“Our task, of course, is to transmute the anger that is affliction into the anger that is determination to bring about change. I think, in fact, that one could give that as a definition of revolution.” - Barbara Deming
Greetings, State House Watchers,
There’s lots of good news this week!
On Friday afternoon, Governor Ayotte vetoed SB 268, a bill that would permit discrimination against transgender people. The bill was carried over from the previous session and was identical to another bill that Ayotte vetoed last year. From Aimee Terravechia, Executive Director of 603 Equality: “This is a huge relief for every transgender or gender nonconforming person in New Hampshire. In a time of unrelenting legislative attacks and misinformation campaigns around transgender people and their rights, Governor Ayotte’s veto affirms the basic rights and dignity for all Granite Staters. Transgender and gender nonconforming people deserve safe access to public spaces as they go about living, working, and contributing to our communities. Bathroom bans simply have no place in New Hampshire.” Read more here.
And on Thursday, the Rockingham County commissioners voted to table – indefinitely – a proposal to use their county jail as an immigrant detention center. That positive outcome, which seemed unlikely several months ago, is the result of months of relentless grassroots organizing by county residents. Two of three commissioners voted to table the matter, citing practical concerns about local capacity as well as disgust about the violence committed by federal agents in Minneapolis and elsewhere. Read more here.
And there was great news on Wednesday as well! On February 3, the House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee voted unanimously to recommend defeat for three death penalty bills: HB 1413, reinstituting the death penalty in cases of capital murder; HB 1749-FN reinstating the death penalty for murder offenses; and HB 1737, relative to reinstating the death penalty for certain offenses against minors under 13 years of age. A fourth bill, HB 1730, which would make certain sexual crimes against children punishable by death, was amended to remove the death sentence for the felony-level offense. All four of these bills will go to the House floor in the coming weeks where we hope and expect that they will be fully defeated. During the executive session, committee members described the moving testimonies of courage and moral clarity from those who had lost loved ones to homicide.
Throughout the week, NH high school students walked out of class in support of immigrant rights, raising their voices against the violence and lawlessness of federal immigration agencies. We’re cheering on the young leaders in Portsmouth, Oyster River, Nashua, Manchester, Dover, and throughout the state who are using the tools of nonviolence to demand a better world.
Continuing with good news, approximately 350,000 Haitians living in the US were given a reprieve on Monday when a US District Court judge in Washington, DC blocked the Trump administration from terminating their Temporary Protected Status (TPS) which had been set to expire on February 3. The government has appealed the decision. Read more from Haitian Bridge Alliance.
Let these victories for justice and dignity be a boost to our spirits.
In less inspiring news, Governor Ayotte gave her State of the State address on Thursday to a joint session of the House and Senate. Advocates for public education, fair taxation, affordability for working class families, and supportive services for vulnerable people didn’t hear much to celebrate. Read more here, and read her full address here.
And then read this recent report from the NH Fiscal Policy Institute, which paints a less glossy picture of the economic health of Granite State families: New Census Data Reveal Gaps in Income, Poverty, and Housing Affordability in New Hampshire.
The day before her address, Governor Ayotte had to explain how her administration knew for more than a month about plans to use a warehouse for detained immigrants in Merrimack, even while the governor claimed to have no knowledge of the matter. Read more here. Many thanks to the ACLU-NH for exposing the story. Thank you also to Representative Wendy Thomas for her leadership in opposition to the facility; read her recent op-ed here: If the governor ‘didn’t know,’ that’s the problem. And thank you to Representative Alexis Simpson who attempted to address the Merrimack issue with a proposal on the House floor on Thursday. Read more here. We were pleased to hear these brief remarks from the governor on WMUR last night: Ayotte says communities should have say on ICE facilities.
The campaign to stop a Merrimack detention center will surely continue to grow in strength. Stay tuned for news of next steps.
ACTION ALERTS!
We’ve got many opportunities for action this coming week.
For committee hearings, we can show up, and/or register our positions and share testimony online. You’ll need the date of the hearing, the committee name and the bill number. You’ll enter your name and contact information as well whether you represent an organization and/or are a lobbyist. You can sign-in on a bill until midnight the day of the hearing. Sign in for House bills here. Sign in for Senate bills here. You can also email the committee members: House committees here. Senate committees here.
