Committee Summary for Senate Executive Departments and Administration (02/05/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
SB178 00:01:34.799 - 8:00:35 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the department of health and human services laboratory services for testing of water supplies.	Gray, James(R)[C+]2024
SB196 0084s 04:06:58.399 - 12:05:59 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the exemption from competitive bidding requirements for certain state agency projects.	Watters, David(D)[CT]2024
SB199 04:21:00.040 - 12:20:01 PM	Public Hearing	relative to establishing a new recruitment and retention program for new New Hampshire state troopers.	Watters, David(D)[CT]2024
SB201 0084s 05:04:59.120 - 1:04:00 PM	Public Hearing	relative to classified and unclassified positions.	Innis, Daniel(R)[C+]2024
SB286 05:19:05.200 - 1:18:06 PM	Public Hearing	creating the New Hampshire office of film and creative media.	Innis, Daniel(R)[C+]2024
SB196 2024-0084s 04:06:58.399 - 12:05:59 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the exemption from competitive bidding requirements for certain state agency projects.	Watters, David(D)[CT]2024
SB199 04:22:00.279 - 12:21:01 PM	Public Hearing	relative to establishing a new recruitment and retention program for new New Hampshire state troopers.	Watters, David(D)[CT]2024
SB201 2024-0084s 05:04:59.120 - 1:04:00 PM	Public Hearing	relative to classified and unclassified positions.	Innis, Daniel(R)[C+]2024
SB286 05:19:05.200 - 1:18:06 PM	Public Hearing	creating the New Hampshire office of film and creative media.	Innis, Daniel(R)[C+]2024
SB196 2024-0084s 05:52:15.160 - 1:51:16 PM	Executive Session	relative to the exemption from competitive bidding requirements for certain state agency projects.	Watters, David(D)[CT]2024
SB201 2024-0084s 05:50:09.200 - 1:49:10 PM	Executive Session	relative to classified and unclassified positions.	Innis, Daniel(R)[C+]2024
SB201 2024-0084s 05:04:59.120 - 1:04:00 PM	Executive Session	relative to classified and unclassified positions.	Innis, Daniel(R)[C+]2024
SB286 05:19:05.200 - 1:18:06 PM	Public Hearing	creating the New Hampshire office of film and creative media.	Innis, Daniel(R)[C+]2024
SB286 05:47:59.798 - 1:47:00 PM	Executive Session	creating the New Hampshire office of film and creative media.	Innis, Daniel(R)[C+]2024
SB201 0084s 05:04:59.120 - 1:04:00 PM	Public Hearing	relative to classified and unclassified positions.	Innis, Daniel(R)[C+]2024
SB201 0084s 05:48:55.360 - 1:47:56 PM	Executive Session	relative to classified and unclassified positions.	Innis, Daniel(R)[C+]2024
SB286 05:19:05.200 - 1:18:06 PM	Public Hearing	creating the New Hampshire office of film and creative media.	Innis, Daniel(R)[C+]2024
SB2011 0084s 05:53:27.878 - 1:52:28 PM	Executive Session	relative to the classification of state positions	Likely Text to Speech Error on Bill #
SB286 05:48:55.360 - 1:47:56 PM	Executive Session	creating the New Hampshire office of film and creative media.	Innis, Daniel(R)[C+]2024
SB2011 05:53:27.878 - 1:52:28 PM	Executive Session	Unclear	Likely Text to Speech Error on Bill #
SB196 05:52:15.160 - 1:51:16 PM	Executive Session	relative to the exemption from competitive bidding requirements for certain state agency projects.	Watters, David(D)[CT]2024
SB194 06:03:08.798 - 2:02:09 PM	Executive Session	relative to qualifications for cosmetologists and relative to membership on the board of barbering, cosmetology, and esthetics.	Watters, David(D)[CT]2024
SB188 06:10:04.440 - 2:09:05 PM	Executive Session	allowing independent permitting and inspections, and allowing local governments to authorize licensed engineers and architects to perform building code inspections.	Murphy, Keith(R)[B+]2024
SB92 81 06:18:05.280 - 2:17:06 PM	Executive Session	relative to the collection of birth worksheet information.	Rosenwald, Cindy(D)[CT]2024
SB179 06:26:22.080 - 2:25:23 PM	Executive Session	to administratively attach the state council on housing stability to the department of health and human services.	Gray, James(R)[C+]2024
SB180 06:28:33.840 - 2:27:34 PM	Executive Session	designating Coos county as a distressed place-based economy.	Rochefort, David(R)

SB178: James Gray, Senator from Senate District 6, representing Alton, Rochester, and Strafford Support00:01:34.799 - 8:00:35 AM; Senator Gray introduced Senate Bill 178, which aims to adjust how fees for laboratory testing services related to drinking water are managed. Currently, these fees are set in statute, which he considers problematic as it limits flexibility. The bill proposes allowing these fees to be set by administrative rules, similar to other fees in the state. This change was suggested after discussions with the Department of Health and Human Services, who expressed a desire to retain all fees collected for use within the laboratory rather than distributing them to other government functions. Senator Gray supports this bill as a way to improve the efficiency and responsiveness of laboratory services.
