Committee Summary for Senate Finance (05/23/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB1 00:14:29.120 - 10:12:45 AM	Executive Session	making appropriations for the expenses of certain departments of the state for fiscal years ending June 30, 2026 and June 30, 2027.	Weyler, Kenneth(R)[B+]2024
HB506 03:23:41.760 - 1:21:57 PM	Executive Session	relative to background checks during motions to return firearms and ammunition.	Mannion, Dennis(R)[A-]2024

HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:14:29.120 - 10:12:45 AM; Senator Lang moved to approve item 5A from the Senate budget works session packet, which was a suggestion by Senator Rosenwald to reduce funding for the Cenounu Center by $1 million per year. The motion was withdrawn after discussion on the potential difficulties in managing the budget reduction, as the center had been underbudgeted in the previous bianium and required additional funds.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:16:42.079 - 10:14:58 AM; Senator Lang discussed the hold items from the previous day's agenda, including items from the Department of Labor and the Banking Department. He noted that some items were to be retained on hold due to ongoing work and others were part of a sweep, which would also be held.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:17:47.520 - 10:16:03 AM; Senator Lang mentioned an amendment to the budget that would allow the governor to find $13 million a year if revenues improved. He expressed his intention to not deal with departmental exemptions to avoid mistakes.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:19:00.960 - 10:17:16 AM; Senator Lang discussed items related to the Treasury, moving to approve item number two and remove items one and three. The motion was approved.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:19:49.840 - 10:18:05 AM; Senator Lang discussed an item related to Gray, expressing concerns about retaining money non-lapsing into the next year and the potential impact on the rainy day fund. Items two, three, and four were removed from the agenda unless objected to.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:21:00.960 - 10:19:16 AM; Senator Lang moved to approve an item and discussed adding $250,000 back to the budget cut, aligning it with other departments. The amendment would allow the governor to adjust the budget if revenues improved.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:22:12.799 - 10:20:28 AM; Senator Lang moved to approve an item related to the Retirement System and requested a minor committee amendment to adjust the date in the bill to July 1st, 2024, to match House Bill 1559 from the previous session.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:23:19.039 - 10:21:35 AM; Senator Lang moved to approve item 1C related to the Judicial Council, noting that the council had enough ARPA funds to sustain until 2026 but would need $3.8 million to continue their work beyond that. The motion was approved.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:24:22.240 - 10:22:38 AM; Senator Lang moved to approve an item on page six and discussed holding items two, three, four, and five due to money concerns. A committee amendment was proposed to address closures in Hooksett and Goffstown, but keep the judicial branch's cleanup language.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:26:34.080 - 10:24:50 AM; Senator Lang discussed an item related to the YDC, proposing to hold item number one for money and approve item number two. An amendment related to item number two was withdrawn to allow further review.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:28:01.440 - 10:26:17 AM; Senator Lang moved to approve item 1D, which would retain programming and protect important services across the state. The motion was approved.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:28:54.679 - 10:27:10 AM; Senator Lang discussed items related to the Department of Safety, moving to hold items one A, one B, and two, and approving item number three. The motion to approve item three was passed.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:30:06.520 - 10:28:22 AM; Senator Lang moved to approve item 1C related to the Department of Safety, which would honor existing commitments to projects not yet started. Items 1A, 1B, and 1D were removed, and the motion to approve 1C was passed.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:31:17.039 - 10:29:33 AM; Senator Lang moved to approve items one and two under the Liquor Commission, discussing the reinstatement of the liquor enforcement division and a budget cut that could be made up through operational savings or exceeding revenue projections.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:33:30.000 - 10:31:46 AM; Senator Lang discussed items related to the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and the Veterans Home, moving to approve item one in both cases. For the Veterans Home, an amendment was discussed that would exclude personnel class lines from transfer authority but allow for other class lines with fiscal approval.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:34:43.000 - 10:32:59 AM; Senator Lang moved to approve item number one on page 12 and remove items two and three. Item four was to be held, and Senator Parson was assigned to work on it.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:35:37.599 - 10:33:53 AM; Senator Lang discussed revenue projections and a tax amnesty program with the Department of Revenue Administration (DRA). He mentioned adjustments to revenue numbers based on recent data and a proposed amendment for HB1 to reflect these changes. The tax amnesty program was expected to generate revenue, though less than in previous years due to a new computer system.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only00:35:37.599 - 10:33:53 AM; Senator Lang made a humorous remark about the complaint department run by Helen Wait, indicating a light-hearted moment before the Senate Finance Committee meeting was called to order and moved into executive session.