Remember that if you’re planning to attend House committee hearings in person, they are located at Granite Place this year while renovations are being made at the LOB. Senate committee hearings continue to be held at the State House and in nearby state buildings, including the State Library.
Here are the action alerts we’ve received from partners for this coming week.
Next week – Protect Voting rights
The NH Campaign for Voting Rights has a number of action alerts for next week, including for positive bills that would create a voter education program, allow driver licenses to be used for voter ID, and allow for voter registration at the DMV!
Monday, February 9 – Support youth well-being
OPPOSE HB 1191, relative to parental notice for non-academic surveys in public schools. The bill requires school districts to email parents copies of non-academic surveys in public schools and removes the exception for the youth risk behavior survey, requiring parents to opt-in for their children to participate in this survey. The impact of this bill would be to disrupt the utilization of an important tool for supporting the health and wellness of young people. It has a public hearing in the House Education Policy Committee on Monday, February 9 at 1 PM in Room 232, GP. Please sign in to oppose and share testimony.
Tuesday, February 10 – Defend LGBTQ+ rights
OPPOSE HB 1376, relative to a parent's ability to raise their child in a manner consistent with the child's biological sex. From 603 Equality: “This bill would remove protections from young people who are being prevented from accessing gender-affirming care or being raised in a gender-affirming way by one or more parent or guardian despite what we know to be true about the positive and life-saving benefits of being raised in an affirming environment.” It has a hearing on Tuesday, February 10 in House Children and Family Law at 1 PM in Room 230, GP. Please sign in to oppose and share testimony.
Wednesday, February 11 – Defend LGBTQ+ rights
OPPOSE SB 552, permitting classification of individuals based on biological sex under certain limited circumstances. From 603 Equality: This bill “is another bathroom ban. As with the other anti-trans bills, enforcement of this discriminatory policy would create serious privacy and safety concerns for all.” It has a hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday, February 11 at 1 PM in Room 103, SH. Please sign in to oppose and email the committee.
OPPOSE SB 459, relative to biological sex in student athletics and prisons. This is another anti-transgender bill that discriminates, excludes, and dehumanizes people. It has a hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday, February 11 at 1:20 PM in Room 103, SH. Please sign in to oppose and email the committee.
OPPOSE HB 1356, relative to the statute of limitations for bringing a private right of action for violation of the statute prohibiting medical procedures and treatments intended to alter a minor's gender. This bill would penalize health care providers for providing gender affirming care. It has a hearing in the House Judiciary Committee on Wednesday, February 11 at 2:30 PM in Room 158, GP. Please sign in to oppose and share testimony.
Thursday, February 12 – Protect civil rights
OPPOSE SB 464, relative to civil rights enforcement. This bill changes the standard for civil rights enforcement by requiring that prohibited conduct be substantially motivated by hostility toward the victim's protected characteristics. From 603 Equality: This bill “dilutes legal definitions so much that it would prevent civil rights offenses from being recognized and prosecuted if enacted into law.” It has a hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday, February 12 at 1 PM in Room 100, SH. Please sign in to oppose and email the committee.
Key:
GP – Granite Place. More information here.
SH – State House (107 N. Main St. Concord)
SL – State Library
OTP – “Ought to Pass,” the recommendation for approving a bill or an amendment
OTP/A – Ought to Pass with Amendment
ITL – “Inexpedient to Legislate,” the recommendation for defeating a bill or an amendment.
ITL” can also be used as a verb.
“Without Recommendation” - This indicates that the committee vote was a tie for both ITL and OTP. During the House session, these bills will be considered first as Ought to Pass.
Re-refer – When a Senate committee wishes to hold onto a bill for further consideration. The recommendation to re-refer must be approved in the full Senate. The committee will have until the end of the calendar year to meet about the bill and make a recommendation for further action.
Retain – When a House committee wishes to hold onto a bill for further consideration. The committee makes this decision for themselves; approval in the full House is not needed. The committee has until the end of the calendar year to make a recommendation for further action.
RC – Roll call vote. Each legislator’s vote is recorded and attributed to them.
VV – Voice vote
DV – Division vote
Last week in the House
The full House met for legislative business on Thursday following the Governor’s State of the State address. You can watch it here. Here are the bills we’re tracking which were voted on.
