Healthcare

HB 1719 removes Hepatitis B from the list of diseases for which childhood immunization is required in New Hampshire. This change directly affects children enrolled in schools or childcare programs, as parents will no longer be required to ensure their children receive the Hepatitis B vaccine for enrollment. The bill amends state law by deleting "Hepatitis B" from the mandated immunization list, which includes diseases like measles and polio. This policy shift is expected to reduce state vaccine purchase costs by approximately $20,000 in the first year and $82,000 annually thereafter, as the requirement is eliminated. The Hepatitis B vaccine would remain available on a voluntary basis for parents who choose to use it.

HB 1811 repeals all state-mandated vaccination requirements for children in New Hampshire, removing legal obligations for schools and childcare agencies to require immunizations or maintain related records. The bill eliminates provisions for religious and medical exemptions, attendance rules during outbreaks, and reporting requirements to health authorities. It replaces mandatory vaccination with advisory recommendations from health officials, stating schools and agencies cannot deny enrollment based on vaccination status. This directly affects parents, schools, childcare providers, and public health officials by ending the state’s enforcement of childhood immunization rules. The bill takes effect 60 days after passage.

HB 1596 raises New Hampshire's cigarette and little cigar tax from $1.78 to $2.80 per pack of 20, increasing revenue for state funds. It appropriates $18 million annually to New Hampshire's university system to restore higher education funding to 2024 levels. The bill also stops collecting premiums for two health programs: the Children's Health Insurance Program and the NH Granite Advantage health care program. These changes take effect July 1, 2026, with tobacco tax revenue funding the university appropriation and education trust fund.