HB1: Chair Information Only02:35:03.840 - 12:33:19 PM; The Chair called the Senate Finance Committee meeting to order and moved to go into executive session, which was seconded and approved by the committee. The Chair mentioned that the committee would handle the package and bills on hold, including bill 506, which was to be reviewed and potentially amended on the floor.
HB1: Senator Waters Support02:36:53.359 - 12:35:09 PM; Senator Waters expressed appreciation for a change made and mentioned an upcoming amendment related to the tobacco cessation program. He noted that the amendment would not request funding but would keep the fund open for future use.
HB1: Unnamed Senator Information Only02:38:40.560 - 12:36:56 PM; An unnamed senator discussed the removal of items from the package and the specifics of section 4, which is related to funding for existing mental health housing stocks and the expansion of facilities. The senator warned that without this funding, individuals with mental health issues could end up on the street.
HB1: Senator Roberto Information Only02:39:53.439 - 12:38:09 PM; Senator Roberto questioned the impact of not funding mental health housing, suggesting it would complicate releases from New Hampshire Hospital. The response was affirmative, indicating a significant impact if funding were not provided.
HB1: Senator Bertzel Rosal Information Only02:41:00.640 - 12:39:16 PM; Senator Bertzel Rosal discussed the wraparound 2309 program, which aims to save the state money by establishing a 501c3 organization. This organization would assess insurance providers to fund wraparound services for children, reducing the burden on the general fund.
HB1: Unnamed Senator Information Only02:41:55.720 - 12:40:11 PM; An unnamed senator mentioned that the Department of Justice clarified the use of opioid abatement funds, which could only be used to mitigate opioid harm. This led to the removal of certain words from the legislation to ensure correct use of settlement funds.
HB1: Senator Bson Support02:42:59.080 - 12:41:15 PM; Senator Bson moved to approve an item related to the suicide and crisis hotline. Senator Pearl supported the hotline but opposed the amendment due to it being funded by what he considered a new tax.
HB1: Senator Lang and Senator Inis Support02:43:41.800 - 12:41:57 PM; Senator Lang and Senator Inis moved to approve item number eight without further discussion.
HB1: Senator Pearl and Senator Inis Support02:44:34.120 - 12:42:50 PM; Senator Pearl and Senator Inis moved to approve items two and three on page six of the package, after removing items one A and one B.
HB1: Senator Speak Oppose02:44:34.120 - 12:42:50 PM; Senator Speak opposed the repeal of a board related to prescription drug costs, highlighting the significant issue of drug affordability in New Hampshire. He provided statistics on the high costs of drugs and the impact on residents.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Information Only02:45:40.240 - 12:43:56 PM; The speaker discussed a funding solution proposed by Senator Brochford that uses no general funds and aligns with the original statute. They mentioned that the Governor's office is supportive of this approach. They also highlighted the board's achievements, such as saving $2.5 million and making recommendations like biologic substitution. They noted that the board is looking at a third recommendation for next year and could be a helpful partner in upcoming legislation on pharmacy benefits manager regulation, suggesting an independent board might address major problems for Granite Staters.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Vote02:46:35.000 - 12:44:51 PM; The speaker called for a roll call vote on the discussed item, noting that it is not a regular practice in the Senate. The vote was taken on items one and two, one A and 1 B together, with the motion to remove them from the list. The voting results were recorded, showing a mix of yes and no votes among the senators.
HB1: Senator Lang Information Only02:50:21.240 - 12:48:37 PM; Senator Lang discussed the budget and federal funds, suggesting that if the goal is to make the budget smaller, these funds could be accepted through fiscal means instead of being included in the budget.
HB1: Senator Lang Vote02:51:34.479 - 12:49:50 PM; Senator Lang moved to approve item number 10, which requires an amendment to appropriate $160,000 using money designated as '25', with the effective date to be adjusted to June 30th, 2025. The amendment was approved with the commissioner's approval indicated.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Vote02:52:50.960 - 12:51:06 PM; The speaker moved to approve items on page nine, which were passed without further discussion. They also discussed removing item number one and approving item number two, which involves adjustments to allow scholarships to enhance students within a program, ensuring access for the university and junior college systems.