SB178: Abby Rogers, Legislative Liaison for the Division of Public Health Services, and Dr. Funan Gal, Director of Public Health Laboratories Support00:03:33.959 - 8:02:34 AM; Abby Rogers and Dr. Funan Gal testified in support of Senate Bill 178. They thanked Senator Gray for bringing the bill forward and highlighted its importance for the Public Health Laboratories' mission to protect public health in New Hampshire. Dr. Gal explained that the bill was requested by the Department and would bring all public health laboratory fees under the rule-making process, allowing for a more consistent and unified approach to setting fees. They also mentioned that other laboratory fees are already managed through rules, and this bill would align the water lab fees with those practices.
SB178: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:06:09.199 - 8:05:10 AM; The speaker discusses the operations of the water lab, which provides testing services to various constituencies including the State Beach Program for sea and freshwater, shellfish programs, and volunteer river and lake assessment programs. In 2024, the lab conducted tests on 16,590 water samples, including 2,560 tests on samples from private wells.
SB178: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:06:55.080 - 8:05:56 AM; The speaker explains that the current water lab fees are outlined in RSA 131, col 3-a, originally set by the Department of Environmental Services in 2011. When DHHS took over the lab in 2021, it inherited these fees. The speaker notes that all other public health laboratory fees are regulated except for water testing fees. The legislation aims to include water lab fees in the rule-making process for a consistent approach to setting fees.
SB178: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:07:41.000 - 8:06:42 AM; The speaker further elaborates on the need to bring all public health laboratory fees, including water lab fees, into the rule-making process. This would ensure a unified approach to setting fees. The speaker is open to answering questions and mentions that other rules for the public health lab are due for an update in 2026. The reason for the current statute-based fees is unclear to the speaker.
SB178: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:06:55.080 - 8:05:56 AM; The speaker was finishing their testimony at 00:07:41.000, discussing the current situation with water lab fees under RSA 131:3-a. Originally instituted by the Department of Environmental Services in 2011, these fees were taken over by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). The speaker noted that all other public health laboratory fees are regulated through rule-making except for water testing fees. The legislation being discussed aims to bring all Public Health Laboratory (PHL) fees into the rule-making process for a more consistent and unified approach.
SB178: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:07:41.000 - 8:06:42 AM; The speaker continued their testimony, emphasizing the need for all PHL fees to be included in the rule-making process for a more unified approach. They mentioned that other PHL rules are due for an update in 2026, suggesting that including water lab fees under these rules would be beneficial. The speaker also addressed questions about why water lab fees were originally placed in statute rather than administrative rules, admitting uncertainty about the historical reasons but stating that the current situation was inherited from previous decisions.
SB178: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:07:41.000 - 8:06:42 AM; The unidentified speaker concluded their testimony regarding the Public Health Laboratory (PHL) fees and the rule-making process. They mentioned the importance of setting consistent and unified fees for the PHL and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to testify. They also indicated their willingness to address any questions from the committee.
SB178: Dr. Gal Information Only00:07:41.000 - 8:06:42 AM; Dr. Gal mentioned that other rules for the Public Health Lab are currently in place and due for an update in 2026. They advocated for including the water lab fees under these rules to ensure a comprehensive update.
SB178: Committee Members Information Only00:07:41.000 - 8:06:42 AM; The committee members asked about the rationale for placing the rules in statute rather than administrative rules originally. The response was that the rules were inherited in statute from the time they were first implemented.
SB196 0084s: Senator David Waters, District 4 Support04:06:58.399 - 12:05:59 PM; Senator Waters introduced Senate Bill 196, which aims to exempt certain state agency projects from competitive building requirements. He highlighted that the bill was brought forward by Major General Mes of Military Affairs and Veteran Services to streamline their project development process. The amendment eliminates the second part of the bill, focusing only on the first part, which adjusts the threshold for project size from $500,000 to $1 million. This adjustment is seen as an inflationary measure, allowing the department to handle projects internally with existing staff. Waters mentioned a conversation with an executive counselor indicating some concerns but believes that the change is appropriate. He also noted that the fiscal note reflects the department's ability to handle additional work internally.
SB196 0084s: Major General David Mtis, Adjutant General of New Hampshire National Guard Support04:11:02.600 - 12:10:03 PM; Major General Mtis testified in support of Senate Bill 196, emphasizing that the bill only changes the project size threshold from $500,000 to $1 million and updates the department's name to reflect its 2019 change. He clarified that the bill does not aim to bypass competitive bidding or statutory requirements for Governor and Executive Council approval. Using analogies, he explained that the adjustment accounts for inflation and allows the department to efficiently manage smaller projects internally. He also mentioned that the department executed over $52 million in projects last year and that bandwidth and efficiency are major issues. The General addressed concerns from executive counselors, stating that the bill does not change existing statutory text but adjusts for inflation.
