01:13:14.159 - 10:12:10 AM; Jennifer Oi, the Title Bureau Administrator, introduced herself and highlighted her 22 years of service with the Division of Motor Vehicles, focusing on the vehicle side. She expressed excitement about the upcoming legislative season and her involvement in various regulations discussions.
Unclear: Brandy Cassida, Administrator of the Bureau of Financial Responsibility Information Only01:14:10.400 - 10:13:06 AM; Brandy Cassida introduced herself as the administrator of the Bureau of Financial Responsibility, noting that her bureau impacts motor vehicle records extensively. She mentioned being in her position for over a year and having worked with the DMV for 10 and a half years.
Unclear: Scott Migan, Driver's Licensing Administrator Information Only01:14:10.400 - 10:13:06 AM; Scott Migan, the new Driver's Licensing Administrator, introduced himself, mentioning his one-month tenure with the DMV. He previously worked with the U.S. Department of State, focusing on immigration and visa processing, as well as serving as a congressional and immigration liaison.
Unclear: Kathy O'Neal, Administrator of Operations Information Only01:14:55.840 - 10:13:51 AM; Kathy O'Neal, the Administrator of Operations, introduced herself, stating her role involves overseeing all 14 DMV locations throughout the state, as well as safety monitors. She expressed enthusiasm about the legislative session.
Unclear: Representative Hill Information Only01:15:22.719 - 10:14:18 AM; Representative Hill asked for an update on the Blue Envelope Program, aimed at assisting those with autism during interactions with first responders.
Unclear: Ashley Gray, Administrator Information Only01:15:22.719 - 10:14:18 AM; Ashley Gray was mentioned as having conducted research and prepared a memo on the Blue Envelope Program, which was discussed by the committee.
Unclear: Michael Eastman, Captain with the New Hampshire Fish and Game Law Enforcement Division Information Only01:17:21.320 - 10:16:17 AM; Captain Michael Eastman introduced himself as the Off-Highway Recreation Vehicle (OHRV) Coordinator with the New Hampshire Fish and Game Law Enforcement Division. He discussed the division's responsibilities, including enforcing hunting, fishing, trapping, and wildlife laws, as well as overseeing OHRV and snowmobile enforcement, safety, and registrations. Eastman highlighted the growing trend of electric vehicles in off-highway recreation and the safety concerns, particularly with snowmobile accidents due to changing snow conditions. He also mentioned the challenges in hiring and the upcoming online registration system for OHRVs.
Unclear: Bill Cass, Commissioner of the Department of Transportation Information Only01:24:15.199 - 10:23:11 AM; Commissioner Bill Cass provided an overview of the New Hampshire Department of Transportation (DOT). He introduced the team present, including Assistant Commissioner and Chief Engineer Dave Rodrig, Deputy Commissioner Andre Brier, Legislative Liaison Steve Lante, and Administrator of the Bureau of Traffic Lee Barones. Cass highlighted the DOT's organizational structure, which includes three Commissioners overseeing five divisions, each with a director. He discussed the DOT's mission to strive for transportation excellence and enhance quality of life in New Hampshire, and their purpose of delivering quality transportation projects and services reliably, safely, and efficiently. Key facts about the DOT were presented, such as having approximately 1,650 employees with a 24-25% vacancy rate, maintaining 2,160 state bridges and 1,700 municipal bridges, and managing 4,600 centerline miles of state roadways with annual paving targets. Cass also discussed the DOT's budget, which totals about $700 million, split between municipal aid and construction and operating budgets. He touched on the various divisions within the DOT, including Aeronautics, Rail, and Transit, and the Administration division which handles financial operations and federal fund administration. Challenges such as inflation, workforce vacancies, and insufficient highway fund revenues were highlighted. Lastly, Cass mentioned upcoming work on the 10-year Transportation Improvement plan and the role of the New Hampshire Transportation Council.
Unclear: Representative Peto Information Only01:51:29.480 - 10:50:25 AM; Representative Peto asked about the electric vehicle charge mentioned in a previous presentation. Commissioner Cass explained that a surcharge was implemented last year for electric vehicles, with $100 for electric vehicles and $50 for hybrid electric vehicles, generating around $1 million in revenue, which is collected by the Department of Safety.
Unclear: Representative Miller Information Only01:52:21.159 - 10:51:17 AM; Representative Miller questioned the efficiency graph presented by Commissioner Cass, noting it uses the number of positions rather than actual staff numbers. Cass acknowledged that the vacancy rate, consistently around 20-24%, hides a more dramatic drop in headcount over the years, particularly in areas like engineering positions where vacancies are higher due to industry-wide shortages.
Unclear: Representative Pont Information Only01:54:17.960 - 10:53:13 AM; Representative Pont inquired about revenues from rail and public transit. Cass explained that rail operations generate about $1 million annually, which is reinvested into maintenance, while public transit, including the Boston Express line, is subsidized with no revenue generated. He mentioned a recent public-private partnership with C&J Trailways to operate the Portsmouth and Dover Park and Ride facilities, which is expected to generate revenue. Pont also asked about potential revenue loss from toll plazas due to violations, to which Cass responded that the fee structure for violations covers those costs.
Unclear: Representative Hill Information Only01:57:03.199 - 10:55:59 AM; Representative Hill raised concerns about a DOT social media post that received negative feedback. Commissioner Cass explained that the post, which was intended to engage a broader audience, was part of a marketing strategy to increase views and engagement, and was successful in that regard despite the controversial nature of the post.