HB1: Senator Waters Support02:53:52.240 - 12:52:08 PM; Senator Waters expressed appreciation for the adjustments made to ensure sufficient funding for the community college system students, viewing it as a significant move forward.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Information Only02:54:50.319 - 12:53:06 PM; The speaker discussed the historical funding for the University System of New Hampshire, noting a significant decrease in funding when adjusted for inflation. They expressed hope for increased investments to keep tuition low, retain students in New Hampshire, and support the business community.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Support02:55:59.720 - 12:54:15 PM; The speaker moved to approve item number one, which involves funding an online tutoring and discovery program for every school district in New Hampshire, including private and homeschooled students. They believed this would help students catch up academically.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Information Only02:57:12.000 - 12:55:28 PM; The speaker suggested a friendly committee amendment to change 'a learning platform' to 'learning platforms' to allow for more than one platform, which was accepted and approved.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Vote02:58:11.319 - 12:56:27 PM; The speaker moved to approve items three, four A, and four B, which involve federal money, and these were passed without further discussion.
HB1: Senator L Information Only02:59:10.000 - 12:57:26 PM; Senator L discussed amending state law to revert funding back to the education trust fund from general fund dollars, aligning with traditional funding practices and addressing splits in funding for special needs and adequacy.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:00:17.680 - 12:58:33 PM; The speaker discussed item 9B, which involves adult education funding and the potential reduction of federal funding. They noted the importance of ensuring adequate funding for adult education centers and planned to work on modifications.
HB1: Senator Waters Oppose03:02:16.560 - 1:00:32 PM; Senator Waters expressed concerns about an amendment to item number 10, viewing it as a fundamental change to public education policy without public hearings. They questioned its constitutionality and appropriateness, suggesting it be addressed in the next session.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:03:25.520 - 1:01:41 PM; The speaker discussed items 12, 13, and 14, moving to approve 13 and 14 while expressing concerns about 12. They highlighted privacy issues with collecting data on where New Hampshire graduates attend college.
HB1: Senator Waters Information Only03:04:11.960 - 1:02:27 PM; Senator Waters discussed the difficulty in tracking students due to restrictions on using social security numbers, suggesting this affects federal grants and funding. They proposed lifting the restriction to better understand student outcomes.
HB1: Senator Lane Information Only03:05:22.479 - 1:03:38 PM; Senator Lane clarified that the amendment on item number 12 actually restricts data collection, not expands it, by striking language related to postsecondary education and the names of colleges attended outside the state.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:06:30.960 - 1:04:46 PM; The speaker moved to approve item 15A, which involves language recommended by the Commissioner of Education regarding DEI enforcement mechanisms within the budget bill. They noted potential issues with the referenced RSA and planned to correct it.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:07:38.160 - 1:05:54 PM; The speaker discussed item 15B and its potential impact on students with disabilities, expressing concerns about the language affecting groups or classes of students. They planned to investigate further.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:09:55.840 - 1:08:11 PM; The speaker moved to approve items 17 and 18, discussing the return of $3.9 million to the education trust fund and the allocation of public tax dollars to wealthier families while impacting low-income access to healthcare.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Vote03:10:52.560 - 1:09:08 PM; The speaker called for a roll call vote on item number 18, which was passed with a mix of yes and no votes among the senators.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:12:03.520 - 1:10:19 PM; The speaker discussed the impact of the budget on special education funding, noting that if there is a shortfall in state funding, there would be an 80% reimbursement process, which is currently at 0%. This change would make towns more financially whole.
HB1: Senator Rosenol Information Only03:13:24.240 - 1:11:40 PM; Senator Rosenol apologized for being late and requested to revisit the housing champions program from a previous meeting's agenda. The committee agreed to take a recess to retrieve the relevant page before continuing.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:14:41.760 - 1:12:57 PM; The speaker clarified that a vote had already been taken on an item and suggested a roll call vote for future actions. The chair noted that the final vote would be later and declined to reconsider the previous vote unless overruled by the committee.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:15:30.319 - 1:13:46 PM; The speaker raised concerns about the child care workforce fund, specifically about the use of TANF funds. They mentioned New Hampshire's approved use of TANF for staff compensation and the potential to use the $70 million in reserve for this purpose.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:16:25.960 - 1:14:41 PM; The speaker further discussed the impact of child care capacity on employment, noting a 13% decrease since the pandemic. They argued for keeping funds in the budget for child care workforce support, citing the department's approved use of TANF funds for this purpose.