SB196 0084s: Charlie Arlinghouse, Commissioner of Administrative Services Information Only04:19:10.880 - 12:18:11 PM; Commissioner Arlinghouse provided information on Senate Bill 196, explaining that historically, three agencies, including the military, have been exempt from certain project oversight due to their internal staffing capabilities. He supported the bill, stating that adjusting the threshold to $1 million for these agencies makes sense and aligns with the department's ability to handle projects internally. He emphasized that this adjustment does not require these agencies to handle projects internally but allows them the flexibility to do so if they choose. Arlinghouse also noted the collaborative nature of project handling among agencies, stating that if additional support is needed, they can request it.
SB199: Senator David Waters, District 4 Support04:21:00.040 - 12:20:01 PM; Senator Waters introduced Senate Bill 199, which aims to establish a recruitment and retention program for New Hampshire state troopers. He explained the background of previous recruitment and retention efforts for first responders, including a successful tuition assistance program. He highlighted the current shortage of state troopers and the importance of the proposed program to help address this issue. The bill proposes funding from the highway fund to provide bonuses for new hires and referral fees, with safeguards through the fiscal committee. Waters stressed the need for the program to ensure adequate trooper staffing, particularly in smaller towns and for highway safety.
SB199: Matt Uchi, New Hampshire State Police Support04:28:33.800 - 12:27:34 PM; Matt Uchi from the New Hampshire State Police testified in support of Senate Bill 199. He emphasized the need for the recruitment and retention program due to the state's current trooper vacancy rate of 17%. Uchi noted the challenges of attracting out-of-state applicants due to housing and relocation issues and mentioned that many other agencies offer sign-on bonuses. He provided statistics showing the state police's efforts to recruit and the potential benefits of the proposed program in maintaining a competitive edge in law enforcement hiring.
SB199: Ann Perello, Chief of Police in Pelham, New Hampshire, President of Hillsborough County Chiefs of Police Association, and Sergeant-at-Arms with New Hampshire Chiefs of Police Association Oppose04:30:32.000 - 12:29:33 PM; Ann Perello testified in opposition to Senate Bill 199, emphasizing that the recruitment and retention issue is a national problem that should be addressed at the state level, not just for state troopers. She argued that the proposed bill creates a two-tier system by using highway funds to benefit only state police, while other agencies also face staffing shortages. Perello mentioned other legislative efforts aimed at addressing recruitment and retention across all agencies, such as House Bill 59 and House Bill 445, which she believes offer a more comprehensive solution. She stressed the importance of working collaboratively to solve the issue.
SB201 0084s: Grant Bossy, Deputy Chief of Staff for the New Hampshire Senate Support05:04:59.120 - 1:04:00 PM; Grant Bossy introduced Senate Bill 201 on behalf of Senator Dan Inis, stating that the bill was requested by the Commissioner of Administrative Services. The bill proposes four main changes: creating a process for converting certain state positions to classified salary positions, amending the department's rulemaking authority around unclassified employees, reenacting a repealed provision related to healthcare premium payments, and authorizing temporary salary grades for newly legislated unclassified positions. Bossy described the bill as benign and housekeeping in nature, aimed at improving the state's employment practices.
SB201 0084s: Charlie Arlinghouse, Commissioner of Administrative Services Support05:06:41.120 - 1:05:42 PM; Commissioner Arlinghouse supported Senate Bill 201, describing it as a housekeeping bill that addresses various employment-related issues. He explained that the bill would allow classified employees to voluntarily move to a salaried position, reducing the need for hourly time cards. He also discussed the limited rulemaking authority, the reenactment of a repealed healthcare provision, and the creation of temporary salary grades for new unclassified positions. Arlinghouse emphasized that these changes are necessary to improve the state's employment practices and align with federal regulations.
SB286: Grant Bossy, Deputy Chief of Staff for the New Hampshire Senate Support05:19:05.200 - 1:18:06 PM; Grant Bossy introduced Senate Bill 286 on behalf of Senator Dan Inis, advocating for the establishment of the New Hampshire Office of Film and Creative Media. He highlighted the potential economic benefits of attracting film productions to the state, including job creation and increased economic activity. The bill proposes a 25% tax credit for qualifying film production expenses and an appropriation of $500,000 per year to run the office. Bossy mentioned successful tax credit programs in other states and the potential for New Hampshire to capitalize on its scenic locations.
SB286: Aubrey Friedman, Bridgewater Oppose05:22:44.920 - 1:21:45 PM; Aubrey Friedman opposed Senate Bill 286, arguing that New Hampshire has managed without a film office for over 200 years and that government should not be involved in the entertainment industry. He criticized the creation of a new bureaucracy and questioned the effectiveness of tax credit programs in other states. Friedman suggested that a low-tax, low-cost environment is more conducive to attracting businesses than special incentives for the film industry.
