Committee Summary for House Transportation (01/28/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB119 00:10:54.360 - 9:09:26 AM	Public Hearing	allowing rental companies applying to register a rental fleet to choose New Hampshire as the base jurisdiction under the International Registration Plan (IRP).	Spillane, James(R)[A]2024
HB612 00:26:27.799 - 9:24:59 AM	Public Hearing	enabling the division of motor vehicles to create a temporary traditional driver's license for youth operators about to turn 21.	Veilleux, Daniel(D)[F]2024
HB209 FN 00:44:05.319 - 9:42:37 AM	Public Hearing	allowing a new vehicle purchased in the model year or before to be inspected in the second year after purchase.	Coker, Matthew(R)[B-]2024
HB105 FN 03:58:01.120 - 12:56:33 PM	Executive Session	creating a new conservation license plate and directing the additional fee to the cyanobacteria mitigation loan and grant fund.	Rung, Rosemarie(D)[CT]2024
HB133 FN 04:03:45.479 - 1:02:17 PM	Executive Session	modifying the new resident drivers' license transfer requirements, specifying when the division of motor vehicles shall send violation notices, and appropriating funds to the division for technological upgrades required for legal compliance.	Prout, Andrew(R)[A]2024
HB258 04:16:10.199 - 1:14:42 PM	Executive Session	establishing a study commission to determine the readiness of the New Hampshire Seacoast Emergency Evacuation Plan.	Sabourin dit Choinière, Matt(R)
HB259 04:20:39.600 - 1:19:11 PM	Executive Session	relative to increasing the number of handicap license plates and placards the department of motor vehicles may issue to individuals.	Pitaro, Matthew(R)[B+]2022
HB287 04:30:29.279 - 1:29:01 PM	Executive Session	requiring police departments to provide fire departments with certain motorist personal and insurance information following a motor vehicle incident.	Proulx, Mark(R)[B]2024
HB326 04:49:38.878 - 1:48:10 PM	Executive Session	prohibiting the operation of antique passenger vehicles, model year 1968 or older, on state or local highways for more than 20 miles unless the vehicle is fitted or retrofitted with seat or safety belts.	Horrigan, Timothy(D)[CT]2024
HB140 2025 05:14:56.120 - 2:13:28 PM	Executive Session	establishing a voluntary "blue envelope" program for drivers with autism spectrum disorders.	Newell, Jodi(D)[D-]2024

HB119: Representative Henry G, Hillsboro Information Only00:10:54.360 - 9:09:26 AM; Representative Henry G from Hillsboro introduced House Bill 119. He explained that the bill allows rental companies to apply to register a rental fleet and choose New Hampshire as their base jurisdiction under the International Registration Plan (IRP).
HB119: Liz Mow, Department of Motor Vehicles Information Only00:11:48.560 - 9:10:20 AM; Liz Mow from the Department of Motor Vehicles Registration Bureau stated that they do not take a position on the bill. She reviewed the bill and the fiscal note, pointing out that the capability to register passenger vehicles as a fleet in New Hampshire under the IRP already exists. Therefore, no additional staffing as mentioned in the fiscal note would be required. She answered questions from the committee, clarifying that the bill does not change anything about the current offerings and that rental companies can already use New Hampshire as their base jurisdiction if they meet the IRP requirements. She discussed the practical aspects of implementing the bill, including tracking mileage and applying stickers to vehicles.
HB119: Committee Member Information Only00:12:58.560 - 9:11:30 AM; A committee member asked if the bill changes anything about the current offerings, to which Liz Mow responded that it does not. Another committee member inquired about the necessity for implementation and the handling of stickers on rental fleets, to which Liz Mow explained the current process and requirements.
HB119: Committee Member Information Only00:16:00.240 - 9:14:32 AM; A committee member asked about the specificity of the IRP document in relation to the bill's guidelines. Liz Mow clarified that the IRP provides general guidelines, which New Hampshire has adopted as rules, and the bill would be an addition to these rules.
HB119: Unknown Information Only00:16:42.000 - 9:15:14 AM; The speaker questions whether registering rental car vehicles in New Hampshire provides any cost advantage for businesses. They mention that passenger vehicle registration costs the same as a portioned vehicle registration, but the latter tracks fuel tax across states, making it easier for businesses operating in multiple states. However, they are unsure about specific benefits for rental car companies.
HB119: Representative Gki Information Only00:17:58.840 - 9:16:30 AM; Representative Gki asks if there is a time requirement for vehicles registered by rental companies in New Hampshire. The response is that vehicles need only travel one mile in the state to be considered registered. A follow-up question about whether rental companies seek registration for their entire fleet in one state or prefer to spread them out across states due to varying laws remains unanswered.
