Rep. Ross Berry

Maddy summaryHB 613, which was vetoed by Governor Ayotte on August 1, 2025, required all municipal election offices to use accessible voting systems that accommodate voters with disabilities. The bill directly affected voters with disabilities by mandating that voting systems meet specific accessibility standards, such as audio interfaces or adaptive devices. It did not specify detailed technical requirements but established a statewide standard for accessible voting technology in local elections. The bill passed both chambers with strong support (195-158) but did not become law due to the governor's veto.

Maddy summaryHB 428 clarifies how New Hampshire local governments interact with the state building and fire codes. It allows municipalities to handle permit issuance and fee collection for building projects under the state code, provided their local rules are at least as strict as the state standards. The bill updates definitions to clarify that local enforcement agencies (like building inspectors) can operate under state code while ensuring local rules don't weaken state requirements. It also specifies that technical code changes (like safety standards) remain the state's responsibility, not local governments. This primarily affects local building officials, contractors, and municipalities managing construction oversight.

Maddy summaryHB 557 modifies the information required to appear on school budget ballots in New Hampshire. The bill specifies new content that must be included on these ballots, directly affecting school districts and voters participating in budget votes. It does not describe specific policy changes or mechanisms beyond requiring this standardized information. As the context only provides passage and signing details (enacted August 1, 2025), no substantive provisions or affected parties are described. The bill appears procedural, focusing on ballot content requirements rather than substantive policy.

Maddy summaryHB 457 modifies zoning laws to reduce restrictions on multi-unit dwelling structures in areas previously limited to single-family homes. It directly affects homeowners, developers, and local municipalities by permitting duplexes, triplexes, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in zones that previously banned them. The key provision requires local governments to allow these housing types without requiring special permits or rezoning applications. This policy change aims to increase housing options in communities by expanding allowable residential structures within existing zoning categories. The bill became law on July 22, 2025, and takes effect September 13, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 382 repeals a requirement that vehicle loan contracts under state funding programs must have periodic payments that are substantially equal in amount. This change directly affects borrowers in state-administered vehicle financing programs by allowing lenders to structure repayment terms with varying payment amounts instead of fixed installments. The key provision removes the specific "substantially equal" payment rule from the statute, granting flexibility in loan contract design. Borrowers will no longer be subject to the previous uniform payment schedule requirement.

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 summaryHB 270 requires election officials to preserve external storage devices used in electronic ballot counting systems after elections. This directly affects state and local election administrators responsible for managing voting equipment. The bill mandates that these devices be retained for a specified period (as defined by the law) to ensure verifiable records of election results. The law became effective on September 13, 2025, following gubernatorial approval on July 22, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 79 allows businesses with liquor licenses (such as bars and restaurants) to use self-pour automated systems, where customers pour their own drinks from dispensers. The bill amends licensing rules to permit these systems under the Liquor Commission's oversight, replacing previous restrictions. It becomes effective September 13, 2025, after being signed by the governor on July 15, 2025. This directly affects licensed establishments seeking to offer self-pour options to patrons.

Maddy summaryHB 685 would allow the construction of manufactured housing in all residentially zoned areas without requiring special permits or approvals. This means homeowners and developers could build these homes in neighborhoods where they were previously restricted, as the bill removes the need for individual zoning variances. The key provision eliminates administrative barriers by permitting such construction "by right," streamlining the process. The bill directly affects residents in residential zones and developers seeking to build manufactured housing.

Maddy summaryHB 632 allows health care providers affiliated with the Veterans Administration (VA) to certify medical accommodations for veterans living in New Hampshire. This directly affects New Hampshire veterans who receive VA care, eliminating the need for separate certifications from local providers to access accommodations like modified work schedules or housing adjustments. The bill streamlines the process by authorizing VA-affiliated providers to handle these certifications, removing a barrier for veterans seeking support. It became law on June 23, 2025, and takes effect August 23, 2025.