Committee Summary for Senate Judiciary (04/15/2025)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB226 00:13:58.480 - 12:09:44 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the use of drug checking equipment.	Newell, Jodi(D)[D-]2024
HB301 00:59:50.400 - 12:55:36 PM	Public Hearing	relative to cultivation locations for alternative treatment centers.	Vail, Suzanne(D)[CT]2024
HB190 01:22:19.199 - 1:18:05 PM	Public Hearing	relative to therapeutic cannabis possession limits.	Howard, Heath(D)[F]2024
HB380 01:35:06.480 - 1:30:52 PM	Public Hearing	relative to penalties for criminal violations of the therapeutic use of cannabis.	Vail, Suzanne(D)[CT]2024
HB198 02:03:10.960 - 1:58:56 PM	Executive Session	relative to legalizing certain quantities of cannabis and establishing penalties for the smoking or vaping of cannabis in public.	Sullivan, Jared(D)[D+]2024
HB528 02:13:11.800 - 2:08:57 PM	Public Hearing	(New Title) amending the penalties for the possession and use of psilocybin for persons 18 years of age or older.	Verville, Kevin(R)[B+]2024
HB528 03:08:11.200 - 3:03:57 PM	Executive Session	(New Title) amending the penalties for the possession and use of psilocybin for persons 18 years of age or older.	Verville, Kevin(R)[B+]2024

HB226: Jodi Newell, Representative for Cheshire in Keene Support00:13:58.480 - 12:09:44 PM; Representative Jodi Newell introduced House Bill 226, aimed at allowing organizations registered with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHS) to use drug checking equipment. She emphasized the importance of this policy as part of a comprehensive harm reduction strategy to analyze substances on the streets, thereby aiding in targeting assistance and potentially saving lives. Newell discussed the bill's evolution from a similar proposal in the previous term, which faced resistance in the Senate. The current bill has been adapted to address those concerns by limiting its application to registered organizations. She detailed amendments to the bill that clarify allowable uses of drug testing equipment, exemptions, and definitions related to drug checking and harm reduction. Newell stressed that the bill does not require general fund allocation but allows for the use of opioid abatement and federal funds. She also mentioned that individuals engaging in drug checking under these conditions would not be penalized, and results should not be misused.
HB226: Unnamed Senator Information Only00:19:16.480 - 12:15:02 PM; The Senator asked for clarification on the origins of the bill and the decision not to include a caveat for individuals using the test strips without being under the influence. Representative Newell explained that a similar bill was introduced previously, which led to a subcommittee reviewing it and making adjustments based on stakeholder input. The bill passed the House but faced resistance in the Senate. The current version limits the use of drug checking equipment to agents of organizations registered with DHS. Regarding the test strips, Newell noted that the exemption for fentanyl and xylazine test strips, which does not require the user to be sober, is already in law and included in this bill. She expressed a preference for a broader policy allowing individuals to test substances without fear, but acknowledged the current bill's more limited scope as a compromise.
HB226: Jodi Newell, Representative for Cheshire in Keene Support00:22:42.159 - 12:18:28 PM; In response to further questions, Representative Newell confirmed the bill's applicability not only at recovery sites but also for community outreach efforts. She suggested consulting Lauren from the New Hampshire Harm Reduction Coalition for more detailed information on the equipment's practical use in the community.
HB226: Lauren McInley, Executive Director of the New Hampshire Harm Reduction Coalition Information Only00:24:25.200 - 12:20:11 PM; Lauren McInley, representing the New Hampshire Harm Reduction Coalition, which supports 10 harm reduction programs across the state and operates three direct service programs, discussed the potential implementation of a program like the one proposed in the bill. She highlighted the impact of the fentanyl and xylazine test strip bill passed three years ago, noting its role in identifying contaminants in the drug supply and modifying user behavior to reduce fatal overdoses. Despite a comprehensive state response to the overdose crisis, non-fatal overdoses remain unchanged. McInley emphasized the importance of being able to identify the full composition of the drug supply to better counsel users, provide appropriate supplies, and involve relevant professionals, such as nurse practitioners for treating xylazine-related wounds. She expressed concern about unidentified contaminants and the need for comprehensive drug checking to enhance public health strategies.
