Rep. Brandon Phinney

Maddy summaryHB 1582 proposes to amend state law to allow alcohol consumption specifically within designated performance areas of venues that already hold liquor licenses. The bill defines an "entertainer" as someone performing on stage or in areas set aside for performers, regardless of whether they are paid. Under this proposal, patrons in these specific zones could legally consume alcohol while watching a show, even if other parts of the venue have different rules. Although the bill was introduced to clarify rules for artists and event organizers, it was ultimately not recommended for future legislation after an interim study.

Maddy summaryThis New Hampshire House Concurrent Resolution formally applies to the U.S. Congress to call a limited constitutional convention for the sole purpose of proposing an amendment to protect free and fair elections. The bill argues that current election systems are imbalanced due to special interest influence and cites Supreme Court rulings as a reason for needing constitutional reform. It specifies that delegates to this potential convention would be current state and local officials or elected representatives, while explicitly barring anyone currently or formerly holding federal office from serving. The resolution also commits New Hampshire to work with other states that have passed similar applications until two-thirds of the states have applied, which would trigger the convention.

Maddy summaryHB 1297 would have required local towns to prove that any new rules restricting how people use their land directly protect community health or safety. The bill also sought to stop municipalities from banning specific housing types, building sizes, or energy technologies if they met state and federal safety standards. Additionally, it would have allowed towns to pass ordinances limiting certain business activities based on scientific evidence of their impact on residents and the environment. Although the bill aimed to give communities more power to regulate land use, it was ultimately tabled and did not become law.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes adding a new article to the New Hampshire constitution to explicitly guarantee a fundamental right to abortion. It would protect this right for all individuals up to 24 weeks of pregnancy, allowing restrictions only if there is a compelling state interest addressed by the least restrictive means. After 24 weeks, the bill permits abortion if an attending physician judges it necessary based on applicable standards of care. The legislation also outlines the process for submitting this constitutional amendment to voters for a decision at the November 2024 general election.

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the legal definitions of "full course meals" and "full service restaurants" for alcohol licensing purposes in New Hampshire. It specifies that a full course meal includes a variety of prepared foods like grilled items, fried dishes, baked goods, sandwiches, salads, soups, and stove-top cooked options. A full service restaurant is now defined as an establishment with seating for at least ten guests that must offer multiple meal choices from at least two of these food categories. These changes affect businesses seeking or holding liquor licenses by clarifying the requirements for their dining areas and menus.