Committee Summary for Senate Transportation (03/25/2025)

Ricciardi, Denise(Chairman)(R)[C-]2024	McConkey, Mark(V Chairman)(R)	Ward, Ruth(R)[C+]2024
Prentiss, Suzanne(D)[F]2024	Fenton, Donovan(D)[F]2024

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB105 00:02:13.120 - 12:00:50 PM	Public Hearing	creating a new conservation license plate and directing the additional fee to the cyanobacteria mitigation loan and grant fund.	Rung, Rosemarie(D)[CT]2024
HB140 00:47:55.920 - 12:46:32 PM	Public Hearing	(New Title) establishing a voluntary "blue envelope" program for drivers with autism spectrum disorders and trauma and stressor-related disorders.	Newell, Jodi(D)[D-]2024
HB259 00:54:17.200 - 12:52:54 PM	Public Hearing	relative to increasing the number of handicap license plates and placards the department of motor vehicles may issue to individuals.	Pitaro, Matthew(R)[B+]2022
HB260 01:08:13.880 - 1:06:50 PM	Public Hearing	(New Title) creating a commemorative license plate celebrating the 250th anniversary of American Independence.	Pearson, Stephen(R)[B]2024
HB390 01:11:31.840 - 1:10:08 PM	Public Hearing	relative to adding retired fire apparatus (fire trucks) to antique vehicle exemptions.	Pearson, Stephen(R)[B]2024
HB393 01:18:26.320 - 1:17:03 PM	Public Hearing	prohibiting mooring of boats without a permit.	Smith, Jonathan(R)[A]2024
HB513 01:25:47.520 - 1:24:24 PM	Public Hearing	(New Title) allowing the department of transportation to execute a right-of-way use agreement, subject to Federal Highway Administration approval, for snowmobile operation along Interstate 89 in the town of Sutton, from NH Route 114, traveling south for one mile.	Schamberg, Thomas(D)[CT]2024
HB663 01:29:14.480 - 1:27:51 PM	Public Hearing	allowing the division of historic resources to expend moose plate funds to administer and fund grants.	Ebel, Karen(D)[CT]2024
HB745 01:36:17.239 - 1:34:54 PM	Public Hearing	naming a bridge in the city of Keene after Charles Redfern.	Jones, Philip(D)[CT]2024
HB745 01:42:52.400 - 1:41:29 PM	Executive Session	naming a bridge in the city of Keene after Charles Redfern.	Jones, Philip(D)[CT]2024
HB393 01:43:55.440 - 1:42:32 PM	Executive Session	prohibiting mooring of boats without a permit.	Smith, Jonathan(R)[A]2024
HB513 01:44:50.639 - 1:43:27 PM	Executive Session	(New Title) allowing the department of transportation to execute a right-of-way use agreement, subject to Federal Highway Administration approval, for snowmobile operation along Interstate 89 in the town of Sutton, from NH Route 114, traveling south for one mile.	Schamberg, Thomas(D)[CT]2024
HB140 01:45:48.080 - 1:44:25 PM	Executive Session	(New Title) establishing a voluntary "blue envelope" program for drivers with autism spectrum disorders and trauma and stressor-related disorders.	Newell, Jodi(D)[D-]2024
HB390 01:46:57.920 - 1:45:34 PM	Executive Session	relative to adding retired fire apparatus (fire trucks) to antique vehicle exemptions.	Pearson, Stephen(R)[B]2024
HB663 01:48:19.040 - 1:46:56 PM	Executive Session	allowing the division of historic resources to expend moose plate funds to administer and fund grants.	Ebel, Karen(D)[CT]2024
HB105 01:49:33.560 - 1:48:10 PM	Executive Session	creating a new conservation license plate and directing the additional fee to the cyanobacteria mitigation loan and grant fund.	Rung, Rosemarie(D)[CT]2024
HB259 01:49:33.560 - 1:48:10 PM	Executive Session	relative to increasing the number of handicap license plates and placards the department of motor vehicles may issue to individuals.	Pitaro, Matthew(R)[B+]2022
HB260 01:46:57.920 - 1:45:34 PM	Executive Session	(New Title) creating a commemorative license plate celebrating the 250th anniversary of American Independence.	Pearson, Stephen(R)[B]2024
HB663 01:48:19.040 - 1:46:56 PM	Executive Session	allowing the division of historic resources to expend moose plate funds to administer and fund grants.	Ebel, Karen(D)[CT]2024
HB105 01:50:49.840 - 1:49:26 PM	Executive Session	creating a new conservation license plate and directing the additional fee to the cyanobacteria mitigation loan and grant fund.	Rung, Rosemarie(D)[CT]2024
