March 5, 2009

No. 14

 

 

STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE

WEB SITE ADDRESS:

www.gencourt.state.nh.us

 

 

 

 

 

161st Session of the New Hampshire General Court

 

Legislative

 

SENATE CALENDAR

REPORTS, AMENDMENTS, HEARINGS,

MEETINGS AND NOTICES

 

 

 

 

 

THE SENATE WILL MEET IN SESSION ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2009 AT 10:00 A.M.

LAID ON THE TABLE

SB 34, providing that registers of probate be present at the probate office in accordance with personnel rules established by the supreme court. 2/18/09, pending motion OTP, Judiciary, SJ 5, pg. TBA

 

SB 63-FN, relative to ensuring consumer access to care upon the termination of a participating provider. 3/4/09, pending motion OTP, Health and Human Services, SJ 6, pg. TBA

 

SB 93, extending the exemption from subsequent local land use regulation where substantial development has begun on an approved plan. 3/4/09, pending motion Committee Amendment (0428s), Public and Municipal Affairs, SJ 6, pg. TBA

 

SB 136-FN, relative to the motor vehicle registration fee supporting a municipal and transportation improvement fund. 3/4/09, pending motion ITL, Public and Municipal Affairs, SJ 6, pg. TBA

 

SB 137-FN-A, establishing a special motor vehicle license plate and associated fees to support the New Hampshire companion animal neutering fund. 2/18/09, pending motion OTP/A, Transportation & Interstate Cooperation, SJ 5, pg. TBA

SPECIAL ORDER

COMMERCE, LABOR AND CONSUMER PROTECTION

SB 89-FN, relative to unemployment overpayments.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 5-0.

Senator DeVries for the committee.

SB 144-FN, allowing the unemployment compensation trust fund to be charged for benefits paid for certain employee terminations.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 5-0.

Senator Hassan for the committee.

SB 170-FN, relative to benefits for unemployed persons who are attempting to establish a business.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 5-0.

Senator Hassan for the committee.

REPORTS

COMMERCE, LABOR AND CONSUMER PROTECTION

SB 80, requiring insurance coverage for services provided by athletic trainers.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 4-1.

Senator DeVries for the committee.

SB 99-FN-L, authorizing licensed new and used vehicle dealers to act as agents of the division of motor vehicles in the issuance of vehicle titles and registrations.

Inexpedient to Legislate, Vote 5-0.

Senator Cilley for the committee.

SB 100-FN, relative to home improvement contracts.

Ought to Pass, Vote 4-0.

Senator Hassan for the committee.

SB 102-FN, relative to managed care and patient choice.

Ought to Pass, Vote 5-0.

Senator Roberge for the committee.

SB 138-FN, relative to insurance coverage for telemedicine services.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 4-0.

Senator Cilley for the committee.

SB 141-FN, relative to a life settlements model act.

Re-refer to committee, Vote 5-0.

Senator Cilley for the committee.

SB 147-FN, relative to the data collection practices of health care providers and relative to the development of a comprehensive uninsured health care database.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 4-1.

Senator Hassan for the committee.

SB 167-FN, relative to employee leasing companies.

Ought to Pass, Vote 5-0.

Senator Cilley for the committee.

 

EDUCATION

SB 149, relative to the transition of functions and amending the reporting requirements of the community college system of New Hampshire.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 5-0.

Senator Fuller Clark for the committee.

SB 180-FN, establishing an accountability system to ensure the opportunity for an adequate education.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 5-0.

Senator Kelly for the committee.

 

ELECTION LAW AND VETERANS' AFFAIRS

CACR 10, relating to:  electoral districts.  Providing that:  representative districts be apportioned within senate districts and that senate districts be apportioned within executive council districts and giving county boundaries priority in senate district apportionment.

Inexpedient to Legislate, Vote 5-0.

Senator Carson for the committee.

SB 57, relative to the commission to study the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury suffered by New Hampshire soldiers and veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 4-0.

Senator Carson for the committee.

 

ENERGY, ENVIRONMENT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

SB 28-FN, relative to annual dam registration fees for non-menace dams.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 5-0.

Senator Cilley for the committee.

SB 65-FN, relative to the acceptance of in lieu payments for the restoration or creation of wetlands.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 5-0.

Senator Lasky for the committee.

SB 73-FN, requiring state departments to reduce energy consumption and to make an annual report on their energy consumption reduction efforts.

Re-refer to committee, Vote 4-0.

Senator Fuller Clark for the committee.

SB 101-FN-A, relative to the Cannon Mountain ski area.

Inexpedient to Legislate, Vote 5-0.

Senator Odell for the committee.

SB 107-FN, relative to the leasing of state-owned real estate on public waters.

Ought to Pass, Vote 5-0.

Senator Merrill for the committee.

SB 139-FN, establishing a moratorium on the shoreland protection act and establishing a commission to study revision of the shoreland protection act.

Inexpedient to Legislate, Vote 5-0.

Senator Cilley for the committee.

SB 164-FN-A, relative to the expansion and funding of northern New Hampshire's electrical transmission system, and establishing the northern New Hampshire electrical transmission system improvement fund.

Inexpedient to Legislate, Vote 5-0.

Senator Fuller Clark for the committee.

SB 166-FN, relative to mineral extraction, mining, and reclamation in New Hampshire.

Re-refer to committee, Vote 4-0.

Senator Odell for the committee.

SB 168-FN, establishing the Coastal Watershed Alliance.

Ought to Pass, Vote 5-0.

Senator Merrill for the committee.

 

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION

SB 64-FN, establishing a board of dental hygienists.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 4-0.

Senator Fuller Clark for the committee.

SB 66-FN, relative to repealing the joint health council and changing the title of ARNPs.

Ought to Pass, Vote 4-0.

Senator DeVries for the committee.

SB 68-FN, relative to the use of state vehicles.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 4-0.

Senator Cilley for the committee.

SB 72-FN-L, consolidating cemetery boards of trustees in Nashua.

Re-refer to committee, Vote 3-0.

Senator Carson for the committee.

SB 140-FN, relative to the practice of animal chiropractic care.

Inexpedient to Legislate, Vote 4-0.

Senator Cilley for the committee.

SB 145-FN, relative to service on the retirement system board of trustees for certain board members.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 4-0.

Senator DeVries for the committee.

SB 163-FN-L, relative to powers of justices of the peace.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 3-1.

Senator Carson for the committee.

 

FINANCE

SB 18-FN-A, increasing the staff and information technology responsibilities of the department of justice, charitable trust unit and establishing the charitable trust protection fund.

Inexpedient to Legislate, Vote 5-1.

Senator D'Allesandro for the committee.

SB 70-FN, authorizing the office of mediation and arbitration within the judicial branch to provide pre-suit alternative dispute resolution services.

Ought to Pass, Vote 5-0.

Senator Janeway for the committee.

SB 106-FN, establishing a program for mediation of civil writs in the district court and funding the program with a surcharge on the filing fee for civil writs.

Ought to Pass, Vote 6-0.

Senator Odell for the committee.

 

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

SB 67-FN-A, relative to funding certain AIDS services organizations.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 4-0.

Senator Gilmour for the committee.

SB 115, relative to eligibility for the healthy kids program.

Ought to Pass, Vote 5-0.

Senator Sgambati for the committee.

 

JUDICIARY

SB 11, relative to procedures in certain landlord tenant actions.

Inexpedient to Legislate, Vote 5-0.

Senator Lasky for the committee.

SB 22-FN, relative to criminal mischief of property with geological value.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 5-0.

Senator Letourneau for the committee.

SB 52, making technical corrections to laws relative to courts and court procedures.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 5-0.

Senator Houde for the committee.

SB 53, establishing professional guardians and removing the oath requirement in annual reports of the guardian.

Ought to Pass, Vote 5-0.

Senator Roberge for the committee.

SB 103-FN, relative to prohibited sales of alcoholic beverages.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 5-0.

Senator Reynolds for the committee.

SB 175-FN, increasing the fee for investigating the annulment of a criminal record.

Inexpedient to Legislate, Vote 5-0.

Senator Letourneau for the committee.

 

TRANSPORTATION AND INTERSTATE COOPERATION

SB 82-FN, eliminating fees for plates and registration for certain veterans.

Ought to Pass, Vote 5-0.

Senator Gilmour for the committee.

SB 105-FN-A, relative to permit fees for certain vehicles.

Inexpedient to Legislate, Vote 5-0.

Senator Letourneau for the committee.

SB 154, naming a certain portion of route 18 in the town of Franconia in honor of Corporal Bruce McKay.

Re-refer to committee, Vote 5-0.

Senator Letourneau for the committee.

SB 186, relative to the establishment of a statewide transportation policy and a transportation advisory commission.

Ought to Pass with Amendment, Vote 3-2.

Senator Kelly for the committee.

 

WAYS AND MEANS

SB 146-FN-A, relative to liquor profits deposited into the alcohol abuse prevention and treatment fund.

Ought to Pass, Vote 5-0.

Senator Janeway for the committee.

SB 169-FN, relative to games of chance and establishing a gaming oversight authority and video lottery gaming.

Inexpedient to Legislate, Vote 5-0.

Senator Odell for the committee.

SB 179-FN-A-L, providing for the recovery of horse racing, and expanding gaming operations in the north country and at pari-mutuel locations.

Ought to Pass, Vote 3-2.

Senator D'Allesandro for the committee.

SB 181-FN-A, relative to the liquor commission and alcoholic beverages.

Re-refer to committee, Vote 5-0.

Senator Odell for the committee.

SB 182-FN-A, establishing a job creation credit against the business profits tax and the business enterprise tax for businesses manufacturing energy efficient products.

Ought to Pass, Vote 5-0.

Senator Odell for the committee.

SPECIAL-ORDERED AMENDMENTS

Commerce, Labor and Consumer Protection

February 18, 2009

2009-0389s

08/09

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 89-FN

 

 

Amend RSA 282-A:75, III as inserted by section 2 of the bill by replacing it with the following:

 

            III.  Benefits are paid to a claimant [solely through error or inadvertence of the commissioner or his authorized representative] as provided in RSA 282-A:165, II.