On the Consent Calendar
CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY
HB 1446, providing that an individual’s use of therapeutic cannabis shall not disqualify the individual from the purchase, ownership, or possession of a firearm. Laid on table.
EDUCATION FUNDING
HB 1202, relative to dual and concurrent enrollment requirements for courses at institutions within the community college system of New Hampshire. OTP by VV.
EDUCATION POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION
HB 1221, directing the commission to study costs of special education to consider establishing centralized locations throughout the state for certain special education-related services. ITL by VV.
HB 1507, requiring schools to provide a minimum amount of time for recess per day. ITL by VV.
ELECTION LAW
HB 1031, enabling candidates for state office to use campaign funds to pay for security measures. OTP-A by VV.
HB 1382, relative to proof of citizenship for overseas voters voting under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act. ITL by VV.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS & ADMINISTRATION
HB 1162, extending the commission on Holocaust and genocide studies. OTP by VV.
HOUSING
HB 1006, relative to on-site parking requirements for accessory dwelling units. ITL by VV.
HB 1009, relative to municipal parking requirements for residential units. ITL by VV.
HB 1011, repealing zoning restrictions on dwelling units. ITL by VV.
HB 1012, repealing accessory dwelling units and detached accessory dwelling units. ITL by VV.
HB 1016, eliminating the requirement that municipalities allow for manufactured housing development opportunities. ITL by VV.
HB 1625-FN, relative to annual reporting on accessory dwelling unit construction and use. ITL by VV.
HB 1662-FN, relative to providing loan guarantees for accessory dwelling unit financing. ITL by VV.
JUDICIARY
HB 1333-FN, relative to nonconsensual provision of medication intended to terminate a pregnancy and the homicide of a fetus. ITL by VV.
HB 1436-FN, relative to the classification and protection of personal digital information and cloud-stored files. Laid on table.
HB 1508-FN, permitting one-party consent for audio and video recordings in certain instances. ITL by VV.
HB 1615-FN, permitting consenting adults to enter into contract-based marriage agreements as an alternative to the requirement of a marriage license. ITL by VV.
MUNICIPAL AND COUNTY GOVERNMENT
HB 1205, prohibiting state and county owned lands from participating in carbon sequestration projects. OTP by VV.
RESOURCES, RECREATION AND DEVELOPMENT
HB 1440-FN, relative to properties enrolled in carbon sequestration programs. ITL by VV.
TRANSPORTATION
HB 1445-FN, requiring the issuance of enhanced drivers licenses and Real ID compliant cards for border crossing and proof of citizenship. ITL by VV.
WAYS AND MEANS
HB 1338, restricting abortion providers from the definition of charitable organization for the purposes of games of chance. ITL by VV.
HB 1546-FN, repealing the business profits tax. ITL by VV.
HB 1629-FN, repealing the business enterprise tax. ITL by VV.
On the Regular Calendar
CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY
HB 1697-FN, exempting certain firearms and firearm accessories manufactured and retained in New Hampshire from federal regulation. OTP by RC, 188-164.
HB 1793-FN, prohibiting public colleges and universities from regulating the possession or carrying of firearms and non-lethal weapons on campus. OTP by RC, 188-165.
EDUCATION POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION
HB 1448, prohibiting the use of the World Economic Forum materials within state curriculum. OTP by RC, 184-167.
HB 1832-FN, adding students with parents on active military duty to the education freedom accounts priority guidelines. OTP-A by RC, 189-164.
ELECTION LAW
HB 1487-FN, creating an independent commission to propose redistricting maps for the legislature to consider. ITL by RC, 189-164.
HOUSING
HB 1196-FN, repealing the state housing champion designation and grant program. OTP by RC, 185-166.
HB 1405-FN, relative to the housing finance authority’s affordable housing guarantee program. ITL by RC, 186-162.
HB 1612-FN, relative to the use of price-fixing websites, algorithms, or other software by landlords. Laid on table.
HB 1661-FN, relative to expanding the housing finance authority’s community heroes program and makes an appropriation therefor. ITL by RC, 179-166.
STATE-FEDERAL RELATIONS AND VETERANS AFFAIRS
HR 25, recognizing the Kingdom of Bhutan as responsible for the oppression and forced eviction of more than 100,000 Bhutanese citizens during the late 1980s and 1990s. OTP-A by DV, 220-115.
