Legislators start filing 2018 bills

Last week New Hampshire legislators started filing requests for 2018 bills.  Here are some of the highlights so far.

Medicaid Expansion

One of the first bill requests would continue New Hampshire's expanded Medicaid program.  Without legislation, New Hampshire's program will end December 31, 2018. 

To renew the program legislators will have to address falling funding from the federal government and a threat from the Trump administration to cut off funding altogether if New Hampshire does not make significant changes. 

Deja Vu

Some bill requests are repeats from recent years.  

Rep. Edward Butler has requested a bill to prohibit discrimination based on gender identity.

Rep. Dick Hinch has requested a bill that would allow regulation of pollution that starts in the air but ultimately affects groundwater.  

Rep. Victoria Sullivan has requested a bill that would allow parents to opt their children out of statewide assessments.

Rep. Gene Chandler has requested a bill that would establish fees for hybrid and electric vehicles to make up for lost gas tax revenue.

New Issues

Some bill requests are in response to issues that gained attention just this past summer.

Rep. Ellen Read has requested a bill that would require schools to start the year after Labor Day.

Rep. Peter Hansen has requested a bill to address the controversial plans for a new boat ramp on Lake Sunapee.

Legislators have until September 22 to request bills for 2018.