 

 

Commerce, Labor and Consumer Protection

February 17, 2009

2009-0384s

08/09

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 144-FN

 

 

Amend the bill by replacing all after the enacting clause with the following:

 

      ­1  Unemployment Benefit Eligibility.  Amend RSA 282-A:32, I(a)(3) to read as follows:

                  (3)  The leaving of employment was necessary to protect the individual from domestic abuse, as defined in RSA 173-B:1 and in accordance with rules adopted by the commissioner, and the individual made all reasonable efforts to preserve the employment, and in addition:

                              (A)  The individual relocated to escape the abuse; or

                              (B)  The individual, due to changed circumstances, is able to return to the individual's employment, but the employer is unable to return the individual to the individual's job, or to comparable work, due solely to:

                                    (i)  A reduction in work force; or

                                    (ii)  Other economic conditions, and the individual did all things that a reasonably prudent person would have done to continue the employer-employee relationship or the possibility of reemployment during the period the individual was unable to work due to the domestic abuse; or

                        (4)  The individual terminates employment because he or she has become unable to perform some or all of his or her job duties due to an illness or injury that is not work-related or due to pregnancy.  Nothing in this section shall relieve an employer of the duty to provide reasonable accommodation as that term is defined by state or federal law.

      ­2  Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund.  RSA 282-A:75 is repealed and reenacted to read as follows:

      282-A:75  Fund Chargeable.  In assigning the charges for benefits to the account of the most recent employer under this subdivision, no benefits shall be charged to the account of an individual employer but shall be charged by the commissioner against the fund where:

            I.  Benefits are paid and are not chargeable against any employer's account in accordance with the provisions of RSA 282-A:42 and RSA 282-A:44-52;

            II.  Benefits are paid to a claimant solely through error or inadvertence of the commissioner or his or her authorized representative as provided in RSA 282-A:165;

            III.  Benefits are paid to an individual by reason of RSA 282-A:31, III,

            IV.  Benefits are paid to an individual by reason of RSA 282-A:32, I(a)(3); or

            V.  Benefits are paid to an individual by reason of RSA 282-A:32, I(a)(4).

      ­3   Effective Date.  This act shall take effect 60 days after its passage.

 

 

Commerce, Labor and Consumer Protection

February 18, 2009

2009-0383s

08/09

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 170-FN

 

 

Amend RSA 282-A:31-b, I as inserted by section 1 of the bill by replacing it with the following:

 

            I.  There shall be in the department of employment security, a self-employment assistance program.  Participants in the self-employment assistance program shall receive an allowance in lieu of regular benefits so long as participants meet the conditions established by this subdivision.

AMENDMENTS

Senate Judiciary

March 4, 2009

2009-0550s

04/01

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 22-FN

 

 

Amend the title of the bill by replacing it with the following:

 

AN ACT     relative to criminal mischief committed against natural geological formations which have been designated as natural landmarks. 

 

Amend the bill by replacing all after the enacting clause with the following:

 

      ­1  Destruction of Property; Criminal Mischief.  Amend RSA 634:2, VI to read as follows:

            VI.  Any person who is found guilty of criminal mischief under paragraph III of this section because he or she has vandalized, defaced, or destroyed any part of the “Old Man of the Mountain” or any natural geological formation, site, or rock surface located on public property that has been designated by the state or federal government as a natural area or landmark shall, notwithstanding RSA 651:2, be fined up to a maximum of $1,000 and shall also make restitution to the state for any damage he or she has caused.

      ­2  Effective Date.  This act shall take effect upon its passage.

 

2009-0550s

AMENDED ANALYSIS

 

      This bill would impose a fine on any person convicted of criminal mischief against a natural geological formation, site, or rock formation which has been designated as a natural area or landmark. 

 

 

 

Energy, Environment and Economic Development

March 5, 2009

2009-0640s

06/09

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 28-FN

 

 

Amend the title of the bill by replacing it with the following:

 

AN ACT     relative to annual dam registration fees for non-menace dams and notification to dam owners of downstream development.

 

Amend the bill by inserting after section 1 the following and renumbering the original section 2 to read as 4:

 

      ­2  Board’s Procedure on Plats; Identification of Upstream Dams.  Amend RSA 676:4, I (b) to read as follows:

                  (b)  The planning board shall specify by regulation what constitutes a completed application sufficient to invoke jurisdiction to obtain approval.  A completed application means that sufficient information is included or submitted to allow the board to proceed with consideration and to make an informed decision.  A completed application sufficient to invoke jurisdiction of the board shall be submitted to and accepted by the board only at a public meeting of the board, with notice as provided in subparagraph (d).  The applicant shall file the application with the board or its agent at least 15 days prior to the meeting at which the application will be accepted.  The application shall include the names and addresses of the applicant, all holders of conservation, preservation, or agricultural preservation restrictions as defined in RSA 477:45, and all abutters as indicated in the town records for incorporated towns or county records for unincorporated towns or unorganized places not more than 5 days before the day of filing.  Abutters shall also be identified on any plat submitted to the board.  The application shall also include the name and business address of every engineer, architect, land surveyor, or soil scientist whose professional seal appears on any plat submitted to the board.  Since construction of any structure near streams or rivers downstream of a dam can increase the hazard classification of the dam established by the department of environmental services, the application shall identify the nearest dam upstream and include the name and address of the dam owners.

      ­3  Board’s Procedures on Plats; Notification of Upstream Dam Owners.  Amend RSA 676:4, I (d) to read as follows:

                  (d)  Notice to the applicant, holders of conservation, preservation, or agricultural preservation restrictions, abutters, upstream dam owners, the department of environmental services dam bureau, and the public shall be given as follows:  The planning board shall notify the abutters, the applicant, holders of conservation, preservation, or agricultural preservation restrictions, and every engineer, architect, land surveyor, or soil scientist whose professional seal appears on any plat submitted to the board by certified mail of the date upon which the application will be formally submitted to the board.  For those proposals near rivers and streams and downstream of a dam, the planning board shall also notify the owners of the upstream dam and the department of environmental services dam bureau by certified mail.  Notice shall be mailed at least 10 days prior to submission.  Notice to the general public shall also be given at the same time by posting or publication as required by the subdivision regulations.  The notice shall include a general description of the proposal which is the subject of the application and shall identify the applicant and the location of the proposal.  For any public hearing on the application, the same notice as required for notice of submission of the application shall be given.  If notice of public hearing has been included in the notice of submission or any prior notice, additional notice of that hearing is not required nor shall additional notice be required of an adjourned session of a hearing with proper notice if the date, time, and place of the adjourned session was made known at the prior hearing.  All costs of notice, whether mailed, posted, or published, shall be paid in advance by the applicant.  Failure to pay such costs shall constitute valid grounds for the planning board to terminate further consideration and to disapprove the plat without a public hearing.

 

2009-0640s

AMENDED ANALYSIS

 

      This bill:

 

      I.  Exempts dams classified by the department of environmental services as non-menace dams from the annual dam registration fee.

 

      II.  Requires notification to owners of dams and the department of environmental services dam bureau of downstream development.

 

 

Senate Judiciary

March 4, 2009

2009-0551s

09/03

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 52

 

 

Amend the bill by deleting section 3 and renumbering the original sections 4-12 to read as 3-11, respectively.

 

Amend the bill by replacing section 11 with the following:

 

      ­11  Effective Date.

            I.  Sections 8 and 9 of this act shall take effect 60 days after its passage.

            II.  The remainder of this act shall take effect upon its passage.

 

 

Election Law and Veterans’ Affairs

March 3, 2009

2009-0539s

01/09

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 57

 

 

Amend the bill by replacing section 1 with the following:

 

      ­1  New Subparagraphs; Members Added.  Amend 2008, 257:2, I by inserting after subparagraph (l) the following new subparagraphs:

                  (m)  A representative of the national guard, appointed by the adjutant general.

                  (n)  The commissioner of labor, or designee.

                  (o)  A representative of Vietnam veterans, appointed by the governor.

 

2009-0539s

AMENDED ANALYSIS

 

      This bill extends the commission to study the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury suffered by New Hampshire soldiers and veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.  The bill also adds members to the commission.

 

Senate Executive Departments and Administration

March 5, 2009

2009-0629s

10/01

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 64-FN

 

 

Amend the title of the bill by replacing it with the following:

 

AN ACT     relative to increasing dental hygienist membership on the board of dental examiners, and establishing a study of the regulation of dental hygienists.

 

Amend the bill by replacing all after the enacting clause with the following:

 

      ­1  Statement of Purpose.  The general court finds that the number of licensed dental hygienists in New Hampshire has grown at a far higher rate than the number of licensed dentists.  The state and federal emphasis on prevention as the most efficient and cost-effective model for health care further highlights the growth, value, and recognition of the dental hygiene profession.  The purpose of this act is to examine New Hampshire’s current licensure and regulation of dental hygienists and bring it up to date.  In addition, the membership of the board of dental examiners is expanded to better represent dental hygienists licensed to practice in the state.

      ­2  Membership; Board of Dental examiners.  Amend RSA 317-A: 2, to read as follows:

            I.  There shall be a board of dental examiners consisting of [9] 11 members; including 6 dentists, [2] 4 dental hygienists, and one public member, each to be appointed by the governor, with the approval of the council, to a term of 5 years.  No member of the board shall be appointed to more than 2 consecutive terms.  Only board members provided for in this paragraph shall have the authority to vote in board determinations.

      ­3 Study Committee Established.  There is established a committee to study the regulation of dental hygienists.

      ­4  Membership and Compensation.

            I.  The members of the study committee shall be as follows:

                  (a)  One member of the senate, appointed by the president of the senate.

                  (b)  Three members of the house of representatives, appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives.

            II.  Members of the committee shall receive mileage at the legislative rate when attending to the duties of the study committee.

      ­5  Duties.  The committee shall study the licensure and regulation of dental hygienists, and shall determine whether licensure and regulation of hygienists would be more appropriately carried out by an independent board of dental hygienists or by some other regulatory entity.