SB286: Tim Massina, Studio Lab and Events United, based out of Derry, New Hampshire Support05:27:44.120 - 1:26:45 PM; Tim Massina, representing Studio Lab and Events United, supported Senate Bill 286. He explained the challenges his companies face due to the lack of a film office and tax incentives, citing examples of lost business to Massachusetts. Massina shared statistics from Oregon, a state without sales tax, showing significant economic growth due to its film incentive program. He emphasized the importance of a film office as a gateway for studios and the potential for job retention and growth, particularly for younger generations interested in the film industry.
SB286: Tina Sautel, CEO and President of The Music Hall in Portsmouth, New Hampshire Support05:35:52.798 - 1:34:53 PM; Tina Sautel, CEO of The Music Hall, supported Senate Bill 286, focusing on the economic development opportunities for independent filmmaking in New Hampshire. She highlighted the Music Hall's acquisition of the New Hampshire Film Festival and its potential for growth with the creation of a film office. Sautel provided economic impact statistics from Portsmouth and other states, emphasizing the potential for increased economic activity and job creation through film production incentives.
SB286: Lauren O'Sullivan, Senior Financial Analyst with the Department of Revenue Administration Information Only05:42:04.120 - 1:41:05 PM; Lauren O'Sullivan from the Department of Revenue Administration provided information on Senate Bill 286, explaining how the department interprets the proposed tax credit. She clarified that the payroll tax credit is not geographically limited to New Hampshire, as long as certain criteria are met, and there is no limit to the number of eligible employees. O'Sullivan also explained that the production tax credit may be claimed for expenses incurred anywhere connected to filming in New Hampshire, provided the company meets specific eligibility criteria.
SB196 2024-0084s: Senator David Waters, District 4 Support04:06:58.399 - 12:05:59 PM; Senator Waters introduced Senate Bill 196, which aims to exempt certain state agency projects from competitive bidding requirements. He highlighted that the bill was brought forward by Major General David Mesis of the Department of Military Affairs and Veteran Services to streamline their project development process. The amendment eliminates the second part of the bill, focusing only on the first part which raises the threshold for in-house project handling from $500,000 to $1 million. This change is seen as an inflationary adjustment to reflect the increased costs of projects, allowing the department to handle projects internally without the need for competitive bidding.
SB196 2024-0084s: Major General David Mesis, Adjutant General of the New Hampshire National Guard Support04:11:02.600 - 12:10:03 PM; Major General Mesis supported the bill, explaining that it does not aim to circumvent competitive bidding but simply adjusts the threshold from $500,000 to $1 million due to inflation. He emphasized that the change would allow the department to handle smaller projects internally, improving efficiency and bandwidth. He also mentioned that discussions with executive counselors had alleviated some of their concerns about the change.
SB199: Senator David Waters, District 4 Support04:22:00.279 - 12:21:01 PM; Senator Waters introduced Senate Bill 199, aimed at establishing a recruitment and retention program for New Hampshire state troopers. He highlighted the success of a previous program offering free tuition to first responders and the current staffing shortage within the state police force. The bill proposes to use highway funds to support a new incentive program, including bonuses for new hires and referral fees, to address the shortage and ensure adequate trooper presence on state highways.
SB199: Matt Uchi, New Hampshire State Police Support04:28:33.800 - 12:27:34 PM; Matt Uchi, representing the New Hampshire State Police, supported the bill, emphasizing the need for competitive incentives to attract new troopers. He noted that the state police currently has 62 vacancies, which is about 17% of their sworn force. Uchi highlighted the challenges of attracting out-of-state applicants who face relocation costs, and mentioned that other agencies in New Hampshire offer sign-on bonuses ranging from $5,000 to $21,000.
SB199: Ann Perello, Chief of Police, Town of Pelham, NH; President of Hillsborough County Chiefs of Police Association; Sergeant-at-Arms with New Hampshire Chiefs of Police Association Oppose04:30:32.000 - 12:29:33 PM; Ann Perello testified in opposition to Senate Bill 199, expressing concerns about creating a two-tier system where state troopers receive special funding while other law enforcement agencies struggle with recruitment and retention. She argued that the issue is not isolated to state troopers but is a statewide problem affecting all agencies. Perello suggested that the funds could be better utilized across the state to benefit all law enforcement agencies facing similar challenges.
SB201 2024-0084s: Grant Bossy, Deputy Chief of Staff, New Hampshire Senate Support05:04:59.120 - 1:04:00 PM; Grant Bossy introduced Senate Bill 201 on behalf of Senator Dan Innis. The bill, requested by the Commissioner of Administrative Services, proposes several changes including the conversion of certain state positions to classified salary positions, amendments to unclassified employee rules, reenactment of an accidentally repealed healthcare provision, and authorization for temporary salary grades for new unclassified positions. Bossy described the bill as housekeeping to improve administrative processes.
SB201 2024-0084s: Charlie Arlinghouse, Commissioner of Administrative Services Support05:06:41.120 - 1:05:42 PM; Commissioner Arlinghouse supported the bill, emphasizing its housekeeping nature and detailing the proposed changes. He explained that the bill would allow for voluntary conversion of some classified positions to salary-based roles, add provisions for unpaid medical leave and discipline for unclassified employees, restore an accidentally repealed healthcare coverage provision, and allow temporary salary grades for new unclassified positions until final classification is determined.
