Now that the holidays are behind us, we can focus on the upcoming 2022 legislative session in New Hampshire.
A look at who’s in charge
On one hand, you may recall that Republicans in the state House of Representatives hold a slim majority (207-186-1) in that chamber. So, if the Republicans hope to accomplish some of their key initiatives, they cannot afford many defectors. On the other hand, Republicans in the state Senate hold a 14-10 majority, and a caucus that is a bit more aligned compared to the state House Republican caucus.
Gov. Chris Sununu remains in the corner office and he has announced plans to seek a fourth term as governor in 2022.
Auto-deductibles legislation
A bill I want to bring to everyone’s attention is S.B.331, which is relative to waivers of deductibles in automobile insurance policies. According to the bill analysis, this bill would require any automobile insurance policy that contains coverage for physical damage—by reason of collision—to waive any deductible of such coverage when the damage is caused by any motor vehicle if its operator has been positively identified and is solely at fault. Currently, the law applies only to uninsured motorists.
A public hearing on this bill has been scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2022, at 9:30 a.m.
A note on this year’s public hearing
Unlike last year, members of the public will not be able to testify remotely.
The hearings will be available for streaming, but if a member of the public wants to testify on a bill, he or she must do it in person.
I think COVID-19 protocols will be fluid this next session, so this may change. Stay tuned.
Simon P. Thomson
Simon P. Thomson joined Sheehan Phinney Capitol Group in 2015 after serving for 10 years as a staff member for two New Hampshire U.S. Senators, John E. Sununu and Kelly Ayotte. He is PIANH’s lobbyist. During Simon’s tenure as a Senate staffer, he worked on many in-state issues, which led to him develop meaningful relationships throughout the state and in state government that now provide his clients with a deep network to address concerns. Since joining the firm, Simon has been involved in many key legislative issues at the State House. With his experience in public service, commitment to his clients, and the respect he has built on both sides of the aisle, Simon has become a go-to advocate who has served Capitol Group’s clients well. Currently, he serves on the board of directors of the Greater Nashua YMCA and he was installed as an incorporator with Franklin Savings Bank.
