Rep. Lino Avellani

Maddy summaryHB 1279 modifies New Hampshire's self-defense law to clarify when physical force can be used against someone committing a felony. It specifies that force is justified if a person reasonably believes another is "likely to use any unlawful force in the commission of a felony" against them or a third person within their vehicle, dwelling, or immediate property (curtilage). The bill expands the legal standard by focusing on the likelihood of a felony occurring, not just an immediate threat. This change directly affects individuals defending themselves or others in their home, car, or nearby property during potential felony crimes. The law takes effect January 1, 2027.

Maddy summaryHB 1767 changes New Hampshire's unemployment compensation rules by setting a default maximum benefit duration of 20 weeks per benefit year. If statewide weekly claims exceed 4,000 for three consecutive weeks, the maximum automatically increases to 26 weeks, reverting to 20 weeks when claims fall to 4,000 or below. The Department of Employment Security must monitor weekly claims and publicly update eligibility information through notices and online systems. This bill directly affects unemployed workers in New Hampshire who qualify for unemployment benefits under state law.

Maddy summaryHB 1400 allows property owners to opt out of funding locally adopted property tax credits or exemptions by submitting form PA-29 annually by April 15th. It directly affects property owners who pay local property taxes but do not currently receive any local tax credits or exemptions. The key provision requires annual submission of the form to stop contributing to these programs, with the exception that those already receiving benefits cannot opt out. This creates a straightforward mechanism for property owners to decline funding local tax programs without needing to alter their existing tax status. The bill takes effect 60 days after enactment.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the New Hampshire Department of Labor to hire up to three additional staff members to review and update safety rules for public sector employees. The legislation allocates funding of up to $400,000 to cover the salaries and benefits for these new positions, which are intended to help evaluate existing occupational safety standards before they expire in 2025. The additional personnel will focus on analyzing current regulations and recommending necessary changes to ensure worker safety requirements remain effective. The law takes effect on July 1, 2024, allowing the department to begin the staffing process and subsequent rule review immediately.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Department of Transportation to create a master plan for the Conway Branch rail line, focusing on the section from north of Route 28 to Conway, with a completion deadline of December 31, 2024. The state will provide funding from the general fund for this planning effort, though the department must first use any available money from other sources such as federal grants or public donations. The governor is authorized to issue warrants to access these general funds from the state treasury to support the project. The legislation takes effect on July 1, 2024, and was signed into law by the Governor.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates regulations for sewage and waste disposal systems in New Hampshire to allow stone and pipe systems to be installed up to 24 inches above the seasonal high water table, provided there is at least 6 inches of sand beneath them. It requires property owners subdividing land or building new systems to submit detailed plans that include specific data on burial sites and soil conditions for department review. The law also streamlines the approval process for larger lots of five acres or more by reducing the need for extensive soil testing unless hydric soils are present, while still mandating final inspections before any system goes into operation. These changes aim to provide clearer guidelines for construction while maintaining safety standards for wastewater management.