Sen. David Watters

Maddy summarySB 115 appropriates $28.87 million to fund Phase 2 of the Southern New Hampshire Regional Water Project. This funding will build regional drinking water infrastructure - like pumps, storage tanks, and pipelines - to increase water supply by over 2 million gallons daily for multiple towns affected by PFAS contamination and rising demand. The funds are nonlapsing (won't expire) and ensure no current utility ratepayer faces increased costs from new services funded by this appropriation. The bill directly affects communities in Southern New Hampshire struggling with water quality and supply challenges.

Maddy summaryHB 465, titled "relative to the housing opportunity zone program," does not have its specific provisions described in the provided context. The bill was referred to committee, underwent hearings, and was ultimately reported as "Inexpedient to Legislate" (16-0 vote) on September 23, 2025. No details about its policy changes, affected parties, or mechanisms are included in the available information. As the context lacks substantive bill text or summary, a factual description of its content cannot be provided.

Maddy summaryHB 105 creates a new conservation-themed vehicle license plate option. Vehicle owners who choose this plate would pay an additional fee beyond standard registration. The extra revenue generated would be directed exclusively to the Cyanobacteria Mitigation Loan and Grant Fund. This fund supports projects aimed at reducing harmful algae blooms in waterways. The bill directly affects vehicle owners who select the new plate and funds local efforts to address water quality issues.

Maddy summarySB 53 would establish legal regulations for the composting of human remains as an alternative to burial or cremation. It directly affects funeral service providers and families choosing this method by setting standards for facilities, processes, and safety. The bill creates a new framework for "natural organic reduction" (human composting) under state oversight. Currently, the bill has been referred to an interim study committee for further review, with no active legislative action taken as of the latest update.

Maddy summarySB 155, titled "relative to highway toll credits," proposes changes to toll credit programs for highway users. The bill's specific provisions and who it directly affects (e.g., drivers, toll-paying commuters) are not detailed in the provided context. As a procedural bill focused on toll credits, it has been referred to multiple committees and is currently under interim study. No concrete policy changes or mechanisms are described in the available information.

Maddy summarySB 123 would require the state Medicaid program to cover ear acupuncture as a treatment for substance misuse disorders. This directly affects Medicaid beneficiaries with substance use disorders and healthcare providers who offer this service. The key provision mandates that ear acupuncture be included as a covered benefit under the state Medicaid plan, ensuring providers can bill Medicaid for these treatments. The bill does not alter eligibility or funding levels but adds a specific service to the list of covered treatments.

Maddy summaryHB 658 raises the reimbursement cap for certain costs related to oil discharge and disposal cleanup under the state's oil cleanup fund. This change directly affects entities seeking reimbursement for cleanup expenses, such as oil spill response contractors or affected businesses. The bill increases the maximum allowable reimbursement amount, with Section 3 taking effect January 1, 2026, and Section 4 becoming effective July 1, 2035. The previous cap expired June 30, 2025, as noted in the bill's effective date language. Governor Ayotte signed the bill into law on August 1, 2025, with Chapter 284.

Maddy summaryHB 672 legalizes off-grid electricity providers in New Hampshire, allowing companies to operate without connecting to the state's main power grid. It directly affects off-grid energy providers and their customers, removing previous legal barriers to their services. The key provision establishes a regulatory framework for these providers to legally offer power through independent systems like solar or wind. The law took effect on August 1, 2025, after being signed by Governor Ayotte.

Maddy summaryHB 752 establishes a standardized process for closing charter schools in New Hampshire, directly affecting charter schools, their students, and local school districts. The bill outlines specific procedures for when a charter school must close, including requirements for notice, student transfer plans, and financial settlements. It aims to ensure orderly transitions and protect student interests during closures. The law was enacted on August 1, 2025, following Governor Ayotte's signature.