SB286: Grant Bossy, Deputy Chief of Staff, New Hampshire Senate Support05:19:05.200 - 1:18:06 PM; Grant Bossy introduced Senate Bill 286 on behalf of Senator Dan Innis, proposing the establishment of the New Hampshire Office of Film and Creative Media to attract film and TV productions to the state. The bill includes a 25% tax credit for qualifying expenses, with a focus on generating economic activity and jobs. Bossy highlighted the potential for significant economic benefits, citing examples of successful film tax credit programs in other states.
SB286: Aubrey Freedman, Bridgewater, NH Oppose05:22:44.920 - 1:21:45 PM; Aubrey Freedman opposed the bill, arguing against government involvement in the entertainment industry. He questioned the necessity of the proposed office and tax incentives, suggesting that New Hampshire's low taxes and quality of life should be sufficient to attract businesses. Freedman expressed concerns about the creation of new bureaucracy and the effectiveness of similar programs in other states.
SB286: Timena Massina, CEO of Studio Lab and Events United, Derry, NH Support05:27:44.120 - 1:26:45 PM; Timena Massina supported the bill, emphasizing the need for a film office and tax incentives to attract major studios to New Hampshire. She shared experiences of lost opportunities due to the lack of incentives and highlighted the success of similar programs in Massachusetts and Oregon. Massina also discussed the potential for job creation and the retention of young talent in the state.
SB286: Tina Sautel, CEO and President of The Music Hall, Portsmouth, NH Support05:35:52.798 - 1:34:53 PM; Tina Sautel supported the bill, focusing on its potential to grow the New Hampshire Film Festival and attract world or national premiere films. She provided economic impact data from the arts sector in Portsmouth and argued that a film office would enhance New Hampshire's presence in the film industry. Sautel cited successful film incentive programs in other states as examples of the potential benefits.
SB286: Lauren O'Sullivan, Senior Financial Analyst, Department of Revenue Administration Information Only05:42:04.120 - 1:41:05 PM; Lauren O'Sullivan provided information on the fiscal implications of Senate Bill 286, clarifying how the Department of Revenue Administration interprets the proposed tax credit language. She explained that production-related expenses could be claimed for work performed anywhere, as long as the criteria of spending half the time and budget in New Hampshire are met. O'Sullivan offered to provide written responses to any questions from the committee.
SB196 2024-0084s: Committee Members Support05:52:15.160 - 1:51:16 PM; The committee discussed Senate Bill 196 and voted to recommend it ought to pass with the amendment. Concerns were raised about including other agencies like Fish and Game and the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, but it was clarified that these agencies already have special provisions due to their in-house staff capabilities. The committee agreed that the bill addresses inflationary adjustments and streamlines project development processes.
SB201 2024-0084s: Committee Members Support05:50:09.200 - 1:49:10 PM; The committee discussed and voted to recommend Senate Bill 201 ought to pass with the amendment. The discussion centered on the bill's housekeeping nature, addressing federal directives, and improving administrative processes. Concerns were raised about potential impacts on JCER's authority, but it was clarified that the bill does not reduce their role. The committee was satisfied with the explanations provided and moved forward with the recommendation.
SB201 2024-0084s: Grant Bossy, Deputy Chief of Staff, New Hampshire Senate Information Only05:04:59.120 - 1:04:00 PM; Grant Bossy introduced Senate Bill 201 on behalf of Senator Dan Innis. The bill, requested by the Commissioner of Administrative Services, aims to make four significant changes: 1) Create a process for converting certain existing state positions to a new group of classified salary positions, with an amendment (2024-0084s) to address necessary edits. 2) Amend the Department of Administrative Services' limited rulemaking authority to include unpaid medical leave and discipline for unclassified employees. 3) Reenact a repealed provision requiring the state to pay a partial premium for healthcare coverage for its employees and eligible family members, in line with collective bargaining agreements. 4) Authorize the DAS Commissioner to establish a temporary salary grade and step for new unclassified positions until a final classification is determined and approved. Bossy highlighted the bill's benign nature and its support from the department.
SB201 2024-0084s: Charlie Arlinghouse, Commissioner of Administrative Services Support05:06:41.120 - 1:05:42 PM; Commissioner Charlie Arlinghouse testified in support of Senate Bill 201, describing it as a housekeeping bill. He explained that most state employees are classified and paid hourly, but the bill proposes creating a voluntary salaried class. The bill also seeks to address issues with rulemaking authority granted three years ago, particularly for unclassified employees appointed by the governor and council. Arlinghouse discussed the need for provisions on unpaid medical leave and fair discipline processes. He also mentioned the accidental repeal of a healthcare coverage provision, which is still required by bargaining agreements, and the need for a temporary salary grade for new unclassified positions to avoid delays in the process.