HB226: Dr. Carrie Noli, Family Nurse Practitioner and Chair of Nursing at the University of New Hampshire Support00:27:48.320 - 12:23:34 PM; Dr. Carrie Noli, speaking both as a healthcare provider and a researcher involved with the Harm Reduction Coalition, supported the bill. She is directly involved in data collection on xylazine-related wounds and stressed the need for proactive measures through comprehensive drug checking. Noli pointed out that current state laws prevent timely responses to new drug additives, and she referenced recent overdose statistics showing the prevalence of xylazine and carfentanyl. She also raised concerns about illicit medications and bacterial infections from non-reputable sources. Noli highlighted the potential of the bill to enable access to federal research funds currently unavailable due to the lack of comprehensive drug checking capabilities in the state.
HB226: Bill Brightite, Major with the New Hampshire State Police Oppose00:41:22.880 - 12:37:08 PM; Major Bill Brightite from the New Hampshire State Police opposed the bill, emphasizing the need for a collaborative effort to address the state's opioid problem. He expressed concerns about the bill's language, particularly the undefined term 'nominal amount' of drugs, which could complicate law enforcement efforts to cut off the drug supply chain. Brightite highlighted potential issues with returning drugs to users after checking, questioning the liability and the message it sends about drug use safety. He also noted contradictions within the bill's text regarding possession and the possibility of the general public establishing their own drug checking sites, which could muddy the waters for law enforcement.
HB226: Elizabeth Sergeant, Champini Capital Group, representing the New Hampshire Association of Chiefs of Police Oppose00:54:35.480 - 12:50:21 PM; Elizabeth Sergeant testified in opposition to HB226, echoing concerns raised by Major Bright. She highlighted issues with the bill's definition of a 'nominal amount' on page two under section C, noting that there is no measurable amount listed for nominal within the bill. She explained that in most cases, nominal means a small amount, and she can personally attest that the majority of drug-related arrests are from persons possessing small amounts, which often lead to larger seizures of illegal narcotics from drug traffickers. She also mentioned concerns about section 5XE regarding drug checking packaging, stating that proactive work in Manchester is based on street-level drug interdiction, and they are worried about the inability to investigate cases if individuals claim to be engaged in harm reduction.
HB226: Emma Sabini, Children's Behavioral Health Policy Coordinator at New Futures Support00:56:48.319 - 12:52:34 PM; Emma Sabini testified in support of HB226, emphasizing the presence of contaminants like fentanyl and xylazine in the illicit drug supply, which increases the risk of overdose. She stated that legalizing drug testing equipment, as proposed by HB226, is a low-cost way to prevent drug overdoses and reduce harm. She mentioned that the CDC and SAMHSA have emphasized the importance of this as a harm reduction strategy and that federal funds can be used for these testing kits. She expressed concerns that leaving the law as is could create confusion and deter the uptake of funding for these interventions.
HB301: Suzanne Vale, representing Nashua Ward 3 Support00:59:50.400 - 12:55:36 PM; Suzanne Vale testified in support of HB301, which aims to permit alternative treatment centers (ATCs) to utilize one additional cultivation location, which can be a greenhouse. She highlighted that this would result in significant energy cost savings and that cannabis grown in natural light has a broader spectrum of attributes beneficial to patients. She noted that a similar bill passed the House and Senate the previous year. She explained that current cannabis cultivation in enclosed grow houses relies on artificial lighting and climate control systems, consuming substantial electricity. The bill ensures regulatory compliance with existing Department of Health and Human Services rules and local regulations, allowing citizens and towns to have a say on the additional facility. She mentioned that the amended version of the bill addresses concerns raised by the state police regarding potential overdevelopment of ATC capacity, allowing only one new location. The bill does not relate to legalization but aims to improve circumstances for patients by reducing out-of-pocket costs and helping ATCs reduce their carbon footprint.
HB301: Jerry Kerk, Chair of the Therapeutic Cannabis Medical Oversight Board, retired surgeon and legislator Support01:06:39.280 - 1:02:25 PM; Jerry Kerk testified in support of HB301, stating that the Therapeutic Cannabis Medical Oversight Board (TCMOB) supports the bill. He explained that the bill would allow ATCs to add greenhouses as cultivation locations, which would enable lower-cost production and therefore lower costs for patients. He mentioned that the bill passed the House OTPA on a voice vote. He highlighted that indoor cultivation significantly increases the cost of production due to the electricity needed for lighting, and growing in a greenhouse would diminish these costs by using sunlight. He also noted that cannabis grows better in natural sunlight, increasing the total amount of cannabinoids produced, which could further decrease costs for patients. He emphasized that the additional cultivation location would be subject to existing regulatory frameworks.