HB119: Representative Hill Information Only00:18:48.520 - 9:17:20 AM; Representative Hill inquires about the inspection requirements for rental fleets. It is explained that rental fleets must undergo annual safety inspections in New Hampshire. A follow-up question addresses what happens if a vehicle registered in New Hampshire is out of state, to which the response is that the vehicle must have a New Hampshire inspection to drive in the state, but if it's not driving into New Hampshire, it might not have an IRP account.
HB119: Bob Skully, H Motor Transport Association Information Only00:19:34.280 - 9:18:06 AM; Bob Skully from the H Motor Transport Association states they have no position on the bill but believes it is unnecessary as current laws already allow what the bill proposes. He elaborates on truck registration, explaining that companies can choose registration states if they operate in multiple states, but New Hampshire's property tax can make it less advantageous to register here. He gives an example of a rental fleet moving registration from Manchester to Kingsboro, Massachusetts due to high costs, leading to revenue loss for Manchester. He concludes by stating that there is nothing in the bill that can't currently be done.
HB612: Representative Dan Veu, Hillsboro 34, Town of Amherst Support00:26:27.799 - 9:24:59 AM; Representative Dan Veu presents House Bill 612, which aims to simplify the process for youth operators transitioning to adult licenses. He explains that current laws cause unnecessary challenges when birthdays fall on weekends or holidays, requiring multiple visits to the DMV. The bill proposes a temporary license valid for 30 days before the 21st birthday, allowing for a seamless transition to a horizontal license. This would reduce the burden on DMV staff and be cost-effective with a one-time system update. He urges the committee to support the bill.
HB612: Director Morasco, New Hampshire DMV Support00:30:18.080 - 9:28:50 AM; Director Morasco supports HB 612, explaining that the current system often results in young adults receiving vertical licenses post-21 due to early renewal. The bill would allow for a 30-day window to renew online, receive a receipt, and maintain the validity of their current license until the new horizontal license arrives. The system change, costing $48,000, would streamline the process and address issues when birthdays fall on non-working days. He confirms that the system can handle the logistics of printing licenses at the appropriate time.
HB612: Peto, New Hampshire Information Only00:33:50.240 - 9:32:22 AM; Peto sought clarification on whether the proposed legislation would extend the youth license by 30 days beyond the 21st birthday, essentially acting as a temporary license. Director Morasco confirmed that this was correct, explaining that while the youth operator would still be valid beyond their 21st birthday, they would be considered a non-youth operator by law enforcement until they receive their hard copy license in the mail.
HB612: Gon, New Hampshire Information Only00:35:11.640 - 9:33:43 AM; Gon inquired about the feasibility of shifting expiration dates for youth licenses to avoid expiring on their 21st birthday. Director Morasco responded that the current proposal was considered the optimal solution after reviewing various options, indicating that an extension might not be sufficient without the necessary system triggers to facilitate the mailing of new licenses.
HB612: Sykes, New Hampshire Information Only00:36:24.880 - 9:34:56 AM; Sykes asked about the implications of the bill for individuals out of state with expired licenses. Director Morasco explained that the license receipt and the youth operator license would still be valid in the system for 30 days after the 21st birthday, ensuring the licensee's status as an operator in New Hampshire for law enforcement purposes.
HB209 FN: Charlie Stclair, District 5 Laconia Support00:44:05.319 - 9:42:37 AM; Representative Stclair introduced HB209, explaining that it would allow new vehicles to be inspected every two years instead of annually. He argued that new vehicle owners are already incentivized to maintain their vehicles due to warranty requirements and regular oil changes, which include thorough vehicle checks. He believed this bill would benefit taxpayers and was supported by his constituents.
HB209 FN: Hamlin, New Hampshire Information Only00:46:20.079 - 9:44:52 AM; Representative Hamlin asked if the bill applied to commercial vehicles as well. Representative Stclair responded that he believed it did not, as previous discussions had distinguished between private and commercial vehicles, though he offered to confirm this detail.
HB209 FN: Daniel Weed, representing the industry Oppose00:47:09.440 - 9:45:41 AM; Daniel Weed opposed HB209, arguing that extending the inspection period to two years could lead to safety issues, especially for heavy vehicles like 18-wheelers. He criticized the absence of the prime sponsor, a professional pilot, questioning the logic of reducing vehicle inspections while understanding the importance of annual aircraft inspections. He also highlighted the potential financial impact on small businesses, suggesting that the cost of inspections might increase for those with older vehicles.
HB209 FN: G, New Hampshire Information Only00:50:03.559 - 9:48:35 AM; Representative G questioned Daniel Weed about the relationship between government-mandated inspections and the potential cost increase to private vendors if the number of inspections decreased. Weed confirmed that this was his position, indicating that fewer mandated inspections would likely result in higher costs for the remaining inspections.