SB201 2024-0084s: Committee Members Information Only05:11:19.958 - 1:10:20 PM; Committee members engaged in a discussion and Q&A session about Senate Bill 201. Topics included the classification of positions under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the voluntary nature of position conversions, the impact of the bill on the Joint Committee on Employee Classification (JCEC), and safeguards against employees being 'voluntold' to convert to salaried positions. The committee members sought clarifications on the bill's implications and the process for implementing the proposed changes.
SB286: Grant Bossy, Deputy Chief of Staff, New Hampshire Senate Information Only05:19:05.200 - 1:18:06 PM; Grant Bossy introduced Senate Bill 286 on behalf of Senator Dan Innis. The bill aims to establish the New Hampshire Office of Film and Creative Media within the Department of Business and Economic Affairs, with a $500,000 annual appropriation. It also proposes a 25% tax credit for production companies spending half their time and budget in New Hampshire, excluding salaries above $250,000. Bossy highlighted the economic benefits of attracting film productions to the state, citing examples from other states and the potential for job creation and economic activity.
SB286: Aubrey Friedman, Bridgewater Oppose05:22:44.920 - 1:21:45 PM; Aubrey Friedman from Bridgewater opposed Senate Bill 286, arguing that New Hampshire has thrived without a film office and that the government should not be involved in the entertainment industry. He emphasized the importance of low taxes and quality of life in attracting businesses, rather than creating special incentives. Friedman also expressed concerns about the bill's cost and the potential for bureaucratic growth, citing the track record of similar programs in other states as ineffective in creating significant job growth.
SB286: Timena Massina, Studio Lab and Events United, Derry Support05:27:44.120 - 1:26:45 PM; Timena Massina from Derry, representing Studio Lab and Events United, supported Senate Bill 286. She discussed the challenges faced by the film industry in New Hampshire due to the lack of a film office and tax incentives. Massina cited examples from Massachusetts and Oregon, where film incentives have led to significant economic growth. She emphasized the importance of a film office in attracting productions and the potential for job retention and growth, particularly for younger generations interested in film careers.
SB286: Tina Satel, CEO and President, The Music Hall, Portsmouth Support05:35:52.798 - 1:34:53 PM; Tina Satel, CEO and President of The Music Hall in Portsmouth, supported Senate Bill 286, focusing on the economic development opportunities for independent filmmaking. She highlighted the Music Hall's acquisition of the New Hampshire Film Festival and its potential growth with the establishment of a film office. Satel cited economic studies showing the impact of the arts and cultural institutions on local economies and the potential for attracting world or national premiere films to New Hampshire.
SB286: Lauren O'Sullivan, Senior Financial Analyst, Department of Revenue Administration Information Only05:42:04.120 - 1:41:05 PM; Lauren O'Sullivan, a senior financial analyst with the Department of Revenue Administration, provided information on the interpretation of Senate Bill 286's language. She clarified that the payroll tax credit portion of the bill is not geographically limited to New Hampshire as long as certain criteria are met. O'Sullivan also explained the production tax credit and the fiscal note attached to the bill, offering to provide further details in writing if needed.
SB286: Grant Bossy, Deputy Chief of Staff, New Hampshire Senate Support05:19:05.200 - 1:18:06 PM; Grant Bossy introduced Senate Bill 286 on behalf of Senator Dan Enis, emphasizing the potential economic benefits of establishing a New Hampshire office of film and creative media. He highlighted New Hampshire's scenic locations suitable for film productions and noted the success of tax credit programs in other states, suggesting that such an initiative could attract film and TV productions to New Hampshire, generate new jobs, and stimulate economic activity. The proposed bill would appropriate $500,000 annually to run the office and allow a 25% tax credit on qualifying production expenses, excluding salaries over $250,000, aimed at incentivizing film production jobs.
SB286: Aubrey Friedman, Bridgewater Oppose05:22:44.920 - 1:21:45 PM; Aubrey Friedman opposed Senate Bill 286, arguing that New Hampshire has managed without a film and creative media office for over 200 years, suggesting that the government should not be involved in the entertainment industry. He questioned the effectiveness of tax credit programs in other states and expressed concerns about creating a new bureaucracy, which he believed would grow over time. He advocated for a low-tax environment and quality of life to attract businesses rather than specific incentives for the film industry.
SB286: Timena Massina, Studio Lab and Events United, Derry Support05:27:44.120 - 1:26:45 PM; Timena Massina supported Senate Bill 286, emphasizing the need for a film office and tax incentives to attract film productions to New Hampshire. He cited his company's experiences where major studios showed interest but withdrew due to the lack of incentives. He provided examples from Oregon and Massachusetts, where tax incentives have led to significant economic growth in the film industry. He also mentioned plans for a new studio in Londonderry but noted that without incentives, it might be more viable to build in Massachusetts.
SB286: Tina Satel, CEO and President, The Music Hall, Portsmouth Support05:35:52.798 - 1:34:53 PM; Tina Satel supported the creation of a film office as proposed in Senate Bill 286, focusing on the potential for economic growth through independent filmmaking. She discussed the Music Hall's involvement in the New Hampshire Film Festival and how a film office could help grow the festival and attract more film productions to the state. She provided economic impact statistics from Portsmouth and other states, suggesting that a film office could significantly contribute to the local economy and job creation.