HB259 01:50:49.840 - 1:49:26 PM	Executive Session	relative to increasing the number of handicap license plates and placards the department of motor vehicles may issue to individuals.	Pitaro, Matthew(R)[B+]2022
HB260 01:57:25.040 - 1:56:02 PM	Executive Session	(New Title) creating a commemorative license plate celebrating the 250th anniversary of American Independence.	Pearson, Stephen(R)[B]2024
HB140 01:56:21.080 - 1:54:58 PM	Executive Session	(New Title) establishing a voluntary "blue envelope" program for drivers with autism spectrum disorders and trauma and stressor-related disorders.	Newell, Jodi(D)[D-]2024
HB454 01:56:21.080 - 1:54:58 PM	Executive Session	requiring that retailers of fuel blends with 15% ethanol also offer fuel blends with 10% or lower ethanol content.	Walsh, Thomas(R)[A-]2024

HB105: Rosemary Rung, Hillsboro 12, Marramac Support00:02:13.120 - 12:00:50 PM; Rosemary Rung, the prime sponsor of HB105, presented the bill which aims to fund the cyanobacteria loan and mitigation fund through a non-tax revenue source. The bill proposes a new conservation license plate featuring a loon, similar to the existing moose plate. The initial setup cost for the plate is estimated at $24,000, which would be covered by the initial revenue. $30 from each registration fee would go directly into the cyanobacteria fund, managed by the Department of Environmental Services (DES). The fund would support projects identified in watershed management plans to mitigate cyanobacteria blooms, which have been increasingly prevalent in New Hampshire, affecting public health, economic vitality, and recreation. Rung emphasized the importance of dedicating all revenue from the plate to the cyanobacteria fund, rather than diverting it to other uses like fishing and game.
HB105: John Morasco, Director of DMV Information Only00:11:45.040 - 12:10:22 PM; John Morasco, Director of the DMV, responded to questions about the feasibility and costs associated with the proposed license plate. He explained that the fiscal note included $25,000 for system upgrades to implement the new plate. Morasco suggested that a decal might be a more cost-effective and easier method to implement, as it would not require the DMV to produce the decals, and it has been the preferred method for similar initiatives. He noted that the cost of producing a specialty plate could potentially result in a loss per set, and he committed to providing further details on the costs.
HB105: Amy Smagula, Chief Aquatic Biologist, DES Support00:15:43.120 - 12:14:20 PM; Amy Smagula from the Department of Environmental Services (DES) provided context on the cyanobacteria issue in New Hampshire. She explained that cyanobacteria, previously known as blue-green algae, cause harmful algal blooms that impair water bodies for recreational and aquatic life uses. In 2022, legislation directed DES to develop a plan to combat these blooms, resulting in the New Hampshire Cyanobacteria Plan. Smagula highlighted the need for more funding for mitigation, noting that over 120 cyanobacteria issues led to warnings in the past two years. She mentioned that the remaining $200,000 from a previously allocated million dollars would not be sufficient for the necessary projects, which can cost hundreds of thousands to over half a million dollars. Smagula supported the bill, emphasizing the importance of additional funding to protect the state's water bodies and public health.
HB105: Mike Marshand, Supervisor, Non-game and Endangered Wildlife Program, NHFG Oppose00:20:14.880 - 12:18:51 PM; Mike Marshand from New Hampshire Fish and Game (NHFG) testified in opposition to HB105, expressing concerns about the impact on existing revenue from the Moose Plate funds. He acknowledged the importance of addressing cyanobacteria but highlighted the critical role of Moose Plate funds in supporting multiple state agencies, including NHFG's non-game program, which relies on these funds for about 40% of its budget. Marshand argued that the proposed loon plate would directly compete with the moose plate, potentially reducing revenue based on data from Maine showing a decline in conservation plate funds with the introduction of new specialty plates. He suggested considering alternative funding sources and supported the idea of using a decal instead of a new plate.
