Rep. Jodi Newell

Maddy summarySB 114 allocates $1.5 million for fiscal year 2026 to fund housing grants for community mental health centers, enabling them to retain existing housing and expand facilities (up to $50,000 per bed). It also appropriates $1 million for 2026 and $1 million for 2027 to cover non-billable costs for supported housing programs serving vulnerable individuals. The bill increases Medicaid reimbursement rates for high-acuity patients needing 24/7 support from $278 to $350 daily, with a 50% federal match. These provisions directly support community mental health centers and the people they serve in housing programs, effective July 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 697 is a proposed bill that would adjust the payment rates for witnesses testifying in criminal court cases. It directly affects individuals who are subpoenaed to testify, ensuring they receive updated compensation for their time and expenses. The bill's key provision modifies the current fee schedule to align with current cost-of-living standards, increasing the daily payment amount. This change aims to improve witness participation in criminal proceedings by providing fairer reimbursement. The bill is currently under review in committee and has not yet become law.

Maddy summaryHB 250 allows cities, towns, and counties to create their own local rules about when dogs must wear muzzles. This law directly affects dog owners and local governments, giving municipalities the authority to set specific muzzle requirements based on community needs. Key provisions let local governing bodies establish regulations for muzzle use in public spaces, events, or specific situations without needing state-level approval. The law became effective on September 30, 2025, after being signed by Governor Ayotte on August 1, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 606 ensures patients in this state have the right to receive appropriate reproductive care when needed for medical conditions, directly affecting individuals seeking such care. The bill prohibits healthcare providers or insurers from restricting access to this care based on a patient's condition, ensuring medical decisions are prioritized. It takes effect on September 13, 2025, after being signed by Governor Ayotte on July 15, 2025. This law creates a clear standard for reproductive care access without specifying additional requirements or exceptions.

Maddy summaryHB 631 allows residential buildings to be constructed in areas currently zoned exclusively for commercial use. This change directly affects property owners, developers, and future residents in commercial zones who may now build homes or apartments. The key provision amends zoning rules to permit residential use without requiring separate rezoning for each property. The bill became law on July 15, 2025, and takes effect July 1, 2026.

Maddy summarySB 210 primarily creates a statewide open enrollment system, allowing New Hampshire parents to transfer children to any public school district within the state without tuition fees. It amends residency rules to clarify legal residence for school attendance and requires districts to publicly report school capacities and enrollment decisions. The bill establishes that military-connected students receive admission preference over non-residents and mandates districts to post capacity data monthly. The bill’s title mentions bullying prevention, but the text contains no actual provisions addressing bullying; the focus is solely on expanding school choice through open enrollment mechanisms.

Maddy summaryHouse Bill 140 establishes a voluntary "Blue Envelope Program" to improve communication between law enforcement and drivers with autism spectrum or trauma and stressor-related disorders. The Division of Motor Vehicles will design and provide these free envelopes, which include written guidance for effective communication during traffic stops. The envelopes also offer space for a driver's license, registration, emergency contact information, and optional health details. Drivers or their guardians can request an envelope with proof of diagnosis, and it is designed to be displayed on the vehicle's visor for easy access.

Maddy summaryHB 587 would allow individuals involved in domestic violence situations to use one-party recorded audio or video as evidence in court under specific conditions. The bill permits recordings made by a party to a conversation (or with that party's prior consent, excluding law enforcement acting officially) if the recording contains evidence of a crime and is not publicly shared. It specifically applies to recordings intended for court use or law enforcement, ensuring they remain confidential. This change directly affects domestic violence victims seeking to present recorded evidence without needing a second party's consent. The bill amends RSA 570-A:2 to create this exception for domestic violence cases.

Maddy summaryHB 641 allows individuals harmed by civil rights violations to sue for damages and injunctive relief. It sets a minimum recovery of $10,000 or actual damages, triples damages for willful violations, and requires courts to award attorney fees to successful plaintiffs. The bill directly affects people who experience unlawful discrimination, harassment, or other civil rights violations covered under RSA 354-B. It creates a private legal remedy without requiring bond for injunctive relief, making it easier for affected individuals to seek redress.