HB1: Nathan White, Chief Financial Officer with HHS Information Only03:18:01.439 - 1:16:17 PM; Nathan White explained that the House had moved TANF funds to the child care scholarship program, maxing out the allowable amount for CCDF. He noted a significant increase in utilization and projected a $12 million TANF balance by July 1, 2027, stating that TANF funds could not be used for the child care workforce due to these limits.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:20:18.479 - 1:18:34 PM; The speaker questioned the use of TANF funds, noting an annual increase of $38 million and the department's previous approval to use these funds for staff compensation. Nathan White responded, unsure about the document referenced, suggesting it might relate to one-time ARPA or CARES Act funds.
HB1: Unknown Speaker Vote03:21:30.760 - 1:19:46 PM; The committee discussed House Bill 499, which makes technical corrections to insurance laws. The bill was passed with a projected revenue decrease of $20,000 to $30,000, but was deemed necessary for the insurance department to perform its duties. The vote was moved and seconded, with a final consent vote of 8-0.
HB506: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:23:41.760 - 1:21:57 PM; The speaker discusses the need to review House Bill 506, which was special ordered to 65 and has a fiscal note indicating potential costs of $18,000. The bill was ordered to the finance committee for further review. The speaker announces a recess to obtain copies of HB506 for the committee and suggests that members of the audience look it up on their phones.
HB506: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:43:36.239 - 1:41:52 PM; The Senate Finance Committee reconvenes after recess to discuss HB506. The fiscal note for the bill indicates costs of $90,000, $92,000, $76,000, and $27,000. The speaker explains that the bill is special ordered, meaning it will only be voted on once on the floor. Any amendments added to the bill should reflect the committee's stance, and the committee's decision must be consistent as there will be no further opportunity for the bill to return to finance.
HB506: Senator Waters Support03:44:36.319 - 1:42:52 PM; Senator Waters supports the idea of ensuring a timely process for the return of firearms, which includes background checks. He believes it is financially feasible and appropriate for those in the situation. He mentions that if it were a regular item, it would be put on the hold list for funding, and even if it passes out of the committee, it should be considered in the budget. He highlights the complications that arise if other amendments are added to the bill.
HB506: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:46:49.840 - 1:45:05 PM; The speaker discusses the potential to relate HB506 to House Bill 2, questioning if it could be considered germane. They mention the need to consult with the LBA and possibly the Senate attorney to determine this. The speaker emphasizes the urgency to make a recommendation within two weeks and expresses a preference not to attach provisions to other bills, though acknowledges that sometimes it's necessary.
HB506: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:48:19.319 - 1:46:35 PM; The speaker continues the discussion on HB506, noting that the committee cannot change the effective date of the bill since they do not have it. They suggest the possibility of attaching an amendment to House Bill 2 to free up HB506 for whatever may happen on the floor. The speaker also mentions putting HB506 on the hold list for funds and plans to discuss maintenance and other related matters at the same time.
HB506: Senator Waters Support03:51:02.000 - 1:49:18 PM; Senator Waters moves for reconsideration of a previous decision to put items on the hold list for funds. He clarifies that the hold was meant for all items in a specific category and hopes the committee can reconsider and officially place them on the hold list.
HB506: Unknown Speaker Information Only03:52:01.279 - 1:50:17 PM; The speaker concludes the executive session, noting that it's Friday and time for a weekend break. They ask if there is any other business to come before the committee and move to come out of the executive session, which is seconded and approved by the committee.

Gray, James(Chairman)(R)[C+]2024	Innis, Daniel(V Chairman)(R)[C+]2024	Carson, Sharon(R)[C]2024
Watters, David(D)[CT]2024	Birdsell, Regina(R)[C+]2024	Lang, Timothy(R)[C+]2024
Rosenwald, Cindy(D)[CT]2024	Pearl, Howard (R)[C+]2024