Committee Summary for Senate Health and Human Services (04/23/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB606 00:08:19.919 - 8:07:00 AM	Public Hearing	relative to a patient's right to medically appropriate care for reproductive disorders.	Read, Ellen(D)[D]2024
HB701 01:01:34.559 - 9:00:15 AM	Public Hearing	relative to a health care patient's right to try certain emergency health care treatment options.	Mazur, Lisa(R)[A]2024
HB712 02:12:03.760 - 10:10:44 AM	Public Hearing	limiting breast surgeries for minors.	Mazur, Lisa(R)[A]2024
HB377 04:51:16.240 - 12:49:57 PM	Public Hearing	relative to health care professionals administering hormone treatments and puberty blockers.	Mazur, Lisa(R)[A]2024

HB606: Ellen Reid, Rockingham 10 (Newmarket and Newfields) Support00:08:19.919 - 8:07:00 AM; Ellen Reid shared her personal experience with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and the challenges she faced in receiving a hysterectomy. Despite her consistent requests over 12 years and her husband's vasectomy, she was repeatedly denied the procedure because doctors believed she might change her mind about having children. Reid emphasized the patronizing and condescending treatment she received, highlighting a broader cultural issue within the medical community. She discussed how women are often denied necessary treatments due to assumptions about their future desires regarding children. Reid explained the details of HB606, which aims to protect patients from being denied medically appropriate treatments based on age, number of children, marital status, or fertility goals. The bill has seen bipartisan support and no opposition in previous hearings. Reid stressed the importance of medical freedom and bodily autonomy, advocating for women's rights to access treatments that align with their lifestyle and medical conditions.
HB606: Lauren Celig, Strafford County District 10 (Durham) Support00:22:12.400 - 8:20:53 AM; Lauren Celig supported HB606, sharing her personal experience of seeking a procedure to prevent further childbirth and later a hysterectomy due to complications. Despite her requests, she faced significant delays and had to go out of state for the procedure. Celig emphasized the societal tendency to prioritize childbearing over women's health and the need for respecting women's decisions about their bodies. She advocated for easier access to necessary surgeries and procedures, supporting the bill's aim to ensure women receive medically appropriate care.
HB606: Erica Leon, Rockingham 13 (Derry) Support00:23:56.159 - 8:22:37 AM; Erica Leon, a Republican co-sponsor, supported HB606, emphasizing the importance of ensuring women are not denied treatments based on assumptions about their future fertility goals. She highlighted the bill's focus on women who would otherwise receive the same treatment if they had different social conditions. Leon discussed the potential for New Hampshire to become a medical destination for such treatments, which could help sustain maternity wards and provide safe care for women who choose not to have children.
HB606: Daniel Papovich Miller, Rockingham 17 (Windham) Support00:26:30.960 - 8:25:11 AM; Daniel Papovich Miller, another Republican co-sponsor, supported HB606, emphasizing the bill's clarity and necessity. He explained that the bill prevents doctors from denying care based on their assumptions about a patient's future intentions while still allowing doctors to deny care for medical or religious reasons. Papovich Miller highlighted the disbelief some have about these denials occurring but stressed their reality and the need for legislative protection. He advocated for the bill as a means to protect everyone's rights to make medical decisions based on their intent.
HB606: Lauren Fitch, formerly based in Massachusetts Support00:28:53.760 - 8:27:34 AM; Lauren Fitch, a child-free lifestyle advocate with a history of endometriosis and autoimmune diseases, shared her personal struggle with reproductive health issues. Diagnosed at 18, she experienced severe menstrual pain and a seizure at 10 years old. Despite asking for sterilization at 15, she was repeatedly denied. She recounted a severe health crisis involving septic kidneys and a miscarriage, which she believes could have been prevented if her request for sterilization at 18 was honored. Her testimony was read into the record by a co-sponsor of the bill.
HB606: Betty Gay, former representative from Salem Support00:31:05.679 - 8:29:46 AM; Betty Gay, a former representative from Salem, expressed strong support for the bill, highlighting the cruel policy of denying necessary medical procedures to women. She shared her shock and disbelief upon learning about the difficulties women face in getting a hysterectomy, mentioning her own family's experiences with such procedures and urging the committee to pass the bill.
HB606: Hannah Smith, resident of New Hampshire since 1990 Support00:33:07.840 - 8:31:48 AM; Hannah Smith shared her emotional struggle with endometriosis, detailing her eight-year fight for a hysterectomy due to severe pain. She was repeatedly denied by doctors citing her youth and potential future pregnancies, despite her inability to carry children. She urged the committee to pass the bill to prevent others from enduring similar suffering.
HB606: Jenna Boosezie, from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Support00:34:19.760 - 8:33:00 AM; Jenna Boosezie, a non-resident from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, supported the bill, sharing her 18-year battle with stage 4 endometriosis. She faced numerous health issues, including a stroke from hormone therapy and a year-long bleeding episode requiring a blood transfusion. Despite her severe condition, she was denied a hysterectomy until age 29, which she believes impacted her ability to care for her child. She hopes the bill will help other women in New Hampshire receive necessary care.
HB606: Jade, from Epping, New Hampshire Support00:37:45.920 - 8:36:26 AM; Jade from Epping, New Hampshire, supported the bill, recounting her struggles with menstrual issues since childhood, exacerbated after the birth of her second child. She experienced severe pain, bleeding, and cyclical vomiting, yet was denied a hysterectomy at age 30 due to her potential to have more children. Surgery eventually revealed endometriosis. She believes the bill could have saved her from years of suffering and improved her quality of life.