HB105: Bruce Brown, President, Webster Lake Association, Franklin, NH Support00:28:47.840 - 12:27:24 PM; Bruce Brown, representing the Webster Lake Association in Franklin, NH, spoke in support of HB105, which involves the introduction of a new conservation license plate featuring loons. He highlighted the multi-generational community around Webster Lake and the voluntary efforts by lake associations to monitor water quality. Brown emphasized the impact of cyanobacteria blooms on lake usability and recreational activities, expressing enthusiasm for the loon plate as a means to fund efforts against such blooms. He suggested a preference for a plate over a decal, citing better value and appeal, and mentioned the potential coexistence with existing moose plates.
HB105: Dick McIntyre, Lake Joe Sylvia, Hopkinton, NH Support00:32:04.559 - 12:30:41 PM; Dick McIntyre from Lake Joe Sylvia in Hopkinton, NH, supported the initiative for a new license plate to fund lake conservation efforts. He shared his long history as a lake property owner and the ongoing volunteer efforts by lake associations, such as road maintenance to prevent runoff and participation in the state's volunteer lake assessment program. McIntyre stressed the importance of the license plate revenue in addressing cyanobacteria outbreaks, which he sees as a critical issue beyond the capacity of local associations alone. He believed the 'Love the Lakes' plates would be popular and generate significant funds for lake preservation.
HB105: Andrea Lamro, President and Policy Advocate, New Hampshire Lakes Support00:35:23.599 - 12:34:00 PM; Andrea Lamro from New Hampshire Lakes expressed support for the proposed loon license plate, suggesting it could be very successful and potentially increase overall conservation funding. She addressed concerns about the plate competing with other programs, hoping it would raise enough funds to support additional conservation efforts. Lamro noted the popularity of the idea among lake association members and discussed the comparative revenue potential of plates versus decals, favoring the former for sustained funding.
HB105: John McDonald, Representative, Wolfeboro, NH Support00:38:01.839 - 12:36:38 PM; Representative John McDonald from Wolfeboro, NH, spoke in favor of HB105, emphasizing the need for funding to combat cyanobacteria outbreaks in the state's lakes. He argued that individuals should have the choice between different conservation plates, suggesting that the introduction of a loon plate would not necessarily detract from existing programs like the moose plate. McDonald supported the bill as a positive step towards addressing environmental challenges in New Hampshire's lakes.
HB105: Sabrina Stanwood, Administrator, Natural Heritage Bureau, NH Division of Forest and Lands Information Only00:39:33.160 - 12:38:10 PM; Sabrina Stanwood from the Natural Heritage Bureau provided factual information regarding the bureau's funding and its support for conservation efforts, including the management of natural areas and support for federal grant matches. She took no position on the bill but supported efforts to address lake eutrophication and cyanobacteria blooms. Stanwood suggested looking into existing programs like the decal program and raised a question about how to involve out-of-state lake users in funding efforts. She also provided recent revenue figures for the conservation plate program.
HB105: Ian Hanley, Executive Director, New Hampshire State Conservation Committee Information Only00:41:10.480 - 12:39:47 PM; Ian Hanley, representing the New Hampshire State Conservation Committee, provided information about the multi-agency group's role in conservation efforts. He did not explicitly state a position on HB105 but highlighted the committee's involvement in various environmental initiatives, potentially relevant to the bill's objectives.
HB105: Ian Hanley, Executive Director, New Hampshire State Conservation Committee Information Only00:41:10.480 - 12:39:47 PM; Ian Hanley provided information about the conservation license plate grant program administered by the New Hampshire State Conservation Committee. He explained that nearly all revenue from the program is redistributed as grants across the state for various environmental initiatives, including water quality, wildlife, soil health, and land conservation. Over the past decade, they have distributed over $2.9 million in grants to environmental nonprofits and an additional half million dollars specifically for water quality projects. He concluded his testimony by offering to answer any questions.
HB105: John Morasco, Director of the DMV Information Only00:44:47.200 - 12:43:24 PM; John Morasco provided information regarding the DMV's role in the decal plate process as it pertains to HB105. He clarified that the DMV has no position on the bill and will comply with whatever the law requires. He detailed the process of creating new decals, including the costs involved, which he stated are manageable. He also discussed the operational challenges at the prison where plates are produced, noting that smaller orders of specialty plates can cause delays, suggesting that decals might be more efficient. He concluded by offering to answer any questions.