      ­6  Chairperson; First Meeting.  The members of the committee shall elect a chairperson from among the members.  The first meeting of the committee shall be called by the senate member.  The first meeting of the committee shall be held within 30 days of the effective date of this section.

      ­7  Report.  The committee shall report its findings and any recommendations for proposed legislation to the president of the senate, the speaker of the house of representatives, the senate clerk, the house clerk, the governor, and the state library on or before November 1, 2009.

      ­8  Independent Reports.  The board of dental examiners and the New Hampshire Dental Hygienists’ Association shall issue on or before December 1, 2009 independent reports to the senate executive departments and administration committee and the house executive departments and administration committee with an assessment commenting on the effectiveness of increased representation on the board of dental examiners by dental hygienists.

      ­9  Effective Date.  This act shall take effect upon its passage.

 

2009-0629s

AMENDED ANALYSIS

 

      This bill adds 2 dental hygienist members to the board of dental examiners.  The bill also establishes a committee to study the regulation of dental hygienists, and requires independent reports by the board of dental examiners and the New Hampshire Dental Hygienists’ Association.

 

Energy, Environment and Economic Development

March 5, 2009

2009-0642s

06/09

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 65-FN

 

 

Amend the bill by deleting section 6 and renumbering the original sections 7 through 10 to read as 6 through 9, respectively.

 

Amend RSA 482-A:30-a as inserted by section 7 of the bill by replacing it with the following:

 

      482-A:30-a  Payment for Stream or Shoreline Losses.  For stream or shoreline resource losses, the in lieu payment shall be the sum of:

            I.  The cost that would have been incurred if a stream of the same type was restored at the ratios adopted by the department, based on a price of $200 per linear foot of channel or bank impacts or both, to be adjusted at the beginning of the calendar year according to the annual simple rate of interest on judgments established by RSA 336:1; and

            II.  An administrative assessment equal to 10 percent of the amount in paragraph I.

 

Amend RSA 482-A:31, II as inserted by section 8 of the bill by replacing it with the following:

 

            II.  The method of calculating the amount of in lieu payments under RSA 482-A:30 and RSA 482-A:30-a which shall approximate the total cost of wetlands construction, stream construction, or such other mitigation actions as would have been required by the department and incurred by the applicant in the absence of making such payments.  An administrative assessment of [5] 10 percent of the total cost shall be added as part of the calculation method.

 

 

Health and Human Services

March 3, 2009

2009-0543s

01/10

 

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 67-FN-A

 

 

Amend the bill by replacing all after the enacting clause with the following:

 

      ­1  Human Immunodeficiency Virus Prevention Program; Grants to AIDS Services Organizations.  Amend 2007, 367:1 and 367:2  to read as follows:

      367:1  Department of Health and Human Services; Human Immunodeficiency Virus Prevention Program.  The department shall expend [the sums of $500,000 in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2008 and $500,000 in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2009] 50 percent of available AIDS appropriations for the human immunodeficiency virus prevention program in the department of health and human services for the purchase of antiretroviral drugs.  The department shall fund the program from funds appropriated to the department [in the state operating budget in fiscal years 2008 and 2009].

      367:2  Department of Health and Human Services; Grants to AIDS Services Organizations.  The department shall distribute [to the specified agencies the total sum of $500,000 in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2008 and the total sum of $500,000 in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2009 for grants] the remaining 50 percent of AIDS appropriations to the following AIDS services organizations: a Community Resource Network (ACORN) in Lebanon; AIDS Response-Seacoast in Portsmouth; AIDS Services for Monadnock in Keene; the Greater Manchester AIDS Project; and Southern New Hampshire HIV/AIDS Task Force in Nashua.  The department shall fund said grants from funds appropriated to the department in the state operating budget [in fiscal years 2008 and 2009].  The awarding of such grants to the specified agencies by the department of health and human services shall be on a per capita basis.  The administration of these grants by the department of health and human services shall follow the procedures established by the Boston Public Health Commission AIDS Program, [both for] as relate to eligibility and billing.

      ­2  Effective Date.  This act shall take effect July 1, 2009.

 

2009-0543s

AMENDED ANALYSIS

 

      This bill clarifies the funding for the human immunodeficiency virus prevention program within the department of health and human services and certain AIDS services organizations.

 

 

 

 

Senate Executive Departments and Administration

March 4, 2009

2009-0561s

08/04

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 68-FN

 

 

Amend the bill by replacing all after the enacting clause with the following:

 

      ­1  Use of State-Owned Passenger Automobiles.  Amend RSA 21-I by inserting after section 19-f the following new section:

      21-I:19-g  Use of State-Owned Passenger Automobiles.

            I.  The department of administrative services shall determine for each 2-year budget cycle the minimum number of miles required to justify retaining a state-owned vehicle referred to as the break-even mileage.  The break-even miles shall take into account operational costs, depreciation, and mileage reimbursement rates for use of personal vehicles as follows:

                  (a)  Break-even mileage shall be calculated by summing average fixed and annual operating costs then dividing by the Internal Revenue Service reimbursement rate.

                  (b)  Fixed costs shall include the average purchase price minus the average resale price divided by the average useful life of the vehicle.  Average annual operating costs shall include:  oil changes, repairs, tires, gasoline, insurance, and other miscellaneous costs, if any.

            II.  The department of administrative services shall make this determination by September 1st of the first year of each biennium.  The break-even mileage shall only apply to vehicles in service by an agency for an entire fiscal year.

            III.  If state-owned passenger vehicles are assigned to a state agency and such vehicles on average are not used for travel at or above the break-even mileage requirement during such year, the director of plant and property management shall transfer a vehicle or vehicles and declare them surplus until the agency’s re-computed average passenger vehicle mileage is at or above the break-even mileage.  Average vehicle mileage shall be calculated by the total miles driven by an agency’s passenger vehicles divided by the total number of passenger vehicles.  An agency may within 60 days after the end of the fiscal year apply to the fiscal committee of the general court to retain such vehicle or vehicles.  If such agency presents a clear and convincing case for the continued assignment of a vehicle or vehicles to the agency, the fiscal committee may permit the agency to retain a vehicle or vehicles.  The director of plant and property management shall either sell or transfer the vehicle or vehicles declared to be surplus pursuant to a centralized state vehicle pool or to this section to any state agency having employees who travel more than the break-even mileage requirement as set by the department of administrative services and who are being reimbursed for travel in privately-owned vehicles.  The term “agency” as used in this section includes a department, institution, board, division, and commission.

      ­2  Repeal.  1981, 568:11, relative to use of state-owned automobiles, is repealed.

      ­3  Effective Date.  This act shall take effect upon its passage.

 

 

Commerce, Labor and Consumer Protection

March 5, 2009

2009-0662s

01/03

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 80

 

 

Amend the title of the bill by replacing it with the following:

 

AN ACT     establishing a committee to study requiring insurance coverage for services provided by athletic trainers.

 

Amend the bill by replacing all after the enacting clause with the following:

 

      ­1  Committee Established.  There is established a committee to study requiring insurance coverage for services provided by athletic trainers.

      ­2  Membership and Compensation.

            I.  The members of the committee shall be as follows:

                  (a)  One member of the senate, appointed by the president of the senate.

                  (b)  Three members of the house of representatives, appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives.

            II.  Members of the committee shall receive mileage at the legislative rate when attending to the duties of the committee.

      ­3  Duties.  The committee shall study all issues relating to requiring insurance coverage for services provided by athletic trainers.  The committee’s study shall include, but not be limited to, the cost and health benefits associated with the services provided by an athletic trainer and the implementation of the  benefit.

      ­4  Chairperson; Quorum.  The members of the study committee shall elect a chairperson from among the members.  The first meeting of the committee shall be called by the senate member.  The first meeting of the committee shall be held within 45 days of the effective date of this section.  Two members of the committee shall constitute a quorum.

      ­5  Report.  The committee shall report its findings and any recommendations for proposed legislation to the president of the senate, the speaker of the house of representatives, the senate clerk, the house clerk, the governor, and the state library on or before November 1, 2009.

      ­6  Effective Date.  This act shall take effect upon its passage.

 

2009-0662s

AMENDED ANALYSIS

 

      This bill establishes a committee to study requiring insurance coverage for services provided by athletic trainers.

 

 

 

Senate Judiciary

March 4, 2009

2009-0547s

05/03

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 103-FN

 

 

Amend the bill by replacing all after the enacting clause with the following:

 

      ­1  Alcoholic Beverages; Prohibited Sales.  Amend RSA 179:5, I to read as follows:

            I.  No licensee, salesperson, direct shipper, common carrier, delivery agent, nor any other person, shall sell or give away or cause or allow or procure to be sold, delivered, or given away any liquor or beverage to a person under the age of 21 or to serve an [intoxicated] individual who is visibly intoxicated or who a reasonable and prudent person would know is visibly intoxicated.  For all deliveries of packages by common carrier or delivery agent marked “alcoholic beverages” or “alcoholic products,” the addressee shall sign a delivery receipt.  In no case shall any section of this title be so construed as to permit sale of liquor or beverages in any so-called saloon or speakeasy.

      ­2  Repeal.  RSA 175:1, XXXVIII, relative to the definition of intoxicated individual, is repealed.

      ­3  Effective Date.  This act shall take effect January 1, 2010.

 

2009-0547s

AMENDED ANALYSIS

 

      This bill limits the prohibition on providing alcoholic beverages to an individual to serving alcohol to an individual who is visibly intoxicated or who a reasonable and prudent person would know is visibly intoxicated.

 

 

 

Commerce, Labor and Consumer Protection

March 5, 2009

2009-0666s

01/05

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 138-FN

 

 

Amend the bill by replacing all after the enacting clause with the following:

 

      ­1  New Chapter; New Hampshire Telemedicine Act.  Amend RSA by inserting after chapter 415-I the following new chapter:

CHAPTER 415-J

New Hampshire Telemedicine Act

      415-J:1  New Hampshire Telemedicine Act.  This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the New Hampshire telemedicine act.

