Committee Summary for House Transportation (02/04/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB305 00:25:23.880 - 9:22:49 AM	Public Hearing	relative to speed and red-light cameras for traffic enforcement.	Jones, Philip(D)[CT]2024
HB368 00:54:02.640 - 9:51:28 AM	Public Hearing	prohibiting smoking and e-cigarettes in motor vehicles when a passenger is under 16 years of age.	Schmidt, Peter(D)[CT]2024
HB390 01:03:13.559 - 10:00:39 AM	Public Hearing	relative to adding retired fire apparatus (fire trucks) to antique vehicle exemptions.	Pearson, Stephen(R)[B]2024
HB390 03:07:04.640 - 12:04:30 PM	Public Hearing	relative to adding retired fire apparatus (fire trucks) to antique vehicle exemptions.	Pearson, Stephen(R)[B]2024
HB439 03:31:04.520 - 12:28:30 PM	Public Hearing	relative to non-driving related violations and driver's license suspension.	Veilleux, Daniel(D)[F]2024
HB119 04:22:34.000 - 1:20:00 PM	Executive Session	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
HB182 04:25:18.840 - 1:22:44 PM	Executive Session	prohibiting electric vehicles in commercial parking garages.	Proulx, Mark(R)[B]2024
HB239 04:30:18.640 - 1:27:44 PM	Executive Session	defining and enabling lane filtering.	Read, Ellen(D)[D]2024
HB260 2025-139h 04:37:10.561 - 1:34:36 PM	Executive Session	creating a commemorative license plate celebrating the 250th anniversary of Bunker Hill.	Pearson, Stephen(R)[B]2024
HB287 04:52:59.200 - 1:50:25 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
HB612 FN 05:03:23.440 - 2:00:49 PM	Executive Session	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
HB368 05:08:14.600 - 2:05:40 PM	Executive Session	prohibiting smoking and e-cigarettes in motor vehicles when a passenger is under 16 years of age.	Schmidt, Peter(D)[CT]2024

HB305: Representative Jones, Keene Support00:25:23.880 - 9:22:49 AM; Representative Jones, the prime sponsor of House Bill 305, presented the bill which aims to allow municipalities in New Hampshire to install and utilize traffic enforcement cameras for speed and red light monitoring. He highlighted the shortage of police officers across the state, using Keene as an example where they were down 11 officers at one point. Jones emphasized the issue of increasing erratic driving, especially among younger drivers, and cited a recent incident in Keene to underline the urgency of the bill. The bill allows municipalities to bear the costs of the camera systems and collaborate with state departments to ensure compliance with laws. He stressed the importance of municipalities maintaining control over the systems without third-party involvement, unlike other states, to avoid potential privacy issues and commission-based incentives.
HB305: Representative Miller Information Only00:28:11.919 - 9:25:37 AM; Representative Miller asked about the availability of products that could be administered directly by municipalities rather than third parties. He expressed concern over third-party systems taking over the ecosystem and potentially limiting product availability. Representative Jones confirmed that such products exist but noted that many states use third-party systems, which New Hampshire aims to avoid.
HB305: Representative Gorski Information Only00:29:16.559 - 9:26:42 AM; Representative Gorski inquired about the types of violations the cameras would monitor and the process following a detected violation. Representative Jones explained that the cameras would focus on speeding, erratic driving, and red light violations. He mentioned that each municipality would handle the process of issuing violations differently, and while violations could be challenged in court, the system aims to empower local control over enforcement.
HB305: Representative Gon Information Only00:30:35.440 - 9:28:01 AM; Representative Gon asked about the accountability for fines and points on driving records in multi-driver households. Representative Jones responded that it would be up to the enforcement agency to determine this, noting the challenges in identifying the actual driver, which is a common issue with other camera systems that rely solely on license plate data.
HB305: Representative Hlin Information Only00:31:40.760 - 9:29:06 AM; Representative Hlin addressed questions from Representative Gon about the application of the bill to rental or company cars. He clarified that enforcing violations for vehicles not registered to a person would be challenging. He emphasized that the bill aims to target local consistent violators rather than visitors in rental cars. He also discussed the due process concerns, stating that an officer would still be required to issue a summons based on camera footage, similar to using a radar gun.