HB140: Jonah O'Brien Wheeler, Representative, Towns of Peterborough and Sharon Support00:47:55.920 - 12:46:32 PM; Representative Jonah O'Brien Wheeler, co-sponsor of HB140, introduced the bill on behalf of Representative Newell. He explained that HB140 proposes the Blue Envelope Program, which allows individuals with communication difficulties, initially focused on autism but expanded to include other disabilities, to indicate their condition to law enforcement during traffic stops. He emphasized the importance of the program in reducing intimidation and aiding communication between officers and individuals with disabilities. The bill passed the House unanimously and he was open to questions regarding its implementation.
HB140: John Morasco, Director of the DMV Support00:52:11.200 - 12:50:48 PM; John Morasco expressed support for HB140, stating that the DMV would be able to implement the Blue Envelope Program if the bill passes. He mentioned that the DMV already offers an autism icon on licenses and would manage the costs of printing the envelopes. He also noted that they would work with the police standards and training academy to ensure proper training for law enforcement on the program. He concluded by offering to answer any questions.
HB259: Matthew Petaro, Representative, Merrimack County District 11, Allentown Support00:54:17.200 - 12:52:54 PM; Representative Matthew Petaro, the prime sponsor of HB259, explained that the bill aims to remove the limit on the number of handicap plates a person with a walking disability can obtain. He shared a personal story about his father's difficulties with the current laws, which motivated him to introduce the bill. He noted that the bill passed the House unanimously and received endorsement from New Hampshire ABLE, a disability justice advocate. He also mentioned a separate issue with placards that he plans to address in the future. He concluded by offering to answer any questions.
HB259: Senator Ward Information Only00:56:43.760 - 12:55:20 PM; Senator Ward inquired about the cost and process of obtaining multiple handicap plates under the proposed bill, HB259. He discussed the scenario of a farmer with multiple vehicles and a walking disability, questioning how one would prove ownership and the process for obtaining multiple plates. He confirmed that the process would be similar to obtaining a single handicap plate.
HB259: Senator Fenton Information Only00:57:55.520 - 12:56:32 PM; Senator Fenton asked about the definition and proof of a walking disability required for obtaining handicap plates under HB259. The response indicated that a doctor's note is necessary, and the process involves going to the DMV for a plate and a placard, with the bill allowing for multiple plates to match each vehicle owned.
HB259: Senator Apprentice Information Only00:59:07.440 - 12:57:44 PM; Senator Apprentice sought clarification on the purpose of HB259, specifically if it would allow a person with a walking disability to use any of their vehicles with a handicap plate. The response confirmed this and mentioned the concept of 'authorized use' for family members in caregiving roles.
HB259: Senator Rashardi Information Only01:00:17.920 - 12:58:54 PM; Senator Rashardi raised concerns about potential abuse of handicap plates under HB259, particularly if non-disabled individuals used vehicles with handicap plates to park in handicap spaces. The response clarified that such use by non-disabled individuals alone would not be allowed, but it is permitted when a disabled person and their caregiver are together.
HB259: Senator McConi Information Only01:06:10.400 - 1:04:47 PM; Senator McConi expressed concerns about the unlimited number of handicap plates proposed in HB259 and suggested an amendment to limit the number of plates to two. The response was open to discussion but hesitant to impose a limit initially, suggesting to start without limits and impose them if abuse is found.
HB260: Representative Steve Pearson, Rockingham District 13, Derry Support01:08:13.880 - 1:06:50 PM; Representative Pearson introduced HB260, which aims to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence with a commemorative cover plate. He explained that these plates would not replace regular license plates and would be produced on demand, similar to other cover plates allowed by law.
HB390: Representative Steve Pearson, Rockingham District 13, Derry Support01:11:31.840 - 1:10:08 PM; Representative Pearson introduced HB390, which addresses an issue with registering antique fire trucks due to a law that prohibits private vehicles from being equipped with lights and sirens. He explained the unintended consequences of this law and proposed amendments to allow these vehicles to be registered for exhibitions and parades without stripping them of their equipment.
