Committee Summary for Senate Finance (05/28/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
Unclear 00:24:41.360 - 12:51:17 PM	Executive Session	Unclear
HB2 00:33:01.919 - 12:59:37 PM	Executive Session	relative to state fees, funds, revenues, and expenditures.	Weyler, Kenneth(R)[B+]2024

Unclear: Unidentified Senator Information Only00:24:41.360 - 12:51:17 PM; The senator opened the Senate Finance Committee meeting and moved to enter into executive session. They discussed the ongoing budget deliberations, noting that some items from House Bill 2 were added to the current packet for further deliberation. Some of these items will be removed from the packet but retained in the budget, while others will be removed entirely from the budget. The senator highlighted major pending issues such as decisions on the retirement system and the university system, and mentioned a list of high-dollar items provided to senators to discuss priorities.
Unclear: Senator Lang Information Only00:27:06.320 - 12:53:42 PM; Senator Lang discussed a committee amendment to the revenues voted out by the Ways and Means Committee. After meeting with Commissioner Stepp from the Department of Revenue Administration (DRA), he proposed increases in projected revenues for three taxes: business taxes, rooms and meals tax, and real estate transfer tax. He justified these changes based on recent data and reports suggesting increased local and domestic travel, and outdoor adventures in rural New England, which could boost these tax revenues.
Unclear: Senator Rose Information Only00:29:10.399 - 12:55:46 PM; Senator Rose expressed concerns about the proposed revenue increases, particularly regarding business taxes. He mentioned a conversation with Commissioner Stepp, who suggested different numbers for revenue increases that were less aggressive than those proposed by Senator Lang. Senator Rose was uncomfortable with increasing business taxes due to economic uncertainties and potential impacts on businesses and consumers, but he could support the other proposed tax increases if separated from the business tax amendment.
Unclear: Senator Hennis Information Only00:31:20.960 - 12:57:56 PM; Senator Hennis clarified the total tax increase he was comfortable with, which amounted to around 32 million dollars, significantly lower than the 107.5 million dollars proposed by Senator Lang. He was focused on ensuring the numbers were correctly understood and discussed.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Support00:33:01.919 - 12:59:37 PM; The speaker expressed support for Senator Lang's budget numbers, suggesting they were conservative and predicting a robust economy in the coming year. The speaker anticipated a growth rate of 4% for the last six months of the current year into the next year, indicating a positive outlook for the state's financial position.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:33:59.600 - 1:00:35 PM; The speaker clarified that the total numbers in the amendment would be split between the general fund and the education trust fund by the LBA, ensuring the committee understood the amendment's implications before voting.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:34:52.359 - 1:01:28 PM; The speaker discussed adjustments to revenue splits, indicating that business tax rates, real estate transfer tax, rooms and meals tax, and revenue splits would be adjusted based on final spending in the education trust fund and the desired surplus level for the general fund.
HB2: Senator Carson Support00:34:52.359 - 1:01:28 PM; Senator Carson proposed removing the back of the budget cut for the Office of Child Advocate, which was seconded by Senator Waters and passed.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Support00:34:52.359 - 1:01:28 PM; The speaker moved to approve a slight adjustment requested by the Department of Information Technology, which was seconded by Senators Lang and Albert and passed.
HB2: Senator Waters Support00:36:00.880 - 1:02:36 PM; Senator Waters proposed reducing the allocation for the Community Development Finance Authority from 10 million to 7 million, arguing it would still be beneficial for housing initiatives. The proposal was moved and seconded but did not pass.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:37:20.320 - 1:03:56 PM; The speaker clarified the process for removing items from the budget, indicating that items not in HB2 could be removed without objection, and a vote was taken on the removal of an item related to housing appeals.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:37:20.320 - 1:03:56 PM; The speaker noted that the Department of State had already spent allocated funds, so there was no need to lapse it, and it was removed from the list.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:38:35.960 - 1:05:11 PM; The speaker mentioned that the New Hampshire Retirement System was awaiting cost estimates for a submitted plan, indicating that decisions would be made once those numbers were available.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Support00:38:35.960 - 1:05:11 PM; The speaker moved to delete an item related to alternate treatment centers from the House version of the budget, which was seconded by Senators Lang and Burns and passed.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Support00:39:24.560 - 1:06:00 PM; The speaker moved to approve an item related to YDC, which was seconded and passed.
HB2: Senator Lang Support00:39:24.560 - 1:06:00 PM; Senator Lang proposed an amendment to allocate $20 million in year one for YDC and use revenue from selling the CNU center for year two, estimating about $80 million in other funds.
