Committee Summary for Senate Judiciary (02/10/2026)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
SB467 00:14:00.399 - 12:12:46 PM	Executive Session	relative to the penalty for certain fentanyl-related offenses and establishing a mandatory minimum sentence for the crime of distribution of a controlled drug with death resulting.	Gannon, Bill(R)[B-]2025
SB554 00:17:07.039 - 12:15:53 PM	Executive Session	repealing the limitation of liability for certain design features of firearms.	Altschiller, Debra(D)[CT]2025
SB556 00:22:35.360 - 12:21:21 PM	Executive Session	including syringes and similar medical devices in the definition of special waste for purposes of solid waste management and making the disposal of such special waste a felony.	Murphy, Keith(R)[A]2025
SB621 2024-0136s 00:23:52.400 - 12:22:38 PM	Executive Session	establishing a homicide cold case commission for the purpose of acting as an intermediary between the department of justice and the family of cold case homicide victims.	Long, Pat(D)[F]2025
SB623 00:26:06.559 - 12:24:52 PM	Executive Session	relative to requirements for law enforcement officers assisting in immigration enforcement.	Altschiller, Debra(D)[CT]2025
SB625 00:36:28.720 - 12:35:14 PM	Executive Session	permitting family members of homicide victims to seek an evidentiary hearing in cases where the department of justice does not file charges in the case.	Birdsell, Regina(R)[B-]2025
HB1000 00:38:32.160 - 12:37:18 PM	Executive Session	extending the indemnification of legislative security staff members to legislative sergeant-at-arms staff members while acting within the scope of their duties.	Packard, Sherman(R)[SP]2025
SB465 0586s 00:40:59.520 - 12:39:45 PM	Public Hearing	classifying xylazine as a schedule III controlled drug.	Gannon, Bill(R)[B-]2025
SB624 01:00:05.440 - 12:58:51 PM	Public Hearing	restricting access to certain hemp-derived products.	Gannon, Bill(R)[B-]2025
SB650 01:29:15.040 - 1:28:01 PM	Public Hearing	relative to use of cannabis products for therapeutic purposes by alternative treatment centers.	Rochefort, David(R)[B-]2025
SB557 01:47:07.840 - 1:45:53 PM	Public Hearing	prohibiting the sale of kratom products to anyone under 21 years of age and providing for the regulation of the sale of kratom products.	Altschiller, Debra(D)[CT]2025
HB86 03:31:44.000 - 3:30:30 PM	Public Hearing	increasing the cost of service for notice of civil forfeiture of unlicensed dogs to the rate for certified mail.	St. Clair, Charlie(D)[D-]2025
HB86 03:52:47.040 - 3:51:33 PM	Executive Session	increasing the cost of service for notice of civil forfeiture of unlicensed dogs to the rate for certified mail.	St. Clair, Charlie(D)[D-]2025

SB467: Senator Ganon Support00:14:00.399 - 12:12:46 PM; Introduces SB 467, emphasizing punishment, deterrence, and rehabilitation. Argues it makes NH less attractive for drug dealers by imposing mandatory sentences for fentanyl sales, while allowing lesser sentences for cooperation with law enforcement.
SB467: Senator Reen Oppose00:14:51.839 - 12:13:37 PM; Supports the intent but opposes codifying plea deals and negotiations into statute, as it interferes with organic prosecutorial processes.
SB467: Chair Support00:15:59.680 - 12:14:45 PM; Shares story of mothers from Portsmouth who lost children to fentanyl, highlighting the need for stronger sentences to address the crisis.
SB554: Senator (unnamed) Oppose00:17:07.039 - 12:15:53 PM; Moves for ITL, arguing existing law protects against lawsuits for optional features; a holstered gun discharging is a defect allowing suits.
SB554: Senator Oshel Oppose00:17:07.039 - 12:15:53 PM; Opposes ITL, compares optional safety mechanisms to removing brakes from a car; bill unfairly singles out one manufacturer.
SB554: Senator Alex Support00:18:18.080 - 12:17:04 PM; Supports ITL, notes similar past legislation; cites companies leaving states without liability protections; clarifies optional equipment doesn't preclude defective product claims.
SB554: Senator Cinder Oppose00:19:16.880 - 12:18:02 PM; Opposes, argues bill absolves strict liability for inherently dangerous products; hundreds of cases nationwide; plaintiffs can't easily prove defects.