HB209 FN: McFarland, Orange Support00:50:49.119 - 9:49:21 AM; Representative McFarland supported HB209, stating that while his constituents valued road safety, they were also concerned about the cost of living. He believed that new vehicles, being more reliable, should have a longer inspection period, and he supported the bill for these reasons.
HB209 FN: Allison Brinson, representing New Car In Oppose00:51:35.720 - 9:50:07 AM; Allison Brinson was set to testify against the bill but did not have time to speak in the provided transcript snippet.
HB209 FN: Alicia, Service Manager of New Car Automo in Tilton, New Hampshire Oppose00:51:43.440 - 9:50:15 AM; Alicia provided detailed information on the current state inspection process, highlighting the 13 inspectable items on vehicles. She emphasized that these components do not show 'grace' in terms of time or mileage, meaning that vehicles can fail inspections due to wear and tear well within the thresholds of one or two years of ownership. She shared examples of vehicles failing inspections due to low tire tread and rusted rotors, even on new and older vehicles. Alicia strongly opposed the bill, arguing that the wear on vehicle components is influenced early in a vehicle's life due to salted roads in New Hampshire.
HB209 FN: Bob Scully, representing New Hampshire Motor Transport Association Information Only00:53:58.920 - 9:52:30 AM; Bob Scully clarified that the legislation under discussion, HB209, cannot impact the mandatory annual inspections required for commercial motor vehicles under federal guidelines (49 CFR Code of Federal Regulations 396 appendix A). He noted that these vehicles must be inspected once every 12 months, emphasizing that this requirement is not affected by the proposed bill.
HB209 FN: Dan Bennett, representing New Hampshire Auto Dealers Association Oppose00:54:48.680 - 9:53:20 AM; Dan Bennett, opposing HB209, argued that the bill does not pertain to new vehicles but rather to vehicles that could go up to 24 months with high mileage. He emphasized that the bill would exempt these vehicles from safety inspections for two years, which he believes could lead to increased safety risks on New Hampshire roads. Bennett cited statistics showing a high number of vehicles with unresolved safety recalls and the potential impact of tire conditions on road safety. He referenced a study indicating that states without safety inspections have fewer annual fatalities, but also highlighted the significant increase in youth fatalities in New Hampshire in 2024. Additionally, he discussed the potential environmental and fiscal impacts of the bill, including concerns about EPA approval under the Clean Air Act and the loss of revenue to state and local funds. Bennett provided handouts with detailed information and was open to answering questions from the committee.
HB209 FN: Representative Hill Information Only01:01:48.039 - 10:00:20 AM; Representative Hill asked Dan Bennett if the increase in motor vehicle deaths could be attributed to inspectable items. Bennett clarified that while he does not directly attribute the fatalities to mechanical failures, stopping vehicle inspections could lead to more unsafe vehicles on the road, potentially contributing to increased road unsafety.
HB209 FN: Representative Hlin Information Only01:02:29.640 - 10:01:01 AM; Representative Hlin sought clarification on whether new vehicles, under the bill, would receive a two-year inspection exemption without a sticker. Bennett confirmed that the bill exempts new vehicles from inspection until the last day of the owner's birth month in the second year after purchase, without mentioning a two-year sticker. Hlin also inquired about vehicles repaired after accidents, to which Bennett responded that annual inspections would not assess the quality of body shop repairs but would check items under the state inspection program.
HB209 FN: Representative B Information Only01:05:04.440 - 10:03:36 AM; Representative B asked Bennett about Rhode Island's law, which has a mileage restriction for vehicle inspections. Bennett was not familiar with Rhode Island's program but noted that states weakening their inspection programs often empower law enforcement for more roadside checks, raising concerns about safety and liability for law enforcement.
HB209 FN: Tracy Boris, New Hampshire Motorcyclist Rights Organization Oppose01:07:23.760 - 10:05:55 AM; Tracy Boris, representing the New Hampshire Motorcyclist Rights Organization, opposed the bill, arguing that inspections enhance safety for both motorcycles and cars, particularly concerning tires and brakes. She highlighted the high mileage some riders put on new bikes and stressed the importance of inspections to prevent accidents caused by worn-out parts.
HB209 FN: Scott Aon, New Hampshire State Police Oppose01:09:13.439 - 10:07:45 AM; Scott Aon from the New Hampshire State Police opposed the bill, citing concerns about the lack of a two-year sticker process, which could lead to unnecessary vehicle stops and potential safety risks for officers. He also mentioned the challenges of roadside inspections for electric and all-wheel drive vehicles, emphasizing the importance of annual tire checks, especially in New Hampshire's winter conditions.
HB209 FN: Representative Repro Information Only01:14:12.199 - 10:12:44 AM; Representative Repro asked a question about the validity period of a new car inspection sticker. They inquired if it's possible to have an inspection sticker valid until July 31st, 2026, if a car is purchased in January, or if the longest period possible is until July 2025. The response indicated that the maximum duration for an inspection sticker is two years from the time of registration, though it might be 18 months, and they would need to review the law to confirm.