HB305: Representative St Clair Information Only00:33:35.360 - 9:31:01 AM; Representative St Clair raised a scenario where a traffic light malfunctions and a driver safely treats it as a stop sign but might still receive a ticket from a camera. He expressed concern about the lack of immediate interaction with an officer to explain the situation, which could lead to unnecessary court appearances and associated costs. The response indicated that such a situation would likely be excusable if the driver's identity could not be confirmed, like if they were wearing a motorcycle helmet.
HB305: Edward H from Keene Support00:35:28.119 - 9:32:54 AM; Edward H from Keene, also a city councilor, spoke in support of the bill. He mentioned working with Representative Jones to amend RSA 236:13 to allow local jurisdictions to use traffic cameras. He highlighted their use in 19 states and their effectiveness in areas like school zones, hospital zones, and construction zones, which are particularly hazardous. He noted that these cameras could enhance safety for both the public and law enforcement by reducing the need for officers to stand on busy roads to stop speeders. He addressed concerns about the bill's scope and suggested the need for guardrails, which he hoped the committee would help develop.
HB305: Representative Pyo Information Only00:40:47.079 - 9:38:13 AM; Representative Pyo asked for clarification on the existing use of detection cameras by the state. Edward H explained that they are used on bridges in Portsmouth and Nashua, on entrance and exit ramps of I-93 and I-89, in future state-owned Park and Ride facilities, and by police and DOT dash cams. He also noted that local jurisdictions are currently prohibited from using these devices.
HB305: Representative (Unnamed) Information Only00:42:00.160 - 9:39:26 AM; An unnamed representative inquired if the system could be used in real-time to catch violators immediately. Edward H responded that while it would be possible, it would be labor-intensive and costly, requiring an officer to constantly monitor the system. He mentioned that other states review detections after the fact, with notifications for violations.
HB305: Representative Jones Information Only00:43:42.599 - 9:41:08 AM; Representative Jones mentioned that the issuance of a summons needs to be done by a law enforcement official, emphasizing the procedural requirement for the bill.
HB305: Representative St Clair Information Only00:44:45.960 - 9:42:11 AM; Representative St Clair discussed the potential for cities like Keene to use signage to deter speeding, even without actual cameras, drawing from an example in Daytona Beach, Florida. He questioned if similar signage could be used in New Hampshire.
HB305: Representative Sinclair Information Only00:45:42.480 - 9:43:08 AM; Representative Sinclair raised concerns about the effectiveness of deterrents like empty police cruisers, noting an example in Chesterfield where drivers initially slowed down but soon realized the cruiser was unmanned.
HB305: Unnamed Committee Member Information Only00:46:47.640 - 9:44:13 AM; An unnamed committee member questioned the liability aspect of the bill, specifically the phrase 'jointly and severally liable' for any unlawful operation of camera systems, and sought clarification on its implications.
HB305: Bill Lambert, New Hampshire Department of Transportation Information Only00:47:42.720 - 9:45:08 AM; Bill Lambert from the New Hampshire Department of Transportation provided neutral testimony on the bill. He mentioned the department's experience with speed feedback signs and the variability in their deployment. Lambert also clarified the types of cameras currently in use in the state, emphasizing their specific functions and limitations.
HB368: Representative Seth Miller, Dover Support00:54:02.640 - 9:51:28 AM; Representative Seth Miller from Dover introduced House Bill 368, which prohibits smoking tobacco products or e-cigarettes in a motor vehicle when a child under 16 is present. He outlined the bill's $100 fine and secondary action status, noting it's the third time the bill has been proposed.
HB390: Representative Steve Parson Support01:03:13.559 - 10:00:39 AM; Representative Steve Parson, the prime sponsor of HB390, discussed the need for the bill due to a recent change in interpretation by the DMV regarding antique fire engines. He explained how the bill would allow these vehicles to be registered as antiques, thereby permitting their use in parades without having to be stripped of their fire apparatus. He emphasized the historical significance and the non-commercial use of these vehicles, highlighting their importance to community events and the preservation of fire service history.