SB554: Senator (unnamed) Support00:20:25.200 - 12:19:11 PM; Clarifies unintentional discharges can still be claimed under existing law; optional safety doesn't make it inherently dangerous; aims to reduce frivolous suits.
SB554: Senator (unnamed) Oppose00:21:34.559 - 12:20:20 PM; Notes law enforcement shooting cases aren't frivolous; discharges without reason remain claimable.
SB556: Senator (unnamed) Information Only00:22:35.360 - 12:21:21 PM; Moves for interim study, notes bill includes diabetic needles potentially leading to felonies; seeks to refine the bill.
SB621 2024-0136s: Senator (unnamed) Oppose00:23:52.400 - 12:22:38 PM; Moves for ITL, citing AG and state police opposition due to recent expansions and privacy risks from public commission.
SB621 2024-0136s: Senator (unnamed) Support00:25:00.720 - 12:23:46 PM; Notes amendment addresses concerns; requests withdrawal of ITL to review amendment.
SB623: Senator (unnamed) Oppose00:26:06.559 - 12:24:52 PM; Moves for ITL, argues bill impedes 287(g) compliance with ICE, increases risks; stakeholders like sheriff's office prefer discretion.
SB623: Senator Re Support00:27:14.320 - 12:26:00 PM; Clarifies bill requires NH officers to show badges, not cover faces, and use body cams; standard practice enhances safety.
SB623: Senator (unnamed) Oppose00:28:26.720 - 12:27:12 PM; Emphasizes risks to officers from gangs targeting law enforcement; trusts local discretion, no issues in NH.
SB623: Senator Al Support00:29:24.159 - 12:28:10 PM; Notes 287(g) contract relinquishes control to ICE; bill upholds NH policies against masking or disabling cams; not undercover work.
SB623: Senator Alice Oppose00:33:01.039 - 12:31:47 PM; Bill restricts 287(g) cooperation, inconsistent with federal policy; ignores tactical needs like masks.
SB623: Senator Carson Oppose00:34:04.799 - 12:32:50 PM; Supports body cams but opposes mask ban due to doxxing risks; compares to SWAT/undercover protections.
SB625: Senator (unnamed) Oppose00:36:28.720 - 12:35:14 PM; Moves for interim study, argues public involvement risks defense challenges to AG authority.
HB1000: Attorney Leman Support00:38:32.160 - 12:37:18 PM; Introduces bill to protect house and senate sergeants-at-arms from personal liability in work-related incidents, ensuring fairness.
SB465 0586s: Senator Ganon, District 23 Support00:40:59.520 - 12:39:45 PM; Introduces SB 465 to schedule xylazine (animal tranquilizer) as Schedule 3; used to cut 30% of fentanyl in NH; interferes with Narcan; amendment allows veterinary use.
SB465 0586s: Kaylee McGlenn, SNHU Student Support00:42:58.640 - 12:41:44 PM; Presents academic research on xylazine as 'zombie drug'; unapproved for humans, causes necrotic wounds, reduces Narcan efficacy; found in 30% fentanyl; urges Schedule 3 for prosecution while allowing vet use; provides 2024-2025 overdose data showing presence; notes federal delays.
SB465 0586s: Marissa McGlenn Support00:50:17.920 - 12:49:03 PM; Supports scheduling xylazine as Schedule 3; complicates overdoses, causes severe wounds; provides legal framework for enforcement without hindering vet use; aligns with public health needs.
SB465 0586s: Rob Johnson, NH Farm Bureau Federation Oppose00:53:00.800 - 12:51:46 PM; Opposes due to potential cost increases from Schedule 3 paperwork passed to livestock owners, affecting animal care amid vet shortages.
SB465 0586s: Su Hamola, SAM NH Support00:55:29.599 - 12:54:15 PM; Strongly supports; NH can lead nationally in addressing xylazine.
SB465 0586s: Dr. Jane Barl Roy, NH Veterinary Medical Association Support00:56:22.160 - 12:55:08 PM; Supports with amendment for vet carve-out; xylazine essential for animal sedation; Schedule 3 appropriate, not like Schedule 1 drugs.
SB465 0586s: Dr. Katie Larson, NH VMA President Support00:57:29.280 - 12:56:15 PM; Reiterates need for xylazine in large animal practice for safety and welfare; used in 95% of cases; urges vet exemption.
