Senate Judiciary [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a motion to start the executive session, followed by discussions on Senate Bill 624 and its amendment, 0762S, which addresses the sale of THC products to minors, imposing penalties on establishments selling to individuals under 21. Danielle Elson from New Hampshire Liquor Enforcement detailed the amendment, aligning THC offenses with marijuana penalties and allowing municipalities to act against violators. The amendment was adopted unanimously, and the bill as amended also passed. Next, the committee discussed Senate Bill 414, which focuses on the enforcement of marital property settlements. An "ought to pass" motion was made and seconded, with members supporting the bill's intent to expedite settlement payments. Senate Bill 464, related to civil rights enforcement, was moved to interim study due to concerns about vague language that could weaken enforcement. Senate Bill 465 was introduced, with a motion to pass and an amendment (0586) to classify Xylazine as a controlled substance due to its association with fentanyl overdoses. The amendment and the bill passed. Senate Bill 551, concerning legal protections for abortion providers, sparked debate about its adequacy in protecting providers from out-of-state laws. An "inexpedient to legislate" (ITL) motion was made and passed. Senate Bill 552, regarding the classification of individuals based on biological sex, led to differing views on privacy and safety implications, particularly for transgender individuals. The motion for the bill was debated without reaching a consensus. The meeting also covered Senate Bill 619, which establishes expedited court procedures for confiscated animals, receiving unanimous support after an amendment. A bill concerning cold case investigations raised concerns about necessity, with the Attorney General's office suggesting existing resources might suffice. An amendment for annual updates to survivors was proposed but met with skepticism regarding its effectiveness. CACR 11, a constitutional amendment to change the age limit for sheriffs from 70 to 75 years, was discussed. Supporters argued the age limit is outdated, emphasizing the need for experienced leadership in law enforcement amid recruitment challenges. A sheriff expressed that while 75 might be a reasonable age limit, there should not be strict restrictions if individuals are capable. House Bill 54, introduced by Representative Wendy Thomas, aimed to allow alternative treatment centers for therapeutic cannabis to operate as for-profit entities, which could lower costs for patients. Concerns were raised about potential commercialization and the need for audits of these centers. Senator Rebecca Perkins Cuoco presented Senate Bill 657, proposing oversight for artificial intelligence (AI) in the state, including creating an AI oversight position and a study commission. Concerns were voiced about the bill's broad definitions and potential implications for businesses, with calls for stakeholder representation in the proposed commission. The meeting concluded with discussions on Senate Bill 667, which seeks to enhance protections for emergency medical care providers against assault. The bill's sponsor highlighted the need for such protections, noting the dangers faced by emergency personnel. Opposition was presented by representatives from the Disability Rights Center and NAMI New Hampshire, who argued that increasing penalties may not improve safety and could complicate access to treatment for individuals in crisis. Support for the bill was voiced by the New Hampshire Nurses Association, citing workplace violence in healthcare settings. The meeting wrapped up with procedural motions regarding other bills before adjourning.