HB209 FN: Michael Fitzgerald, Department of Environmental Services Information Only01:15:43.960 - 10:14:15 AM; Michael Fitzgerald, Assistant Director of the Air Resources Division at the Department of Environmental Services, provided information on the emissions portion of the vehicle inspection program. He explained that New Hampshire's current emissions inspection is a compromise reached in the early 2000s with the EPA, due to New Hampshire's status in the ozone transport region. He highlighted that the state's inspection program is part of the State Implementation Plan (SIP) approved by the EPA. Fitzgerald noted that if HB209 were to pass, it would result in a loss of emission reductions, necessitating adjustments in other sectors. He suggested that if the bill moves forward, the committee consider language from SB1557 to allow the emissions inspection to remain unchanged until the SIP is revised and approved by the EPA.
HB209 FN: John Morasco, Department of Motor Vehicles Oppose01:20:16.000 - 10:18:48 AM; John Morasco, Director of the Department of Motor Vehicles, expressed opposition to HB209. He stated that the current inspection program works well and does not receive many complaints. Morasco mentioned that any complaints about predatory inspections are addressed through follow-up and audits by state police and automotive equipment inspectors. He cited an example of transparency at a Mazda inspection facility in Concord. Morasco also responded to a question about the possibility of voluntary inspections within the two-year period, indicating he would need to review the bill to provide an accurate answer.
HB209 FN: Representative Hill Information Only01:21:42.600 - 10:20:14 AM; Representative Hill asked John Morasco if anything in HB209 would prohibit someone from voluntarily having their vehicle inspected within the two-year period. Morasco was unsure and would need to check the bill. Hill then inquired if there's a way for someone to request a voluntary inspection, to which Morasco responded that any inspection station could conduct a voluntary inspection, though he was not aware of any formal system similar to voluntary Marine Patrol inspections.
HB209 FN: Ellen Reed, representing Rockingham 10 (Newmarket and Newfields) Support01:31:13.639 - 10:29:45 AM; Ellen Reed, a representative from Rockingham 10, which includes Newmarket and Newfields, spoke in support of HB209, a bill that would allow lane filtering for motorcycles. With 18 years of motorcycle riding experience across 17 states and several countries, Reed emphasized her firsthand knowledge on the subject. She explained that lane filtering, as opposed to lane splitting, is a practice where motorcycles move between lanes at a stoplight or in slow traffic, specifically at speeds of 10 miles per hour or less. Reed highlighted that this practice is legal in 17 states and widely accepted globally, as it improves traffic flow and enhances safety for motorcyclists by reducing the risk of rear-end collisions. She cited examples from Europe, Southeast Asia, and South America where lane filtering is common. Reed also discussed the safety benefits, such as reducing the risk of overheating for both riders and motorcycles, and the importance of allowing motorcyclists the choice to engage in safer road practices. She mentioned the educational component of the bill, which aims to inform both motorcyclists and car drivers, and addressed potential concerns about aggressive drivers and the need for adaptation to new traffic norms. Reed closed her testimony by urging the committee to consider the facts and statistics supporting the bill, emphasizing the responsible nature of most motorcyclists and the need for New Hampshire to align with other states and countries in recognizing lane filtering as a safe and beneficial practice.
HB209 FN: Representative G Support01:46:08.520 - 10:44:40 AM; Representative G expressed support for the bill, focusing on the safety aspect of lane filtering. He shared his personal fear of getting 'sandwiched' between vehicles on his motorcycle and how the current law forces him into a less safe position. He appreciated that the bill would provide an option for motorcyclists to safely move between lanes at low speeds, thus reducing the risk of rear-end collisions. He also highlighted the provision in the bill that makes it illegal to intentionally block a motorcyclist attempting to lane filter, which he sees as a necessary protection. Representative G stressed the societal benefits of motorcycling, including reduced emissions and traffic congestion, and questioned why motorcyclists should be penalized for trying to engage in the safest possible behavior on the road.
HB209 FN: Representative Miller Information Only01:48:17.960 - 10:46:49 AM; Representative Miller sought clarification on how lane filtering would work at intersections, particularly with regard to space allocation for motorcycles. He mentioned his observations from Southeast Asia where motorcyclists often end up in crosswalks. Reed responded by explaining that in New Hampshire, the percentage of motorcyclists at stoplights is not high enough to necessitate specific zones, but communities could create them if desired. She reassured that a motorcycle positioned next to a car at a stoplight would naturally accelerate first due to superior acceleration capabilities, minimizing any potential conflict.