SB286: Lauren O'Sullivan, Senior Financial Analyst, Department of Revenue Administration Information Only05:42:04.120 - 1:41:05 PM; Lauren O'Sullivan provided information on how the Department of Revenue Administration interprets the language of Senate Bill 286, specifically regarding the administration of the proposed tax credit. She clarified that the payroll tax credit could be applied to work performed anywhere if connected to film production activities within New Hampshire, and there is no limit to the number of employees eligible for the credit. She also noted that the production tax credit could be claimed for expenses incurred anywhere connected to filming in New Hampshire, provided certain criteria are met.
SB286: Committee Members Information Only05:47:59.798 - 1:47:00 PM; During the executive session, the committee discussed Senate Bill 286 but decided they were not ready to make a decision. They acknowledged the need for further research and understanding of the bill's implications before moving forward.
SB201 0084s: Grant Bossy, Deputy Chief of Staff, New Hampshire Senate Support05:04:59.120 - 1:04:00 PM; Grant Bossy introduced Senate Bill 201 on behalf of Senator Dan Enis, explaining that the bill, requested by the Commissioner of Administrative Services, aims to create a process for converting certain state positions to classified salary positions. He mentioned that since the bill's initial draft, necessary edits were identified, leading to the proposed amendment 0084s. The bill also proposes amendments to the Department of Administrative Services' rulemaking authority, reenactment of a repealed healthcare premium provision, and temporary salary grade establishment for new unclassified positions.
SB201 0084s: Charlie Arlinghouse, Commissioner, Department of Administrative Services Support05:06:41.120 - 1:05:42 PM; Commissioner Charlie Arlinghouse supported Senate Bill 201, describing it as a housekeeping bill with four main proposals. He explained the need to create a new group of classified salary positions, amend rulemaking authority to include unpaid medical leave and discipline, reenact a repealed healthcare premium provision, and authorize temporary salary grades for new unclassified positions. He emphasized the bill's benign nature and its support from the Governor, indicating its non-controversial status.
SB201 0084s: Committee Members Information Only05:48:55.360 - 1:47:56 PM; During the executive session, the committee discussed Senate Bill 201 and moved to pass it as amended with amendment 0084s. They addressed concerns about the voluntary nature of position conversions and the role of the Joint Committee on Employee Classification (JCEC) in the process. The bill was seen as a cleanup effort in response to a federal directive and was moved to consent without opposition.
SB201 0084s: Grant Bossy, Deputy Chief of Staff for the New Hampshire Senate Support05:04:59.120 - 1:04:00 PM; Grant Bossy introduced Senate Bill 201 on behalf of Senator Dan Innis, the bill's prime sponsor. He explained that the bill was requested by the Commissioner of Administrative Services to address the conversion of some state positions to classified salary positions, amend the limited rulemaking authority for unclassified employees to include unpaid medical leave and discipline, reenact a provision requiring the state to pay a partial premium for healthcare coverage for its employees and eligible family members, and authorize the DAS Commissioner to establish temporary salary grades and steps for new unclassified positions until final classification is determined. Bossy emphasized the bill's benign nature and its importance as requested by the department.
SB201 0084s: Charlie Arlinghouse, Commissioner of Administrative Services Support05:06:41.120 - 1:05:42 PM; Commissioner Charlie Arlinghouse described the bill as a housekeeping measure, emphasizing its lack of controversy. He detailed the bill's provisions, including the voluntary nature of the new salary class for classified employees, the need for rulemaking authority over unclassified employees, the reenactment of a healthcare coverage provision accidentally repealed, and the establishment of temporary salary grades for new unclassified positions. Arlinghouse also addressed the amendment, explaining it was a slight rewording for clarity.
SB201 0084s: Committee Members Information Only05:11:19.958 - 1:10:20 PM; The committee members engaged in a discussion with Commissioner Arlinghouse about the specifics of the bill, particularly focusing on the voluntary conversion of positions, the role of the Joint Committee on Employee Classification (JCEC), and the safeguards against employees being 'voluntold' to change positions. They also discussed the implications of the bill on the JCEC's authority and the potential impact on employees' rights and benefits.
SB286: Grant Bossy, Deputy Chief of Staff for the New Hampshire Senate Support05:19:05.200 - 1:18:06 PM; Grant Bossy introduced Senate Bill 286 on behalf of Senator Dan Innis, highlighting the need for New Hampshire to attract film productions. He mentioned the proposed establishment of the New Hampshire Office of Film and Creative Media and a 25% tax credit for qualifying film production expenses. Bossy argued that the bill would generate economic activity and jobs, using examples from other states to support his case.
SB286: Aubrey Friedman, Bridgewater Oppose05:22:44.920 - 1:21:45 PM; Aubrey Friedman opposed the bill, arguing that New Hampshire has managed without a film office for over 200 years. He questioned the government's role in the entertainment industry and expressed concerns about the creation of new bureaucracy and the effectiveness of tax incentives in attracting film productions, citing studies that showed minimal job growth from such programs.