HB390: Unnamed Committee Member Information Only01:09:48.080 - 10:07:14 AM; An unnamed committee member clarified that the bill does not affect laws related to impersonating law enforcement and using emergency vehicle lights and sirens, emphasizing that it strictly pertains to antique fire engines and their use in non-commercial settings.
HB390: Representative Patoro Information Only01:10:55.840 - 10:08:21 AM; Representative Patoro sought clarification on the term 'apparatus' used in the bill, questioning its applicability to various types of fire department vehicles. Representative Parson explained that 'apparatus' is an industry term that specifically refers to vehicles used for firefighting, distinguishing them from other vehicles used by fire departments.
HB390: Representative Miller Information Only01:13:23.679 - 10:10:49 AM; Representative Miller asked about the age requirement for fire apparatus to be considered antiques, to which Representative Parson responded that the 20-year threshold was chosen due to the typical service life of fire engines in New Hampshire, considering the harsh road conditions.
HB390: Representative Plemon Information Only01:14:30.040 - 10:11:56 AM; Representative Plemon inquired about the inclusion of other types of fire department vehicles like command vehicles and Hazmat rigs in the bill. Representative Parson clarified that these vehicles do not fall under the definition of 'fire apparatus' and thus are not covered by the bill, except for Hazmat rigs which would be considered apparatus.
HB390: Representative PRL Support01:16:45.320 - 10:14:11 AM; Representative PRL supported the bill, emphasizing the investment and care owners put into their antique fire trucks and the unlikelihood of these vehicles being used illegally. He also mentioned a past bill dealing with ambulances and expressed his interest in preserving those as well.
HB390: Representative Philip Jones, Chester District 3 Support01:23:02.800 - 10:20:28 AM; Representative Jones advocates for amending RSA 266:31 to include a requirement that headlights must be on whenever windshield wipers are active. He emphasizes the simplicity of the amendment, which would add four words to the existing statute, and highlights its potential safety benefits, citing a study from the Renir Institute showing a reduction in accidents during inclement weather in states with similar laws. He addresses enforcement concerns by suggesting public education and the use of programmable billboards, and notes that the amendment would align New Hampshire with 18 other states with such laws. Jones also responds to various questions from other representatives regarding the specifics of enforcement, the applicability to vehicles with automatic wiper systems, and the differentiation between headlights and daytime running lights.
HB390: Edward Hos, Keene Support01:30:54.719 - 10:28:20 AM; Edward Hos, also a city councilor in Keene, supports the bill for enhancing road safety through higher visibility. He draws parallels with motorcycles and modern cars that have automatic lights, emphasizing the importance of visibility not only for the driver but also for other road users, including cyclists. He shares a personal anecdote about the difference in visibility with and without lights on from his experience as a cyclist.
HB390: Ellen Reed, Rockingham 10 (Newmarket and Newfields) Support03:07:04.640 - 12:04:30 PM; Representative Ellen Reed discussed the issue of towing and storage fees faced by individuals, particularly those of low to moderate income, when their vehicles are totaled in accidents not of their fault. She highlighted the current law that allows towing companies, often selected by police without the vehicle owner's input, to charge high fees for towing and storage. Reed pointed out that if the vehicle owner cannot pay these fees within 14 days, the towing company can sell the vehicle, and the state can suspend the driver's license of the individual, even if they are not at fault for the accident and lack the financial means to pay. She argued that this practice is unfair and can be considered a form of debtor's prison, as it prevents people from working due to the loss of their driving privileges. Reed proposed that HB390 would prevent the state from suspending licenses based on unpaid towing and storage fees, and also reinstate licenses for those affected by this issue. She mentioned support from the National Insurance Crime Bureau, which sees the current law as enabling predatory practices by towing companies.
HB390: Richard Alperin, Newmarket Support03:22:51.720 - 12:20:17 PM; Richard Alperin shared a personal story about his son who, after a car accident in Portsmouth, had his vehicle towed and subsequently lost his driver's license due to unpaid towing and storage fees. He emphasized the financial hardship this caused his son, who was supporting two young children on a low income and could not afford the fees. Alperin's son has been without a license since 2016, significantly impacting his ability to maintain employment and support his family. Alperin supported the bill, stating that it was unfair for individuals to lose their licenses over fees they cannot afford, especially when the towing and storage were not their choice.