HB209 FN: Representative Foot Information Only01:50:25.599 - 10:48:57 AM; Representative Foot inquired about any available data on increased accidents in states where lane filtering is legal. Reed responded that she could provide such information from an expert who has compiled statistics on this matter, emphasizing that any accidents resulting from lane filtering are typically minor, like mirror taps, and far less severe than rear-end collisions. She stressed the importance of understanding the comparative risk of rear-end collisions for motorcyclists versus car drivers.
HB209 FN: Unidentified Committee Member Information Only01:51:57.960 - 10:50:29 AM; An unidentified committee member asked about the width of lanes and vehicles in New Hampshire to understand the feasibility of lane filtering. Reed explained that while lane widths vary, motorcyclists are responsible for knowing their vehicle's dimensions and ensuring they can safely navigate between lanes. She reiterated that the risk and responsibility lie with the motorcyclist, emphasizing the trade-offs in safety between motorcycles and cars in different scenarios.
HB209 FN: Dan Bennett, New Hampshire Auto Dealers Association Oppose01:54:48.480 - 10:53:20 AM; Dan Bennett from the New Hampshire Auto Dealers Association spoke against the bill, emphasizing that safe roads are a priority for their organization. He highlighted their involvement with the New Hampshire Traffic Safety Commission and the Motorcycle Safety Task Force. Bennett argued that lane filtering at any speed is inappropriate for New Hampshire due to the potential for a significant education curve for both drivers and motorcyclists. He pointed out that the congestion in New Hampshire is not comparable to that in places like California, New York, Southeast Asia, or European cities, suggesting that the conditions do not necessitate lane filtering. He also mentioned recent data showing issues like impairment, distraction, excessive speeds, and mechanical failures, concluding that it is not the right time to introduce a law that could make roads less safe.
HB209 FN: Tracy Bourage, New Hampshire Motorcycle Rights Organization Oppose01:57:07.800 - 10:55:39 AM; Tracy Bourage, representing the New Hampshire Motorcycle Rights Organization, opposed the bill. She emphasized her extensive experience and involvement in motorcycling and safety commissions, arguing that lane filtering could lead to confusion and safety issues due to impaired, reckless, and distracted drivers not understanding the law. Bourage also raised concerns about the cost of implementing such a law, estimating it would far exceed the mentioned $10,000 to $100,000, especially with budget cuts. She noted that many motorcyclists do not understand the difference between lane splitting and filtering, and she shared personal experiences of being upset by lane splitting incidents. Bourage concluded that New Hampshire's road culture and congestion levels are not ready for such a change, and it could lead to negative perceptions and behaviors among other vehicle operators.
HB209 FN: Representative London Information Only02:03:55.199 - 11:02:27 AM; Representative London sought clarification on the types of vehicles commonly used for lane filtering in Europe and Asia, questioning if they were mostly mopeds or motorcycles. Tracy Bourage responded that it's a mixture, with smaller vehicles prevalent in places like India, but larger motorcycles are also used. She highlighted that in New Hampshire, motorcycles are more of a lifestyle choice rather than a mode of transportation.
HB209 FN: Unidentified Committee Member Information Only02:05:22.239 - 11:03:54 AM; An unidentified committee member asked Tracy Bourage to confirm if her opposition to the bill was primarily due to cultural readiness and the potential risk to motorcyclists. Bourage clarified that while cultural readiness is a significant factor, the need for education and the potential funding issues for such education are also critical concerns. She mentioned recent illegal motorcycle behaviors and the need to educate both motorcyclists and the general public, emphasizing that current crash and fatality data do not support the necessity of lane filtering in New Hampshire.
HB209 FN: Representative Pataro Information Only02:07:22.400 - 11:05:54 AM; Representative Pataro asked Tracy Bourage for the difference between lane splitting and lane filtering. Bourage explained that lane splitting involves riding on multi-lane highways between vehicles, while lane filtering involves moving between stopped vehicles at intersections or signals to reach the front of the line. She stressed the potential confusion between the two practices among the public.
HB209 FN: Larry Crow, Department of Motor Vehicle Motorcycle Rider Training Information Only02:08:53.400 - 11:07:25 AM; Larry Crow from the Department of Motor Vehicle Motorcycle Rider Training spoke to provide information without taking a position on the bill. He emphasized the importance of education if the bill were to pass, as the Motorcycle Rider Education Program would be responsible for developing educational guidelines. Crow noted that the program only directly educates a small percentage of new riders and reaches very few existing motor vehicle drivers, indicating the need for a broader outreach campaign. He shared personal experiences of lane filtering in Los Angeles and Europe, acknowledging that while it works elsewhere, New Hampshire might not be ready due to potential road rage and safety concerns. Crow concluded by suggesting a cost-benefit analysis and the need for cooperation among all road users.
