Committee Summary for Senate Judiciary (01/23/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
SB13 00:08:34.599 - 12:08:01 PM	Public Hearing	invalidating out-of-state driver's licenses issued to undocumented immigrants.	Gannon, Bill(R)[C+]2024
SB62 01:18:14.360 - 1:17:41 PM	Public Hearing	relative to law enforcement participation in a federal immigration program.	Gannon, Bill(R)[C+]2024
SB71 01:43:41.760 - 1:43:08 PM	Public Hearing	relative to cooperation with federal immigration authorities.	Gannon, Bill(R)[C+]2024

SB13: Senator Bill Ganon, District 23 Support00:08:34.599 - 12:08:01 PM; Senator Ganon introduced Senate Bill 13, emphasizing that the decision to allow undocumented immigrants to drive should be made by New Hampshire, not other states. He argued that allowing undocumented immigrants to drive poses a safety risk, citing a 2012 report on criminal activities by undocumented immigrants. He mentioned Florida's similar law and its impact on tourism, suggesting that New Hampshire could emulate it without negative effects. He stressed that the bill would help protect New Hampshire residents from potential crimes by undocumented immigrants, driven by concerns raised by his constituents during his campaign.
SB13: Senator Alore Information Only00:10:57.600 - 12:10:24 PM; Senator Alore asked Senator Ganon about the impetus for the bill and its potential impact on the New Hampshire interstate compact. He raised concerns about the practical enforcement of the bill, questioning how law enforcement would identify undocumented immigrants with out-of-state licenses and the potential disruption of interstate agreements. He also inquired about the financial implications and the creation of a database to enforce the bill.
SB13: John Morasco, Director of the DMV, and Jennifer Bailey, Assistant Director of the DMV Information Only00:22:33.440 - 12:22:00 PM; John Morasco and Jennifer Bailey provided informational testimony about the operational aspects of the DMV in relation to Senate Bill 13. They clarified the impact of the bill on the driver license compact, stating that states can make autonomous decisions without necessarily violating the compact. They noted that only Connecticut and Delaware issue licenses exclusively to undocumented immigrants, which could be listed on the DMV website. They also discussed the lack of a fiscal note due to the bill's current language not requiring a database, and addressed questions about international driver's license recognition and the compact's implications on license suspensions and speeding tickets.
SB13: Sher Rendle, Director of State and Local Engagement for the Federation for American Immigration Reform Support00:36:23.960 - 12:35:50 PM; Sher Rendle testified in support of Senate Bill 13, arguing that it aligns with federal immigration laws and prevents illegal conduct by invalidating licenses granted to undocumented immigrants by other states. She highlighted the risks of identity fraud and the use of licenses as a form of identification aiding illegal living and working. She referenced a recent Department of Justice case involving illegal license procurement and emphasized the bill's alignment with the Real ID Act's goals. Rendle also cited statistics on criminal activities by undocumented immigrants and a study on road safety, arguing that the bill would enhance public safety and national security in New Hampshire.
SB13: Grace Ki, Program Coordinator for the American Friend Service Committee on behalf of the New Hampshire Immigrant Rights Network Oppose00:53:45.319 - 12:53:12 PM; Grace Ki spoke in strong opposition to SB13, highlighting that the bill does not benefit New Hampshire residents in terms of revenue, public safety, or well-being. She shared her personal experience as an undocumented immigrant in New Hampshire, emphasizing the challenges with transportation due to the lack of public infrastructure. Ki argued that SB13 would promote injustice and divide communities by targeting undocumented drivers, potentially leading to unlawful profiling and damaging the state's economy and reputation. She urged the committee to vote 'inexpedient to legislate' on SB13, stressing that New Hampshire should remain a welcoming state and not follow the example of states like Florida.
SB13: J. Pet, Legal Director at the ACLU of New Hampshire Oppose00:58:35.240 - 12:58:02 PM; J. Pet from the ACLU of New Hampshire opposed SB13, explaining that the bill would criminalize individuals with lawfully issued licenses from other states simply for crossing into New Hampshire. He emphasized that this practice is unusual, with only one other state implementing a similar law. Pet argued that the bill undermines the interstate compact established for consistent driving regulations across states, which New Hampshire adopted in 1986. He also highlighted public safety concerns, noting that licensed drivers are more likely to have insurance and stay at accident scenes. Additionally, he expressed concerns about potential fiscal impacts and the position the bill puts law enforcement in regarding inquiries into immigration status during routine stops.
SB13: Senator Abis Information Only01:06:22.480 - 1:05:49 PM; Senator Abis inquired about the potential immigration status consequences of a class B misdemeanor conviction under SB13, specifically whether it could impact an individual's ability to become a legal immigrant in the future or invoke deportation proceedings. He was unsure of the direct impact but expressed concern over the seriousness of any criminal penalty and its potential ramifications on individuals' limited status.