HB393: Senator Mark McConi, Senate District 3 Support01:18:26.320 - 1:17:03 PM; Senator McConi introduced HB393, which aims to prohibit the mooring of boats without a permit. He mentioned that this is an issue on the lake where he lives and urged the committee to give the bill due consideration.
HB393: Tim Dunlevy, State Police Marine Patrol Unit Support01:19:03.040 - 1:17:40 PM; Tim Dunlevy from the State Police Marine Patrol Unit spoke in support of House Bill 393. He explained that the bill addresses the issue of boats using devices like 'sea legs' to skirt mooring permit laws on certain lakes, such as Lake Opechee, which require annual mooring permits. He noted that an amendment in the House ensured that marine construction projects and government vessels using similar devices are recognized under the law.
HB393: Jim Ellegio, Resident of Deer Cove on Lake Opechee Support01:23:17.600 - 1:21:54 PM; Jim Ellegio, a resident of Deer Cove on Lake Opechee, supported House Bill 393 by sharing a personal experience. He described how unregulated boats using devices like 'sea legs' have been parked on his beach, impacting the enjoyment and safety of the lake. He highlighted the potential for multiple boats to be placed on a beach, posing a safety risk to sailboats and potentially leading to the loss of beach access for residents.
HB513: Representative Tom Shamburg, Marramac 6, representing Sutton and Wilmot Support01:25:47.520 - 1:24:24 PM; Representative Tom Shamburg from Marramac 6, representing Sutton and Wilmot, introduced House Bill 513. He explained that the bill aims to resolve a 10-year issue with a trail blockage on Primary Trail 390 in Sutton. He mentioned that the bill was unanimously approved in the Resources, Recreation, and Development Committee and is supported by the New Hampshire Snowmobile Association. He emphasized the economic impact of snowmobiling in the state and the need for the trail connection.
HB513: Adam Schmidt, New Hampshire Snowmobile Association Support01:28:05.520 - 1:26:42 PM; Adam Schmidt from the New Hampshire Snowmobile Association expressed support for House Bill 513. He provided a letter from the association to Representative Shamburg, which was also distributed to the committee. He praised the efforts of Representative Shamburg and the collaboration with the DOT to draft the bill's language, expressing hope for its success.
HB663: Senator Suzanne Prentice, District 5 Support01:29:14.480 - 1:27:51 PM; Senator Suzanne Prentice from District 5 spoke in support of House Bill 663 on behalf of Representative Evil from New London. She explained that the bill allows the Division of Historic Resources to use funds from the Moose Plate program to administer and fund grants for the preservation of significant publicly-owned historic properties. She mentioned that Ben Wilson from the Division of Historic Resources would be available to answer specific questions about the legislation.
HB663: Ben Wilson, Director of the Division of Historical Resources Support01:31:05.840 - 1:29:42 PM; Ben Wilson, the Director of the Division of Historical Resources and State Historic Preservation Officer, supported House Bill 663. He explained that the bill clarifies the use of funds from the Moose Plate program, allowing the Division to recover administrative costs. He noted that this is particularly important due to proposed budget cuts, which may require using a portion of the Moose Plate appropriation to cover the program manager's salary and benefits.
HB663: Ben Wilson, Director of the Division of Historical Resources Information Only01:31:05.840 - 1:29:42 PM; Ben Wilson discussed the management of the Moose Plate grant program by the Division of Historical Resources (DHR). He mentioned that DHR annually receives between $250,000 and $300,000 from the Moose Plate appropriation, which is then distributed as grants to municipalities for the restoration of publicly owned buildings and other historic resources. Individual grants typically range from $10,000 to $20,000. He clarified that the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources receives about a million dollars from the Moose Plate program, which is divided among five recipients including DHR. He also noted that the DHR could legally use the funds for staff salaries and benefits, but they are seeking to clarify this in the statute for transparency.
HB745: Philip Jones, State Representative, Cheshire District 3, Keene, and member of the Board of Directors of Pathways for Keene Support01:36:17.239 - 1:34:54 PM; Philip Jones, a state representative and long-time city councilor from Keene, spoke in support of naming a bridge in Keene the 'Charles Redford Bridge.' The bridge, a 340-foot span over Route 101, was completed in 2018 and is used by various groups including walkers, runners, bicyclists, horseback riders, and snowmobile operators. It serves as a crucial connection for Keene State College students and staff to their athletic complex. Jones highlighted Charles Redford's significant contributions to the development of Keene's trail system, mentioning his role in founding Pathways for Keene, which has raised millions for the trail network.