HB2: Senator Waters Oppose00:40:29.839 - 1:07:05 PM; Senator Waters expressed concerns about the amendment to YDC funding, highlighting the need for $75 million annually based on previous settlements and audits. He argued that reducing the amount could signal to plaintiffs to pursue court action, which would be more costly, and emphasized the state's moral and fiscal responsibility to victims.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:41:38.920 - 1:08:14 PM; The speaker suggested adding YDC funding to the per request list for further discussion, even if the amendment was passed.
HB2: Senator Rosemont Oppose00:43:01.000 - 1:09:37 PM; Senator Rosemont argued against reducing YDC funding, citing the unique nature of the fund established for victims of abuse in state care. He mentioned the risk of law firms pulling their clients out of the fund due to reduced funding, which could lead to more expensive settlements outside the fund.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Oppose00:44:07.760 - 1:10:43 PM; The speaker supported Senator Rosemont's view, emphasizing the potential financial risks to the state and the moral obligation to victims if funding was reduced, citing examples of settlements outside the fund.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:45:47.680 - 1:12:23 PM; The speaker proposed adding the discussed item to the high dollar list for future discussion. They emphasized the current funding level of $10 million annually and $20 million for the biennium, stating it is inadequate. The speaker supported a motion to increase funding to $100 million, arguing it is necessary to deal with these cases effectively. They mentioned that if more funds become available, additional money could be allocated to the program.
HB2: Senator Lang Information Only00:48:15.560 - 1:14:51 PM; Senator Lang introduced his piece of legislation referred to as the 'China land bill,' which had been retained by the House. He stated that the bill incurs no cost and should be considered in its Senate-approved form.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:49:34.800 - 1:16:10 PM; The speaker mentioned ongoing discussions regarding the Human Rights Commission and the judicial branch, suggesting a similar solution might be applicable to both. They noted that items related to these would remain on hold, with a decision expected the next day.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:50:39.520 - 1:17:15 PM; The speaker discussed an indeterminable cost related to the Department of Insurance, stating it could range from $100,000 to $500,000, affecting the cost of administrative services for state healthcare coverage.
HB2: Senator Lang Information Only00:51:43.040 - 1:18:19 PM; Senator Lang requested to keep an item on hold due to a decision pending on spending $664,001 on a line item, with a decision to be made the following day.
HB2: Senator Waters Support00:52:43.599 - 1:19:19 PM; Senator Waters supported an amendment that restores the council to its previous state before House changes, arguing that the nomination process envisioned by the House could lead to chaos. He emphasized the importance of having experienced and cooperative members on the council.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:53:38.920 - 1:20:14 PM; The speaker sought clarification on whether Senator Waters' amendment changed current law or just House Bill Two, suggesting that deleting the section from HB2 could be a cleaner approach to restore it to current law.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:54:49.319 - 1:21:25 PM; The speaker discussed the funding of the Granite Shield and Northern Shield programs through opioid abatement funds, which had been initially removed but were confirmed to be appropriate for use after a conversation with the Attorney General.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Oppose00:56:12.240 - 1:22:48 PM; The speaker opposed the amendment to use opioid abatement funds for the mentioned programs, arguing that it's difficult to differentiate law enforcement costs related to opioids from other drugs. They requested a roll call vote.
HB2: Senator Waters Support00:57:16.480 - 1:23:52 PM; Senator Waters supported House Bill 506, explaining that judiciary was ready to pass it with technical corrections. He confirmed that the bill addresses constitutional rights and requires funding for a position to meet tight deadlines.
HB2: Senator Lang Oppose00:58:31.200 - 1:25:07 PM; Senator Lang opposed including House Bill 506 in the budget, arguing it's a non-germane amendment as the Senate has not yet voted on the bill, scheduled for June 5th.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only00:59:41.640 - 1:26:17 PM; The speaker discussed procedural concerns about voting on bills before the budget, mentioning different scenarios suggested by the Senate President. They suggested special ordering the bill before the budget to accommodate potential amendments.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:01:07.040 - 1:27:43 PM; The speaker highlighted issues with House Bill 506, including the rights of individuals to have their firearms returned and the challenges when living with others. They suggested removing the bill from the budget and addressing it on the floor.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:02:14.400 - 1:28:50 PM; The speaker confirmed the removal of an item from the list and moved to approve another item. They explained that the bill reduces fees by a more reasonable 10% rather than the 100% proposed by the House, stating it would still increase municipal revenue.
HB2: Senator Waters Oppose01:03:19.200 - 1:29:55 PM; Senator Waters expressed concern about the health of the highway fund and the impact of reduced fees on municipalities, arguing that the House's proposed increases were necessary due to potential declines in road toll revenues and federal highway funding.