SB13: David Trumble, Town of Weare Oppose01:12:16.199 - 1:11:43 PM; David Trumble from Weare opposes SB13, arguing that the bill is based on the stereotype that undocumented immigrants are criminals and dangerous, which he believes is incorrect and harmful. He expresses concern that enforcing the bill would lead to stereotyping by law enforcement, as it would require them to investigate the immigration status of individuals during traffic stops, which would be burdensome and potentially lead to biased decision-making. Trumble also emphasizes the contributions of undocumented immigrants to the workforce, filling essential jobs in construction, agriculture, textiles, and food preparation. He cites statistics showing that undocumented immigrants have a lower crime rate than U.S.-born citizens, particularly for violent crimes. Additionally, he notes that providing driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants could reduce hit-and-run accidents, as evidenced by experiences in California and Connecticut. Overall, he argues that the bill goes against the best instincts of New Hampshire by institutionalizing stereotyping.
SB62: Senator Bill Ganon, District 23 Support01:18:14.360 - 1:17:41 PM; Senator Bill Ganon introduces SB62, which aims to allow state, county, and local law enforcement agencies to apply for and enter into agreements with the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to participate in the 287g program. He emphasizes that the bill does not compel local law enforcement to act as ICE agents but rather preserves their right to cooperate with federal immigration authorities if they choose. Ganon highlights the crisis level of illegal immigration at both the southern and northern borders, mentioning the increased number of individuals on the terrorist watch list crossing the borders under the current administration. He argues that SB62 is a necessary tool to help local law enforcement ensure community safety.
SB62: Sher Rendall Support01:31:34.239 - 1:31:01 PM; Sher Rendall supports SB62, explaining that the 287g program was designed to enhance cooperation between state and local law enforcement and federal immigration officials. He notes the limited number of ICE agents available for apprehending and removing illegal aliens and underscores the importance of state and local law enforcement's involvement due to their familiarity with their communities. Rendall cites a 2022 ICE report showing the effectiveness of the 287g program in identifying and addressing criminal aliens. He also mentions the increased encounters at the northern border and the need for additional tools to enhance crime fighting and protect residents, supporting the legislation as a means to clarify a policy of cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
SB62: Jil Binet, ACLU of New Hampshire Oppose01:34:52.679 - 1:34:19 PM; Jil Binet from the ACLU of New Hampshire opposes SB62, expressing initial confusion about the bill's intent as an enabling statute. Binet argues that the bill is unnecessary because there are no legal barriers preventing law enforcement from participating in the 287g program if they wish. She suggests that if the intent is to inform law enforcement about the program, it could be done without legislation. Binet also raises concerns about the bill's wording, which she believes could be interpreted as a mandate rather than an enabling statute. She recommends that if the bill must be passed, it should be clearly written as an enabling statute, allowing but not requiring participation. Binet concludes by noting the minimal impact of border issues specifically in New Hampshire compared to the broader Swanton sector and recommends that the bill be deemed inexpedient to legislate.
SB62: Grace, American Friend Service Committee, New Hampshire Immigrant Rights Network Oppose01:39:02.199 - 1:38:29 PM; Grace from the American Friend Service Committee and representing the New Hampshire Immigrant Rights Network spoke in opposition to SB62. She highlighted that the bill would prevent the governor or any local government entity from blocking law enforcement agencies from entering into 287g agreements with federal immigration authorities. Grace argued that this undermines local control and the checks and balances inherent in New Hampshire's government structure. She emphasized that there is no compelling reason to disrupt the existing relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve, and that there is no need for such agreements as relationships already exist without them. She concluded by urging the committee to vote inexpedient to legislate on SB62, as it seeks to solve a non-existent problem.
SB71: Senator Bill Ganon, District 23 Support01:43:41.760 - 1:43:08 PM; Senator Bill Ganon, the prime sponsor of SB71, introduced the bill which aims to prohibit any government entity in New Hampshire from enacting or enforcing sanctuary policies. He argued that these policies impede law enforcement from communicating and cooperating with federal immigration agencies, which he believes is necessary due to the disastrous border policies affecting towns and cities across the country. Ganon cited specific instances of increased unauthorized crossings at the northern border and the seizure of fentanyl, emphasizing the dangers of sanctuary policies which he claims lead to increased crime and safety risks. He stressed that New Hampshire should prohibit sanctuary cities to ensure public safety and support legal immigration.
SB71: Senator Tim McQuillen, representing Merrimack, Milford, Amherst, and Wilton of Hillsborough County Support01:52:50.280 - 1:52:17 PM; Senator Tim McQuillen supported SB71, highlighting the issue of sanctuary counties, specifically Hillsborough County, which he stated is listed as a sanctuary county by the Center for Immigration Studies. He mentioned recent apprehensions of violent criminals near his district and stressed the importance of uniform cooperation with federal immigration authorities to prevent such incidents. McQuillen, drawing from his experience as a paramedic, emphasized the need for the bill to enhance public safety and prevent further criminal activity, urging the committee to look favorably upon the legislation.