HB606: Kathy Stratton, CEO of the New Hampshire Medical Society Oppose00:41:09.359 - 8:39:50 AM; Kathy Stratton, CEO of the New Hampshire Medical Society, opposed the bill, citing concerns over the physician-patient relationship and the potential harm from the bill's requirements and penalties. She highlighted the Medicaid age requirement for sterilization conflicting with the bill and expressed sympathy for the traumatic experiences shared but argued against compelling physicians to act against their judgment and ethics.
HB606: Virginia Sykes Support00:52:21.040 - 8:51:02 AM; Virginia Sykes strongly supported the bill, emphasizing its significance for women's issues while also acknowledging its relevance to men. She shared testimonies of two men who faced health issues due to doctors prioritizing fertility over quality of life. She argued that the bill is about addressing unconscious biases in healthcare and not about forcing doctors to perform procedures against their expertise.
HB606: Prud O'Brien, Representative from Derry Support00:54:36.640 - 8:53:17 AM; Representative Prud O'Brien from Derry supported the bill, sharing her personal experiences with severe menstrual cramps that impacted her life and career. Despite seeking multiple medical opinions, she was advised to take potentially fatal birth control due to a blood clotting disorder. She criticized the inconsistency and sexism in healthcare, urging the committee to support the bill to address these issues.
HB606: Steven Scare, from Nashua, New Hampshire Oppose00:58:48.520 - 8:57:29 AM; Steven Scare from Nashua, New Hampshire, opposed the bill, arguing against laws that compel doctors to act against their conscience, except in life-saving emergencies. He distinguished between acts of commission and omission, expressing concern over the potential impact on the physician's autonomy.
HB701: Lisa Maer, representing Hillsboro District 44, the towns of Goffstown and Hillsboro, New Hampshire Support01:01:34.559 - 9:00:15 AM; Lisa Maer, the prime sponsor of HB701, introduced the bill aimed at making New Hampshire a leading jurisdiction for clinical trials and right to try for people with life-threatening illnesses. She highlighted the potential of New Hampshire to capitalize on its proximity to Boston's biotech hub to attract innovative treatments. Maer detailed five key differences of the bill from the current right to try law: a limitation on civil liability to make it competitive with Montana, remote pre-screening for treatment, remote signing of consent forms, a construction provision to foster clinical trials, and the right to seek injunctive relief against state regulatory obstruction. She shared a personal story about her father's terminal illness to emphasize the importance of the bill and urged the committee to support it.
HB701: Rich Nelleno, newly elected representative representing Cheshire 9, which are the towns of Alstead, Gilsum, Stoddard, and Marlborough, New Hampshire Support01:09:00.759 - 9:07:41 AM; Rich Nelleno testified in support of HB701, focusing on the empowerment of individuals facing terminal illnesses to make informed choices about their healthcare. He emphasized the importance of hope and the ethical principles of autonomy, suggesting that the bill aligns with compassionate legislation that does not impose additional costs on the state.
HB701: Aubrey Freriedman, from Bridgewater, New Hampshire Support01:12:25.560 - 9:11:06 AM; Aubrey Freriedman spoke in favor of HB701, arguing for the autonomy of terminally ill patients to try experimental treatments. He supported the bill's provisions for remote signing and telehealth pre-screening, and stressed the importance of protecting companies from lawsuits to encourage innovation and provide patients with a fighting chance.
HB701: Erica Leyon, representative for Rockingham 13, which is the town of Derry, New Hampshire Support01:15:15.520 - 9:13:56 AM; Erica Leyon, a co-sponsor of the bill, supported HB701 based on her experience as a medical device analyst and her husband's work in biomedical research. She shared an example of a woman with ovarian cancer who gained access to an experimental drug in New Jersey, emphasizing the need for such access in New Hampshire. Leyon addressed concerns about telehealth licensing and the potential need for amendments to clarify protections.
HB701: Ian Huitt, Council for Cornerstone, New Hampshire Support01:23:00.560 - 9:21:41 AM; Ian Huitt testified in strong support of HB701 on behalf of Cornerstone, a Christian advocacy organization. He highlighted the ethical imperative of fighting for life and the potential for New Hampshire to lead the nation in healthcare innovation. Huitt addressed the controversy around civil liability, arguing that the ability to waive it through informed consent is crucial for terminally ill patients to access experimental treatments. He also clarified the bill's provisions regarding injunctive relief and its alignment with federal law.
HB701: John Liki, from New Hampshire Support01:40:35.920 - 9:39:16 AM; John Liki, a patient with a treatable but incurable condition, shared his personal experience with unapproved treatments that have extended his life. He argued for the importance of allowing patients to try different treatments, especially those that are off-patent and not FDA-approved, to make progress in medicine.
HB701: Brian Norman, on behalf of the Goldwater Institute Support01:44:17.000 - 9:42:58 AM; Brian Norman spoke in support of HB701, emphasizing the need to expand New Hampshire's right to try program to include investigational individualized treatments. He highlighted the potential to save lives by allowing access to innovative genetic treatments not covered under current laws and praised New Hampshire's leadership in patients' rights.