HB439: Dan Ve, Hillsborough 34 in Amherst Support03:31:04.520 - 12:28:30 PM; Dan Ve, the prime sponsor of HB439, introduced the bill which aims to end the suspension of driver's licenses for non-driving related violations. He emphasized that the bill focuses on fairness, economic mobility, and ensuring traffic laws prioritize public safety over debt collection. Ve clarified that the bill does not affect suspensions related to dangerous driving behaviors such as DUI or reckless driving, but specifically addresses suspensions due to unpaid fines or fees unrelated to driving. He highlighted the negative cycle created by such suspensions, where individuals lose their ability to work and support their families, exacerbating economic hardship. Ve cited a study indicating that 75% of suspended drivers continue to drive due to necessity, not law-breaking intent. He argued that the current system disproportionately affects lower-income residents and does not enhance public safety. Ve mentioned that other states have successfully implemented similar reforms with positive outcomes and noted that while the bill might decrease state revenue from reinstatement fees, it would also reduce administrative burdens on the DMV and support economic growth by keeping people employed.
HB439: Representative London, Nashua Information Only03:34:36.199 - 12:32:02 PM; Representative London from Nashua, expressed concerns about the potential impact of HB439 on non-moving violations in densely populated areas. He questioned the recourse for individuals who continually violate non-moving rules like blocking hydrants or driveways and disregard tickets. He sought clarification on alternative penalties if the current system of license suspension for such violations were to be removed.
HB439: Dan Ve, Hillsborough 34 in Amherst Support03:35:53.319 - 12:33:19 PM; In response to Representative London's query, Dan Ve suggested that alternative measures like towing and debt collection could be used to address violations such as blocking hydrants or driveways. He reiterated the bill's intent to prevent the cycle of poverty caused by suspending licenses for non-driving related fines.
HB439: Representative Johnson Information Only03:36:25.399 - 12:33:51 PM; Representative Johnson inquired about any overlap between HB439 and the previously discussed HB414. Dan Ve clarified that HB439 deals specifically with license suspensions due to unpaid fines unrelated to motor vehicle violations, such as those from other states or court payments, and not directly related to HB414. He also mentioned that the bill was drafted with help from Representative Sher, but he was unsure if it was based on a previous bill from last term, House Bill 650.
HB439: Representative Pataro Information Only03:37:42.560 - 12:35:08 PM; Representative Pataro asked about the process of license suspension under HB439, specifically if the DMV acts on its own or receives directives from the courts. Dan Ve responded that he believed the process involved courts sending notices to the DMV to execute the suspension, but he was unsure if the DMV had the discretion to act independently.
HB439: Representative Fox Information Only03:38:15.000 - 12:35:41 PM; Representative Fox requested data on the number of current license suspensions due to non-payment of fines unrelated to driving. Dan Ve admitted he did not have direct numbers on this issue.
HB439: Representative Hill Information Only03:38:55.880 - 12:36:21 PM; Representative Hill inquired about the process of license suspension, specifically whether it is mandatory or if there is any leeway for the director of the DMV. He was informed that once a suspension comes down from the court, it is mandatory for the DMV to follow through.
HB439: Representative Bu Sh from Rockingham District 26, Portsmouth Ward 3 Support03:39:57.399 - 12:37:23 PM; Representative Bu Sh from Rockingham District 26, also known as Portsmouth Ward 3, and an elected Police Commissioner in Portsmouth, spoke in support of HB439. He noted that there are already mechanisms in place for dealing with individuals who fail to pay fines or do not appear in court, such as the bail system under RSA 597:7 and RSA 604-A:2-f, which he described as more targeted and effective than license suspension. He argued that suspending someone's license for failure to pay fines or appear in court can hinder their ability to attend court or maintain employment, which is counterproductive. He is open to working with the committee to include additional moving violations in the bill if necessary and mentioned support from Americans for Prosperity. He also noted a pending bill in the House Criminal Justice Committee that would extend the time for people to pay fines from 30 to 90 days.