HB209 FN: Rimer, Department of Motor Vehicle Motorcycle Rider Training Information Only02:13:21.840 - 11:11:53 AM; Rimer discussed the need for additional stakeholders to develop an effective training program. He mentioned that the proposed budget of $10,000 to $100,000 might be challenging but noted that some external stakeholders could provide funding. He is part of the motorcycle task force and the State Motorcycle Safety Association, which meets nationally. Rimer emphasized the difficulty of implementing educational components and suggested that more time than the proposed 60 days after signing would be necessary for effective creation and implementation of the program.
HB209 FN: Matt Mitui, New Hampshire State Police Oppose02:15:21.280 - 11:13:53 AM; Matt Mitui from the New Hampshire State Police spoke in opposition to the bill, arguing that it would increase crashes. He provided statistics showing a high percentage of motorcycle-related fatalities where the operator was at fault. Mitui highlighted the challenges of implementing educational guidelines on lane splitting and filtering, noting that public education would be necessary, not just for motorcyclists. He pointed out that no northeastern or East Coast states allow filtering, which could lead to misunderstandings and enforcement issues. Mitui also expressed concerns about increased road rage and the potential for confusion among less experienced New Hampshire motorcyclists compared to those in warmer climates. He opposed the idea of motorcycles using breakdown lanes even at low speeds, citing safety and public expectation issues.
HB209 FN: Trooper, New Hampshire State Police Information Only02:21:23.399 - 11:19:55 AM; The trooper responded to a question about police cars being sideswiped during traffic passage, noting that such incidents occur despite the use of lights and sirens. He mentioned that the motorcycle unit no longer uses lights and sirens for escorts due to safety concerns, emphasizing the difficulty of motorcyclists being seen and the potential dangers of the proposed law.
HB209 FN: Representative Crawford Information Only02:22:36.080 - 11:21:08 AM; Representative Crawford inquired about the implications of the bill at toll booths, specifically on busy holidays where traffic backups are common. He asked if motorcyclists might take advantage of the situation to pass other vehicles, potentially causing issues. The response highlighted the potential for road rage and confusion among other motorists unfamiliar with the law, suggesting that the situation could lead to disastrous outcomes.
HB209 FN: Dan Goodman, Triple A Oppose02:24:08.279 - 11:22:40 AM; Dan Goodman from Triple A expressed opposition to the bill but the transcript snippet ends before his full testimony is provided.
HB209 FN: Dan Goodman, Triple A Northern New England Oppose02:24:44.399 - 11:23:16 AM; Dan Goodman, representing Triple A Northern New England, expressed opposition to the bill. He highlighted the dangers associated with lane filtering, citing the increasing number of motorcycle fatalities in New Hampshire over the last 20 years. He noted that motorcycle fatalities are significantly higher than automobile fatalities, with a 20% rise over the last five years. Goodman argued that allowing lane filtering could exacerbate the issue, as drivers may not notice motorcycles passing in the middle lane, especially since blind spot monitoring systems often fail to detect motorcycles. He also mentioned the poor condition of New Hampshire's roads as an additional safety concern.
HB105 FN: Representative Coker Support03:58:01.120 - 12:56:33 PM; Representative Coker made a motion to pass HB105, emphasizing the importance of mitigating cyanobacteria. He highlighted the benefits for his district in Meredith, which is near Lake Winnipesaukee. He argued that the voluntary nature of the license plate would help fund mitigation efforts without raising local taxes, and also serve as a good marketing tool.
HB105 FN: Representative St. Clair Support - 12:56:33 PM; Representative St. Clair seconded the motion to pass HB105 but did not provide further comments.
HB105 FN: Representative SES Support03:58:47.479 - 12:57:19 PM; Representative SES expressed support for the bill, acknowledging potential costs but emphasizing the public relations and awareness benefits of the license plate in addressing cyanobacteria issues.
HB133 FN: Representative Gorski Support04:03:45.479 - 1:02:17 PM; Representative Gorski moved for HB133 to pass, citing support from Secretary David Scanlan and the alignment of the bill with ensuring voting registration compliance. He believed the bill was worthy of passage based on the provided testimony.
HB133 FN: Representative Hlin Support - 1:02:17 PM; Representative Hlin seconded the motion to pass HB133 but did not provide further comments.
HB133 FN: Representative SES Oppose04:04:37.040 - 1:03:09 PM; Representative SES opposed the bill due to concerns over the unfunded costs outlined in the fiscal note, which include technology upgrades and DMV positions. He questioned the lack of cost information from the Secretary of State's office and expressed skepticism about spending on the system during fiscal constraints.
HB133 FN: Representative Miller Oppose04:07:01.600 - 1:05:33 PM; Representative Miller opposed HB133, highlighting additional costs such as printing and postage not accounted for in the fiscal note. As a town moderator, he disagreed with the necessity of the bill for ensuring voting appropriateness, viewing it as more of a political gesture than a solution to a real problem. He also raised concerns about the impact on elderly voters in assisted living facilities.