HB2: Senator Lang Support01:04:31.200 - 1:31:07 PM; Senator Lang supported the bill, arguing that the 100% fee increase proposed by the House would be devastating to businesses and truckers in the state. He noted that the 10% increase would still provide more revenue to municipalities.
HB2: Senator Rosenoff Information Only01:05:31.119 - 1:32:07 PM; Senator Rosenoff inquired about the impact of the amendment on the highway fund, learning it would bring the fund close to zero balance at the end of the biennium, depending on decisions about motor vehicle inspections.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:06:29.359 - 1:33:05 PM; The speaker confirmed the approval of an item and moved to remove another from the list, clarifying that it was a removal from the list, not the budget. They noted a pilot program related to Medicaid direct and free and reduced lunches.
HB2: Senator Birdsole Oppose01:07:29.880 - 1:34:05 PM; Senator Birdsole opposed the removal of the pilot program, stating it was necessary to gather data on Medicaid direct eligibility. They mentioned an existing action item with the Department of Health and Human Services.
HB2: Senator Rose Support01:08:51.120 - 1:35:27 PM; Senator Rose supported the pilot program, referencing a previous commission's work on Medicaid and free and reduced lunches. They argued that a checkbox on the Medicaid application would be a better approach than a pilot program.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:09:46.238 - 1:36:22 PM; The speaker discussed the removal of an item from the list, noting concerns about services for people with disabilities and the elderly under state programs not covered by federal statutes. They mentioned potential legal challenges and the impact on state programs.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Support01:11:17.840 - 1:37:53 PM; The speaker opposed the removal of an amendment, arguing it was necessary to maintain state programs for people with disabilities and the elderly, and to prevent legal challenges against tax relief programs. They mentioned various state programs that would be affected.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:12:33.679 - 1:39:09 PM; The speaker discussed the funding for the university system, noting a severe cut and expressing a desire to move funds into the first year to allow planning for the reduction in the second year. They mentioned ongoing efforts to secure more funding.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:13:36.560 - 1:40:12 PM; The speaker discussed a new amendment under the Lottery Commission, expressing concerns about negotiating against themselves regarding the percentage of revenue from gaming facilities. They also raised concerns about the addictive nature of slot machines and the lack of speed of play and maximum wager limits.
HB2: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:13:36.560 - 1:40:12 PM; The speaker continued discussing the amendment to HB2, focusing on the competitive advantage with Massachusetts in terms of tax rates and wager limits. The amendment aims to delay the revenue distribution for the elderly, disabled, blind, deaf, and exemption reimbursement fund to the next biennium, providing an additional $20 million in revenue for other priorities. The speaker expressed optimism about the economy but acknowledged the initial six months would be challenging.
HB2: Senator B Information Only01:17:14.080 - 1:43:50 PM; Senator B asked about the current revenue distribution for charities. The response explained that 31.25% of the tax goes to responsible gaming, with the remaining split 35% to charities and 65% to the state. For table games, the state's share is 45%, with 35% going to charities. The growth in the industry is expected to increase the amount going to charities to almost $80 million.
HB2: Senator Wat or Senator Rosenald Support01:21:14.719 - 1:47:50 PM; The speaker discussed the adverse childhood experiences (ACES) program, highlighting its success and the importance of early intervention. A $50,000 allocation is proposed to train more individuals to identify ACES and provide appropriate treatment for children.
HB2: Senator Bur Support01:23:42.560 - 1:50:18 PM; Senator Bur moved to approve an amendment that would cap the 988 service at 75 cents, a reduction from the previously approved 90 cents. This amendment aims to make the funding better, though the speaker still wishes for a more sustainable funding source.
HB2: Senator Pearl Support01:23:42.560 - 1:50:18 PM; Senator Pearl supported the amendment to cap the 988 service at 75 cents, acknowledging it as an improvement over the original bill. The senator emphasized the importance of the 988 service and the need for continued support.
HB2: Senator L Support01:24:46.320 - 1:51:22 PM; Senator L moved to approve an item involving a mental health medical supervisor position within HHS. The position is currently unfilled and considered statutory cleanup, prompting a motion to remove it from HB2.
HB2: Senator Pearl and Senator Lang Support01:25:55.679 - 1:52:31 PM; Senators Pearl and Lang moved to approve item number six on page 10, which passed without further discussion.
HB2: Senator Rose Information Only01:27:04.080 - 1:53:40 PM; Senator Rose expressed confusion about an item related to over-the-counter medications, leading to a decision to put the item on hold for further research.
HB2: Senator Lang Support01:29:01.440 - 1:55:37 PM; Senator Lang supported an amendment aimed at adding a rural residency component to primary care physician training, emphasizing its importance for the north country's access to healthcare.