HB439: Brandy Cid, Administrator of the Bureau of Financial Responsibilities, Department of Motor Vehicles Information Only03:51:05.960 - 12:48:31 PM; Brandy Cid from the Department of Motor Vehicles provided information on the process of license suspension. She explained that if a citation is served in hand, there are instructions on how to pay or enter a plea. After 30 days of non-payment, a notice of default is sent with a suspension date if no action is taken. She clarified that DMV sends one notification by mail to the address on file, and no further notices are sent after the notice of default.
HB439: Unidentified Speaker Information Only03:53:32.880 - 12:50:58 PM; The unidentified speaker asked about the creation of repeat offenders due to inadequate notification and sought clarification on the number of suspensions related to the bill. They questioned the specifics of the 14,000 suspensions mentioned earlier and whether it was possible to distinguish reasons for those suspensions. They also inquired about the number of defaults not related to motor vehicle violations. The speaker received a response that in 2013, approximately 45,000 defaults were received at the DMV, with 3,500 of those being part of the defaults allowed under the proposed law, which includes DWI, aggravated DWI, reckless operation of a boat, and reckless driving.
HB119: Representative Gorski Oppose04:22:34.000 - 1:20:00 PM; Representative Gorski moved for an Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL) recommendation on HB119, stating that the bill was unnecessary because the capabilities it proposed were already available according to the DMV. The motion was seconded by Representative Hill, who agreed with Gorski's reasoning for recommending ITL.
HB182: Representative Gorski Oppose04:25:18.840 - 1:22:44 PM; Representative Gorski moved for an Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL) recommendation on HB182, citing concerns over encroachment on private property rights. He noted that major employers had invested in charging stations in their garages, and passing such a law would suggest that their investment was a bad decision. He also mentioned that if electric vehicles were unsafe, the issue should be addressed with manufacturers, not by penalizing users. The motion was seconded by Representative Miller, who supported Gorski's views on the bill's overreach into private property.
HB239: Representative CER Oppose04:30:18.640 - 1:27:44 PM; Representative CER moved for an Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL) recommendation on HB239, stating that the bill, as written, was too rough and posed more safety issues than benefits. He believed the bill could not be salvaged in its current form.
HB239: Unidentified Committee Member Support04:31:25.080 - 1:28:51 PM; An unidentified committee member expressed hope that the bill could be retained for further discussion, citing the need for education on lane filtering and potential writing changes, such as addressing the use of the breakdown lane. They noted that similar legislation was being considered in other states and believed New Hampshire should lead in this area.
HB239: Representative St. Clair Support04:32:25.680 - 1:29:51 PM; Representative St. Clair hoped that the topic of lane filtering would be revisited with a different bill in the future, indicating a belief in the potential of the concept but not in the current bill's form.
HB239: Unidentified Committee Member Oppose04:32:25.680 - 1:29:51 PM; An unidentified committee member, who has long experience with riding on streets, understood the issues with distraction and potential future problems with autonomous vehicles. However, they could not support the bill due to its current writing and unintended consequences. They mentioned that the bill's silence on breakdown lane use was noted by the Speaker, suggesting that this aspect could be addressed in a separate bill in the next year.
HB260 2025-139h: Representative Be Support04:37:10.561 - 1:34:36 PM; Representative Be moved for an Ought to Pass recommendation on HB260, and the motion was seconded by Representative Guysin. No further comments were made by Representative Be on the motion itself.
HB260 2025-139h: Representative V Support04:38:20.438 - 1:35:46 PM; Representative V moved Amendment 2025-139h to HB260, which was seconded by Representative Hamlin. Representative V explained that the amendment changed the focus from commemorating the 250th anniversary of Bunker Hill to celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence, which was deemed more relevant and had broader appeal. The amendment also addressed DMV's requests for setting fees and a distribution process for the plates.
HB260 2025-139h: Representative Hill Information Only04:38:50.879 - 1:36:16 PM; Representative Hill raised a question about the amendment, noting that it appeared to only provide a front license plate while charging $25 for 'plates'. He sought clarification on whether only one plate would be provided and why it wouldn't be a cover plate for both front and rear. The issue was discussed, and it was clarified that the commemorative plate statute only deals with the front plate and that any minor issues could be addressed in the enrolled bill process.