HB701: Holly Haynes, attorney at Abrams and Brown and Dugan in Manchester, New Hampshire, and past president of the New Hampshire Association for Justice Oppose01:47:04.800 - 9:45:45 AM; Holly Haynes opposed HB701, arguing that it goes further than any other state's legislation and the Goldwater Institute's model. She criticized the bill's immunity from suit provisions, stating they do not require reasonable care or good faith compliance, unlike current laws. Haynes also argued that the main obstruction to treatments is financial, not civil liability, and that the bill conflicts with federal regulations on informed consent. She raised concerns about the potential loss of benefits for patients who try experimental treatments.
HB701: Betty Gay, from New Hampshire Support01:54:18.080 - 9:52:59 AM; Betty Gay supported HB701, highlighting the benefits of allowing patients to relieve providers of liability and the importance of telehealth pre-screening for those seeking experimental treatments. She argued that the bill provides a foundational step forward and should be extended in the future to include those with severe illnesses not considered terminal.
HB701: Theres Baster, Len, New Hampshire Support01:57:03.480 - 9:55:44 AM; Theres Baster, a registered nurse and hospice nurse from Len, New Hampshire, testified in support of HB701. She spoke about her experiences with patients, particularly children and young mothers, who are unable to access effective treatments due to strict trial criteria and concerns over litigation. Baster emphasized the importance of allowing doctors the freedom to prescribe potentially life-saving treatments without fear of lawsuits. She clarified that the hospice benefit is not disqualified by ongoing treatments and stressed the need for patients to have the freedom to choose their care without legal repercussions for providers.
HB701: Michael Yuboich, Hooks, New Hampshire Support01:59:14.239 - 9:57:55 AM; Michael Yuboich, a stage four cancer patient from Hooks, New Hampshire, provided testimony in support of HB701. He described his battle with cholangiocarcinoma, a rare cancer originating in the bile duct, and the various treatments he has undergone, including chemotherapy and innovative procedures. Yuboich emphasized the need for doctors to be protected from legal repercussions so they can focus on providing the best possible care. He highlighted the potential for New Hampshire to become a center for patient-oriented research and innovation in medical treatments.
HB701: Nancy Beerman, New Hampshire Rare Disease Advisory Council Support02:06:38.880 - 10:05:19 AM; Nancy Beerman, a member of the New Hampshire Rare Disease Advisory Council and parent of a child with multiple rare diseases, testified in support of HB701. She explained the challenges faced by families dealing with rare diseases, including long diagnosis times and limited treatment options due to regulatory constraints. Beerman stressed the importance of HB701 in expanding access to investigational and individualized treatments tailored to a patient's genetic makeup and providing civil and liability protections for providers. She urged the committee to support the bill to help children suffering from rare diseases.
HB712: Lisa Maer, Hillsboro District 44, representing Goffstown and Wear, New Hampshire Support02:12:03.760 - 10:10:44 AM; Lisa Maer, representing Hillsboro District 44, testified in support of HB712, which aims to limit gender surgeries for minors while allowing exceptions for medically necessary breast surgeries. She argued that children's minds change and irreversible surgeries carry unnecessary risks. Maer referenced a lawsuit in New Hampshire and a study showing increased mental health issues post-surgery. She emphasized that the bill is not anti-trans but seeks to protect minors from regrettable decisions, drawing parallels to existing laws on tattoos and tanning.
HB712: Erikica Leyon, Rockingham 13, representing Derry, New Hampshire Support02:21:31.520 - 10:20:12 AM; Erikica Leyon, representing Derry, testified in support of HB712. She shared her experience as a medical device analyst and the lifelong complications of breast surgeries. Leyon emphasized that children are being misled about the benefits of these surgeries and the bill aims to protect them from such procedures until they are 18. She highlighted the careful drafting of the bill to include exceptions for medically necessary surgeries.
HB712: Representative O'Brien, New Hampshire Support02:25:15.880 - 10:23:56 AM; Representative O'Brien provided testimony in support of HB712, sharing personal observations of individuals who underwent gender-affirming surgeries as minors. She mentioned a case from Dartmouth Health and discussed the impact on individuals who later detransitioned. O'Brien emphasized the importance of protecting minors from irreversible decisions, drawing parallels to existing laws on tattoos and tanning.
HB712: Lee Brown, Lebanon, New Hampshire Oppose02:29:09.439 - 10:27:50 AM; Lee Brown, a medical student and transgender individual from Lebanon, testified in opposition to HB712. He shared his personal experience of transitioning as a teenager and the significant delays and mental health challenges he faced. Brown argued that the bill would have prevented him from accessing necessary care and expressed concerns about its impact on transgender youth. He urged the committee to reject the bill to ensure transgender individuals can access affirming care.
HB712: Torren Hul Becker, Manchester, New Hampshire Oppose02:32:42.479 - 10:31:23 AM; Torren Hul Becker, a parent from Manchester, testified in opposition to HB712. He shared his son's journey as a transgender individual and the positive impact of affirming care, including puberty blockers, on his son's mental health and well-being. Becker argued that the bill endangers children and urged the committee to vote against it to support families like his.
HB712: Beth Scar, Nasha, New Hampshire Support02:37:20.560 - 10:36:01 AM; Beth Scar, a grandmother from Nasha, testified in support of HB712 to protect girls from double mastectomies. She highlighted the vulnerability of young girls undergoing these surgeries and questioned the urgency of such procedures. Scar drew parallels to the ban on female genital mutilation and argued that the bill is necessary to protect girls from irreversible decisions.