HB133 FN: Representative G Support04:11:29.000 - 1:10:01 PM; Representative G supported the bill, citing endorsements from the Secretary of State and the Director of Motor Vehicles. He mentioned the availability of a mobile DMV service to address concerns about accessibility for seniors and emphasized the bill's alignment with current law and potential future enforcement measures.
HB258: Representative Hill Oppose04:16:10.199 - 1:14:42 PM; Representative Hill moved to find HB258 inexpedient to legislate, citing numerous issues that required further work. He mentioned the lack of clarity on how members from Massachusetts and other specific representatives would be selected for the proposed commission, and noted the absence of communication about potential amendments.
HB258: Representative Gason Oppose - 1:14:42 PM; Representative Gason seconded the motion to find HB258 inexpedient to legislate but did not provide further comments.
HB259: Representative Gason Support04:20:39.600 - 1:19:11 PM; Representative Gason moved for the bill to pass, emphasizing the support from various advocacy organizations and the handicap community. The bill aims to eliminate the limit on the number of handicap plates that a handicapped individual can obtain, clarifying that it does not affect placards. Gason stressed the enthusiasm of organizations for the bill and the need to address the limitation on plates for handicapped individuals with multiple vehicles.
HB259: Representative of London Information Only04:22:12.720 - 1:20:44 PM; The representative asked a procedural question about the mechanics of applying for and receiving handicap plates, particularly in scenarios where multiple vehicles are owned by handicapped individuals. They were unsure about the process but highlighted the current issue where a handicapped couple can only get one plate, suggesting the bill as a first step to address this.
HB259: Representative SES Oppose04:23:48.680 - 1:22:20 PM; Representative SES expressed ambivalence towards the bill, noting that the DMV was also not particularly supportive. They pointed out that the bill does not address placards and raised concerns about its effectiveness in improving handicap accessibility, suggesting it might not be the right approach to solve the issue.
HB259: Representative G Support04:24:37.040 - 1:23:09 PM; Representative G supported the bill, arguing that license plates are harder to defraud than placards since they are tied to vehicle registration. They highlighted the ease of tracking and accountability with license plates, especially beneficial for handicapped individuals with multiple vehicles.
HB259: Representative Miller Information Only04:26:09.560 - 1:24:41 PM; Representative Miller questioned how the bill would reduce fraud since it does not remove placards from circulation. They expressed concern that the bill might make it easier for fraud if an able-bodied person drives a vehicle with a handicap plate.
HB287: Representative Hill Oppose04:30:29.279 - 1:29:01 PM; Representative Hill moved to declare the bill inexpedient to legislate, citing a federal HIPAA law that does not allow police departments to share victim information with fire departments. They mentioned that police can share information in certain emergency situations but argued that sharing information for billing purposes, like for Speedy Dry, violates HIPAA. They were informed of this issue post-hearing by a lobbyist and were unable to verify the information fully before the session.
HB287: Representative Miller Information Only04:32:55.359 - 1:31:27 PM; Representative Miller sought clarification on the HIPAA information provided, expressing concern over its late arrival and accuracy. They questioned whether the information aligned with their understanding of the law, particularly how it applies to law enforcement.
HB287: Representative A Oppose04:35:55.680 - 1:34:27 PM; Representative A argued that HIPAA does not apply to the exchange of motor vehicle insurance policy numbers for billing purposes, as this information is not medical in nature. They believed the bill should not be deemed inexpedient to legislate based on HIPAA concerns.
HB287: Representative S Oppose04:37:34.199 - 1:36:06 PM; Representative S challenged the HIPAA argument, pointing out that exceptions exist, like the American Red Cross, which can obtain health information. They argued that the bill's fundamentals should be considered and that privacy concerns were overstated, as the information to be exchanged is commonly shared by accident participants. They supported the bill, believing it would help citizens recover costs incurred by fire departments.
HB287: Representative Johnson Information Only04:40:59.280 - 1:39:31 PM; Representative Johnson was in the process of reviewing RSA 264:25 and did not provide a clear stance on the bill but was seeking more information.
HB287: Representative Gorski Information Only04:40:59.280 - 1:39:31 PM; Representative Gorski's input was cut off in the transcript, so no detailed summary can be provided.
HB287: Unidentified Speaker Oppose04:41:20.560 - 1:39:52 PM; The speaker expressed opposition to HB287, citing concerns about legislating conversation between departments. They believe that departments should be able to work out communication issues without legislative intervention. They referenced Representative Gorski's comments and agreed with Representative Sykes's point about the normal sharing of information in accidents. They questioned the effectiveness of the bill in improving inter-departmental relations.
HB287: Representative G Information Only04:42:20.760 - 1:40:52 PM; Representative G provided information that there is already a federal law requiring inter-agency cooperation and communication, which is overseen by FEMA and updated regularly. They suggested that this existing law makes HB287 redundant at the state level.