SB71: Randell, FAIR Support01:58:16.480 - 1:57:43 PM; Randell from FAIR expressed strong support for SB71, arguing that sanctuary policies in various New Hampshire counties and cities effectively block communication and cooperation with federal immigration officials. He cited studies showing higher incarceration rates among illegal aliens and refuted claims that such legislation would deter crime reporting. Randell emphasized the financial burden of illegal immigration on taxpayers and stressed that the bill would ensure local enforcement does not overlook immigration violations detrimental to community safety.
SB71: Yil Vet, Legal Director, ACLU of New Hampshire Oppose02:03:49.800 - 2:03:16 PM; Yil Vet from the ACLU of New Hampshire opposed SB71, arguing that it mandates local communities to enforce federal immigration policies, thus stripping local law enforcement of their autonomy and responsiveness to their communities. Vet expressed concerns about the bill's ambiguity, suggesting it might require local police to hold individuals for ICE, which would be costly and could undermine community trust in law enforcement. She highlighted potential issues with due process and the lack of compensation for local entities, urging the committee to reconsider the legislation due to its problematic implications.
SB71: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:10:18.920 - 2:09:45 PM; The speaker discusses the need for federal immigration reform and expresses concern about the effectiveness of such reform if states, counties, and municipalities do not comply with it. They highlight the issue of illegal entry into the country and question the utility of reforming laws that may not be enforced. They suggest increasing the number of ICE agents as a potential solution to enhance immigration enforcement without relying on local police.
SB71: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:11:51.800 - 2:11:18 PM; The speaker responds to a scenario involving an arrest and an ICE detainer request, expressing concerns about local policies that ignore such requests. They argue that if the federal government wants more resources for enforcement, it should fund additional ICE agents rather than commandeering local resources. They emphasize the importance of federal agencies being responsive and not relying on local police to hold individuals.
SB71: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:14:11.480 - 2:13:38 PM; The speaker addresses concerns about the timing of bail and ICE detainment requests, particularly in cases of violent offenses. They clarify that if someone is deemed a danger or a flight risk, they should be detained under state law. They stress that ICE should handle civil immigration enforcement without commandeering local resources, suggesting that additional federal resources might be the solution if needed.
SB71: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:16:28.320 - 2:15:55 PM; The speaker discusses interstate parole agreements, drawing a comparison to federal immigration enforcement. They highlight that while states cooperate under such agreements, federal immigration enforcement involves mainly civil violations, and local entities should not be required to hold individuals for civil immigration violations alone. They differentiate this from criminal offenses, where individuals should be arrested and prosecuted.
SB71: Grace Kand, New Hampshire Program Coordinator, American Friends Service Committee, speaking on behalf of the New Hampshire Immigrant Rights Network Oppose02:18:57.398 - 2:18:24 PM; Grace Kand expresses strong opposition to SB71, arguing that it is unnecessary as it is already illegal to interfere with law enforcement duties. She asserts that the bill's true intent might be to mandate local involvement in immigration enforcement, which should remain under federal jurisdiction. She emphasizes that the existing infrastructure is sufficient to handle criminal enforcement and that the bill would divert resources from critical community needs like housing and fair wages. She urges the committee to vote inexpedient to legislate on SB71, highlighting the potential liability risks and unfunded mandates it poses to local governments.
SB71: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:22:29.319 - 2:21:56 PM; The speaker questions Grace Kand about welcoming ordinances and whether they violate state and federal laws. Kand clarifies that these ordinances ensure that community members can cooperate with law enforcement without fear of immigration status repercussions, emphasizing that the bill is not the way to address such ordinances.
SB71: Unidentified Speaker Information Only02:24:41.800 - 2:24:08 PM; The speaker raises concerns about the impact of a large influx of illegal immigrants on New Hampshire's housing and resources, citing Massachusetts as an example. Kand responds by stating that the issue is not the arrival of immigrants but the lack of infrastructure and resource allocation. She argues that New Hampshire has the resources but must prioritize them correctly, emphasizing that the bill would misdirect resources away from community needs.
SB71: Representative Jeanine Notter, Hillsborough - District 12 Support02:30:54.800 - 2:30:21 PM; Representative Janine Nter expresses support for SB71, citing her visits to the southern border and observations of the challenges faced there, including unvetted individuals and human trafficking. She criticizes sanctuary cities for protecting criminals and stresses the importance of enforcing immigration laws to maintain national security. She argues that no other country has open borders and that the U.S. should protect its borders similarly.

Gannon, Bill(Chairman)(R)[C+]2024	Abbas, Daryl(V Chairman)(R)[C+]2024	Carson, Sharon(R)[C]2024
Altschiller, Debra(D)[CT]2024	Reardon, Tara(D)