SB624: Senator Ganon Information Only01:00:05.440 - 12:58:51 PM; Introduces SB 624 due to concerns over teens accessing hemp products in smoke shops displaying inappropriate materials.
SB624: Danielle Ellson, Deputy Chief of New Hampshire Liquor Enforcement Support01:00:55.760 - 12:59:41 PM; Danielle Ellson explains the issues with hemp-based products entering the market due to a loophole in the 2018 federal Farm Bill, which was intended for industrial uses like textiles and biofuels, not consumable edibles and drinks. She highlights the lack of testing, labeling, and age restrictions, leading to incidents of children as young as 12 overdosing on high-THC products. The amendment aligns with recent federal changes by redefining hemp to include THCA limits and container restrictions, imposing age restrictions for legal hemp products, and creating penalties. This clarifies regulations for licensees and extends enforcement to non-licensed establishments like pop-up shops. She notes current laws lack specific penalties, but future rules will establish them.
SB624: Matt Simon, representing Granite Leaf Cannabis Information Only01:08:03.039 - 1:06:49 PM; Matt Simon states neutrality on the bill but supports goals like removing intoxicating hemp products from retailers, establishing age restrictions, and clear penalties for enforcement. He points out potential shortfalls in the current draft that may not fully close loopholes and looks forward to reviewing the mentioned amendment. He warns of resistance in the other chamber to personal possession penalties, which are harsher than those for small amounts of marijuana (misdemeanor on second offense vs. violation until fourth). He suggests removing personal possession penalties or mirroring marijuana penalties to improve passage chances. He notes the effective date is January 1, 2027.
SB624: Kaylee Mlenn, student at Southern New Hampshire University Support01:11:11.760 - 1:09:57 PM; Kaylee Mlenn supports SB 624 to address the changing drug landscape and protect youth from psychoactive THC in hemp products. She references the 2018 Farm Bill's unintended loophole allowing intoxicating substances like delta-8 and delta-9 THC, which large corporations market to young people. Emphasizing public health and youth well-being, she argues the bill tailors state law to close this loophole, sets standards for safety, and prevents mimicry of adult behaviors by children.
SB624: Marissa McGlin Support01:12:39.679 - 1:11:25 PM; Marissa McGlin testifies that SB 624 is essential to address public health risks from hemp-derived products containing psychoactive THC, such as delta-8, which are chemically similar to delta-9 THC and affect brain function. Citing data like the Monitoring the Future survey showing 11% past-year use among 12th graders, she highlights risks to developing adolescent brains, including impacts on memory, attention, and mental health per CDC findings. She notes limited evidence for therapeutic benefits and risks like addiction. The bill closes the loophole without banning non-intoxicating hemp, imposes age-21 restrictions, defines prohibited products, and sets penalties akin to other psychoactive substances, balancing lawful production with consumer protection, especially for youth.
SB624: Pete Fry, Vice President of Advocacy, New Futures Support01:15:26.239 - 1:14:12 PM; Pete Fry supports SB 624 for strengthening New Hampshire's ban on intoxicating hemp products and mandating licensee compliance to deter sales. New Futures has worked on this since 2023, noting persistent sales despite the ban. He identifies industry tactics like definitional loopholes, rebranding, deceptive marketing, and regulatory gaps to target youth. The bill addresses these, enhances enforcement, and imposes tough penalties on profit-driven establishments. He prioritizes retailer fines over personal possession penalties and anticipates the amendment. He shares a resource from a California organization on regulating such products.
SB624: Christine McCarr, Director of the Doorway Program in Nashua Support01:18:37.520 - 1:17:23 PM; Christine supports the bill to restrict sales of hemp-derived THC products to individuals under 21. She highlights that products like delta 8 and delta 10 are widely available and intoxicating, causing effects similar to cannabis such as rapid heart rate, anxiety, and hallucinations. There are minimal regulations on production and potency, and products are often in enticing forms like gummies that appeal to children. She cites reports of adverse events including vomiting and loss of consciousness, emphasizing the need to pass the bill to protect communities from unregulated drugs.