      415-J:2  Definitions.  In this chapter:

            I.  “Health benefit policy” means any individual or group plan, policy, or contract for health care services issued, delivered, issued for delivery, executed, or renewed in this state, including, but not limited to, those contracts executed by the state of New Hampshire on behalf of state employees under RSA 21-I, by an insurer.

            II.  “Insurer” means an accident and sickness insurer, fraternal benefit society, hospital service corporation, medical service corporation, health care corporation, health maintenance organization, preferred provider organization, provider sponsored health care corporation, managed care entity, or any similar entity authorized to issue contracts under this title or to provide health benefit policies.

            III.  “Telemedicine” means the practice of health care delivery, diagnosis, consultation, treatment, transfer of medical data, or exchange of medical education information by means of audio, video, or data communications. Standard telephone, facsimile transmissions, or both, in the absence of other integrated information and data, do not constitute telemedicine services.

      415-J:3  Coverage for Telemedicine Services.

            I.  It is the intent of the general court to recognize the application of telemedicine for covered services provided within the scope of practice of a physician or other health care provider as a method of delivery of medical care by which an individual shall receive medical services from a health care provider without face-to-face contact with the provider.

            II.  Beginning 60 days after the effective date of this section, no health benefit policy that is issued, amended, or renewed shall require face-to-face contact between a health care provider and a patient as a prerequisite for payment for services appropriately provided through telemedicine in accordance with generally accepted health care practices and standards prevailing in the applicable professional community at the time the services were provided. The coverage required in this section may be subject to all terms and conditions of the plan agreed upon among the enrollee or subscriber, the insurer, and the provider.

            III.  Nothing in this section shall preclude any health professional, within the scope of the health professional's practice, from employing the technology of telemedicine or participating in the application of telemedicine within the health professional's practice or under the direction of another health professional with such scope of practice. Such action shall not be interpreted as practicing medicine without a license.

      ­2  Effective Date.  This act shall take effect 60 day after its passage.

 

2009-0666s

AMENDED ANALYSIS

 

      This bill establishes the New Hampshire telemedicine act, which prohibits health insurance providers from requiring face-to-face contact between a health care provider and a patient as a condition of payment of services provided through telemedicine in accordance with professional health care standards.

 

 

 

 

Senate Executive Departments and Administration

March 4, 2009

2009-0616s

10/05

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 145-FN

 

 

Amend RSA 100-A:14, III-a as inserted by section 1 of the bill by replacing it with the following:

 

            III-a.  No board of trustee member nominated by the New Hampshire state employees’ association, the New Hampshire education association, the New Hampshire police association, or the New Hampshire state permanent firemen’s association, shall be denied leave or time from his or her employer in order to attend the official meetings and official training meetings of the board of trustees  provided that at least 2 weeks notice of such meetings has been given to the employer.

 

2009-0616s

AMENDED ANALYSIS

 

      This bill provides that members of the retirement system board of trustees who are nominated from employee member organizations shall not be denied leave to attend meetings of the board provided notice is given to the employer.

 

Commerce, Labor and Consumer Protection

March 5, 2009

2009-0665s

01/09

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 147-FN

 

 

Amend the title of the bill by replacing it with the following:

 

AN ACT     relative to the data collection practices of health care providers and relative to the development of an uninsured health care database.

 

Amend the bill by replacing all after the enacting clause with the following:

 

      ­1  Statement of Purpose.  The purpose of this act is to create a system to capture information on the provision of health care services to uninsured persons to obtain a better understanding of the impact of uninsured persons on public health, health care providers, and the commercial insurance market.  With the increase in uninsured persons in New Hampshire and the escalating problem of the affordability of health insurance, the existing safety net, which relies on community health centers and hospitals, both with limited capacity, may not be sustainable.  New Hampshire’s health care safety net is an integral and essential part of its health care financing and delivery system.  It is vitally important to monitor each part of the system through the collection of data that identifies and quantifies how safety net services are accessed and used in New Hampshire.  To the extent allowed by HIPAA, this data shall be available as a resource for insurers, employers, providers, purchasers to health care, and policymakers to review health care utilization and expenditures.

      ­2  Health Care Data Collection.  RSA 126:25, II is repealed and reenacted to read as follows:

            II.  Licensed providers of health care, as defined in RSA 151-C:2, XXX, and licensed health care facilities, as defined in RSA 151-C:2, XV-a, that are not exempt from reporting pursuant to this section and that submit health care claims electronically for reimbursement shall submit health care data for any person who receives health care services and for whom a claim is not submitted to a third party payer.  The health care data shall be submitted in a format that is similar to the commercial claims data collected under RSA 420-G:11-a and shall include information for each service that includes dates of service, patient demographics, provider information, charge information, and clinical diagnosis and procedure codes.  Neither the state nor its agents shall collect or otherwise obtain direct personal identifiers in connection with any health care data relating to uninsured individuals.  For purposes of this section, “direct personal identifiers” includes information relating to an individual that contains primary or obvious identifiers such as the individual’s name, street address, e-mail address, telephone number, and social security number.

      ­3  New Paragraphs; Health Care Data Collection.  Amend RSA 126:25 by inserting after paragraph III the following new paragraphs:

            IV.  Health care providers that provide core safety net services shall be required to submit health care data for each service provided to an uninsured person.  The health care data shall include the following:  the date of service, patient demographics, provider information, charge information, clinical diagnosis, and procedure codes.  Neither the state nor its agents shall collect or otherwise obtain direct personal identifiers in connection with any health care data relating to uninsured individuals.  For purposes of this section, “direct personal identifiers” includes information relative to an individual that contains primary or obvious identifiers such as the individual's name, street address, e-mail address, telephone number, and social security number.

            V.  Health care providers required to submit data shall include the following:

                  (a)  Licensed hospitals, as defined in RSA 151-C:2, XX;

                  (b)  Licensed health care providers, as defined by RSA 151-C:2, XXX, who are employed or legally controlled by a hospital with the exception of long-term care facilities, including, but not limited to, all physician practices that are owned or controlled by a hospital or a financial intermediary of a hospital;

                  (c)  Federally qualified community health centers as defined by section 330 of the Public Health Service Act, 42 U.S.C. section 201 et seq.; and

                  (d)  Nonprofit community health centers that provide comprehensive primary and preventive health care services to the state's uninsured and Medicaid populations regardless of the patient's ability to pay and that are governed by boards of directors that are at least 51 percent composed of the health center's patients.

      ­4  New Chapter; Uninsured Health Care Database.  Amend RSA by inserting after chapter 126-R the following new chapter:

CHAPTER 126-S

Uninsured Health Care DataBase

      126-S:1  Database Development and Use.

            I.  The commissioner of the insurance department and the commissioner of the department of health and human services shall enter into a memorandum of understanding for collaboration in the development of an uninsured health care database.  The memorandum of understanding shall include a description of the uninsured database, the criteria and procedures for the collection and the release of the uninsured data set, the requirements for reporting information on the uninsured, and the sharing of the hospital discharge data set as described in RSA 126:25, I(d) and RSA 126:25, IV.

            II.  To the extent allowed by the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), the data shall be available as a resource tool for policy analysts, insurers, legislators, employers, health care providers, purchasers of health care, and state agencies to review the uninsured population’s utilization of health care, the cost of services provided to the uninsured, and the effect of that utilization on the commercial insurance market.

            III.  The uninsured health care database shall not include any data that contains direct personal identifiers.  “Direct personal identifiers” shall include information relating to an individual that contains primary identifiers, such as the individual’s name, street address, e-mail address, telephone number, and social security number.

            IV.  No provider shall be required to submit data until such time as the collection rules adopted pursuant to RSA 126-S:2 become effective.

      126-S:2  Rulemaking Authority.

            I.  The release of the health care data shall be subject to the same requirements as the release of the commercial claims data collected under RSA 420-G:11-a.  The commissioner of the department of health and human services shall amend the existing rules adopted pursuant to RSA 541‑A relative to the release of commercial claims data to include the release of uninsured data.

            II.  The commissioner of the insurance department, in consultation with the commissioner of the department of health and human services, shall adopt rules under RSA 541-A relative to the collection and submission of uninsured health care data that shall address:

                  (a)  The description of the data to be submitted.

                  (b)  The submission schedule for providing the data.

                  (c)  The contents of the data, which shall reflect data elements typically submitted to a commercial carrier on a CMS-1500 or UB-04 claim forms or any successor forms.

                  (d)  The filing format to be used.

                  (e)  The specific data elements for submission.

                  (f)  The description of the data codes and sources.

                  (g)  Procedures for providing incomplete data.

                  (h)  Procedures and criteria for encrypting the data and ensuring that the data do not contain direct personal identifiers.

            III.  The commissioner shall ensure that the data collection rules adopted pursuant to this section provide licensed health care providers the following options for the submission of health care data for the uninsured:

                        (a)  The submission of hospital discharge data by licensed health care providers under RSA 126:25, I(d) shall satisfy the data submission requirements set forth in RSA 126:25, IV; or

                  (b)  Electronic data sets submitted by licensed providers of health care and licensed health care providers not subject to submission pursuant to the hospital discharge data set in RSA 126:25, I(d) shall contain the same or similar data elements as are required under the hospital discharge data set in RSA 126:25, I(d), and RSA 126:25, IV.  The actual electronic format required for such data shall minimize the burden and costs to licensed providers of health care and licensed health care providers.

      ­5  Effective Date.  This act shall take effect January 1, 2010.

 

2009-0665s

AMENDED ANALYSIS

 

      This bill requires hospitals, community health centers, and hospital-owned providers to submit data to the department of health and human services for any person who is uninsured and whose care is not paid for by a governmental program.

 

      This bill also requires the commissioner of the insurance department and the commissioner of the department of health and human services to enter into a memorandum of understanding for collaboration in the development of a comprehensive uninsured health care database.  The bill grants rulemaking authority to the commissioners for the purposes of the collaborative effort.