Last week in the Senate
The full Senate met in session last week. You can watch it here. Here are the bills we’re tracking which were voted on.
On the Consent Calendar
COMMERCE
SB 440, relative to the adoption of energy efficient and clean energy districts by municipalities. OTP-A by VV.
EDUCATION FINANCE
SB 507, relative to the financial obligation of a school district concerning students expelled for committing assault against a school staff member. OTP-A by VV.
SB 583-FN, directing the department of education to create an education funding transparency data and reporting system. OTP by VV.
On the Regular Calendar
EDUCATION FINANCE
SB 491-FN, enabling students to utilize education freedom account funds to pay for certain career and technical education funding. OTP-A by VV.
SB 582-FN, modifying the base cost of an adequate education. ITL by RC, 16Y-8N.
SB 584-FN, increasing the amount of funding provided for students receiving special education services. ITL by RC, 16Y-8N.
JUDICIARY
SB 463-FN, relative to possession of firearms in safe school zones. ITL by RC, 16Y-8N.
SB 555-FN, relative to critical risk protection orders. ITL by RC, 16Y-8N.
SB 651-FN-A, relative to the legalization and regulation of cannabis and making appropriations therefor. Laid on table.
Coming Up in the House
The full House will meet for legislative business on Thursday, February 12 at 10 AM. Here are the bills we’re tracking which will are coming up for votes.
On the Consent Calendar
EDUCATION POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION
HB 1122, requiring all high school students to learn about hunting, wildlife management, and responsible firearms usage. Committee recommends ITL.
HB 1267, prohibiting school district attorneys and non-school personnel from questioning students without their parent or guardian present. Committee recommends OTP.
HB 1524-FN, requiring a logic and critical thinking course within the state high school education curriculum. Committee recommends ITL.
HB 1628, requiring schools to provide excused absences for certain religious instruction, defining released time courses, and permitting schools to adopt policies and provide credit for released time courses. Committee recommends ITL.
HB 1830-FN, requiring firearm safety education in all public schools. Committee recommends ITL.
HEALTH, HUMAN SERVICES AND ELDERLY AFFAIRS
HB 1720-FN, relative to notice to child day care providers of child care scholarships. Committee recommends OTP.
JUDICIARY
HB 1509-FN, relative to judicial immunity and permitting civil actions against judicial officers for certain criminal bail decisions. Committee recommends ITL.
On the Regular Calendar
CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY
HB 1570-FN-L, relative to governmental budget authority for agreements for law enforcement agencies to participate in federal immigration enforcement. Committee recommends ITL.
HB 1642-FN, relative to extreme risk protection orders. Majority committee recommends ITL. Minority committee recommends OTP.
EDUCATION FUNDING
HB 1701-FN, reestablishing the New Hampshire college graduate retention incentive partnership program and making an appropriation therefor. Majority committee recommends ITL. Minority committee recommends OTP-A.
EDUCATION POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION
HB 1716-FN, relative to the academic accountability of education freedom accounts. Majority committee recommends ITL. Minority committee recommends OTP.
ELECTION LAW
HB 1678-FN, requiring the secretary of state to accept voter registration forms directly from voters and to create an online portal for direct voter registration. Majority committee recommends ITL. Minority committee recommends OTP.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS AND ADMINISTRATION
HB 1636-FN, directing the department of revenue administration to study options for generating state revenue. Majority committee recommends ITL. Minority committee recommends OTP.
HEALTH, HUMAN SERVICES AND ELDERLY AFFAIRS
HB 1584-FN, directing the department of health and human services to provide notice of medical and religious exemptions from immunization requirements and relative to the form of such exemption. Majority committee recommends OTP-A. Minority committee recommends ITL.
HB 1719-FN, removing Hepatitis B from the list of diseases for which immunization is required under state law. Majority committee recommends OTP. Minority committee recommends ITL.
HB 1798-FN, relative to the coverage of diapers under the state Medicaid plan. Majority committee recommends ITL. Minority committee recommends OTP-A.
JUDICIARY
HB 1067-FN, relative to the mental health courts. Majority committee recommends ITL. Minority committee recommends OTP.
HB 1501-FN, limiting judicial immunity. Majority committee recommends ITL. Minority committee recommends OTP.