HB712: Evelyn Elman, Democrats for an Informed Approach to Gender, New Hampshire Support02:40:26.880 - 10:39:07 AM; Evelyn Elman, a volunteer with Democrats for an Informed Approach to Gender, spoke in favor of HB712. She highlighted the harm experienced by children who have undergone puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and surgeries in the name of gender identity, which she described as an unproven concept based on stereotypes. Elman argued that many of these children are non-conforming girls who may later identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual, and that the procedures they undergo can be likened to conversion therapy, causing irreversible damage. She urged the committee to vote yes on HB712 to protect these children from such interventions.
HB712: Doug Pounds, Gothtown, New Hampshire Support02:45:22.560 - 10:44:03 AM; Doug Pounds testified in support of HB712, linking it to HB377. He shared the story of a friend who underwent sex change surgery due to childhood trauma and gender dysphoria, but later realized the procedure did not resolve the underlying issues. Pounds emphasized the irreversible damage of such surgeries and hormone treatments, and the association of gender dysphoria with other conditions like autism and unresolved trauma. He cited Dr. Kenneth Zucker's research suggesting that most minors with gender dysphoria will outgrow it by adulthood and argued that these interventions could lead to higher suicide rates if the root causes are not addressed.
HB712: Courtney Tanner, Senior Director of Government Relations, Dartmouth Health Oppose02:50:24.080 - 10:49:05 AM; Courtney Tanner expressed concerns about HB712 on behalf of Dartmouth Health. She argued against legislating medicine and highlighted potential penalties for providers. Tanner noted that Dartmouth Health has gender-affirming care clinics but does not perform top surgeries on minors in New Hampshire. She raised concerns about the bill's impact on patient-provider relationships and the prohibition on referrals, which could affect patients nearing adulthood.
HB712: Dr. Debbie Warner, Psychologist, Littleton, New Hampshire Support02:55:21.840 - 10:54:02 AM; Dr. Debbie Warner, a psychologist with extensive experience, supported HB712, emphasizing the importance of informed consent in medical care. She argued that children lack the cognitive ability to make irreversible decisions about their bodies, comparing their decision-making process to play, which should be reversible. Warner stressed the importance of preserving non-permanent decisions in childhood to allow for proper psychological development and maturity.
HB712: Michael Haley Oppose02:59:02.640 - 10:57:43 AM; Michael Haley opposed HB712, focusing on the bill's referral provision. He argued that the surgeries mentioned are not performed in New Hampshire and that the bill attempts to solve a non-existent problem. Haley highlighted the vagueness of the referral provision, suggesting it could be unconstitutional and infringe on physicians' free expression rights by penalizing them for informing patients about available treatments.
HB712: Heather Mullins, Resident of New Hampshire Support03:00:56.479 - 10:59:37 AM; Heather Mullins, a resident of New Hampshire and an independent reporter, supported HB712, expressing regret over tattoos she got as a teenager and comparing them to the irreversible damage of gender surgeries on minors. She criticized the influence of authority figures on vulnerable children, suggesting that such influence could be equated to grooming. Mullins argued for mental health treatment over physical interventions for gender dysphoria.
HB712: Simon Amaya Price Support03:06:08.240 - 11:04:49 AM; Simon Amaya Price shared personal stories of friends who underwent mastectomies at a young age, arguing that such procedures should not be performed on minors. He mentioned specific doctors in New Hampshire who advertise performing these surgeries on minors and urged the committee to pass HB712 to prevent such occurrences in the future. Price also addressed the impact of sexual trauma on the desire for transition and the need for support and love.
HB712: Courtney Reid, Policy Advocate, ACLU of New Hampshire Oppose03:09:18.880 - 11:07:59 AM; Courtney Reid, representing the ACLU of New Hampshire, opposed HB712, arguing against government interference in private medical decisions. She highlighted concerns about the bill's referral provision, suggesting it could infringe on First Amendment rights and potentially chill physicians from providing necessary care. Reid referenced a court decision that supports her view on referral bans and urged the committee to consider these implications.
HB712: Steven Scare, Nasha, New Hampshire Support03:12:29.680 - 11:11:10 AM; Steven Scare from Nasha, New Hampshire, supported HB712, arguing that transgenderism is based on delusions and that medical interventions to affirm gender identity are harmful and unnecessary. He criticized the idea of gender identity as a 'magical male gender spirit' and argued that these interventions are akin to a religious belief rather than evidence-based medicine. Scare urged support for the bill to protect girls from such interventions.
HB712: Ann Marie Banfield, Parental Rights Advocate, New Hampshire Support03:14:27.239 - 11:13:08 AM; Ann Marie Banfield, a parental rights advocate, supported HB712, emphasizing the need for state intervention to protect minors from irreversible surgeries. She compared the decision to get a tattoo at a young age to the more severe decision of undergoing gender surgery and argued that the state must step in to prevent such actions on healthy children. Banfield expressed concern over the corruption of the medical field and the need to protect children.
HB712: Nancy Brennan, Wer, New Hampshire Oppose03:16:38.520 - 11:15:19 AM; Nancy Brennan from Wer, New Hampshire, opposed HB712, criticizing claims that transgender surgery increases suicide rates as pseudoscience. She argued that such claims are based on flawed comparisons and promised to provide additional studies to support her position. Brennan opposed the bill, advocating for evidence-based decision-making and highlighting the importance of considering all available research.