SB624: Sue Hamola, representing SAM New Hampshire Support01:20:38.560 - 1:19:24 PM; Sue underscores the need to close the federal farm bill loophole on hemp products and notes efforts to undermine it. She cites a 2024 report showing 69% of tested products exceeded delta 9 limits and 81% exceeded when including THCA. She suggests adding THCA to the bill's definition in section two, lines 8-9, to mirror federal language and align with SB461.
SB624: The Honorable Jerry Nerk Support01:22:38.719 - 1:21:24 PM; Jerry supports the bill but points out an omission in the amendment regarding THCA, which is not an isomer of THC and thus not covered by the isomer language. He explains the chemistry: THCA converts to THC upon heating (e.g., smoking or vaping) at about 87% rate, creating a loophole. He recommends adding THCA explicitly to lines 28-30 and for consistency in lines 22-25, using language like 'all forms of tetrahydrocannabinol including delta 9 THC and THCA' to regulate intoxicating cannabinoids and protect those under 21.
SB650: Trisha Malo, Senate Majority Caucus Director for Senator Roacher Support01:29:15.040 - 1:28:01 PM; Trisha introduces SB 650, which allows alternative treatment centers (ATCs) to use non-intoxicating cannabinoids like CBD from federally legal hemp sources. This addresses medical providers' requests for broader product offerings. Currently, ATCs must produce all cannabinoids, which is costly. The bill does not expand THC access but requires independent lab testing for safety.
SB650: Matt Simon, Granite Leaf Cannabis Support01:30:22.880 - 1:29:08 PM; Matt supports SB 650, noting changes from last year's HB51 based on committee feedback: it retains the definition of cannabis including seeds due to federal changes creating a gray area, and clarifies that only natural THC from hemp can be used, not synthetic. This enables ATCs to offer more affordable products combining THC with CBD, CBG, etc., as requested by providers, reducing costs like growing CBD indoors.
SB650: Alicia Bennett, Education and Outreach Coordinator, Granite Leaf Cannabis Support01:35:03.360 - 1:33:49 PM; Alicia, with 5 years consulting patients, supports SB 650 to allow ATCs to offer more hemp-derived non-intoxicating cannabinoids like CBD (for anxiety, seizures, pain), CBG (for anxiety, ADHD, cancer, depression, pain, insomnia), and CBN (for sleep). She notes combinations with THC are beneficial but current regulations make production uneconomical. As a patient, she has experienced their benefits and advocates for affordable, safe access in dispensaries.
SB650: Jerry Kerk, Chair of Therapeutic Cannabis Medical Oversight Board Support01:37:41.119 - 1:36:27 PM; Jerry Kerk explains the chemistry of cannabinoids, emphasizing that non-intoxicating ones like CBD have therapeutic benefits and are essential for patients to avoid intoxication side effects. He highlights the economic advantages of using hemp-derived non-intoxicating cannabinoids in ATC products, as hemp can be grown more cheaply without high security costs. Currently, ATCs cannot obtain federal hemp licenses, limiting affordable access to these ingredients. SB 650 would allow ATCs to purchase these from external producers, subject to the same strict testing as their own products, enabling more affordable options for patients. He addresses THCA, noting it's not needed in the bill due to the regulated therapeutic market where total cannabinoid profiles are labeled. During Q&A, he clarifies the bill applies only to non-intoxicating cannabinoids, not THC.
SB557: Deborah Uler, Senator District 24 Support01:47:07.840 - 1:45:53 PM; Senator Deborah Uler presents physical examples of easily accessible kratom products purchased cheaply near the hearing, illustrating the unregulated market available to teens. She details kratom's pharmacology, noting its active alkaloids bind to mu-opioid receptors like morphine, with some components up to 13 times more potent, leading to opioid-like effects including addiction and withdrawal. She cites rising poison control calls, EMS overdoses, and expert warnings from NH doctors and the Psychiatric Society on harms, especially to youth whose developing brains are vulnerable. Uler argues for age 21 restrictions akin to alcohol and tobacco, plus product standards, bans on synthetics and high-potency forms, labeling, quality controls, and licensing to protect consumers without banning adult use. She refutes 'natural' safety claims by comparing to opium and urges NH to act proactively like other states and countries. During Q&A, she explains regulation is needed due to federal inaction, balancing potential benefits with harm reduction by restricting youth access rather than a full ban.