RESOURCES, RECREATION AND DEVELOPMENT
HB 1664-FN, directing the department of natural and cultural resources to remove the Hannah Duston Memorial in Boscawen. Majority committee recommends ITL. Minority committee recommends OTP-A.
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND ENERGY
HB 1002, repealing the solar energy systems tax exemption. Majority committee recommends OTP. Minority committee recommends ITL.
HB 1738-FN, relative to ratepayer benefits from the regional greenhouse gas initiative. Committee recommends OTP.
WAYS AND MEANS
HB 1580-FN-L, relative to the taxation of non-primary residences. Majority committee recommends ITL. Minority committee recommends OTP-A.
Coming Up in House Committees
You can watch the House hearings here. You can sign in for House bills here. And you can contact House committees here.
Monday, February 9
EDUCATION POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION, Room 232, GP
1:00 PM HB 1191, relative to parental notice for non-academic surveys in public schools.
1:30 PM HB 1688, expanding the circumstances where the restraint is permitted in schools and treatment facilities and modifying the definition of seclusion.
JUDICIARY, Room 158, GP
11:30 AM HB 1684, establishing a free speech advisory commission.
1:00 PM HB 1702-FN, relative to notice requirements and enforcement for pharmacies dispensing medications intended to induce chemical abortions.
1:30 PM HB 1769-FN, relative to certain prohibitions on abortion referrals by publicly funded medical facilities.
2:00 PM HB 1801-FN, relative to causes of action for wrongful detention, drug forfeiture proceedings, the regulation of law enforcement officers, and the offense of unsworn falsification.
2:30 PM HR 28, requesting the opinion of the justices clarifying the scope of the state’s constitutional obligations concerning education.
3:00 PM HR 29, requesting an opinion of the justices on the scope of part II, article 4 of the New Hampshire constitution, as well as other related articles.
Tuesday, February 10
CHILDREN AND FAMILY LAW, Room 230, GP
1:00 PM HB 1376, relative to a parent’s ability to raise their child in a manner consistent with the child’s biological sex.
EDUCATION FUNDING, Room 232, GP
10:00 AM HB 1121, defining the cost of an adequate education.
ELECTION LAW, Room 158, GP
10:20 AM HB 1601-FN, requiring the secretary of state to create a voter education program that includes information on recent changes to voting laws.
10:40 AM HB 1391, establishing a commission to study the implementation of a single ballot primary election.
11:00 AM HB 1330, allowing all registered voters to vote in state and presidential primaries regardless of declared party affiliation.
11:40 AM HB 1277, relative to proof of identification on absentee ballot applications.
ENVIRONMENT AND AGRICULTURE, Room 153, GP
2:00 PM HB 1282, establishing a commission to advise the department of environmental services on food waste diversion.
2:45 PM HB 1275, relative to the effects of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances on agriculture.
HOUSING, Room 231, GP
9:00 AM HB 1613-FN, directing the department of business and economic affairs to produce a report detailing methods to increase lending practices for housing developments that help persons with disabilities.
10:00 AM HB 1026, relative to the definition of manufactured housing.
1:00 PM HB 1764-FN, establishing community workforce housing targets, special assessment provisions, and a revolving loan fund for workforce housing development.
2:30 PM Continued public hearing on HB 1295, relative to eligibility requirements for charitable and nonprofit housing projects.
MUNICIPAL AND COUNTY GOVERNMENT, Room 154, GP
9:25 AM HB 1386, enabling citizens in a municipality to vote to require that a financial audit of the local school district take place.
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND ENERGY, Room 229, GP
10:00 AM HB 1724, relative to public transparency of electric utility retail charges and cost reporting for transmission, wholesale electricity, capacity, and generation adequacy.
Wednesday, February 11
COMMERCE AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS, Room 229, GP
11:00 AM HB 1265, prohibiting the construction of data centers in the state and establishing a committee to study the environmental impact of data centers.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND PUBLIC SAFETY, Room 159, GP
11:00 AM HB 1637, relative to the scheduling of hearings on certain motions to modify or revoke bail.
EDUCATION POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION, Room 232, GP
1:00 PM HB 1669, establishing a teacher bill of rights.
1:30 PM HB 1754-FN, repealing the statewide use of the multi-tiered system of supports for behavioral health and wellness relative to systems of care for children’s mental health.