HB301: Sue Hamola, New Hampshire chairman of Smart Approaches to Marijuana Oppose01:10:22.640 - 1:06:08 PM; Sue Hamola expressed opposition to HB301, citing its similarities to a previously vetoed bill. She argued that the bill lacks additional security and safety measures for outdoor or greenhouse cultivation, which could lead to security risks. She questioned the necessity of the bill, stating that Alternative Treatment Centers (ATCs) have existing capacity in their grow houses to increase supply and reduce costs for patients. Hamola suggested a need for transparency in the financial operations of ATCs, mentioning their significant compassionate care discounts in 2022. She also criticized a provision in the bill that solicits input from qualifying patients and caregivers but does not require notification of law enforcement, drug prevention groups, or addiction specialists, potentially allowing for overwhelming public support at local meetings.
HB301: Dr. Hannon Support01:14:07.239 - 1:09:53 PM; Dr. Hannon expressed strong support for HB301, describing it as a modest but crucial step to improve New Hampshire's therapeutic cannabis program. He highlighted the bill's allowance for ATCs to operate an additional greenhouse cultivation site under existing oversight and zoning laws. He emphasized the benefits of increased patient access and affordability, reduced energy consumption through greenhouse cultivation, and the bill's provision for community engagement and oversight. Dr. Hannon concluded by urging the committee to pass the bill, noting its sustainability, patient focus, and regulatory compliance.
HB301: Representative Heath Howard, representing the towns of Strafford and Barrington in Strafford District 4 Support01:16:35.440 - 1:12:21 PM; Representative Heath Howard, a patient in the therapeutic cannabis program, supported HB301, emphasizing the high cost of products in New Hampshire compared to neighboring states. He argued for increased supply to lower costs and suggested visiting Granite Leaf Cannabis to understand the benefits of greenhouse cultivation. Howard believed that the bill would safely increase supply and reduce costs for patients.
HB301: Mr. Schmidt (speaking on behalf of Matt Simon from Granite Leaf Cannabis) Support01:18:39.280 - 1:14:25 PM; Mr. Schmidt spoke in support of HB301 on behalf of Matt Simon from Granite Leaf Cannabis, who was unable to attend due to traffic issues. He conveyed that the bill's provisions are similar to those in other states, and the intent is to increase production efficiency and potentially reduce costs for patients. He mentioned that sunlight is cheaper than electricity, which could lead to cost savings in greenhouse cultivation. Schmidt also noted the bill's amendments to address previous concerns and its alignment with New Hampshire's therapeutic cannabis law.
HB190: Representative Heath Howard, representing the towns of Strafford and Barrington in Strafford District 4 Support01:22:19.199 - 1:18:05 PM; Representative Heath Howard introduced HB190, which aims to increase the purchase and possession limit for therapeutic cannabis patients from 2 to 4 ounces. He explained that this change would benefit patients, especially those in rural areas with limited access to dispensaries, and those who make their own edibles, which require larger quantities. Howard noted that this adjustment would align New Hampshire with other states' limits and reduce the frequency of trips to dispensaries for patients.
HB190: Jerry Kerk, Chair of the Therapeutic Cannabis Medical Oversight Board, retired surgeon and legislator Support01:25:18.560 - 1:21:04 PM; Jerry Kerk supported HB190, highlighting its benefits for patients, especially those in rural areas who face long drives to dispensaries. He explained that the bill would allow patients to make fewer trips to ATCs, which is particularly helpful for older patients, those in pain, and oncology patients requiring larger doses. Kerk also mentioned the cost savings for patients who make their own edibles, as the bill would allow them to purchase enough cannabis to do so efficiently. He emphasized the Therapeutic Cannabis Medical Oversight Board's unanimous support for the bill.
HB190: Sue Hamola, New Hampshire chairman of Smart Approaches to Marijuana Oppose01:30:19.840 - 1:26:05 PM; Sue Hamola opposed HB190, questioning the increase from 2 to 4 ounces without a corresponding increase in purchase frequency. She noted that patients could already purchase cannabis oil from ATCs, which negates the need for making their own edibles. Hamola criticized the bill for not adjusting the frequency of purchases and pointed out that states with higher limits often have more liberal drug policies.
HB190: Dr. Hannon Support01:32:19.840 - 1:28:05 PM; Dr. Hannon supported HB190, emphasizing that it would improve the therapeutic cannabis program for enrolled patients without expanding access. He argued that the bill would not lead to misuse or diversion due to strict oversight and felony penalties. He addressed a question about THC concentration, suggesting that limits on quantity would lead to stronger products, and argued for a system that trusts patients and their caregivers. Dr. Hannon concluded by urging support for the bill as a patient-focused and fiscally neutral improvement.