SB557: Walker Gman, Legislative Director, Global Kratom Coalition Oppose02:07:27.920 - 2:06:13 PM; Walker Gman from the Global Kratom Coalition opposes SB 557 unless amended. He supports regulations distinguishing natural kratom from synthetics, prohibiting marketing to minors, ensuring labeling, age restrictions, and safety. Concerns include broad language prohibiting kratom combined with psychoactive substances like caffeine or sugar, which are harmless. He argues existing provisions already address safety. Opposes child-resistant packaging as unnecessary for dietary supplements, with no evidence of child consumption. Provides background on natural kratom's safe traditional use, popularity (23.9 million US users), and FDA trials showing tolerability. Emphasizes synthetics like 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) are the real danger, not natural leaf with trace amounts. Cites FDA, DEA, HHS focus on synthetics, not natural kratom. Urges amendments for consumer protection without banning natural products.
SB557: Kaylee McGlin Oppose02:24:24.399 - 2:23:10 PM; Kaylee McGlin opposes SB 557, arguing it is uninformed and fails to recognize dangers of unregulated kratom. She notes kratom is a DEA drug of concern, with peer-reviewed studies showing biological risks. The bill's age 21 restriction implies state approval for adults, missing the mark on drug prevention amid NH's mental health and substance use crisis. Advocates eliminating unregulated sales entirely.
SB557: Graham Rigby, CEO, American Herbal Products Association, Keene NH Information Only02:26:38.479 - 2:25:24 PM; Graham Rigby from the American Herbal Products Association provides input on SB 557 sections regarding kratom product limitations. Recommends qualifying the ban on kratom in conventional foods/beverages unless generally recognized as safe (GRAS), citing Thailand's reclassification. Opposes broad ban on combining kratom with other ingredients, suggesting targeting specific concerns like synthetic 7-OH. Argues child-resistant packaging is redundant with age restrictions and bans on child-appealing forms. Suggests flexible labeling for warnings to convey intent without state-specific verbiage, removing redundant FDA claim language, and listing mitragynine/7-OH per serving to avoid confusion.
SB557: Officer Justin AG, Merrimack Police Department Support02:31:48.240 - 2:30:34 PM; Officer Justin AG from Merrimack PD supports SB 557 as a step toward regulating kratom, an easily abused addictive alkaloid targeting opioid receptors. Highlights risks to youth: tolerance buildup leads to seeking stronger, cheaper street drugs. Cites FDA, DEA, CDC concerns, 91 deaths linked 2016-2017, presence in thousands of tox screens. Notes illegality in 7 states; prefers full ban but sees regulation as minimum protection for juveniles.
SB557: Kristen McCera, Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor Oppose02:34:52.000 - 2:33:38 PM; Kristen McCera opposes SB 557, reiterating kratom's high dependence potential leading to illicit substances. As a clinician, she describes seeing users under influence (e.g., climbing walls) and clients finding it harder to quit than opioids. Advocates full ban for all ages.
SB557: Kate Fry, New Futures Support02:35:48.640 - 2:34:34 PM; Kate Fry from New Futures supports SB 557 to counter industries targeting youth with unregulated products, deceptive marketing, and regulatory gaps. Urges action to protect youth and adults from kratom.
SB557: Sue Hamola, SAMHSA, Southern NH Oppose02:36:43.040 - 2:35:29 PM; Sue Hamola from SAMHSA opposes SB 557, stating it doesn't go far enough despite aiming to protect children. Explains natural kratom's mitragynine converts to stronger opioids, as dangerous as synthetic 7-OH. Banned in 33 countries, controlled in 7 US states (6 as Schedule I). Calls it de facto legalization; omits mitragynine ban, risking fatalities (551 deaths per 2025 Journal of Addictive Medicine). Cites tachycardia risks, combinations with other substances, legal liabilities (e.g., $11M Florida verdict). Advocates federal scheduling of mitragynine; health benefits should be FDA-studied, not gas station experiments.
SB557: Renee King, Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner, Director of Nursing, Inpatient Medical Detox NH Support02:40:22.640 - 2:39:08 PM; Renee King supports SB 557 for harm reduction via age restrictions and regulations. Describes rising kratom dependency/withdrawal cases mimicking opioids (anxiety, insomnia, GI distress, tachycardia). Created specific detox protocol in July 2025. Highlights unregulated nature: variable potencies, unknown contents (e.g., enhanced 7-OH, heavy metals like arsenic). Shares cases: 19-year-old's path from kratom at 14 to fentanyl addiction; alcohol patient died after undisclosed kratom use; powder scoop with arsenic. Warns synthetics will evolve to evade bans. Sees bill as consumer/youth protection start.