ENVIRONMENT AND AGRICULTURE, Room 153, GP
2:00 PM HB 1138, limiting the placement of out-of-state waste going into New Hampshire landfills.
HEALTH, HUMAN SERVICES AND ELDERLY AFFAIRS, Room 158, GP
11:00 AM HB 1368, establishing a committee to study the availability of and access to primary care providers, especially in rural areas of the state.
1:00 PM HB 1782-FN, relative to access to rural maternal health care and directing the department of health and human services to develop a rural maternal health care delivery pilot program.
2:00 PM HB 1372, establishing a commission to study the feasibility of reestablishing a state psychiatric hospital for adults with severe mental illness.
JUDICIARY, Room 230, GP
11:30 AM HB 1283-FN, relative to the use of face recognition technology.
2:00 PM HB 1313-FN, repealing buffer zones for reproductive health care facilities.
2:30 PM HB 1356-FN, relative to the statute of limitations for bringing a private right of action for violation of the statute prohibiting medical procedures and treatments intended to alter a minor’s gender.
RESOURCES, RECREATION AND DEVELOPMENT, Room 228, GP
10:30 AM HR 44, concerning the protection of public lands.
11:00 AM HB 1258, relative to per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and public health data.
Friday, February 13
EDUCATION FUNDING, Room 232, GP
10:00 AM HB 1561-FN, prohibiting nationals of the People’s Republic of China from attending state institutions of higher education.
1:00 PM HB 1815-FN, relative to education financing.
1:45 PM HR 40, urging the legislature to adequately fund public education.
2:30 PM HR 19, encouraging state colleges and universities to invite more conservative speakers to campus for the purpose of increasing diversity of viewpoints.
Coming Up in the Senate
The Senate will not meet in session next week.
Coming Up in Senate Committees
You can watch the Senate hearings here. You can sign in for Senate bills here. And you can contact Senate committees here.
Tuesday, February 10
EDUCATION, Map Room, SL
9:15 AM SB 532, increasing the requirements of the education freedom savings account oversight committee and modifying the purpose of the committee.
9:30 AM SB 533, requiring the state to seek bids for contracts to oversee and operate the state’s education freedom account program every three years.
9:45 AM SB 576, adds definitions and reporting requirements relative to education freedom accounts.
ELECTION LAW AND MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS, Room 122-123, SH
9:25 AM SB 660, relative to photo identification cards issued solely for the purpose of voting.
9:35 AM HB 323, requiring the presentation of a government-issued photographic means of identification in order to vote.
9:45 AM HB 317, preventing a supervisor of the checklist from verifying a person’s identity without identification, even if they personally know that person.
Wednesday, February 11
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, Room 100, SH
9:45 AM SB 474, relative to the effective date of the law regarding collection and reporting of abortion statistics.
JUDICIARY, Room 103, SH
1:00 PM SB 552, permitting classification of individuals based on biological sex under certain limited circumstances.
1:20 PM SB 459, relative to biological sex in student athletics and prisons.
1:40 PM SB 551-FN, relative to legal protections for legal reproductive health care services.
Thursday, February 12
JUDICIARY, Room 100, SH
1:00 PM SB 464-FN, relative to civil rights enforcement.
1:20 PM SB 558, relative to the appointment of the youth development center claims administrator.
Upcoming Events
Want us to list your peace and justice-related event? Contact us at afscnh@afsc.org.
Every Third Tuesday
Protect, Resist and Build with AFSC– 8 PM to 9:30 PM. Hosted by AFSC. Monthly webinar series that brings together AFSC constituents to learn about how to protect, resist, and build just peace, just migration, and just economies.
Every Wednesday
Solemn Vigils for Ceasefire Now – 2 PM in Dover at the district offices of Senator Jeanne Shaheen and Congressman Chris Pappas. The February 11 vigil will be at Pappas' district office, 15 Third Street, Dover. The February 18 vigil will be at Shaheen’s office, 2 Washington Street, Dover; we gather at the entrance to Henry Law Park.
Every First Wednesday
Mindful Meditation with Aryaloka Buddhist Center of Newmarket - 6 PM – 7 PM, Waysmeet, 15 Mill Road, Durham. Join us for a monthly, volunteer-led guided meditation. We have some cushions and yoga mats to share; you’re invited to bring whatever you may need to feel comfortable for 30 minutes of meditation. Free and open to all For more information: waysmeetcenter.org/calendar.