HB712: Unknown Speaker, Wer, New Hampshire Support03:18:07.960 - 11:16:48 AM; The speaker emphasized the importance of gender-affirming care, arguing that it is necessary and supported by major medical, psychiatric, and pediatric associations. They mentioned a study suggesting that transgender individuals' brains have similarities to those of their identified gender, dismissing claims of it being make-believe and highlighting its historical and cultural presence. They urged not to take away healthcare and responded to questions.
HB712: Bonnie Bruno, Hollis, New Hampshire Oppose03:19:31.000 - 11:18:12 AM; Bonnie Bruno initially decided to change her testimony but shared her perspective on the impact of gender-affirming surgeries. She noted the subjective nature of experiences, mentioning a friend who spoke with someone who regretted their surgery but realized their anger was due to unmet promises rather than the surgery itself. She highlighted that more people opposed HB712 in the House and expressed opposition to anti-trans bills.
HB712: Jamie Reid, LGB Courage Coalition Support03:22:29.479 - 11:21:10 AM; Jamie Reid, a public whistleblower from a pediatric gender center, supported the bill. She shared statistics on gender surgeries in New Hampshire and expressed concern about the increasing number of adolescent girls seeking these interventions globally. Reid discussed the hypothesis of social contagion facilitated by social media and emphasized the need for the bill to prevent irreversible surgeries on minors. She responded to questions about social media looping, insurance data, and billing codes.
HB712: Leanne Owen Support03:31:57.040 - 11:30:38 AM; Leanne Owen shared her experience as a tomboy and her discomfort with her body during development. She argued that young girls today are being offered irreversible surgeries too early, likening it to gay conversion therapy. Owen, who works in massage therapy, highlighted the lasting physical and emotional scars from surgeries and urged protection of children's futures over altering their bodies. She supported HB712.
HB712: Courtney Tanner, Senior Director of Government Relations at Dartmouth Health Information Only03:35:08.880 - 11:33:49 AM; Courtney Tanner refuted claims about Dartmouth Health performing gender-affirming surgeries on minors under 18, calling the data falsified. She offered to review the data with concerned parties and clarified Dartmouth's stance on not performing these surgeries.
HB712: Fisha Mosley Support03:35:56.120 - 11:34:37 AM; Fisha Mosley shared her personal experience of having her breasts removed as a teenager, leading to nerve damage, scar tissue, and complications during childbirth. She described the pain and regret she felt, emphasizing that the surgery was cosmetic and altered her healthy body without exploring other options. Mosley urged lawmakers not to let other young girls go through the same experience and supported HB712.
HB712: Unknown Speaker Oppose03:38:49.680 - 11:37:30 AM; The speaker expressed concern about the absence of trans men who previously testified against similar bills. They argued against a blanket prohibition on gender-affirming surgeries for minors, sharing their own experience as a trans woman and emphasizing the importance of these surgeries for some individuals. They suggested that the age and duration of hormone therapy should be considered, opposing a complete ban for those under 18.
HB712: Theres Pastor Ash, Loudon, New Hampshire Support03:41:56.399 - 11:40:37 AM; Theres Pastor Ash discussed the financial aspect of gender-affirming care, noting it as a growing industry. They emphasized the impressionability of children and argued against solving mental health issues through surgical intervention on healthy body parts. They mentioned concerns about the endocrine system and potential links to autism and vaccines, urging lawmakers to affirm children's natural state and support HB712 to prevent irreversible harm.
HB712: Ty Thompson, Nottingham, New Hampshire Oppose03:44:26.600 - 11:43:07 AM; Ty Thompson, a transgender resident of Nottingham, New Hampshire, opposed HB712, emphasizing the importance of gender-affirming care. They shared their personal experience with top surgery and hormone therapy, highlighting the significance of these treatments for their sense of self and agency. Thompson criticized the focus on girls' healthy breast tissue, arguing that it denies the existence of transgender and non-binary individuals. They stressed the need for comprehensive health care for transgender youth and the harm caused by denying their existence. Thompson also noted that their transition aligned with WPATH guidelines and expressed concern over the bill's potential to limit access to care for 17-year-olds and increase civil liabilities for doctors.
HB712: Peter Doyle, Senate Health and Human Services Committee Support03:46:45.279 - 11:45:26 AM; Peter Doyle, a gay man with a history of youth gender dysphoria and a public health master's degree, supported HB712. He argued that the data indicates mastectomies on minors are occurring in New Hampshire, contrary to some claims. Doyle emphasized that gender nonconformity is not new and criticized gender medicine as harmful and unproven, likening it to past harmful practices like electroshock therapy. He urged the committee to vote yes on the bill, stressing that gender-distressed girls need time, not surgery.
HB712: Betsy Harrington, Derry, New Hampshire Support03:50:55.199 - 11:49:36 AM; Betsy Harrington from Derry, New Hampshire, supported HB712, arguing that removing healthy breasts from minors is physical abuse unless medically necessary, such as in cases of cancer. With her background as an assessment worker for DCYF and a sex counselor at the New Hampshire State Prison, she likened such surgeries to lobotomies, which were historically performed for mental health reasons with disastrous results. Harrington emphasized the pain and risks associated with these surgeries and advocated for allowing children to grow up before making such decisions.
HB712: Stephanie Vzano, Concord, New Hampshire Oppose03:52:22.600 - 11:51:03 AM; Stephanie Vzano from Concord, New Hampshire, a licensed clinical mental health counselor, opposed HB712. She highlighted her experience working with gender-diverse youth since 2010 and criticized the bill for potentially limiting access to care. Vzano pointed out the exemption for male circumcision in the bill, arguing that it too is a removal of a healthy body part from a child without their consent. She shared that she has never encountered regret among gender-diverse individuals regarding their affirming care and urged the committee to consider the impact of the circumcision exemption if they support the bill.