SB557: Amanda Reineer, Bedford NH Support02:47:15.439 - 2:46:01 PM; Amanda Reineer supports regulating SB 557, sharing personal story: used kratom/extracts 9 years for severe pain (trigeminal neuralgia, etc.), avoiding pharmaceuticals since age 9. No withdrawals beyond mild symptoms; improved health, lost 100 lbs, resumed professions. Reduced meds for blood pressure, anxiety, depression, pain; reversed liver damage. Notes overdose causes nausea/vomiting, not death; many 'kratom deaths' involve other factors. Opposes gas station sales (21+ smoke shops better); supports 21+ age, education, no silly names. Believes regulation key; plant life-saving, used by billions safely. Against full ban as it halts studies for pharmaceutical potential; favors low % limits on extracts.
SB557: Jennifer Mercier, NH business owner Support02:52:48.160 - 2:51:34 PM; Jennifer Mercier, a New Hampshire business owner and small batch vendor of pure natural kratom leaf, supports regulation of kratom. She advocates for removing kratom from gas stations, implementing education like a 'safe serve' program, and requiring childproof packaging for extracts. She shares her personal experience using natural kratom for pain management after surgeries, avoiding pharmaceuticals. She emphasizes the safety of natural leaf based on over 450 studies, including from Johns Hopkins, and distinguishes it from synthetics and extracts which pose higher risks. She calls for testing for heavy metals and traceability, and notes low dependency rates (less than 10%).
SB557: Dr. Cornell Stansu, Dartmouth assistant professor Support03:00:02.319 - 2:58:48 PM; Dr. Cornell Stansu, a quadruple boarded physician specializing in addiction medicine, supports SB 557 based on 12 years of kratom research. He highlights kratom's historical use in Southeast Asia without adverse effects but notes emerging toxicities from concentrated and synthetic products. He sees benefits for patients managing conditions and avoiding opioids when using tested natural powder, but harms from concentrated forms. He describes market evolution from raw leaf to solvent-based extracts and synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine. He praises the bill's balance and suggests additions: research provisions for synthetics, expanded labeling on interactions with medications/alcohol, consultation with healthcare providers, and clarifying semi-synthetic terminology. He notes overdose is unlikely with natural form but possible with synthetics, resembling opioid effects.
SB557: Daniel Neslusen, co-owner Kava bar, Manchester NH Support03:08:21.840 - 3:07:07 PM; Daniel Neslusen, along with partner Eric Bolter, is opening a Kava bar in Manchester, NH, where 85% of U.S. Kava bars also serve natural kratom as tea. He supports the bill's regulation, emphasizing education through labeling and age restrictions. He advocates for allowing natural kratom tea in such settings, similar to brewing other teas.
SB557: Eric Poulter, Londonderry NH Support03:10:18.080 - 3:09:04 PM; Eric Poulter from Londonderry, NH, in long-term recovery since 2010, supports regulating natural kratom leaf while distinguishing it from synthetics. He uses a coffee-caffeine metaphor to argue against conflating the whole plant with extracted or synthetic forms, which cause harms. He has seen kratom help people withdraw from benzodiazepines and opiates, emphasizing personal autonomy and choice in plant medicine.
SB557: Sean Kenazar, owner Hope to Freedom Recovery Homes, Claremont NH Support03:12:41.520 - 3:11:27 PM; Sean Kenazar shares a tragic story of Paul Lewis, a resident who relapsed after 18 months sober, overdosed on what appeared to be synthetic or gas station kratom tablets mixed with fentanyl, and died. He found hundreds of packages in Paul's possession, linking the unregulated products to the relapse and death. While open to natural leaf if it works, he strongly supports regulation to prevent access to dangerous gas station versions, suggesting 'Paulie's Law' to honor his friend who donated organs and inspired recovery efforts.