HB745: John Hayes Support01:40:20.719 - 1:38:57 PM; John Hayes spoke in support of naming the bridge over Route 101 the 'Charles Redford Bridge.' He described Charles Redford's dedication to developing multi-use trails in Keene, mentioning his long service as a city councilor and his work with various organizations like the Bicycle Pedestrian Path Advisory Committee and Pathways for Keene. Hayes emphasized Redford's relentless efforts in fundraising and his inclusive approach to decision-making, crediting him with the success of Keene's comprehensive bike path system.
HB745: Committee Vote01:42:52.400 - 1:41:29 PM; The committee moved to go into executive session to discuss House Bill 745. A motion to pass the bill was made and seconded, and it was unanimously approved to be placed on the consent agenda. Senator Fenton, from Keene, chose to take the bill out of consent.
HB393: Committee Vote01:43:55.440 - 1:42:32 PM; The committee discussed House Bill 393, which prohibits the mooring of boats without a permit. A motion to pass the bill was made by Senator McConi and seconded by Senator Apprentice. The motion passed unanimously and was moved to the consent agenda. Senator McConi chose to take the bill out of consent.
HB513: Committee Vote01:44:50.639 - 1:43:27 PM; The committee discussed House Bill 513. A motion to pass the bill was made by Senator Fenton and seconded by Senator McConi. The motion passed unanimously and was moved to the consent agenda.
HB513: Committee Information Only01:44:50.639 - 1:43:27 PM; The committee concluded the discussion on HB513 and moved on to other bills.
HB140: Senator Fenton Vote01:45:48.080 - 1:44:25 PM; Senator Fenton made a motion to pass HB140, which was seconded. The motion to pass was not successful, and the bill was not passed.
HB390: Unnamed Speaker Vote01:46:57.920 - 1:45:34 PM; A motion was made to pass HB390, which was seconded. The bill was described as a technical fix to add retired fire apparatus to antique vehicle exemptions. The motion to pass was successful with no opposition.
HB663: Unnamed Speaker Vote01:48:19.040 - 1:46:56 PM; A motion was made to pass HB663, which was seconded by Senator Apprentice. The bill aims to update the statute for more transparency on where funds are going, specifically related to the divisions of historic resources expending Moose Plate funds. The motion to pass was successful with no opposition.
HB105: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:49:33.560 - 1:48:10 PM; The committee decided to wait on HB105, indicating a need for further discussion or information regarding the bill.
HB259: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:49:33.560 - 1:48:10 PM; The committee decided to wait on HB259, indicating a need for further discussion or information regarding the bill.
HB260: Senator Manki Information Only01:46:57.920 - 1:45:34 PM; Senator Manki raised concerns about the number of vehicles with commemorative plates, leading to a decision to wait on HB260 for further discussion.
HB663: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:48:19.040 - 1:46:56 PM; Further discussion on HB663 involved the intent of the bill and potential amendments, such as limiting to two plates. The discussion highlighted the need for transparency in fund allocation, particularly related to Moose Plate funds.
HB105: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:50:49.840 - 1:49:26 PM; The committee discussed the potential overlap between Moose Plate and Loon Plate funds, suggesting innovative solutions like combining plates or adding a decal. The discussion highlighted the need for more information before proceeding.
HB259: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:50:49.840 - 1:49:26 PM; The committee decided to wait on HB259, indicating a need for further discussion or information regarding the bill.
HB260: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:57:25.040 - 1:56:02 PM; The committee discussed the potential implications of HB260, including the legality of covering the front plate with a commemorative plate. Concerns were raised about the visibility of the actual plate number to law enforcement. The committee decided to wait for more clarification on the time frame and legality of the cover plate.
HB140: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:56:21.080 - 1:54:58 PM; An email from Representative Newell was mentioned, explaining her absence due to illness. The committee did not further discuss HB140.
HB454: Unnamed Speaker Information Only01:56:21.080 - 1:54:58 PM; The committee noted that HB454 was not heard due to the absence of a key member and the high number of hearings already conducted. The bill was described as potentially controversial.