Rep. Erica Layon

Maddy summaryHB 1633 requires health care providers, law enforcement, and other designated entities to provide sexual assault survivors with clear, written information about their existing rights regarding medical examinations and evidence preservation. The bill defines "sexual assault survivor" broadly to include individuals reporting non-penetrative assault, attempted rape (even without legal terminology), and deceased victims. It mandates the attorney general to post a simplified summary online detailing evidence collection timelines, preservation periods (up to 20 years or the statute of limitations), and survivors' right to request extended preservation of evidence kits. This ensures consistent, accessible information without creating new rights, focusing on transparency in how evidence is handled.

Maddy summaryHB 1162 extends the deadline for the Commission on Holocaust and Genocide Studies to submit its final report from November 1, 2026, to November 1, 2029. The bill directly affects the commission, which is tasked with studying Holocaust and genocide education in New Hampshire schools. It modifies the commission's reporting requirements by updating the final report deadline in state law, while maintaining existing provisions for preliminary and annual reports. This is a procedural adjustment to the commission's timeline, with no changes to its duties or funding.

Maddy summaryHB 1490 requires scholarship organizations (which manage education freedom accounts) to provide parents with a written explanation of their obligation to notify school districts in writing when ending a home education program. This applies specifically to parents using scholarship programs for home education under New Hampshire law. The bill adds a new requirement for scholarship organizations to ensure parents understand this termination notice duty, which is currently mandated by law but not clearly explained to families. The change aims to clarify parental responsibilities without altering the underlying notice requirement.

Maddy summaryNew Hampshire's CACR 15 proposes adding a constitutional right to hunt, fish, and harvest game to the state constitution. It states that all citizens have this right, including using traditional methods, but only under existing laws and regulations. The amendment specifies that these rules must promote wildlife conservation, maintain resources for public use, and preserve hunting/fishing for future generations. It does not change current laws on property rights, trespass, or eminent domain. The proposal requires voter approval in the November 2026 general election to take effect.

Maddy summaryHB 1311 establishes a permanent "regulatory analysis fund" in the state treasurer's office to help the joint legislative committee evaluate the economic impact of proposed administrative rules. The fund allows the committee to hire external economic analysts for these reviews, with an initial $1 appropriation for fiscal year 2026. This bill directly affects the legislative committee and state agencies developing new rules by creating a formal process for economic impact assessments. It does not change existing rules or impose new requirements on businesses or residents; it simply sets up a mechanism for future analysis. The $1 appropriation is minimal and symbolic, as the fund is designed to be self-sustaining through future funding.

Maddy summaryHB 1657 requires New Hampshire state agencies to identify and report all vacant full- or part-time positions (classified or unclassified) that have been unfilled for 90+ days. Agencies must submit detailed reports - including funding sources, vacancy duration, and position codes - to the joint committee on employee classification, the governor, legislative leaders, and the executive council. The bill also prohibits filling such vacancies without express approval from the governor and executive council. This procedural measure aims to address prolonged vacancies by mandating transparency and requiring higher-level authorization before filling long-open positions. The law takes effect 60 days after enactment.

Maddy summaryCACR 24 proposes adding a constitutional right for parents and legal guardians to direct their children's education in New Hampshire. If approved by voters in 2026, it would insert a new Article 2-c into the state constitution stating this right cannot be violated. The amendment requires a 2/3 vote in favor at the 2026 general election to take effect. It directly affects parents/guardians by establishing a constitutional basis for their authority over educational decisions, without specifying curriculum or school policies. This is a procedural constitutional amendment requiring voter approval, not an immediate law.

Maddy summaryHB 1261 amends definitions within New Hampshire's Administrative Procedure Act to clarify agency rulemaking processes. It revises terms like "file" (referring to document submission procedures), "fiscal impact statement" (requiring consideration of short- and long-term costs), and "final legislative action" (defining committee resolution outcomes). The bill also updates provisions for the Joint Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules, including its meeting requirements and review responsibilities. These changes aim to streamline administrative procedures without creating new substantive policies.

Maddy summaryThis resolution proposes renaming a specific peak in Bethlehem, New Hampshire (coordinates 44°13'22" N; 71°33'42" W) to "Mount Shepard" in honor of Alan Shepard, a New Hampshire native and the first American in space. The resolution cites Shepard's achievements as a NASA astronaut, moonwalker, and naval officer, noting his connection to the state. It does not create new laws or affect policy, but formally changes the peak's official name to commemorate Shepard's legacy. The resolution was introduced by multiple state legislators and referred to the Resources committee.

Maddy summaryHR 20 is a New Hampshire House resolution (not a law) that formally reaffirms support for the Second Amendment and New Hampshire's state constitutional right to bear arms. It specifically urges Congress and the President to stop potential federal restrictions on firearm ownership based on characteristics like sexual orientation or religion, referencing reports of internal DOJ discussions about such rules. The resolution also calls for advancing the SHORT Act to address existing constitutional infringements, though it has no legal force and serves as a symbolic statement to federal leaders.