 

 

 

Senate Education

March 4, 2009

2009-0579s

04/05

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 149

 

 

Amend the title of the bill by replacing it with the following:

 

AN ACT     relative to the transition of functions and amending the reporting requirements of the community college system of New Hampshire and making an appropriation therefor.

 

Amend the bill by replacing all after section 2 with the following:

 

      ­3  Appropriation.  There is hereby appropriated the sum of $1 for the biennium ending June 30, 2011 to the community college system of New Hampshire to carry out the provisions of this act.  The governor is authorized to draw a warrant for said sum out of any money in the treasury not otherwise appropriated.

      ­4  Effective Date. 

            I.  Section 3 of this act shall take effect July 1, 2009.

            II.  The remainder of this act shall take effect upon its passage.

 

2009-0579s

AMENDED ANALYSIS

 

      This bill:

 

      I.  Changes the effective date for the transition of certain functions within the community college system of New Hampshire from July 1, 2009 to July 1, 2011. 

 

      II.  Provides that the commissioner of the department of education and the chancellor of the community college system of New Hampshire shall annually issue a joint report on the proposed use and distribution of federal vocational funds. 

 

      III.  Makes an appropriation for the purposes of this act. 

 

Senate Executive Departments and Administration

March 4, 2009

2009-0554s

09/03

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 163-FN-LOCAL

 

 

Amend the title of the bill by replacing it with the following:

 

AN ACT     establishing a committee to study the powers of justices of the peace.

 

Amend the bill by replacing all after the enacting clause with the following:

 

      ­1  Committee Established.  There is established a committee to study  the powers of justices of the peace.

      ­2  Membership and Compensation.

            I.  The members of the committee shall be as follows:

                  (a)  One member of the senate judiciary committee, appointed by the president of the senate.

                  (b)  Three members of the house of representatives, at least one of whom shall be a member of the house judiciary committee, appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives.

            II.  Members of the committee shall receive mileage at the legislative rate when attending to the duties of the committee.

      ­3  Duties.  The committee shall study the current powers of justices of the peace and whether the powers of justices of the peace should be limited to administering oaths, performing marriage ceremonies, and acknowledging instruments.

      ­4  Chairperson; Quorum.  The members of the study committee shall elect a chairperson from among the members.  The first meeting of the committee shall be called by the first-named senate member.  The first meeting of the committee shall be held within 45 days of the effective date of this section.  Three members of the committee shall constitute a quorum.

      ­5  Report.  The committee shall report its findings and any recommendations for proposed legislation to the president of the senate, the speaker of the house of representatives, the senate clerk, the house clerk, the governor, and the state library on or before November 1, 2009.

      ­6  Effective Date.  This act shall take effect upon its passage.

 

2009-0554s

AMENDED ANALYSIS

 

      This bill establishes a committee to study the powers of justices of the peace.

 

Senate Education

March 5, 2009

2009-0658s

04/09

 

Amendment to SB 180-FN

 

 

Amend the title of the bill by replacing it with the following:

 

AN ACT     establishing an accountability system to ensure the opportunity for an adequate education and repealing the legislative committee on costing an adequate education.

 

Amend RSA 193-E:3-a through 193-E:3-c as inserted by section 1 of the bill by replacing them with the following:

 

      193-E:3-a  Definitions.  In this section:

            I.  “Commissioner” means the commissioner of the department of education.

            II.  Department means the department of education.

            III.  “Input-based school accountability system” means the certified narrative explanation describing how a school has demonstrated compliance with the school approval standards included in the opportunity for an adequate education required under RSA 193-E:3-b.

            IV.  “Performance-based school accountability system” means the scoring system required under RSA 193-E:3-b and implemented by the department in rules adopted pursuant to RSA 541-A, following consultation with the legislative oversight committee established in RSA 193-C:7. 

            V.  “State board” means the state board of education.

      193-E:3-b  Accountability for the Opportunity for an Adequate Education.  Beginning with the 2009-2010 school year, a school shall demonstrate that it provides the opportunity for an adequate education under RSA 193-E:2-a by meeting the requirements of paragraph I of this section.  Beginning with the 2011-2012 school year, a school shall demonstrate that it provides the opportunity for an adequate education by meeting the requirements of either paragraph I or II of this section.  Following the adoption of the performance-based accountability system as provided in RSA 193-E:3-c and RSA 193-E:3-d, the department shall evaluate all schools using both the input-based school accountability system under paragraph I of this section and the performance-based accountability system under RSA 193-E:3-c and RSA 193-E:3-d.  A school that satisfies the requirements of either system shall be providing the opportunity for an adequate education.   

            I.  A school may demonstrate, through the input-based school accountability system, that it provides the opportunity for an adequate education as set forth in RSA 193-E:2-a by establishing that it met the following  school standards in effect as of the effective date of this section:

                  (a)  English/language arts and reading as set forth in Ed 306.37.

                  (b)  Mathematics as set forth in Ed 306.43.

                  (c)  Science as set forth in Ed 306.45.

                  (d)  Social studies as set forth in Ed 306.46.

                  (e)  Arts education as set forth in Ed 306.31.

                  (f)  World languages as set forth in Ed 306.48.

                  (g)  Health education as set forth in Ed 306.40.

                  (h)  Physical education as set forth in Ed 306.41.

                  (i)  Technology education, and information and communication technologies as set forth in Ed 306.42 and Ed 306.47.

                  (j)  School year as set forth in Ed 306.18.

                  (k)  Minimum credits required for a high school diploma as set forth in Ed 306.27(f) and (m).  

            II.  Beginning with the 2011-2012 school year, a school may demonstrate that it provides the opportunity for an adequate education through the performance-based school accountability system to be developed and implemented by the department, pursuant to RSA 193-E:3-c and RSA 193-E:3-d and designed to measure educational outcomes. 

            III.  In order to demonstrate that a school provides the opportunity for an adequate education through the input-based school accountability system under paragraph I:

                  (a)  The commissioner shall require school officials to submit a narrative explanation detailing how the school has complied with each of the standards included in the opportunity for an adequate education contained in paragraph I. The school principal and school district superintendent shall certify in writing that the responses submitted are accurate.  The commissioner shall develop a form which conforms to the provisions of this paragraph. 

                  (b)  The commissioner shall review the responses to each school’s self-assessment required under this section and shall verify that the responses comply with the standards included in the opportunity for an adequate education specified under paragraph I. 

                  (c)  Schools that successfully demonstrate that they provide the opportunity for an adequate education through the input-based school accountability system for any year beginning with the 2009-2010 school year shall be required by the commissioner to resubmit the narrative explanations at least once every 2 years.

                  (d)  Schools that are unable to demonstrate that they provide the opportunity for an adequate education through the input-based school accountability system for the 2009-2010 school year, or for any year thereafter, shall be required by the commissioner to resubmit the narrative explanations annually until such demonstration has been made.

                  (e)  The commissioner shall integrate, to the maximum extent practicable, the input‑based school accountability system to demonstrate the opportunity for an adequate education with the school approval process pursuant to RSA 21-N:6, V.

                  (f)  Beginning September 1, 2012, the department shall annually conduct site visits at 10 percent of schools statewide to assess the validity of the input-based school accountability system and to determine whether those schools demonstrate the opportunity for an adequate education by meeting the school standards identified in paragraph I.  To the extent feasible, the commissioner shall conduct these site visits together with other site visits conducted by the department for other purposes and programs.  The commissioner may require more frequent site visits at schools which have been unable to demonstrate that they provide the opportunity for an adequate education.  To the extent that the department conducts school site visits for other state and/or federal programs after the commencement of the 2009-2010 school year, but prior to September 1, 2012, the department shall, to the maximum extent practicable, endeavor to audit the input-based school accountability self-reporting completed by the visited school.   

      193-E:3-c  Development of the Performance-Based Accountability System.

            I. There is hereby established a task force to develop a performance-based school accountability system that, beginning with the 2011-2012 school year, will serve as one method a school may use to demonstrate that it is providing the opportunity for an adequate education.  The commissioner shall be the chairman of the task force and shall appoint no fewer than 9 and no more than 13 members of the task force which shall consist of department personnel, one or more representatives of a school district, educational experts, parents or guardians of a current public school pupil, members of a public interest group concerned with education, members of the business community, and other individuals with information or expertise of benefit to the task force’s duties. 

            II.  The task force shall have the following duties:

                  (a)  Define the performance-based accountability system to be used by schools that will ensure the opportunity for an adequate education is maintained.

                  (b)  Identify performance criteria and measurements.

                  (c)  Establish performance goals and the relative weights assigned to those goals.

                  (d)  Establish the basis, taking into account the totality of the performance measurements, for determining whether the opportunity for an adequate education exists, which may include the assignment of a value for performance on each measurement.

                  (e)  Ensure the integrity, accuracy, and validity of the performance methodology as a means of establishing that a school provided the opportunity for an adequate education as defined in RSA 193-E:2-a. 

            III.  The task force shall develop a performance-based scoring system using only the best available data and indicators which are already provided to the department and/or performance measures that schools are already required to provide the department under other state or federal law.  In establishing the performance-based system, the task force may consider one or more of the following data and indicators:

                  (a)  Performance on state tests administered pursuant to RSA 193-C and, upon the prior approval of the department, other assessments administered at local option that are consistent with the state’s curriculum standards. 

                  (b)  Number and percentage of pupils participating in an advanced placement course.

                  (c)  Number and percentage of graduating pupils going onto post-secondary education and military service.

                  (d)  Attendance rates.

                  (e)  Annual cumulative drop-out rates of high school pupils.

                  (f)  School environment indicators, such as safe schools data.

                  (g)  Expulsion and suspension rates, including in-school and out-of-school suspensions, which shall be reported for each school year.

                  (h)  Number and percentage of classes taught by highly qualified teachers.

                  (i)  Teacher and administrative turnover rates at the school and district levels.

            IV.  No later than November 1, 2009, the task force shall present its findings and recommendations for the performance-based accountability system to the legislative oversight committee established in RSA 193-C:7.  After consultation with the committee, the department shall verify the integrity, accuracy, and validity of the performance-based accountability system utilizing actual school data as provided in RSA 193-E:3-d.