SB557: Marissa McGlin, 16-year-old student Oppose03:18:11.680 - 3:16:57 PM; Marissa McGlin, a 16-year-old full-time college student, opposes SB 557, arguing New Hampshire should not settle for partial regulation but aim higher to protect youth. She addresses concerns about deaths and overdoses linked to kratom, comparing it to extensively tested pain meds and opioids. She views claims of pain relief as subjective, similar to addicts' rationalizations, and argues against relying solely on 'mother nature' without manipulation or regulation, as some natural substances are poisonous. She prioritizes community wellness over profit and sees kratom use among youth in schools and organizations.
SB557: Leah Kaufman, Vice President of Public Policy, ShatterProof Support03:20:54.720 - 3:19:40 PM; Leah Kaufman from ShatterProof, a national nonprofit addressing addiction, supports SB 557 for targeting synthetic kratom risks. She outlines national trends: 7 states ban it, 24 regulate partially or fully, with more considering action, including NH municipalities. The bill sets age 21, ID verification, behind-counter storage, bans youth-appealing packaging, synthetic forms, and alkaloid limits. She recommends lowering per-serving mitragynine to 53mg based on studies, adding enforcement tools like seizures and higher penalties. She clarifies kratom's psychoactive opioid-like effects, treatable with FDA-approved medications like buprenorphine and reversible with naloxone. She advocates per-package limits and regulating by specific alkaloids per dry weight for accuracy, unlike blunt total alkaloid caps in states like Utah.
HB86: Jared Sullivan, Representative, Grafton District 2 (Franconia and Bethlehem) Support03:31:44.000 - 3:30:30 PM; Representative Jared Sullivan testified in strong support of HB86, highlighting its framework for legalizing and regulating cannabis sales through a private free market system rather than a liquor-based model. He noted that the legalization language was previously voted on and lifted from prior bills. The bill establishes a 15-member commission appointed by the governor to handle rulemaking, with basic regulations included. Sullivan emphasized the low 8.5% tax rate, which would expand the rooms and meals tax to include cannabis, keeping New Hampshire competitive with neighboring states like Maine (14%) and Vermont/Massachusetts (20%), potentially attracting business and generating revenue. He addressed safeguards against industry concentration, allowing many licenses but limiting market share to prevent monopolies, contrasting with past bills that had only 15 licenses. Sullivan cited public support, with 70% of New Hampshire residents (including 55% of Republicans) favoring legalization, aligning with national trends and even presidential moves toward decriminalization. He urged the committee to consider the bill seriously in this election year, offering to work on any objections. During questioning, he explained no caps on licenses per town to avoid corruption, suggesting zoning regulations to control concentrations like 'marijuana miles,' and argued the free market would self-regulate. He dismissed concerns about negative impacts on property values, noting that more permissive zoning generally increases values, and rejected slippery slope arguments about taxation leading to a general sales tax, viewing cannabis as a unique product.
HB86: Su Hamola, representing SAM New Hampshire Information Only03:51:47.040 - 3:50:33 PM; Su Hamola provided information on the science of addiction, mentioning brain scans from Dr. Daniel Aean but deferring to emailed materials for details. She highlighted a current billboard in West Lebanon advertising Maine therapeutic cannabis, noting no restrictions on out-of-state advertising after consulting Mr. Hol. Hamola referenced page 15, lines 1-2 of the bill, which includes provisions for advertisement violations and penalties. She stated that SAM New Hampshire could support the bill if it focused solely on those advertising regulations to address out-of-state pot shop ads.
HB86: Committee Members Oppose03:52:47.040 - 3:51:33 PM; In the executive session, the committee discussed and voted on a motion to find HB86 Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL). Concerns included the lack of caps on cannabis stores per town, potential for 'marijuana miles' in border towns like Salem, Seabrook, or Plaistow, and unintended negative impacts on commercial real estate values and surrounding businesses due to market deterrence of other tenants. Members noted that zoning might not fully address unlimited retail saturation, drawing comparisons to 'auto miles' or clusters of less desirable businesses like pawn shops and porn stores. One member expressed discomfort with towns being forced to allow all industries once approved, and issues with smaller stores unable to discharge debt via bankruptcy. Despite brief discussion, the motion to ITL passed with support from some members who felt they had enough information to vote against advancing the bill.

Gannon, Bill(Chairman)(R)[B-]2025	Abbas, Daryl(V Chairman)(R)[B-]2025	Carson, Sharon(R)[B]2025
Altschiller, Debra(D)[CT]2025	Reardon, Tara(D)[F]2025