HB260 2025-139h: Representative St. Clair Information Only04:43:25.040 - 1:40:51 PM; Representative St. Clair expressed confusion over the decision to allow only one license plate for a year on vehicles, referencing previous discussions about similar issues with specialty vehicles and the potential for lost revenue or enforcement issues. He hoped the committee would remember this decision when considering similar future bills.
HB260 2025-139h: Representative Gorski Information Only04:45:51.958 - 1:43:17 PM; Representative Gorski discusses the potential for the bill to set a precedent for freedom of expression on vehicle fronts. They believe it could be a gateway for individuals to express themselves through the front of their vehicles.
HB260 2025-139h: Representative Fox Information Only04:45:51.958 - 1:43:17 PM; Representative Fox expresses gratitude towards Representative St. Clair for reminding them of previous positions taken on similar bills. They were initially inclined to view the bill as benign but, after St. Clair's reminder, decided to vote against it.
HB260 2025-139h: Representative Sykes Support04:45:51.958 - 1:43:17 PM; Representative Sykes supports the bill, highlighting the context of individual freedom of expression on vehicle fronts. They appreciate the reminder from Representative St. Clair about the importance of this aspect.
HB260 2025-139h: Representative Crawford Information Only04:48:16.638 - 1:45:42 PM; Representative Crawford questions the revenue potential from the commemorative plates, suggesting that the number of sales might not be significant enough to generate substantial revenue for the state.
HB260 2025-139h: Representative Hamlin Information Only04:49:21.360 - 1:46:47 PM; Representative Hamlin clarifies that the bill does not include motorcycles, which only use rear plates. They discuss the size difference between passenger vehicle plates and motorcycle plates, indicating that the bill does not apply to motorcycles.
HB260 2025-139h: Representative Gorski Information Only04:50:47.878 - 1:48:13 PM; Representative Gorski moves to pass the bill as amended. The motion is seconded and passes with a vote of 12 to 4.
HB287: Representative Gorski Oppose04:52:59.200 - 1:50:25 PM; Representative Gorski moves for an 'inexpedient to legislate' (ITL) on HB287, arguing against legislating communication between departments. They believe such matters should be worked out internally without the need for new laws.
HB287: Representative Hill Oppose04:54:13.760 - 1:51:39 PM; Representative Hill apologizes for a previous confusion between HIPAA and FOIA, clarifying it was the Driver Privacy Act that affects the bill. They mention their chief of police from Northfield supported the bill, but the Chiefs of Police Association did not care either way, leading them to vote against the ITL motion.
HB287: Representative SES Oppose04:55:36.320 - 1:53:02 PM; Representative SES votes against the ITL motion, stating there is no harm in the bill and it could provide guidance to help small volunteer fire departments. They believe it's beneficial to support these departments in gaining necessary information.
HB287: Representative Miller Information Only04:56:38.480 - 1:54:04 PM; Representative Miller seeks clarification on the law affecting information sharing between police and fire departments, identifying it as 261:44, related to motor vehicle records and privacy.
HB287: Representative Fox Information Only04:57:46.638 - 1:55:12 PM; Representative Fox discusses the practical issue of fire departments not typically having direct access to personal information post-incident, which the police do collect. They question the bill's necessity in light of existing laws on personal information privacy.
HB287: Representative Hill Information Only04:59:07.120 - 1:56:33 PM; Representative Hill recalls a specific accident where environmental straw tubes were used, suggesting that in certain circumstances, sharing information could be justified. They note the complexity of sharing information during investigations.
HB287: Representative Gorski Information Only05:01:12.400 - 1:58:38 PM; Representative Gorski moves for an ITL on HB287, which passes with a vote of 9 to 7.
HB612 FN: Representative Au Support05:03:23.440 - 2:00:49 PM; Representative Au moves to pass HB612 FN, stating that it helps young people transition to a standard operator license and reduces administrative burden on the DMV by avoiding the need for duplicate licenses.
HB612 FN: Representative St. Clair Support05:04:24.920 - 2:01:50 PM; Representative St. Clair seconds the motion to pass HB612 FN, agreeing with the benefits mentioned by Representative Au. The bill passes unanimously with a vote of 16 to 0.