            V.  During the department’s verification process, the task force may further evaluate and review whether there are any new or emerging performance measures, or modifications to the performance-based accountability system based upon the verification process that should be considered by the department for implementation beginning with the 2011-2012 school year.  No later than January 1, 2011, the task force shall present any further recommendations regarding the performance-based school accountability system to the legislative oversight committee established in RSA 193-C:7.  After consultation with the committee, the department shall adopt, pursuant to RSA 541‑A, a performance-based accountability system for implementation in all schools beginning in the 2011-2012 school year.

            VI.  The department shall annually prepare a detailed report documenting the results of each school on the performance-based school accountability system to be developed pursuant to RSA 193‑E:3-c, and identifying all schools that can demonstrate the opportunity for an adequate education through the performance-based methodology.  The report shall be submitted no later than October 1 to the legislative oversight committee established in RSA 193-C:7.  The initial report shall be due October 1, 2012.

 

Amend the bill by inserting after section 3 the following and renumbering the original section 4 to read as 5:

 

      ­4  Repeal.  RSA 193-E:2-d, relative to legislative committee on costing an adequate education, is repealed.

 

2009-0658s

AMENDED ANALYSIS

 

      This bill establishes an accountability system to ensure schools are providing the opportunity for an adequate education and repeals the joint legislative oversight committee on costing an adequate education. 

 

      This bill is a request of the joint legislative oversight committee on accountability for an adequate education established in 2008, 173:13.

 

 

 

Transportation and Interstate Cooperation

March 5, 2009

2009-0652s

06/09

 

 

 

Amendment to SB 186

 

 

Amend RSA 241:3 as inserted by section 1 of the bill by replacing all after paragraph III with the following:

 

            IV.  The transportation advisory commission shall make a quadrennial report to the speaker of the house of representatives, president of the senate, the senate clerk, the house clerk, the chairpersons of the house transportation committee and public works and highway committee, the chairpersons of the senate transportation and interstate cooperation committee and capital budget committee, the governor, and the state library.  The  commission’s first report shall be available for use by the public by March 1, 2011, prior to the convening of the governor’s advisory commission on intermodal transportation, and every 4 years thereafter.

HEARINGS

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2009

COMMERCE, LABOR AND CONSUMER PROTECTION, Room 102, LOB

Sen. Hassan (C), Sen. DeVries (VC), Sen. Reynolds, Sen. Cilley, Sen. Bragdon, Sen. Roberge

8:30 a.m.          SB 119, relative to provider contract standards.

9:30 a.m.          SB 94, relative to the creation of express trusts for payment of claims for materials and services rendered in building projects.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

ELECTION LAW AND VETERANS' AFFAIRS, Room 101, LOB

Sen. Lasky (C), Sen. Houde (VC), Sen. Merrill, Sen. Barnes, Sen. Carson

8:30 a.m.          SB 196, relative to non-judicial punishment for offenses by military officers and personnel.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION, Room 103, LOB

Sen. Cilley (C), Sen. Fuller Clark (VC), Sen. DeVries, Sen. Downing, Sen. Carson

2:00 p.m.          HB 223-FN-L, (New Title) changing the effective date for the implementation of the retirement system employer assessments for excess benefits.

2:30 p.m.          SB 24, relative to rulemaking by the board of natural scientists and the board of professional geologists.

2:50 p.m.          SB 49, relative to the board of barbering, cosmetology, and esthetics.

3:10 p.m.          SB 98, establishing a commission to study state regulations governing installation of boilers, pressure vessels, and related high performance HVAC equipment.

3:30 p.m.          SB 131, relative to state hiring of veterans.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

JUDICIARY, Room 103, SH

Sen. Reynolds (C), Sen. Lasky (VC), Sen. Houde, Sen. Roberge, Sen. Letourneau

2:15 p.m.          SB 88, relative to recommendations of marital masters.

2:30 p.m.          SB 113, authorizing the electronic enforcement of traffic signal violations.

2:45 p.m.          SB 125, relative to proof of age for an underage drug or alcohol house party.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2009

ENERGY, ENVIRONMENT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, Room 102, LOB

Sen. Fuller Clark (C), Sen. Merrill (VC), Sen. Cilley, Sen. Lasky, Sen. Odell,

8:30 a.m.          SB 124, relative to beaver dams.

8:50 a.m.          SB 44, establishing a commission to review all fees charged by the department of environmental services.

9:10 a.m.          SB 50, relative to funds and programs of the department of environmental services.

9:30 a.m.          SB 56, relative to financial responsibility for large groundwater withdrawals.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

FINANCE, Room 100, SH

Sen. D'Allesandro (C), Sen. Janeway (VC), Sen. Larsen, Sen. Hassan, Sen. Sgambati, Sen. Gallus, Sen. Odell

10:30 a.m.        SB 191-FN-A, increasing the differential pay for certain employees of the Glencliff home.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

PUBLIC AND MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS, Room 103, LOB

Sen. DeVries (C), Sen. Houde (VC), Sen. Sgambati, Sen. Roberge, Sen. Barnes

8:30 a.m.          SB 128, allowing municipalities to grant a property tax credit for low income persons owning residential property.

8:45 a.m.          SB 189, relative to decisions of local land use boards.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2009

ENERGY, ENVIRONMENT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, Rooms 206-208, LOB

Sen. Fuller Clark (C), Sen. Merrill (VC), Sen. Cilley, Sen. Lasky, Sen. Odell,

9:00 a.m.          SB 152, relative to an investigation by the public utilities commission to determine whether the scrubber installation at the Merrimack station is in the public interest of retail customers.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2009

COMMERCE, LABOR AND CONSUMER PROTECTION, Room 102, LOB

Sen. Hassan (C), Sen. DeVries (VC), Sen. Reynolds, Sen. Cilley, Sen. Bragdon, Sen. Roberge

8:30 a.m.          SB 40, relative to protecting workers and local governments with advance notice of  impending plant closings and layoffs.

9:30 a.m.          SB 172, relative to eligibility for state-federal extended unemployment benefits.

9:45 a.m.          SB 194, relative to the negotiation of payroll checks.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

EDUCATION, Room 103, LOB

Sen. Kelly (C), Sen. Merrill (VC), Sen. Fuller Clark, Sen. Lasky, Sen. Bragdon, Sen. Letourneau

10:15 a.m.        EXECUTIVE SESSION ON PENDING LEGISLATION

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Room 103, SH

Sen. Sgambati (C), Sen. Gilmour (VC), Sen. Kelly, Sen. Gallus, Sen. Downing

8:30 a.m.          SB 158, establishing a commission to study the creation of an uncompensated care fund to provide payments to certain health care providers.

8:45 a.m.          SB 114, relative to the threshold for notification for lead levels and a window replacement program.

9:00 a.m.          SB 199, establishing a committee to study the training of public safety officials to respond to persons with mental illness recently discharged from treatment facilities.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

JUDICIARY, Room 103, SH

Sen. Reynolds (C), Sen. Lasky (VC), Sen. Houde, Sen. Roberge, Sen. Letourneau

2:00 p.m.          SB 120, relative to nonemergency involuntary admissions and permitted condition of conditional discharge from a mental health facility.

2:15 p.m.          SB 43, relative to including a parent's residence in the parenting plan.

                        (Note time change for SB 43)

2:30 p.m.          SB 126, relative to the use of audio and video recording devices by law enforcement officers.

                        (Note time change for SB 126)

3:00 p.m.          SB 130, prohibiting the advertising and conducting of certain live musical performances or productions.

                        (the previous hearing for SB 130 was recessed on March 3rd)

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

WAYS AND MEANS, Room 100, SH

Sen. Odell (C), Sen. D'Allesandro (VC), Sen. Janeway, Sen. Reynolds, Sen. Gilmour, Sen. Downing

10:15 a.m.        SB 83, establishing a committee to study net loss carry forward provisions under the business taxes.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2009

PUBLIC AND MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS, Room 103, LOB

Sen. DeVries (C), Sen. Houde (VC), Sen. Sgambati, Sen. Roberge, Sen. Barnes

8:30 a.m.          SB 197, decreasing the quorum for the right-to-know oversight commission.

8:45 a.m.          SB 195, relative to procedures for the trimming, cutting, or removal of trees by utilities.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 2009

COMMERCE, LABOR AND CONSUMER PROTECTION, Room 102, LOB

Sen. Hassan (C), Sen. DeVries (VC), Sen. Reynolds, Sen. Cilley, Sen. Bragdon, Sen. Roberge

8:30 a.m.          SB 78, relative to contractor accountability and disclosure in the public works construction procurement process.

9:00 a.m.          SB 193, relative to the interest rate on small loans and relative to the definition of lender for purposes of regulating such loans.

9:30 a.m.          SB 153, relative to business practices between motor vehicle manufacturers, distributors, and dealers.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

JUDICIARY, Room 103, SH

Sen. Reynolds (C), Sen. Lasky (VC), Sen. Houde, Sen. Roberge, Sen. Letourneau

2:00 p.m.          SB 84, relative to the unused prescription drug program.

2:15 p.m.          SB 90, establishing a private right of action for pharmacies against health maintenance organizations.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

THURSDAY, MARCH 26, 2009

ENERGY, ENVIRONMENT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, Room 102, LOB

Sen. Fuller Clark (C), Sen. Merrill (VC), Sen. Cilley, Sen. Lasky, Sen. Odell

8:30 a.m.          SB 97, relative to customer information regarding energy sources and the environmental characteristics of their electric service.

8:40 a.m.          SB 117, establishing a committee to study the feasibility of establishing a program to provide low-cost firewood from state lands to low-income individuals.

9:00 a.m.          SB 85, extending the commission to develop a plan for the expansion of transmission capacity in the north country.

9:20 a.m.          SB 127, making renewable energy facilities eligible for certain bonds issued by municipalities and business and industrial development authorities.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2009

COMMERCE, LABOR AND CONSUMER PROTECTION, Room 102, LOB

Sen. Hassan (C), Sen. DeVries (VC), Sen. Reynolds, Sen. Cilley, Sen. Bragdon, Sen. Roberge

8:30 a.m.          SB 5, prohibiting retailers from disclosing private consumer information to foreign states in connection with the collection of certain sales and use taxes.

