Rep. Keith Ammon

Maddy summaryHB 1616 requires schools to obtain written parental consent for each new medical or dental service provided to a student under the Medicaid to Schools program, defining a new service by a change in the diagnostic billing code. The bill also mandates that the Department of Health and Human Services submit annual reports detailing the program's costs and the number of students served. Additionally, the legislation establishes a pilot recruitment and retention program for the department to address staffing vacancies, allowing for specific incentives that are exempt from certain state gift and collective bargaining rules. This pilot program must conclude with a report on its effectiveness by December 31, 2024, to determine if it will be included in future state budgets.

Maddy summaryHB 1069 expands access to public records and meeting materials by allowing any person, not just citizens, to inspect and copy documents during regular business hours. The bill permits individuals to request records electronically or by mail without visiting government offices in person, while agencies retain flexibility to provide records in their existing formats if electronic conversion is unduly burdensome or insecure. It also removes filing fees for appeals against ombudsman rulings and clarifies that the public body must cover service costs if they refuse to accept them. Finally, the law defines governmental proceedings more broadly to include any functions affecting any person and takes effect 60 days after passage.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a committee to study how the housing crisis since 2008 has specifically impacted people with disabilities in New Hampshire. The committee would be made up of five legislators and is tasked with investigating issues such as the lack of accessible and affordable housing options that often force adults with disabilities to live with their parents. Members of the committee would meet within 45 days of the bill's passage and submit their findings and any legislative recommendations to state officials by November 1, 2024. Although the bill outlines these steps for investigation, it was ultimately deemed inexpedient to legislate by the relevant committees.

Maddy summaryThis bill increases the safe harbor compensation limit for the New Hampshire Business Profits Tax from $75,000 to $100,000. It allows business owners to automatically deduct up to this amount for their own compensation without needing to prove the value of their services, simplifying tax filing for many small businesses. Starting in 2025, the threshold will be automatically adjusted every two years based on changes in the Consumer Price Index to account for inflation. The law applies to tax years ending on or after December 31, 2024, and takes effect 60 days after passing.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the rules for requesting a vote recount in New Hampshire state general elections. It allows any candidate to ask for a recount if the vote difference is less than 20% of the total votes in the relevant towns or if the total number of ballots cast exceeds the number of registered voters on election day. Candidates must submit a written request to the secretary of state by the Friday following the election and pay the required fees. The law will not take effect until 60 days after it is passed.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes new standards for informed consent and outlines specific patient rights within the state's medical practice laws. It requires physicians to clearly explain diagnoses, treatment options, risks, and benefits while documenting these discussions, and it grants patients the right to refuse care, request second opinions, and maintain privacy. Additionally, the legislation ensures that doctors will not abruptly stop medically necessary treatment without providing adequate notice and assistance for finding new care. These changes apply to all patient-physician interactions and take effect 60 days after the bill is passed.

Maddy summaryThis bill increases the maximum expense deduction allowed against New Hampshire's business profits tax from $500,000 to $1,000,000 for qualifying property placed in service on or after January 1, 2025. The change applies to all businesses filing for taxable periods ending on or after December 31, 2024, allowing them to deduct a larger portion of their capital investments immediately rather than spreading the cost over several years. While the Department of Revenue Administration estimates this could reduce state revenue by up to $4.7 million, it notes that the actual financial impact is indeterminable because the bill may simply shift when businesses claim deductions rather than eliminate them entirely. The legislation requires the state to update its tax forms and electronic systems to reflect the new deduction limit.

Maddy summaryHB 1288 establishes due process rights for students, student organizations, and faculty members at New Hampshire's public colleges and universities facing disciplinary actions that could lead to suspension, expulsion, or termination. The bill requires institutions to provide at least seven days' written notice of allegations, access to evidence and witnesses, the right to confront accusers, and the opportunity to present a defense with the assistance of an advisor. It also mandates an impartial hearing officer, a verbatim record of proceedings, and an appeal process, while allowing immediate temporary actions only in cases of imminent physical danger or property damage. Additionally, the legislation prevents disciplinary findings from being used as evidence in criminal court and prohibits colleges from holding disciplinary hearings while related criminal charges are pending.

Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Department of Energy to conduct a study on establishing a framework for electricity microgrids within the state. The department must consult with various stakeholders, including utility companies, technology firms, and local governments, to examine definitions, security standards, and potential benefits like improved grid reliability and cost savings. The study will also look at regulatory barriers and how microgrids can support economic growth and clean energy innovation. Finally, the department is required to submit its findings and recommendations to the legislature and the public utilities commission within one year to guide future pilot programs.