HB287: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:43:06.440 - 1:41:38 PM; The speaker discussed the challenges small volunteer fire departments face in being aware of and enforcing inter-agency cooperation laws. They expressed the view that the state could intervene to help small towns and fire departments with their operations, indicating the necessity of the bill from their perspective.
HB287: Unidentified Speaker Information Only04:43:53.638 - 1:42:25 PM; The speaker reflected on the debate about HB287 and mentioned the prime sponsor's suggestion about adding penalties for non-compliance. They expressed surprise at the amount of time spent discussing this bill.
HB287: Representative Hill Information Only04:44:41.958 - 1:43:13 PM; Representative Hill suggested recessing the discussion on HB287 to the next executive session to allow time for research on whether the state would be overstepping federal bounds by passing this bill. They emphasized the importance of understanding federal allowances before proceeding.
HB287: Chairman Information Only04:45:29.160 - 1:44:01 PM; The Chairman agreed to Representative Hill's suggestion to recess the discussion on HB287 until the next executive session on February 4th. They acknowledged the spirited debate and the need for further clarity on the issue.
HB326: Representative Guing Oppose04:49:38.878 - 1:48:10 PM; Representative Guing moved for inexpedient to legislate on HB326 FN, citing numerous issues with the bill. They highlighted enforcement difficulties, the potential criminalization of out-of-state collectors, and the significant value loss to antique vehicle owners due to mandatory modifications. They argued that the bill is impractical and detrimental to vehicle collectors.
HB326: Representative Foot Oppose04:51:36.360 - 1:50:08 PM; Representative Foot supported the motion for inexpedient to legislate, stating that the bill is unenforceable and lacks pertinent value. They pointed out New Hampshire's lack of mandatory seat belt laws for most adults, emphasizing the bill's irrelevance.
HB326: Chairman Information Only04:52:22.878 - 1:50:54 PM; The Chairman called for a vote on the motion to find HB326 FN inexpedient to legislate. The motion passed unanimously with a vote of 16-0, and the executive session on this bill was closed.
HB140 2025: Representative Gon Support05:14:56.120 - 2:13:28 PM; Representative Gon moved to pass HB140 FN, which was seconded by Representative Hill. The bill is open for further amendments.
HB140 2025: Representative Gas Information Only05:15:34.360 - 2:14:06 PM; Representative Gas was about to introduce an amendment to HB140 FN, but was interrupted to clarify the amendment number as 2025.
HB140 2025: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:15:49.480 - 2:14:21 PM; The speaker introduced Amendment 2025, which includes PTSD or post-traumatic stress disorder. They mentioned that the amendment was discussed with the bill sponsors and received their agreement. The speaker sought a second on the amendment, which was provided by Representative Coker.
HB140 2025: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:16:40.920 - 2:15:12 PM; The speaker elaborated on Amendment 2025, explaining that it adds autism spectrum trauma and stress-related disorders to the bill. They compared the effects of these disorders to those of autism, noting that individuals with stress-related disorders might escalate during routine traffic stops if not handled properly. The speaker confirmed that this amendment was agreed upon by the bill sponsors to cover all persons who might have issues with escalation.
HB140 2025: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:17:26.878 - 2:15:58 PM; In response to a question, the speaker clarified that while stress-related disorders are not necessarily the same as traumatic brain injury (TBI), they are often treated similarly. They confirmed that the amendment's language would likely cover individuals with TBI as well.
HB140 2025: Representative Stakes Support05:18:16.480 - 2:16:48 PM; Representative Stakes spoke in support of the amendment, sharing a personal story about their deployment to Haiti after the earthquake. They explained the psychological impact of the experience and how returning to civilian life was challenging. They emphasized the importance of the amendment as a lifeline for those suffering from similar conditions, suggesting it would help in understanding and managing such issues during routine interactions like traffic stops.
HB140 2025: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:19:52.760 - 2:18:24 PM; The speaker confirmed that a voice vote would be used for Amendment 2025, as it was not contentious. The amendment was unanimously adopted. The motion on the floor then moved to 'ought to pass as amended' for House Bill 140. A roll call vote was taken, and the motion passed unanimously with a 16-0 vote.
HB140 2025: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:21:24.558 - 2:19:56 PM; The speaker mentioned that the amendment's adoption met the threshold for the consent calendar but, after discussion, decided to place it on the regular calendar. This decision was influenced by Representative Stakes' wish to educate the house floor about the amendment's importance. The session then moved to close and discuss other bills.
HB140 2025: Unidentified Speaker Information Only05:24:10.320 - 2:22:42 PM; The speaker discussed the scheduling and handling of other bills, noting that some required further work and would be rescheduled. They emphasized the importance of early amendment suggestions and subcommittee formations to ensure bills are ready for executive sessions. The session concluded with a plan to schedule hearings and executive sessions for the following week.

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)