9:15 a.m.          SB 188, relative to hospital billing for professional services.

9:45 a.m.          SB 61, relative to consumer credit report of satisfied debts.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

JUDICIARY, Room 103, SH

Sen. Reynolds (C), Sen. Lasky (VC), Sen. Houde, Sen. Roberge, Sen. Letourneau

2:00 p.m.          SB 142, relative to registration of criminal offenders.

                        EXECUTIVE SESSION MAY FOLLOW

MEETINGS

FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2009

JOINT LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON ADMINISTRATIVE RULES (RSA 541-A:2)

9:00 a.m.                      Rooms 306-308, LOB                             Continued Meeting

COMMISSION TO RECOMMEND POLICIES AND PROGRAMS RELATED TO INCREASING THE NUMBER OF NEW HAMPSHIRE INDIVIDUALS IN HEALTH PROFESSIONS SERVICING NEW HAMPSHIRE'S RURAL AND UNDERSERVED AREAS WITH A FOCUS ON PRIMARY CARE (HB 1615, Chapter 367:3, Laws of 2008)

10:00 a.m.                    Room 205, LOB                         Regular Meeting

COMPREHENSIVE CANCER PLAN OVERSIGHT BOARD (RSA 126-A:65)

2:00 p.m.                      The Foundation for                               Regular Meeting

                                    Healthy Communities

                                    125 Airport Road

                                    Concord, NH

SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2009

LEGISLATIVE YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL (RSA 19-K:1)

1:00 p.m.                      NH Technical Institute                         Regular Meeting

                                    Concord, NH

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2009

COUNCIL ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PUBLIC HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT (RSA 125-P:1)

9:30 a.m.                      Room 206, LOB                         Regular Meeting

COMMISSION TO PROPOSE A RETIREE HEALTH CARE BENEFITS FUNDING MODEL (HB 1645, Chapter 300:13, Laws of 2008)

10:00 a.m.                    Room 306, LOB                         Regular Meeting

ELECTRONIC BALLOT COUNTING DEVICE ADVISORY COMMITTEE (HB 285, Chapter 134:1, Laws of 2008)

10:00 a.m.                    HAVA Conference Room                        Regular Meeting

                                    Archives and Record Management Building

                                    71 South Fruit Street

                                    Concord, NH

TASK FORCE TO STUDY EMPLOYEE MISCLASSIFICATION (SB 500, Chapter 378:7, Laws of 2008)

2:00 p.m.                      Room 207, LOB                         Regular Meeting

THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2009

ADVANCED MANUFACTURING EDUCATION ADVISORY COUNCIL (RSA 188-E:21)

3:00 p.m.                      Room 100, SH                                       Organizational Meeting

FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2009

ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND SUSTAINABLE ENERGY BOARD (RSA 125-O:5-a)

9:00 a.m.                      Room 304, LOB                         Regular Meeting

JOINT LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON ADMINISTRATIVE RULES (RSA 541-A:2)

9:00 a.m.                      Rooms 306-308, LOB                             Training Session for JLCAR                                                                              Members

OSTEOPOROSIS ADVISORY COUNCIL (RSA 126-I:3)

9:00 a.m.                      Room 205, LOB                         Regular Meeting

GOVERNOR'S COMMISSION ON ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE PREVENTION, INTERVENTION, AND TREATMENT (RSA 12-J:1)

9:30 a.m.                      Rooms 305-307, LOB                             Regular Meeting

GUARDIAN AD LITEM BOARD (RSA 490-C:1)

1:00 p.m.                      Room 102, LOB                         Regular Meeting

MONDAY, MARCH 16, 2009

INTERAGENCY COORDINATING COUNCIL FOR WOMEN OFFENDERS (RSA 21-H:14-c)

9:00 a.m.                      Room 100, SH                                       Regular Meeting

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE (RSA 126-A:13)

10:00 a.m.                    Room 205, LOB                         Regular Meeting

NH LAND AND COMMUNITY HERITAGE AUTHORITY BOARD OF DIRECTORS (RSA 227-M:4)

10:00 a.m.                    CDFA Board Room                                Regular Meeting

                                    14 Dixon Avenue

                                    Concord, NH

STATE PARK SYSTEM ADVISORY COUNCIL (RSA 216-A:3-k)

11:00 a.m.                    NH Charitable Foundation                    Regular Meeting

                                    37 Pleasant Street

                                    Concord, NH

COMMISSION TO STUDY ISSUES RELATIVE TO GROUNDWATER WITHDRAWALS (SB 155, Chapter 305:1, Laws of 2003)

1:00 p.m.                      Room 100, SH                                       Regular Meeting

COMMISSION TO STUDY LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS AND THE EFFECTS OF LAND DEVELOPMENT WITHIN UPLAND AREAS THAT MAY AFFECT WETLANDS AND SURFACE WATERS OF THE STATE (HB 1579, Chapter 294:1, Laws of 2008)

1:00 p.m.                      Room 305, LOB                         Regular Meeting

EQUALIZATION STANDARDS BOARD (RSA 21-J:14-c)

1:00 p.m.                      NH Department of Revenue                   Regular Meeting

                                    Administration

                                    Medical & Surgical Building

                                    109 Pleasant Street

                                    Concord, NH

INTERBRANCH CRIMINAL AND JUVENILE JUSTICE COUNCIL (RSA 651-E)

1:30 p.m.                      Administrative Office of the Courts        Regular Meeting

                                    2 Charles Doe Drive

                                    Concord, NH

THURSDAY, march 19, 2009

NH DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (Hooksett, 12537A, Reconstruction and widening of US 3/NH 28 with drainage improvements)

7:00 p.m.                      Hooksett Municipal Building                 Public Hearing

                                    35 Main Street                                      Commission Meeting

                                    Hooksett, NH

friday, march 20, 2009

FISCAL COMMITTEE (RSA 14:30-a)

9:00 a.m.                      Rooms 210-211, LOB                             Regular Business

JOINT LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON ADMINISTRATIVE RULES (RSA 541-A:2)

9:00 a.m.                      Rooms 306-308, LOB                             Regular Meeting

NEW HAMPSHIRE RAIL TRANSIT AUTHORITY (RSA 238-A:2)

10:00 a.m.                    Room 201-203, LOB                              Regular Meeting

RIGHT TO KNOW OVERSIGHT COMMISSION (RSA 91-A:11)

10:00 a.m.                    Room 208, LOB                         Regular Meeting

JOINT LEGISLATIVE PERFORMANCE AUDIT AND OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE (RSA 17-N:1)

2:00 p.m.                      Room 212, LOB                         Organizational Meeting

                                                                                                Regular Business

MONDAY, MARCH 23, 2009

COMMISSION TO STUDY AIR QUALITY ISSUES IN PUBLIC SCHOOL BUILDINGS (HB 1171, Chapter 242:1, Laws 2008)

10:00 a.m.                    Department of Education                       Regular Meeting

                                    101 Pleasant Street

                                    Concord, NH

LEGISLATIVE ETHICS COMMITTEE (RSA 14-B:2)

10:00 a.m.                    Room 100, SH                                       Regular Meeting

TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 2009

LONG RANGE CAPITAL PLANNING AND UTILIZATION COMMITTEE (RSA 17-M:1)

3:00 p.m.                      Room 201, LOB                         Regular Meeting

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2009

NH DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (Bedford, 13527, US Route 3 Bridge Replacement over FE Everett Tpk.)

7:00 p.m.                      McKelvie Middle School             Public Hearing

                                    108 Liberty Hill Road                            Special Committee

                                    Bedford, NH

FRIDAY, MARCH 27, 2009

WORKERS' COMPENSATION ADVISORY COUNCIL (RSA 281-A:62)

9:00 a.m.                      Room 305, LOB                         Regular Meeting

ASSESSING STANDARDS BOARD (RSA 21-J:14-a)

9:30 a.m.                      NH Department of Revenue                   Regular Meeting

                                    Administration

                                    Medical & Surgical Building

                                    109 Pleasant Street

                                    Concord, NH

BOARD OF MANUFACTURED HOUSING (RSA 205-A:25)

1:00 p.m.                      Room 201, LOB                         Complaint Hearing

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2009

ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON EDUCATION OF CHILDREN/STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES (RSA 186-C:3-b)

4:15 p.m.                      NH Department of Education                Regular Meeting

                                    Londergan Hall, Room 15

                                    101 Pleasant Street

                                    Concord, NH

FRIDAY, APRIL 3, 2009

JOINT LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON ADMINISTRATIVE RULES (RSA 541-A:2)

9:00 a.m.                      Room 100, SH                                       Continued Meeting

MONDAY, APRIL 6, 2009

CITIZENS TRADE POLICY COMMISSION (19-L:1)

9:00 a.m.                      Room 307, LOB                         Regular Meeting

COMMISSION TO STUDY THE PREVENTION OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY (HB 1422, Chapter 219:1, Laws of 2008)

3:15 p.m.                      Room 205, LOB                         Regular Meeting

FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 2009

GUARDIAN AD LITEM BOARD (RSA 490-C:1)

1:00 p.m.                      Room 102, LOB                         Regular Meeting

FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2009

JOINT LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE ON ADMINISTRATIVE RULES (RSA 541-A:2)

9:00 a.m.                      Rooms 306-308, LOB                             Regular Meeting

GUARDIAN AD LITEM BOARD (RSA 490-C:1)

10:00 a.m.                    Room 102, LOB                         Special Hearing in the Matter of                                                                        Marie Dubreuil

 

MONDAY, APRIL 20, 2009

INTERAGENCY COORDINATING COUNCIL FOR WOMEN OFFENDERS (RSA 21-H:14-c)

9:00 a.m.                      Room 100, SH                                       Regular Meeting

THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 2009

COMMISSION TO DEVELOP ALTERNATIVES TO THE DISPOSAL OF MEDICAL SHARPS IN HOUSEHOLD WASTE (HB 1502, Chapter 259:2, Laws of 2008)

2:00 p.m.                      Room 304, LOB                         Regular Meeting

GUARDIAN AD LITEM BOARD (RSA 490-C:1)

3:00 p.m.                      Room 103, SH                                       Public Comment Hearing -                                                                                Procedural Revisions to Guardian Ad                                                                 Litem Rules

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FISCAL NOTE ADDITIONS AND UPDATES HAVE BEEN AMENDED TO THE BILLS ON THE WEB SITE AND ARE AVAILABLE IN THE SENATE CLERK'S OFFICE FOR THE FOLLOWING 2009 BILLS:

SENATE BILLS: 25, 39, 79, 99, 103, 106, 139, 141, 163, 167, 169, 174, 175, 176, 177, 179, 182, 185, 192.

