Rep. Mike Moffett

Maddy summarySB 287 requires voters applying for absentee ballots in New Hampshire to verify their identity by submitting a copy of their photo ID meeting state requirements (RSA 659:13), providing a notarized signature, or presenting the ID in person to the clerk. This directly affects all voters seeking absentee ballots, ensuring they provide proof of identity before receiving a ballot. The bill mandates that no absentee ballot may be issued without one of these verification methods being satisfied. Signed into law on August 1, 2025, it takes effect September 30, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 504 establishes New Hampshire's official state energy policy, directly affecting utilities, energy providers, and all state residents by setting new guidelines for energy planning. The bill declares that the state must prioritize meeting energy needs at the lowest reasonable cost while ensuring reliability, diversity of sources, environmental protection, and public health - using market mechanisms rather than government favoritism toward specific technologies. Key provisions include requiring utilities to develop resources that support energy independence, removing regulatory barriers for innovation, and balancing cost, reliability, and environmental goals through market-based approaches. It also mandates that state regulations avoid unnecessary costs while protecting consumer prices and utility financial stability.

Maddy summarySB 40 updates requirements for safe boater education certificates in the state. It requires all boaters to hold a certificate valid for 10 years, replacing the previous 5-year standard. The bill affects anyone operating a motorboat or personal watercraft who needs this certification. Key changes take effect starting September 13, 2025, for new certificates and January 1, 2026, for renewals.

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 summarySB 12 expands eligibility for state disability placards to include veterans with service-connected disabilities who previously did not qualify under existing criteria. This directly affects veterans with documented service-related disabilities that limit mobility, allowing them to obtain temporary or permanent disability placards. The bill modifies current eligibility rules to explicitly include this veteran group without requiring additional medical documentation beyond their service-connected disability status. The law takes effect September 13, 2025, after being signed by the governor on July 15, 2025.

Maddy summaryThis bill sets new lending limits for New Hampshire depository banks (commercial banks taking deposits). It prohibits banks from lending more than 20% of their capital and surplus to any single borrower, with a possible 25% limit if the excess loan is fully secured by U.S. government obligations meeting specific value requirements. The bill also requires new state banks to submit detailed 3-5 year capital and business plans for approval, including capital adequacy explanations and financial projections. Additionally, existing banks must seek commissioner approval before making major changes to their business plans within the first 3-5 years of operation. These changes aim to strengthen bank safety and soundness by controlling risk exposure.

Maddy summarySB 110 modifies fees for land disturbance permits in New Hampshire, primarily affecting developers and property owners seeking construction or land alteration permits. It establishes a tiered fee structure based on the disturbed area: $3,125 for projects under 150,000 sq ft (permit-by-notification), $6,250 for 150,000-200,000 sq ft, and additional $2,500 fees for every extra 100,000 sq ft. The bill also creates a new "permit by notification" process for smaller projects (under 150,000 sq ft, excluding certain properties) by 2026, with fees paid upfront to the water resources fund. The law takes effect September 13, 2025.

Maddy summaryHB 467 defines "social districts" and authorizes municipalities to establish them. The bill directly affects local governments, enabling them to create designated zones focused on community services or social initiatives. Key provisions include the legal definition of "social districts" and the process for municipal creation, though specific operational details (like permitted activities or funding mechanisms) are not described in the provided context. The bill passed unanimously in committee and both chambers, was signed by Governor Ayotte on July 7, 2025, and takes effect September 5, 2025. (Note: The context does not specify the exact purpose or structure of "social districts," so this summary reflects only the bill's stated title and procedural history.)

Maddy summarySB 58 changes venue rules for criminal cases involving the distribution of controlled drugs that cause death. It adds a provision (RSA 318-B:26 IX-b) stating that such cases can be prosecuted in any state where the drug distribution occurred or where the victim resides. This directly affects prosecutors, defendants, and courts in cases where the distribution act or victim's location connects to a specific state. The law, effective July 1, 2025, clarifies where these felony prosecutions can be filed.

Maddy summarySB 292 revises New Hampshire's funding formula for special education costs, providing state aid to school districts when their special education expenses exceed 3.5 times the state's average per-pupil cost for the prior school year. Districts are responsible for costs up to 3.5 times the average plus 20% of additional costs (capped at 10 times the average), with the state covering the rest through automatic entitlement. The bill allocates $250,000 annually for emergency aid to small districts (under 1,000 residents) facing financial harm from special education costs, and specifies that unused emergency funds must support broader special education cost increases. It takes effect August 24, 2025, and is funded from the state education trust fund.