HB712: Mora Weston, New Hampshire Medical Society Oppose03:55:21.359 - 11:54:02 AM; Mora Weston, representing the New Hampshire Medical Society, opposed HB712. They argued that the bill compromises the principle that medical decisions should be made by physicians and patients based on expertise and individual circumstances. Weston expressed concerns over the bill's language, particularly the penalties for physicians and the vague definition of 'assist'. They criticized the potential for physicians to be disciplined for providing or referring to appropriate care and urged the committee to find the bill inexpedient to legislate.
HB712: Kate McCarty Oppose03:58:02.399 - 11:56:43 AM; Kate McCarty opposed HB712 and suggested holding a summit to allow legislators to meet with transgender individuals to better understand their experiences. She criticized the rush to pass anti-trans bills without considering the facts, research, and professionals in the field. McCarty challenged the committee to table the bill until they could engage directly with the affected community, arguing that the current legislative actions violate the rights of transgender individuals and are unconstitutional.
HB712: Holly Tester Oppose04:00:58.160 - 11:59:39 AM; Holly Tester, a therapist, opposed HB712, emphasizing that therapy, like medicine, is a science that requires working within one's scope of care. She argued that legislators supporting the bill are operating outside their scope by making medical decisions without the relevant expertise. Tester stressed the importance of allowing children, their families, and doctors to make individual care decisions and criticized the bill as an overreach by the legislature into medical practice.
HB712: Unnamed Speaker Oppose04:05:46.080 - 12:04:27 PM; The speaker argued against the legislation, expressing concern that it would limit options for people. They emphasized the importance of keeping medical decision-making between patients and their doctors, particularly within the scope of care relevant to the patients' health needs.
HB377: Lisa Maer, Hillsboro District 44, representing Gosstown and Hillsboro Support04:51:16.240 - 12:49:57 PM; Representative Maer introduced the bill, discussing the risks and consequences of using puberty blockers and hormone treatments on minors. She highlighted the potential irreversible effects on children's development and the lack of solid scientific backing for these treatments. Maer referenced international bans on such treatments and criticized the inconsistency in protecting minors from other substances while allowing these medical interventions.
HB377: Unnamed Speaker Support04:58:11.320 - 12:56:52 PM; The speaker shared an observation of a minor in New Hampshire who underwent hormone treatments and breast removal, comparing this to restrictions on tattoos and tanning for minors. They expressed concern about the long-term effects of Lupron on sexual function and safety.
HB377: Ty Thompson Oppose04:59:15.760 - 12:57:56 PM; Ty Thompson opposed the bill, emphasizing that decisions about medical treatments for gender dysphoria should be made between families and medical professionals. He argued against the bill's potential to decrease access to medications that are part of the standard care for gender dysphoria and mentioned the oversight and support provided in such cases.
HB377: Representative Han Oppose05:01:10.040 - 12:59:51 PM; Representative Han criticized the bill for its circular definition of biological sex and argued that it's difficult to define definitively for legal purposes. They opposed the bill, emphasizing the need for dignity and appropriate medical treatment for transgender individuals, and criticized the criminalization of medical practice as proposed in the bill.
HB377: Christina Warner, New Hampshire State Director for Reproductive Equity Now, representing Sarah Terrell from Plymouth Oppose05:04:27.280 - 1:03:08 PM; Christina Warner read testimony from Sarah Terrell of Plymouth, who strongly opposed HB377. Sarah, a mother, pleaded for the right to provide her daughter with necessary medical care for gender dysphoria, emphasizing the life-saving nature of such treatments.
HB377: Lee Brown, Lebanon, NH Oppose05:07:26.958 - 1:06:07 PM; Lee Brown, a transgender person and medical student from Lebanon, NH, testified in opposition to HB377. Brown shared personal experiences, explaining the devastating impact of delaying gender-affirming care on mental health. They highlighted that access to puberty blockers and hormone therapy significantly improved their mental health, allowing them to thrive without the need for further therapy or medication. Brown argued that HB377 would force transgender teens into similar mental health crises by denying them necessary care.
HB377: Caleb Richmond, West Lebanon, NH Oppose05:10:00.400 - 1:08:41 PM; Caleb Richmond from West Lebanon, NH, strongly opposed HB377, citing it as an infringement on the physician-patient relationship and a contradiction to New Hampshire's 'live free or die' ethos. Richmond, with experience in pediatric oncology and as a crisis counselor, argued that the bill adds unnecessary doubt and fear into medical decision-making. He emphasized the importance of gender-affirming care for his transgender friends and the negative impact of similar bills on youth mental health, urging the committee to reject the bill to preserve freedom and compassion in healthcare decisions.
HB377: Beth Scare, Nashua, NH Support05:12:48.878 - 1:11:29 PM; Beth Scare, a grandmother from Nashua, NH, testified in strong support of HB377, arguing that it would protect children from the harmful effects of puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones. She criticized the idea of transitioning based on gender stereotypes and highlighted the irreversible health consequences of these treatments. Scare urged the committee to pass the bill to allow children to grow up naturally without damaging their bodies.