HB2: Senator Rose Support01:29:01.440 - 1:55:37 PM; Senator Rose expressed enthusiasm for the rural residency component, noting its potential to improve healthcare in the north country and retain physicians.
HB2: Senator Wall Support01:29:49.080 - 1:56:25 PM; Senator Wall moved to approve an amendment using TANF funds for childcare workforce programs, contingent on federal or state approval. The amendment ensures no impact on the general fund and addresses previous agency ambiguity.
HB2: Senator Rosen Support01:30:54.639 - 1:57:30 PM; Senator Rosen appreciated the drafting of the TANF funds amendment, noting its clarity and the department's previous unclear stance on the issue.
HB2: Senator Rose Support01:33:17.080 - 1:59:53 PM; Senator Rose discussed the Medicare Savings Program, highlighting its importance for low-income seniors in New Hampshire. The amendment proposed removing the resource limit and delaying implementation to the next biennium.
HB2: Senator Information Only01:36:22.800 - 2:02:58 PM; The senator opposed pushing expenditures to future bienniums, citing past experiences where financial forecasts were overly optimistic. The discussion revolved around the $3 million cost of the Medicare Savings Program amendment.
HB2: Senator Lang Information Only01:36:22.800 - 2:02:58 PM; Senator Lang considered the $3 million expenditure a significant item, suggesting it be held for later consideration in the context of the overall budget.
HB2: Senator Support01:37:29.600 - 2:04:05 PM; The senator proposed an amendment to address an inequity in case management services rates, aiming not to increase appropriations but recognizing potential impacts on departmental choices.
HB2: Henry Information Only01:38:41.840 - 2:05:17 PM; Henry explained the potential costs and impacts of the case management services amendment, noting a $5.2 million annual impact and the need to adjust all case management services for rate parity.
HB2: Senator Rothma Information Only01:40:05.320 - 2:06:41 PM; Senator Rothma questioned the impact of the case management services amendment on developmental disability waiver services, clarifying its scope and potential costs.
HB2: Senator Gray Support01:42:19.679 - 2:08:55 PM; Senator Gray moved to remove a section from HB2 related to additional federal funds for the Medicaid to schools program, as it was deemed unnecessary under the department's generic authority.
HB2: Senator Oppose01:42:19.679 - 2:08:55 PM; The senator opposed changes to pharmacy co-pays in the budget, arguing that it would make life more difficult for Medicaid recipients. A roll call vote was requested to delete this section.
HB2: Unidentified Information Only01:43:55.960 - 2:10:31 PM; The speaker confirmed a general fund impact and sought background information on a decision related to cost sharing in the governor's budget. It was noted that cost sharing hasn't been increased in nearly a decade and that CMS allows cost sharing between $4 and $8. The current co-pay is between one and two, with a proposal to increase it to four, which is on the lower end of the CMS range. The speaker also inquired about other states implementing similar policies and was informed that it's fairly common, with an additional note on integrated proposals regarding premiums and cost sharing.
HB2: Unidentified Vote01:46:28.400 - 2:13:04 PM; The speaker discussed a motion to delete a section from HB2. A roll call vote was taken, resulting in a decision to keep the section in the bill but remove it from the list. The vote included Senator Waters and Senator Rosenol voting yes, and Senator Lang, Senator Bretzel, and the chair voting no.
HB2: Unidentified Information Only01:47:46.159 - 2:14:22 PM; The speaker proposed a motion to approve item number two, which involves providing small grants to caregivers for family members with Alzheimer's. The grants help with doctor's appointments and other needs, and there is a long waitlist. The motion passed.
HB2: Unidentified Vote01:48:43.600 - 2:15:19 PM; The speaker proposed a committee amendment to lapse approximately $2 million remaining in an account and appropriate $1 million in 2026 for a developmental services pilot program. The funds would be appropriated for the entire biennium. The motion passed.
HB2: Unidentified Information Only01:50:56.040 - 2:17:32 PM; The speaker discussed the need to set priorities for big ticket items in the budget and mentioned various issues affecting the budget, such as accessible voting machines for town elections and the management of vacant positions to avoid layoffs. The speaker also noted ongoing discussions with the governor regarding a hiring freeze and the financial implications of moving positions.
HB2: Unidentified Information Only01:54:24.159 - 2:21:00 PM; The speaker mentioned the importance of having rough revenue numbers by the next morning to understand the financial standing after the votes taken. The staff was commended for their hard work in compiling this information, and a shout-out was given to Kevin Ripple for working on amendments during a holiday. The session concluded with a motion to come out of the executive session.

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