Every Third Wednesday
Countering Christian Nationalism conversation – 7:00 PM, hosted by the NH Council of Churches, every third Wednesday of the month. Zoom link here.
Every Thursday
Meeting for Worship with Attention to Peace in Palestine & Israel – 7:30 PM. Hosted by AFSC. Every week, AFSC’s Quaker Engagement team hosts Meeting for Worship virtually for Friends from across the globe. Embracing the practice of Quaker unprogrammed worship, we gather to bring our attention to witnessing injustice in our world and bolstering our solidarity with people facing oppression. Join us to explore and experience the spiritual dimensions of activism and social justice.
Solemn Vigils for Ceasefire Now – 12 noon at City Hall Plaza, in front of the State House, Concord.
Every Friday
AFSC Action Hour for a Ceasefire – 12 noon. Join AFSC staff every Friday to hear updates on what’s happening in Gaza. Then, take action with us as we contact Congress and call for a permanent cease-fire, arms embargo on Israel, and humanitarian access for Gaza. Our elected officials need to keep hearing from us!
Stronger Together: Protect Our Neighbors Weekly Visibility – 3 PM to 4 PM. Hosted by the Stronger Together Coalition. Corner of North Main Street and Loudon Road, Concord. Join us for a weekly visibility to stand against the war being raged against our communities. Our immigrant loved ones and neighbors are being targeted and kidnapped off the streets. Our public dollars are being funneled into a violent, bloated deportation and detention machine while local police are being weaponized against the communities they are supposed to serve, and life-giving programs are being defunded. Stand with us to protect our communities. All are welcome!
Saturday, February 7, 2026
The Super Protest – 12 noon to 4 PM, on the sidewalks in front of the State House, Concord. Hosted by NH 50501.
Witnessing For Justice: NH Clergy Share What's Happening in Minnesota – 1 PM to 3 PM, Concordia Lutheran Church, 211 N. Main Street, Concord. NH Council of Churches is hosting an event to hear from Reverend Jonathan Hopkins of Concordia Lutheran Church and Revend Michael Leuchtenberger of Unitarian Universalist Church of Concord (NH) who were recently in Minnesota. They will share with us stories of what's truly happening on the ground in Minnesota and how we can faithfully support our immigrant siblings here in NH. Please register so we can plan for in-person attendance. This event will be live-streamed at the Concordia Lutheran Church's website on the day of the event.
Sunday, February 8, 2026
Nuclear Weapons Now: The Threat and the Opportunity – 1 PM, Community Church of Durham, UCC, 17 Main Street, Durham. The world is on the brink of a nuclear war. It’s just one person’s decision away. We need to seize the moment to take action and pull us back from the brink. Learn more from world renowned expert, peace advocate, physician and a joint winner of 2 Nobel Peace Prizes, Dr. Ira Helfand. Also on the panel, Carleigh Beriont, PhD, an historian on US nuclear testing, teacher and Hampton select board vice-chair. Hear, discuss and learn what you can do. Hosted by the Peace with Justice Advocates of the NH Conference UCC. Co-hosted by NH Peace Action.
Echoes of Power: The Tradition of African American Oratory- 4 PM, Temple Israel, Portsmouth. Celebrate Black History Month with an inspiring presentation by the Portsmouth Black Heritage Trail featuring the retired Presiding Bishop of The Episcopal Church, The Most Reverend Michael Curry, along with NH Bishop Rob Hirschfeld and other esteemed panelists who will discuss the importance of the Black preacher as orator. This event is open to all and free! Registration required.
Monday, February 9, 2026
Peace & Justice Conversations: National Peace Action Priorities – 7 PM, online. Kevin Martin, President of Peace Action and the Peace Action Education Fund, joins us to discuss current national priorities and campaigns and how they connect to our work in New Hampshire. Expect conversation about Palestine, Venezuela, nuclear weapons, and more.
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
Run A Drive with Open Democracy – 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM, on Zoom. Join us to learn how to encourage and empower students and educators to organize voter registration events for their schools. Hosted by Open Democracy.