HB380: Suzanne Vale, Representative from Nashua Ward Three Support01:35:06.480 - 1:30:52 PM; Representative Vale supports HB380, which aims to amend the penalty for unauthorized sales of therapeutic cannabis by a qualifying patient or caregiver. The bill proposes to eliminate the additional felony penalty, which includes a potential $300,000 fine and a 7-year prison sentence for patients who divert their supply to non-patients or non-caregivers. She argues that the original intent was to protect the state when cannabis was not legally available, but now the severe penalties do not fit the crime and patients should not be singled out with such harsh consequences compared to other cannabis sellers.
HB380: Heath Howard, Representative from Strafford and Barrington Support01:38:39.220 - 1:34:25 PM; Representative Howard supports HB380, emphasizing the unnecessary duplicative penalty on therapeutic cannabis patients. He believes the existing laws are sufficient to penalize illegal sales, and it is unreasonable to further penalize patients who are already facing significant health challenges. He advocates for equal treatment under the law for all individuals, regardless of their participation in the therapeutic cannabis program.
HB380: Jerry Kerk, Chair of the Therapeutic Cannabis Medical Oversight Board Support01:40:30.239 - 1:36:16 PM; Jerry Kerk supports HB380, highlighting the disproportionate penalty faced by therapeutic cannabis patients compared to non-patients for selling cannabis. He notes the change in the regional availability of recreational cannabis, which diminishes the risk of diversion of medical cannabis. He believes patients should not face additional penalties beyond losing their certification and should be treated the same as others under the law. The board voted unanimously to support the bill.
HB380: Joe Hannon Support01:42:53.880 - 1:38:39 PM; Joe Hannon supports HB380, stating it removes an additional penalty that non-patients do not face. He argues that the existing penalties, such as losing access to the medical program, are sufficient and that the bill restores fairness in the application of the law. He emphasizes that this does not weaken enforcement but ensures equal treatment.
HB380: Sue Hamola, Chairman of Smart Purchase Marijuana from New Hampshire Oppose01:43:51.600 - 1:39:37 PM; Sue Hamola opposes HB380, arguing that the current penalties are clear and have not caused issues with TCP card holders or caregivers being unfairly prosecuted. She views the bill as unnecessary and potentially part of a broader effort to weaken safeguards in the medical marijuana program. She is concerned about the expansion of qualifying conditions and the combined effect of other bills increasing possession limits for caregivers and patients.
HB380: Unnamed Speaker Support01:47:52.040 - 1:43:38 PM; The speaker supports the legalization of cannabis as proposed by HB380, highlighting that the bill aligns with last year's Senate bill in terms of legalization specifics, including possession limits and age restrictions. The speaker emphasizes that the bill does not address the sale of cannabis, which they see as a separate issue to be tackled later. They express concern about the continued arrests for cannabis possession in New Hampshire, viewing it as an injustice in light of societal shifts and legalization in other states. The speaker also addresses questions about the bill's implications on public smoking and impaired driving, clarifying that the bill prohibits these activities, focusing instead on personal possession and use.
HB380: Representative Heath Howard, representing Strafford and Barrington Support01:54:39.119 - 1:50:25 PM; Representative Howard supports HB198, arguing it expands personal liberties by allowing private use of cannabis. He points out that neighboring states have already legalized cannabis, and New Hampshire is missing out on potential revenue, although this bill does not address sales. Howard emphasizes the bill's focus on private use and possession, contrasting it with public use and impaired driving, which are prohibited.
HB380: Karen O'Keefe, Director of State Policies at the Marijuana Policy Project Support01:56:35.239 - 1:52:21 PM; Karen O'Keefe strongly supports the bill, arguing that it treats adults like grown-ups by allowing them to make their own decisions about cannabis, a substance she claims is safer than alcohol. She highlights the medical benefits of cannabis, especially for sleep, and criticizes the criminalization of cannabis as an injustice that prevents many from using it as an over-the-counter treatment. O'Keefe also discusses the negative impacts of criminal records due to cannabis possession, urging the committee to pass HB198.
HB380: Sue Hamola, Chairman of Smart Purchase Marijuana from New Hampshire Oppose02:00:26.960 - 1:56:12 PM; Sue Hamola opposes the bill, stating that arguments for legalization often lack factual basis. She emphasizes that marijuana remains a Schedule I drug federally and expresses concerns about public smoking, suggesting increased penalties for such activities could be beneficial. Hamola briefly mentions previous extensive information provided against legalization.
