House Sends Child Protection Legislation to Governor’s Desk
Contact Name: Sara Persechino
Phone: (603) 271-3479
Email: Sara.Persechino@leg.state.nh.us
CONCORD - Today, the New Hampshire House of Representatives voted to concur with the Senate recommendation of Ought to Pass as Amended on HB 1162, an omnibus child protection bill, 209-119. HB 1162 will next be enrolled with the Secretary of State’s office and then go to the governor’s desk, at which time he will have five days to act.
After the vote, Senate Judiciary Chair Martha Hennessey (D-Hanover) issued the following statement:
“Our children have suffered alongside us through the coronavirus pandemic. The loss of in person education, after school programs, sports, and social gatherings has created an isolation that our children are bravely navigating. For children living in abusive homes, the loss of in person experiences outside of the home meant that their pathways to disclose abuse were either partially or completely eliminated.
As Legislators, we are charged to work in the best interest of the state. HB 1162 takes that mission to heart and makes significant advances to protect our children including advocating for the resources our children need to be safe and successful, clarifying our provisions on adoption to ensure more loving homes for New Hampshire children, enhancing the Office of the Child Advocate, and putting critical health and safety programs in place for children exposed to substance use disorder, neglect, and abuse. Our children have been brave, it is time we do the same; I urge Governor Sununu to sign this bill.”
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