HB377: L. Palmer, unspecified location Support05:14:45.280 - 1:13:26 PM; L. Palmer, a detransitioner, supported HB377 based on personal experiences starting hormone treatment at 16. Palmer detailed the severe health issues faced after starting testosterone, including hair loss, high blood pressure, and the pressure to undergo a hysterectomy. They emphasized the inability of young people to fully understand the long-term effects of such treatments and advocated for the bill to prevent others from experiencing similar regrets.
HB377: Evelyn Omen, Democrats for an Informed Approach to Gender Support05:18:12.280 - 1:16:53 PM; Evelyn Omen from Democrats for an Informed Approach to Gender supported HB377, arguing against the use of puberty blockers and wrong sex hormones due to their irreversible effects. Omen criticized the lack of evidence-based protocols in gender-affirming care and highlighted the negative outcomes on youth, including sterility and sexual dysfunction. They argued that the bill would protect vulnerable youth from being exploited by the gender industry and prevent the pathologizing of normal developmental processes.
HB377: David Trouble, town of Ware Oppose05:22:30.680 - 1:21:11 PM; David Trouble opposed HB377, citing family privacy rights under the state constitution, suggesting the bill infringes on these rights by interfering with parents and children who agree on matters of gender identity. He highlighted New Hampshire's existing medical safeguards, mentioning that during a previous House hearing, all New Hampshire trans individuals and parents spoke positively about the medical care, describing it as a slow, thorough process with parental consent and opt-out options. He argued that rather than a ban, safeguards would be more appropriate. He also mentioned the potential for improved quality of life through such medications, referencing a Dutch study with no regrets among 7,000 participants. Lastly, he suggested waiting for the Supreme Court's decision in US v. Skirmdi before acting on the bill.
HB377: Courtney Tanner, Dartmouth Health Oppose05:25:36.240 - 1:24:17 PM; Courtney Tanner from Dartmouth Health expressed concerns about HB377, focusing on its clinical efficacy and the need for treatment. She noted that Dartmouth Health has the only pediatric program in the state and serves a small but important patient population. She raised concerns about access to treatment and the implications of the bill for patients currently on medication, including the process of tapering off. She referenced the upcoming Supreme Court case US v. Scrummeti and urged the committee to hold the bill until the case is decided. She also highlighted the bill's extreme penalties, equating them to serious crimes, and questioned the vagueness of the language regarding who could be penalized.
HB377: Courtney Reed, ACLU of New Hampshire Oppose05:29:12.958 - 1:27:53 PM; Courtney Reed from the ACLU of New Hampshire opposed HB377, arguing that the legislature should not interfere in private medical decisions. She raised civil rights concerns, noting the categorical ban on treatments for gender dysphoria could be seen as sex discrimination under the Supreme Court case Bostock v. Clayton County. She emphasized the lack of compelling government interest and the absence of a narrowly tailored approach in the bill. She mentioned the pending Supreme Court decision and urged the committee to wait before acting. She also noted the insufficiency of the bill's tapering-off provision for current patients.
HB377: Nancy Brennan, WER Oppose05:32:32.200 - 1:31:13 PM; Nancy Brennan from WER opposed HB377, arguing that the Cass review cited by the bill's supporters is flawed due to the lack of experience of its author in treating transgender youth. She referenced a Yale critique that found the Cass review misinterprets data and makes unsupported assertions. She highlighted the high satisfaction rate among transgender youth with gender-affirming care and criticized the use of outdated data to justify the bill. She also pointed out the correlation between anti-trans laws and increased suicide attempts among transgender youth, mentioning the high number of anti-trans bills across the U.S.
HB377: Corey Towner, Northampton, New Hampshire Oppose05:36:23.558 - 1:35:04 PM; Corey Towner from Northampton, New Hampshire, opposed HB377, expressing concerns about the potential harm to her transgender non-binary child, Sylvie. She described Sylvie's personality and the support from friends and family. She highlighted the increased risk of suicide among transgender youth and argued that the bill victimizes them. She praised the comprehensive medical care Sylvie receives and urged the committee to follow medical recommendations and protect children by opposing the bill.
HB377: Heather, New Hampshire resident Support05:38:58.718 - 1:37:39 PM; Heather, a New Hampshire resident, supported HB377, arguing for a ban on hormone therapy and puberty blockers for minors. She shared stories of individuals who regretted transitioning and faced severe medical issues. She questioned the support for those who detransition and suggested that social media and funding for experimental surgeries contribute to the increase in transgender identification. She emphasized the need to protect children and asked the committee to support the bill.
HB377: Dr. Deborah Warner, Littleton Support05:41:46.798 - 1:40:27 PM; Dr. Deborah Warner from Littleton supported HB377, arguing that identity exploration in childhood is crucial and that premature conclusions about gender identity can hinder developmental milestones. She expressed concerns about the non-reversibility of hormonal interventions during adolescence and the potential long-term effects on psychological and physical development. She suggested that the bill's class B felony penalty might be excessive and recommended professional misconduct as a more appropriate deterrent.
HB377: Dr. Reed Support05:49:34.160 - 1:48:15 PM; Dr. Reed supported HB377, detailing the origins of medically transitioning children in the Netherlands and the use of puberty blockers off-label. She expressed concern about the recklessness of prescribing such medications by primary care physicians in New Hampshire, emphasizing that only pediatric endocrinologists should manage these treatments. She highlighted the lack of animal studies before human trials and the potential for irreversible cognitive and fertility impacts. She described the severe and irreversible physical effects of cross-sex hormones and urged the committee to protect children from these practices.