HB368: Representative Pataro Oppose05:08:14.600 - 2:05:40 PM; Representative Pataro moves for an ITL on HB368, stating that the bill is not needed.
HB368: Representative G Oppose05:08:14.600 - 2:05:40 PM; Representative G views the bill as an invasion of property rights and privacy.
HB368: Representative SES Support05:08:14.600 - 2:05:40 PM; Representative SES supports the bill, citing its history with the Student-led Health Initiative and the proven negative health effects of secondhand smoke. They emphasize the need to protect children who have no control over smoking in vehicles they ride in, drawing parallels to seat belt laws.
HB368: Representative St. Clair Information Only05:11:54.440 - 2:09:20 PM; Representative St. Clair's testimony was not provided in the transcript provided.
HB368: Representative Gorski Oppose05:12:39.400 - 2:10:05 PM; Representative Gorski expressed disappointment over the absence of the bill's sponsor and highlighted the impact of student testimonies from a previous discussion. He supports the bill despite doubts about its passage on the floor, citing the secondary enforcement aspect as a reason for his vote. He believes that if individuals are not cautious enough to stop smoking or vaping before being pulled over, they should face the consequences. He sees the bill as sending a worthwhile message despite its probable failure on the floor.
HB368: Representative St. Clair Support05:13:56.200 - 2:11:22 PM; Representative St. Clair reiterated his support for the bill, emphasizing the rationale for secondary enforcement. He argued that it's impractical for law enforcement to identify smoking or vaping while a vehicle is in motion, but if a stop occurs and smoking or vaping is evident, it opens an opportunity for education or enforcement. He believes that primary enforcement would be too challenging and could lead to misuse of probable cause.
HB368: Representative Johnson Support05:15:34.920 - 2:13:00 PM; Representative Johnson shared a personal anecdote, stating he wishes the bill had existed during his childhood. He supports the bill, believing it would have protected him from secondhand smoke in vehicles.
HB368: Representative Hill Oppose05:16:42.160 - 2:14:08 PM; Representative Hill argued against the bill, highlighting the difficulty in determining the age of passengers and the futility of the law if drivers maintain control of their vehicles. He questioned the purpose of the bill, suggesting it would not effectively achieve its goal.
HB368: Representative Miller Support05:17:35.280 - 2:15:01 PM; Representative Miller defended the bill, emphasizing the importance of incremental improvements in legislation. He argued that the bill helps protect those who cannot protect themselves, acknowledging that it is not a complete solution but a step in the right direction.
HB368: Representative Gays Oppose05:17:35.280 - 2:15:01 PM; Representative Gays expressed concerns about privacy and the government's reach into personal spaces, such as homes and vehicles. He acknowledged the health concerns of smoking around children but argued against legislating adult conduct in private spaces, citing constitutional issues.
HB368: Committee Clerk Information Only05:19:00.360 - 2:16:26 PM; The committee clerk conducted a roll call vote on House Bill 368, resulting in a recommendation of inexpedient to legislate, with a vote count of 7 in favor and 9 against. The bill was moved to the regular calendar.
HB368: Chairman Walsh Information Only05:19:00.360 - 2:16:26 PM; Chairman Walsh closed the executive session on HB368 and discussed future committee meetings and session days, including the upcoming presentation of the governor's budget proposal. He also mentioned adjustments to the calendar for upcoming bills and session scheduling.
HB368: Representative Sykes Information Only05:19:58.920 - 2:17:24 PM; Representative Sykes discussed the strategy for defending the committee's report on the floor, mentioning that they would not push for a voice vote unless opposition arises.
HB368: Representative Piatro Information Only05:21:58.878 - 2:19:24 PM; Representative Piatro confirmed his readiness to defend the conservation license plate bill for Cyano bacteria on the floor, despite its move to the regular calendar due to a higher fiscal note than anticipated.
HB368: Representative Blondon Information Only05:24:20.200 - 2:21:46 PM; Representative Blondon confirmed the scheduling of the next committee meeting for the following Tuesday and discussed the timing around the school break and the legislative calendar.

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)