The Settlers Movie – 7 PM, Red River Theatre, 11 South Main Street, Concord. The film will be followed by a Q&A facilitated by Not in My Name NH. The event will include a marketplace of Palestinian art and crafts, olive oil from the West Bank, books and information. Introductory remarks by Faisal Khan.
Thursday, February 12, 2026
Meet the Moment 2.0 – 6:30 PM to 8 PM, hosted by Kent Street Coalition, on Zoom. Part 2 of the program will offer an overview of the many forms that resistance is taking in New Hampshire, and help volunteers connect with training for Mutual Aid, Rapid Response Teams, Legal Observers, and Visibility Actions and continue the discussion about ways to engage the community while maximizing safety for all.
Sunday, February 15, 2026
Not My President Day Rally – 1 PM to 3 PM, at the State House, Concord. Bring your voice. Bring your signs. Bring your people. This is what democracy looks like. Hosted by NH 50501.
Wednesday, February 18, 2026
NH Coalition for a Just Peace in the Middle East - Quarterly Update- 6:30 PM- 8 PM, online event. We invite you to come learn about our present initiatives, and to hear about what campaigns our organizations are involved in to promote peacebuilding, justice and liberation for Palestine and the region at this critical time. You’ll also have an opportunity to hear from our coalition’s working groups (Legislative, Education and Outreach, BDS), to contribute ideas for enlarging the coalition’s sphere of influence, and for joining us in specific upcoming actions.
Saturday, February 21, 2026
NH Immigrant Mutual Aid Fund fundraiser – 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at the Concordia Lutheran Church, 211 N. Main Street, Concord. The NH Immigrant Mutual Aid Fund was created to provide legal consults for immigrants, living expenses for families affected by detention or deportation and other funds needed to keep immigrants in NH safe. Join us for a great cause! Enjoy a full dinner, dessert and wine, music and a speaker. Sliding scale - $60-$100 per person. Take-out desserts and handmade items for sale at the event. Contact Glen at glenring52@gmail.com with questions.
Thursday, March 12, 2026
How to Have Courageous Conversations – 6 PM to 8 PM, 21 Centre Street, Concord. This hybrid event is co-facilitated by James McKim and Rev. Kate Harmon Sibirini. Join us for an interactive training that will equip participants with practical tools to host respectful, truth-seeking community conversations in a time of political division. The program helps neighbors create local public spaces where listening replaces labeling and common ground can emerge. Participants will leave more confident to convene conversations that foster belonging, clarity, and courageous civic engagement, and resist distortion of Jesus’ teachings. This program is part of the Countering Christian Nationalism project with examples drawn from how this ideology shows up in local communities and shapes public life. Childcare is available, please RSVP. Dinner will be served. Zoom attendees will only be able to watch, not engage in the training. Please plan to arrive by 5:50pm so we can begin promptly at 6:00pm. Registration is required.
Saturday, March 28, 2026
No Thrones, No Crowns, No Kings in New Hampshire – Noon to 4 PM, at the State House, 107 North Main Street, Concord. Join us as we support the Constitution and reject authoritarianism! Hosted by 50501 NH.
No Kings Seacoast –1 PM to 3 PM, Market Square, Portsmouth. Come out to say NO! No to the murder of US citizens, and anonymous "law enforcement" thugs. No to the attacks on Venezuela, and the threats to Iran and Greenland. Hosted by Occupy New Hampshire Seacoast, NH for Bernie Sanders, NH Labor for Bernie, Seacoast Overpass Light Brigade, and Occupy New Hampshire.
With best wishes,
Maggie Fogarty, Maille & Kathleen Wooten, and April Richer
AFSC’s New Hampshire “State House Watch" newsletter is published to bring you information about matters being discussed in Concord including housing, the death penalty, immigration, education, civil liberties, and labor rights. We also follow the state budget and tax system, voting rights, corrections policy, and more.
The AFSC is a Quaker organization supported by people of many faiths who care about peace, social justice, humanitarian service, and nonviolent change. Maggie Fogarty is the NH Director for AFSC which publishes this newsletter; April Richer is the NH Interfaith Organizer. Maille Wooten, in partnership with Kathleen Wooten, is AFSC’s State House Watch researcher and database manager.
"State House Watch" is made possible with your financial support. Click the DONATE NOW button on our web page to send a secure donation to support the work of the AFSC’s New Hampshire Program. Thank you!