HB377: Steven Scar, Nashua, New Hampshire Support06:00:14.798 - 1:58:55 PM; Steven Scar from Nashua, New Hampshire, supported HB377, arguing that the concept of a transgender child is based on fabrications and coercion. He challenged the medical community to define gender identity without stereotypes and criticized Dartmouth Health's insistence on gender-affirming care. He questioned whether physicians at Dartmouth Health were allowed to discuss systematic reviews and accused the medical director of their pediatric transgender program of promoting dogma over science. He urged the committee to support the bill.
HB377: Prica Mosley Oppose06:02:06.240 - 2:00:47 PM; Prica Mosley testified against the medicalization of transgender youth, sharing a personal story of being prescribed testosterone as a minor which led to chronic health conditions. Mosley argued that transgender identity is not a medical condition and criticized the concept of gender-affirming care as harmful and fraudulent, stating it does not save lives but causes lifelong dependency on medical intervention.
HB377: Peter Doyle Support06:04:21.798 - 2:03:02 PM; Peter Doyle supported HB377, sharing his experience as a child who identified as transgender but did not receive medical intervention, which he believes was beneficial. He cited scientific literature indicating that many children with cross-sex identities desist after puberty and criticized the introduction of gender-affirming care, suggesting it leads to unnecessary medicalization and questioning its basis on adult dissatisfaction with cosmetic outcomes rather than suicide prevention.
HB377: Simon Maya Price Support06:07:15.160 - 2:05:56 PM; Simon Maya Price supported the bill, recounting personal experiences of grooming and manipulation by medical professionals, narrowly avoiding medicalization. He argued against the pharmaceutical industry's influence on transgender youth, highlighting the lack of evidence supporting gender-affirming care and expressing concerns about the harassment faced by those opposing it.
HB377: Leanne Owen Support06:09:20.680 - 2:08:01 PM; Leanne Owen supported the bill, sharing her childhood experiences as a tomboy and her belief that if she were a child today, she might have been pushed towards transitioning. She argued that gender dysphoria in childhood often resolves after puberty and criticized the use of hormones as chemical castration, advocating for children to be allowed to grow up without medical intervention.
HB377: Michael Haley, Derry, NH Oppose06:12:34.440 - 2:11:15 PM; Michael Haley from Derry, NH, opposed the bill, representing GBTQ Legal Advocates and Defenders. He highlighted the legal uncertainties surrounding gender-affirming care, referencing ongoing court cases and suggesting the committee wait for the Supreme Court's decision. He proposed that guardrails, rather than bans, could ensure safe and effective healthcare without constitutional issues.
HB377: Jennifer Smith, MD Oppose06:20:15.680 - 2:18:56 PM; Dr. Jennifer Smith opposed the bill, emphasizing the complexity of gender and sexuality and the need for a study committee or tabling the bill. She shared her personal journey as a transgender lesbian and criticized the assumption that transgender individuals are mentally ill. She also highlighted the exodus of families from the state due to existing legislation and stressed the importance of informed medical decisions.
HB377: Stephanie Vzano, Concord, NH Oppose06:26:39.360 - 2:25:20 PM; Stephanie Vzano from Concord, NH, opposed the bill, stating that it could criminalize her work as a licensed clinical mental health counselor and art therapist. She argued that competent providers do not dictate gender identity to clients but help them make informed decisions. Vzano criticized the bill for potentially making her work felonious and stressed the importance of supporting families in making healthcare choices.
HB377: Torren Specker, Manchester, NH Oppose06:29:42.878 - 2:28:23 PM; Torren Specker, a parent from Manchester, NH, spoke about his experience with his transgender son who came out at 11 years old and struggled with identity and depression. His son was hospitalized in the adult psych ward at Elliot Hospital, but with family support, therapy, and affirming care including puberty blockers and hormonal birth control, his son found his identity and is now thriving at 14. He mentioned his son's success in cheerleading, reaching nationals, and improvement in school attendance. Specker argued that bills like HB377 endanger children rather than protect them and urged the committee to vote no to support families like his.
HB377: Phil, Legislative Director for the LGBT Courage Coalition Information Only06:31:45.280 - 2:30:26 PM; Phil from the LGBT Courage Coalition discussed the Scrati case referenced in earlier testimony. He explained that the Supreme Court considered the constitutionality of Tennessee's ban on hormones and puberty blockers, framing it as an age-based restriction rather than sex discrimination. He noted that many justices seemed sympathetic to this argument, suggesting a lower level of constitutional scrutiny. He also touched on whether transgender individuals are entitled to special 14th amendment protections and mentioned that 27 states have enacted bans on pediatric gender procedures, with most bans being in effect.
HB377: Hannah Napros on behalf of Rosie Emmerich, Hooksett, NH Oppose06:34:59.478 - 2:33:40 PM; Hannah Napros testified on behalf of Rosie Emmerich from Hooksett, NH, as the parent of a transgender child on puberty blockers. She emphasized the personal journey of her child, noting the positive transformation after affirming their identity. Napros highlighted the challenges of advocating for her child's humanity and criticized the bill for potentially criminalizing careful medical decisions made in consultation with healthcare professionals. She stressed the importance of parents making informed decisions without the threat of felony charges.

Rochefort, David(Chairman)(R)	Avard, Kevin(V Chairman)(R)[C+]2024	Birdsell, Regina(R)[C+]2024
Prentiss, Suzanne(D)[F]2024	Long, Pat(D)