HOUSE BILLS: 30, 56, 216, 223, 460.

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NOTICES

Senate committee hearings will not be held on Town Meeting Day, Tuesday, March 10th, 2009.  Committee chairs have the option to reschedule their Tuesday hearings to Monday, March 9th at their regularly scheduled hearing times.

Sylvia B. Larsen, Senate President

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The Internal Revenue Service has set the standard mileage rate for transportation expenses for 2009 at fifty-five cents ($0.55) per mile.  The federal mileage reimbursement rate for members of the NH Senate decreases from fifty-eight and one-half cents ($0.585) per mile to fifty-five cents ($0.55) per mile for all miles incurred on or after January 1, 2009.

Sylvia B. Larsen, Senate President

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The members of the New Hampshire Dental Society will be inviting legislators to events in their area in order to educate legislators regarding oral health issues in New Hampshire.  Events are being scheduled for the months of February and March.  Please watch for invitations in the mail.

Senator Sylvia B. Larsen, Senate President

Senator Peter E. Bragdon, Minority Leader

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FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2009

The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center and the Board of Trustees of Touch the Future, Inc., invite all members of the Legislature to attend the Phase One Opening Ceremony of New England’s premier air and space science center Friday, March 6, 2009 at 2:00 p.m.  Guest of Honor is John H. Lynch, Governor of New Hampshire.  Special Guests: Dr. Joyce Winterton, NASA Assistant Director for Education; Grace Corrigan, Christa McAuliffe’s mother; and Betsey Neslin, Alan Shepard’s niece. The Discovery Center is located at Two Institute Drive, Concord, 271-7827.  From North or South: I-93 to exit 15E (393 & 4 East). Take exit 1 off 393 and follow signs through NHTI campus.

Senator Harold W. Janeway

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MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2009

Pursuant to RSA 326-B:10, IV, the Joint Health Council will meet at the NH Board of Nursing office located at the Walker Building, 21 S. Fruit St., Concord, N.H., on Monday March 9, 2009 at 6:00 p.m.

Senator Kathleen G. Sgambati

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THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2009

All legislators and staff are invited to the 8th Annual NH Capital St. Patrick's Day Breakfast & Roast with Governor John Lynch and the legislative leadership to benefit Children's Hospital at Dartmouth on Thursday, March 12 at the Courtyard Marriott-Grappone Center in Concord at 7:00 a.m. To obtain your complimentary ticket, please RSVP james.demers@thedemersgroup.com by March 7.

Sylvia B. Larsen, Senate President

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TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2009

Bobby Stephens' 31st St. Patrick's Day Celebration to benefit NHJAG and his fund for education. Tuesday, March 17th at the Executive Court Banquet Facility in Manchester, NH. Dinner and Entertainment. 5:00 p.m.

Senator Lou D'Allesandro

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TUESDAY, MARCH 24, 2009

A blood drive will be held at the State House on Tuesday, March 24th, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Donations will be made in the Red Cross Bloodmobile, which will be parked in front of the plaza. They are able to process three donors at a time. Please contact the Health Services office and reserve a time slot so that you will not have to wait. You can contact the Health Service at 271-2757 or at dianne.bergquist@leg.state.nh.us  or ellen.neilley@leg.state.nh.us . We encourage everyone to consider making the gift of life.

Senator Kathleen G. Sgambati

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2009

University of New Hampshire President Mark W. Huddleston and the UNH Alumni Association are pleased to invite members of the New Hampshire General Court and Staff to the annual UNH Legislative Breakfast on Wednesday, March 25th from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. at the Holiday Inn, 172 North Main Street, Concord, New Hampshire.

Senator Amanda Merrill

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2009

All legislators and staff are cordially invited to join your fellow legislators and members of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association (NHADA) at the annual NHADA Legislative reception on Wednesday, April 1, 2009.  The Reception will be held at the Grappone Conference Center – Marriott Courtyard, 70 Constitution Avenue, Concord, and will begin at 3:00 p.m. or following the session.  NHADA has historically hosted this event which offers legislators a wonderful opportunity to unwind and enjoy the company of fellow legislators and staff in a fun, social gathering.

Sylvia B. Larsen, Senate President

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SENATE SCHEDULE

Thursday, March 05, 2009                                Deadline for Policy Committees to ACT on all Senate money bills, except bills exempted pursuant to Senate Rule 26(b).

 

Thursday, April 09, 2009                                   CROSSOVER - Last day to ACT on all remaining Senate Bills.

 

Thursday, May 07, 2009                                    Deadline for Policy Committees to ACT on all House money bills, except bills exempted pursuant to Senate Rule 26(b).

 

Monday, May 25, 2009                                      Memorial Day (State Holiday).

 

Thursday, June 04, 2009                                   Last day to ACT on all remaining House bills.

 

Wednesday, June 10, 2009                                 Last day to FORM Committees of Conference.

 

Thursday, June 18, 2009, at 12:00 p.m.             Last day to SIGN Committee of Conference Reports.

 

Thursday, June 25, 2009                                   Last day to ACT on Committee of Conference Reports.

 

Friday, July 3, 2009                                          Fourth of July (State Holiday).

 

Monday, September 7, 2009                               Labor Day (State Holiday).

 

Wednesday, November 11, 2009                         Veterans Day (State Holiday).

 

Thursday, November 26, 2009                           Thanksgiving Day (State Holiday).

 

Friday, November 27, 2009                               Day after Thanksgiving (State Holiday).

 

Friday, December 25, 2009                                Christmas Day (State Holiday).

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VISITORS' CENTER SCHEDULE - MARCH

State House Visitation Schedule 2009

As a convenience to the members of the NH General Court, the Visitors’ Center offers the following schedule of schools and other groups visiting the State House in March 2009.  These listings are to ensure all members be notified in a timely manner of visitors from their district.  Our schedule is tightly booked for the remainder of the school year and subject to changePlease contact the Visitors’ Center concerning school tour booking information.  Legislators planning to meet with students should notify the Visitors' Center. Thank you for your continued participation with your School Visitation Program.

 

Virginia J. Drew. Director                Caitlin A. Daniuk, Public Information Administrator

 

Mar. 6

8:00

WACNH-Visitors from Estonia

6

Mar. 6

9:30/10:30

SH/SC

Lincoln Street SchoolExeter

80/4

Mar. 6

11:30

St. Joseph’s School – Keene

7/4

Mar. 6

1:15

Kimball SchoolConcord

24/4

Mar. 9

10:15

Pelham Elementary School

50/4

Mar. 9

2:00

Sacred Heart Church Home School Group-Concord

30

Mar. 10

8:45

Oyster River HS-Russian Students

10/HS

Mar. 10

10:00/11:30

SH/HM

Horne Street SchoolDover

80/4

Mar. 11

9:30

Village Coop Home School-Goffstown

16/4

Mar 11

10:00/11:30

SH/HM

Marston Elementary SchoolHampton

65/4

Mar. 11

1:00

Concord Leadership

28/Adult

Mar. 12

10:00/11:15

SH/HM

Derry Village School

80/4

Mar. 13

9:30/11:00

SH/SC

Symonds SchoolKeene

60/4

Mar. 13

10:30

Moultonborough Central School

50/4

Mar. 13

1:30

Taylor Community

22/Adult

Mar. 13

2:15

Antrim Senior Center

15/Adult

Mar. 16

9:00

Bow Elementary School

40/4

Mar. 16

10:15

Pelham Elementary School

50/4

Mar. 17

9:00

Bow Elementary School

40/4

Mar. 17

10:00

Cornerstone Christian Academy – Ossipee

9/4

Mar. 17

11:00/12:30

Appleton Elementary School – New Ispwich  

66/4

Mar. 18

9:00

Bow Elementary School

40/4

Mar. 18

10:00

Dondero SchoolPortsmouth

46/4

Mar. 18

1:00

Sant Bani School – Sanbornton

14/4

Mar. 19

10:00

East Kingston Elementary School

26/4

Mar. 19

10:30

Moore Center Community Living – Manchester

12

Mar. 19

11:30

New Durham School

28/4

Mar. 19

1:15

Vesta Roy Group

10/Adults

Mar. 20

9:30/11:00

SH/SC

Henry Moore SchoolCandia

60/4

Mar. 20

10:30

North Walpole School

30/4

Mar. 23

10:15

Pelham Elementary School

50/4

Mar. 23

11:30

Sanbornton Central School

45/4

Mar. 24

9:00

Greenland Elementary School

46/4

Mar. 24

10:00/11:30

SH/HM

Ledge Street SchoolNashua

86/4

Mar. 25

10:00/11:30

SH/HM

Marston Elementary SchoolHampton

80/4

Mar. 25

10:30

Crotched Mountain School

12

Mar. 26

9:30/11:00

SH/HM

Barnstead Elementary School

60/4

Mar. 27

9:30/11:00

SH/HM/SC

Jaffrey Grade School

66/4

Mar. 27

11:30

Wells Memorial School – Harrisville

12/4

Mar. 27

1:00

Strafford Elementary School

53/7

Mar. 30

10:00/11:30

SH/Pierce Manse

Atkinson Academy

90/4

Mar. 31

9:30/11:00

SH/HM

Webster Elementary SchoolManchester           

90/4

 

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