SB286: Tina Massina, Studio Lab and Events United, Derry Support05:27:44.120 - 1:26:45 PM; Tina Massina supported the bill, explaining that her company, Studio Lab, the largest film studio in New Hampshire, has been unable to attract major studios due to the lack of tax incentives. She provided examples from Oregon and Massachusetts to illustrate the potential economic benefits and job growth that could result from establishing a film office and offering tax credits.
SB286: Tina Satel, CEO and President of The Music Hall, Portsmouth Support05:35:52.798 - 1:34:53 PM; Tina Satel supported the bill, emphasizing its potential to grow the New Hampshire Film Festival and boost economic development through independent filmmaking. She provided economic impact data from Portsmouth and other states to argue that a film office could significantly increase film-related activities and job creation in New Hampshire.
SB286: Lauren O'Sullivan, Senior Financial Analyst, Department of Revenue Administration Information Only05:42:04.120 - 1:41:05 PM; Lauren O'Sullivan provided a neutral explanation of the fiscal implications of Senate Bill 286. She clarified how the Department of Revenue Administration interpreted the bill's language regarding the administration of the proposed tax credits, emphasizing the geographical and eligibility criteria for the credits.
SB2011 0084s: Committee Members Information Only05:53:27.878 - 1:52:28 PM; The committee members discussed and voted on Senate Bill 201. They moved to reconsider the bill, with Senator MCU expressing concerns about the bill's purpose and potential implications for employee classification and the role of the Joint Committee on Employee Classification (JCEC). The committee ultimately voted to pass the bill as amended with the committee amendment.
SB286: Committee Members Information Only05:48:55.360 - 1:47:56 PM; The committee members briefly discussed Senate Bill 286 and decided they needed more time to review the bill before making a decision. They agreed to hold off on executing the bill until they had more information and understanding of its implications.
SB286: Committee Members Information Only05:47:59.798 - 1:47:00 PM; The committee members discussed the need to go into an executive session to consider bills that they had heard. They noted that they needed to make decisions on bills heard that day in order to meet the calendar for the next week's session. The members agreed that they were not ready to make a decision on SB286, related to the film industry, as there was still a lot of information to review and understand.
SB2011: Committee Members Information Only05:53:27.878 - 1:52:28 PM; The committee members discussed SB2011 concerning classified and unclassified positions. They moved to pass the bill as amended and placed it on consent. There was a brief discussion about making a position full-time, but no further action was taken on that matter. A motion to reconsider was made, allowing for further discussion, but the committee ultimately moved forward with the original decision.
SB196: Committee Members Information Only05:52:15.160 - 1:51:16 PM; The committee members discussed SB196, which deals with exemptions for competitive bidding for certain state agency projects. There was a concern raised about including the Department of Fish and Game and the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources in the exemption, as it was felt that these agencies are already carved out for specific purposes. After some discussion, the committee moved to pass the bill as amended and placed it on consent. A senator volunteered to handle the bill further.
SB194: Committee Members Information Only06:03:08.798 - 2:02:09 PM; The committee members discussed SB194 concerning cosmetology. There was a concern about lowering the training hours from 1500 to 1200 and adding a member of the Cosmetology Technical Committee (CTC) to an adjudicatory committee. The committee felt that having a CTC member could present a conflict of interest and proposed an amendment to remove this section. After some discussion, the amendment was passed, and the bill was moved to pass as amended and placed on consent.
SB188: Committee Members Information Only06:10:04.440 - 2:09:05 PM; The committee members discussed SB188 regarding independent permitting and local inspections. There was a suggestion to amend the bill to replace 'improvements to land' with 'Building Code Compliance'. The committee discussed the backlog in inspections and the potential for independent providers to speed up the process. After some discussion, the amendment was approved, and the bill was moved to pass as amended and placed on consent.
SB92 81: Committee Members Information Only06:18:05.280 - 2:17:06 PM; The committee members discussed SB92, which pertains to birth records and the inclusion of the Apgar score on the birth worksheet. A friendly amendment was proposed to retain the one-minute Apgar score on the worksheet due to its clinical value and utility in neonatal resuscitation programs. There was a debate on whether the one-minute score should be required on the birth worksheet, with some members arguing it should be left optional. The committee decided to hold the bill for a week to allow further discussion between the involved senators.
SB179: Committee Members Information Only06:26:22.080 - 2:25:23 PM; The committee members briefly discussed SB179, which involves attaching the Council on housing. They noted that an amendment was expected for this bill and decided to hold off on making a decision until the amendment was available.
SB180: Committee Members Information Only06:28:33.840 - 2:27:34 PM; The committee members discussed SB180 related to Coos County. They decided to hold the bill for further consideration at a later time.

Pearl, Howard (Chairman)(R)[C+]2024	McGough, Tim(V Chairman)(R)	Gannon, Bill(R)[C+]2024
Altschiller, Debra(D)[CT]2024	Reardon, Tara(D)