Omnibus Child Protection Legislation Sent to Governor’s Desk
Contact Name: Sara Persechino
Phone: (603) 271-3479
Email: Sara.Persechino@leg.state.nh.us
CONCORD - Today, HB 1162, an omnibus child protection bill, was delivered to the Secretary of State. It next goes to the governor’s desk where he will have five business days to sign, veto, or allow the bill to become law without his signature.
Senate Judiciary Chair Martha Hennessey (D-Hanover) issued the following statement in response:
“Our children have bravely navigated the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic alongside us. They have worked hard to adapt to remote learning, online summer camps, and drive by birthday parties. That bravery comes at the cost of social isolation which, for children living in abusive homes, can be extremely dangerous. For some children, the loss of in-person experiences and social interaction outside of the home eliminated safe spaces to disclose abuse. It is more than our job, it is our duty, to do everything in our power to protect our children. HB 1162 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. I urge the governor to support this critical piece of legislation and sign HB 1162 into law.”
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