HB380: Elizabeth Sergeant, Champ Capital Group for the New Hampshire Association of Chiefs of Police Oppose02:02:12.239 - 1:57:58 PM; Elizabeth Sergeant opposes HB198, citing ongoing law enforcement issues with marijuana, including the lack of a roadside test for impairment. She questions the accuracy of the arrest statistics presented, suggesting they might represent summons rather than arrests and calls for verification.
HB198: Committee Member Vote02:03:10.960 - 1:58:56 PM; A committee member moved to recommend HB198 as Inexpedient to Legislate (ITL), citing similarities to a previous bill that was tabled. The discussion revealed concerns about the bill allowing widespread possession of cannabis without addressing sales, which was seen as problematic. Some members felt that the issue of injustice raised during the public hearing could have been addressed with prior legislation.
HB198: Senator Support02:04:39.360 - 2:00:25 PM; The Senator supports the bill, arguing that it treats adults like adults by allowing them to make their own decisions regarding small amounts of marijuana for private use. They highlighted the current reality of adults obtaining marijuana from surrounding states and the unnecessary burden on courts and law enforcement due to small possession violations. They also addressed concerns about vehicle impoundment, suggesting it would require a criminal offense beyond just possession of a small amount.
HB198: Committee Member Oppose02:06:55.920 - 2:02:41 PM; The Committee Member opposes the bill, focusing on the message it sends to youth and the potential increase in polyuse driving, which is a significant problem. They mentioned their involvement in the Governor's safety task force and the lack of a reliable roadside test for marijuana. They also raised concerns about the bill potentially encouraging a black market without proper testing and regulation, and thus supported the ITL (Inexpedient to Legislate) motion.
HB198: Senator Support02:10:02.639 - 2:05:48 PM; The Senator countered the argument about youth by pointing out that the bill specifically prohibits smoking or vaping marijuana in public places and restricts its use to those over 21 years old. They compared it to alcohol consumption and argued that the bill would free adults from petty prosecutions for small amounts of marijuana, which they believe should not be a priority for the courts.
HB198: Committee Member Oppose02:11:16.000 - 2:07:02 PM; The Committee Member reiterated their opposition, emphasizing concerns about the black market flourishing without regulation and the potential for untested products to be sold. They expressed support for a legitimate recreational model but not the current bill, and moved for the ITL motion, which was seconded and passed.
HB528: Representative Kevin Verville, Rockingham 2, representing Auburn, Candia, and Deerfield Support02:13:11.800 - 2:08:57 PM; Representative Verville introduced the bill, which aims to reduce penalties for the possession and use of psilocybin. He explained that the original bill sought to legalize three psychedelic substances but was narrowed down to psilocybin. The current bill is a compromise that sets a 'four strikes you're out' penalty system, starting with a violation for the first offense and escalating to a felony on the fourth offense. He emphasized the non-addictive nature of psilocybin, its potential medical uses, and its safety compared to other drugs. He also argued against the felony classification for first-time offenders and supported the bill's passage to prevent such harsh penalties.
HB528: Major Bill Brightite, New Hampshire State Police Oppose02:27:50.960 - 2:23:36 PM; Major Brightite opposed the bill, arguing that psilocybin's unpredictable effects make it dangerous to decriminalize. He highlighted concerns about impaired driving, increased youth use, and the lack of FDA approval for medical use. He also noted that the drug alters reality and could pose risks to others, and questioned the medical argument for its use without proper medical supervision.
HB528: Sue Hamola, New Hampshire chairman of Smart Approach to Marijuana Oppose02:30:48.560 - 2:26:34 PM; Sue Hamola opposed the bill, arguing that it represents a step toward legalization without sufficient understanding of the risks involved. She criticized the reduction of penalties as a strategy to gain public acceptance for eventual legalization. She highlighted the lack of medical supervision and the ongoing research needed to understand psilocybin's risks and benefits. She also expressed concern about the House's approach to drug-related legislation and called for more robust evaluation.
HB528: Dr. Hannon Support02:34:58.399 - 2:30:44 PM; Dr. Hannon supported the bill, arguing that psilocybin does not meet the criteria for a schedule one drug as it has potential medical uses and a low potential for abuse. He cited studies showing the safety of psilocybin and its effectiveness in treating depression and anxiety, particularly in patients with life-threatening cancer. He emphasized that the bill offers protections for youth and argued that the current felony classification for first-time offenders is overly punitive.