Unclear: Dan Bennett, President of the New Hampshire Auto Dealers Association Information Only02:01:41.880 - 11:00:37 AM; Dan Bennett introduced himself as the President of the New Hampshire Auto Dealers Association, representing about 540 businesses across the state. He discussed the association's role in government relations, consumer protection, and maintaining an efficient regulatory environment. Bennett highlighted the association's self-funded workers' compensation trust, health insurance brokering, and education foundation which supports automotive programs in high schools and community colleges. He also mentioned the AutoCap program, which helps resolve consumer complaints. Bennett provided contact information for the committee and offered assistance with any industry-related questions or constituent concerns.
Unclear: Tom Prol, Demur Prol and Thomas, Lobbying Firm in Concord Information Only02:05:26.800 - 11:04:22 AM; Tom Prol introduced himself as a lobbyist representing several clients including the New Hampshire Driver Education Teachers Association, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, FedEx, Walmart, the New Hampshire Retail Association, the New Hampshire Police Association, and the New Hampshire Troopers Association. He mentioned that he would be available in the halls to answer any questions and humorously promised not to be the last person to speak before lunch, indicating his intent to be considerate of the committee's time.
Unclear: Bob Scully, New Hampshire Motor Transport Association Information Only02:06:25.040 - 11:05:21 AM; Bob Scully introduced himself as a representative of the New Hampshire Motor Transport Association, which has over 300 members ranging from large corporations like UPS and FedEx to single owner operators. He emphasized the importance of trucks in the state, stating that over 95% of goods in New Hampshire are transported by trucks. He mentioned safety and taxes as key issues for his members and indicated his regular presence before the committee for legislative matters.
Unclear: Chair Information Only02:20:49.640 - 11:19:45 AM; The Chair concluded the morning's presentations and suggested a 10-minute break, indicating an informal approach to the session's structure. He mentioned that the presentations were valuable and appreciated the information shared.
Unclear: Chair Information Only02:21:35.680 - 11:20:31 AM; The Chair outlined the operational aspects of the committee, including start times, notices of absence, and the ability to fill in downtime with executive sessions. He emphasized the importance of using a single email account for legislative business and maintaining professional dress and decorum, noting that the committee room and public hearings could vary in location.
Unclear: Chair Information Only02:24:16.479 - 11:23:12 AM; The Chair discussed the committee's rules on food, coffee, and electronic devices, emphasizing a professional appearance during hearings and executive sessions. He introduced the committee researcher, Brad Grin, and the committee assistant, Karen Davis, and mentioned the use of filing cabinets for committee members.
Unclear: Chair Information Only02:26:47.920 - 11:25:43 AM; The Chair provided an overview of the committee's partisan balance, seating arrangements, and typical bill topics, which are mostly under Title 20 Motor Vehicle Laws. He mentioned the possibility of bills going to other committees like Finance or Judiciary and the use of subcommittees for bills needing further work.
Unclear: Chair Information Only02:30:05.560 - 11:29:01 AM; The Chair discussed the committee's calendar, the handling of bill files, and the scheduling of hearings. He emphasized grouping bills by theme for efficiency and mentioned that the committee meets on Tuesdays. He also outlined the committee replacement policy for members unable to attend sessions.
Unclear: Chair Information Only02:32:40.880 - 11:31:36 AM; The Chair explained the conduct expected during public hearings, emphasizing that they are for listening and asking relevant questions, not for debates or speeches. He noted that executive sessions are for committee members' debate and decision-making, and outlined the process for amendments, which must be prepared by the Office of Legislative Services (OLS) and distributed by Committee Services.
Unclear: Chair Information Only02:34:59.720 - 11:33:55 AM; The Chair detailed the process for committee members who are bill sponsors or co-sponsors, emphasizing that sponsors cannot return to their seat to ask questions after presenting. He discussed the same-day hearing rule and the potential for expedited action on bills, as well as conflict of interest and recusal procedures under new laws.
Unclear: Chair Information Only02:39:32.600 - 11:38:28 AM; The Chair outlined the types of motions available in executive sessions, including inexpedient to legislate, ought to pass, reconsideration, and retaining bills for the next year. He explained the process for committee reports and the role of the committee researcher and assistant in supporting the committee's work.
Unclear: Chair Information Only02:44:04.359 - 11:43:00 AM; The Chair discussed available resources, including administrative support on the fourth floor, statutes related to Title 20, and internet access. He provided contact information for key staff members and emphasized the importance of collegiality within the committee, as noted by Representative Gonski.
Unclear: Representative St. Clair Information Only02:45:47.040 - 11:44:43 AM; Representative St. Clair inquired about any upcoming legislation regarding the use of driver's licenses for scanning, to which the Chair responded that there was a bill in the early stages to prohibit scanning for alcohol and tobacco products. The Chair also mentioned a potential bill to repeal the vehicle inspection program, though it was uncertain if it had been filed.
Unclear: Chair Information Only02:48:14.680 - 11:47:10 AM; The Chair concluded the session by discussing the management of caucuses, the public nature of executive sessions, and the potential for hearings the following Tuesday. He emphasized the importance of reviewing previous testimony on recurring bills and noted some perennial issues like the elimination of first-year vehicle inspections and out-of-state trailer licensing.

Walsh, Thomas(Chairman)(R)[A-]2024	Crawford, Karel(Clerk)(R)[B-]2024	Gorski, Ted(V Chairman)(R)[B+]2024
Sykes, George(D)[F]2024	Hill, Gregory(R)[A]2024	Plamondon, Marc(D)[F]2024
Veilleux, Daniel(D)[F]2024	Pitaro, Matthew(R)[B+]2022	Coker, Matthew(R)[B-]2024
St. Clair, Charlie(D)[D-]2024	Fox, Dru(D)[CT]2024	Foote, Charles(R)[B]2024
Johnson, Erik(D)[CT]2024	Miller, Seth(D)	Hamblen, Joseph(R)
Giasson, Henry(R)