HB528: Detective Matthew Nosella, Manchester Police Department Oppose02:40:45.040 - 2:36:31 PM; Detective Nosella opposed the bill, focusing on the potential harm to individuals with mental health issues and the lack of guidelines for safe use. He raised concerns about the risk of tainted substances entering the market and the absence of limits on possession amounts, which could facilitate trafficking. He emphasized that psilocybin remains a schedule one substance under federal law and urged the committee to consider the risks, which he believed outweigh any potential benefits.
HB528: Unnamed Speaker 1 Information Only03:08:11.200 - 3:03:57 PM; The speaker made a motion to go into executive session, which was seconded and passed. They then proposed a re-refer motion for bill 109, expressing concern that the bill might discourage people from reporting to the police due to potential legal repercussions.
HB528: Unnamed Speaker 2 Information Only03:09:29.520 - 3:05:15 PM; The speaker confirmed agreement with the re-refer motion for bill 109, and it was seconded and passed with consent.
HB528: Unnamed Speaker 3 Information Only03:10:18.920 - 3:06:04 PM; The speaker introduced bill 190 regarding therapeutic cannabis possession limits and made an ITL (Inexpedient to Legislate) motion, which was seconded.
HB528: Unnamed Speaker 4 Support03:11:06.200 - 3:06:52 PM; The speaker supported increasing the possession limit for therapeutic cannabis from 2 ounces to 4 ounces, citing the convenience for patients who have limited access to ATCs and often travel long distances to obtain their medicine. They highlighted the trend of receiving 90-day supplies and the inconvenience of current limitations.
HB528: Unnamed Speaker 5 Oppose03:12:12.560 - 3:07:58 PM; The speaker opposed increasing the possession limit for therapeutic cannabis, expressing doubts about the cost savings and the actual purchasing habits of patients at ATCs. They were not convinced by the testimony to increase the limit to 4 ounces.
HB528: Unnamed Speaker 6 Support03:13:26.000 - 3:09:12 PM; The speaker supported the increase in possession limits for therapeutic cannabis, emphasizing the difficulty patients face in accessing ATCs due to distance and time constraints. They argued that making access easier would benefit patients and criticized the current system's inconvenience compared to other medications.
HB528: Unnamed Speaker 7 Information Only03:14:51.680 - 3:10:37 PM; The speaker moved to vote on the ITL motion for bill 190, which was opposed and subsequently tabled.
HB528: Unnamed Speaker 8 Information Only03:16:01.040 - 3:11:47 PM; The speaker introduced bill 207 about repealing the prohibition on possession and sale of certain items, and an ITL motion was made and seconded. It passed with a vote of three to two.
HB528: Unnamed Speaker 9 Information Only03:17:16.160 - 3:13:02 PM; The speaker introduced bill 218 about providing victims of crime with a free police report. They mentioned that the prime sponsor requested a continuance due to a forthcoming amendment, and that stakeholders were working on it. The motion to pass was withdrawn to give time for the amendment.
HB528: Senator Alvis Oppose03:18:22.880 - 3:14:08 PM; Senator Alvis opposed bill 226 about the use of drug checking equipment, citing drafting issues and concerns about unintended consequences. They mentioned last year's amendment to limit the bill to testing strips and expressed worry about the bill facilitating illegal drug trade if not rewritten.
HB528: Unnamed Speaker 10 Support03:20:28.960 - 3:16:14 PM; The speaker supported bill 226, arguing that harm reduction services authorized by state or local health departments would not misuse the equipment. They emphasized the potential life-saving benefits of drug testing, particularly in cases of accidental fentanyl ingestion, and argued against limiting the bill due to potential misuse by dealers.
HB528: Unnamed Speaker 11 Information Only03:22:43.600 - 3:18:29 PM; The speaker continued the discussion on bill 226, highlighting the need for more data on the effectiveness of testing strips and the broader implications of the bill. They discussed the term 'nominal amount' and its legal interpretation, expressing a cautious approach to the bill's current form.
HB528: Unnamed Speaker 12 Information Only03:25:51.560 - 3:21:37 PM; The speaker concluded the discussion on bill 226, acknowledging the potential for misuse but also the life-saving benefits of drug testing. They suggested starting from scratch if the bill were to be reworked and mentioned the possibility of re-referral. An ITL motion was made, seconded, and passed, with the decision to table the bill.
HB528: Unnamed Speaker 13 Information Only03:28:11.239 - 3:23:57 PM; The speaker moved to end the executive session, which was seconded and passed.

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