Capitol Insight: Weekly Legislative Update 4/3/26
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ollowing a busy crossover week, the House and Senate did not meet in session on Thursday, allowing time for much needed committee work on bills that advanced through their first test in each chamber. Policy committees made productive use of the additional day, issuing numerous recommendations
to keep legislation moving ahead of the next fast approaching deadline.
Revenue for Roads
The House Public Works and Highways Committee held a public hearing this week on proposed legislation that would increase toll rates for out-ofstate drivers who do not use a New Hampshire issued E-ZPass. Testimony highlighted the need for additional revenue to address an underfunded transportation system that cannot support the current 10-year highway plan without changes. Supporters argued that establishing higher rates for out-of-state drivers would align New Hampshire with neighboring states without placing additional financial strain on Granite Staters. They also noted that non-residents would have the option to purchase a New Hampshire E-ZPass to receive the same discount. There was no testimony in opposition to the bill and while the committee was generally supportive of the proposal, Governor Kelly Ayotte previously indicated that she may not support the measure, which may leave time for the House to make potential revisions to avoid a potential veto.
Childcare Tax and Credit
The ongoing childcare shortage, certainly not unique to New Hampshire, continues to be a key focus for lawmakers. A proposal to create a childcare tax credit for businesses that add a minimum of 12 new childcare slots was heard in the Senate Ways and Means committee this week. The measure received strong support from the business community as well as New Hampshire Life Sciences and childcare
advocates. Proponents framed the legislation as an economic development initiative, emphasizing that the limited access to affordable childcare has contributed to labor shortages for employers across multiple industries. They believe the bill would complement similar efforts to strengthen the childcare system while improving workforce recruitment and retention, particularly among younger employees. While questions remain about the long-term fiscal impact of the program, the committee unanimously voted to recommend the bill for passage. The legislation will still need to be vetted by the Senate Finance Committee but is currently positioned as a potential step in addressing one of the state’s most persistent economic challenges.
Right to Try Act
Since its inception in 2016, New Hampshire legislators have gradually taken steps to expand the state’s Right to Try Act. This week, the Senate Health and Human Services Committee considered a House proposal to extend the law’s protections to chronically ill patients, providing them with the opportunity to seek investigational therapies that have not yet received full federal approval. Supporters of the legislation consisted of several biotechnology companies, Granite Bio Innovation and family members of patients suffering from conditions without therapeutic options. They argued that the legislation would not only remove barriers for treatment but could position New Hampshire as a hub for cutting-edge medical innovation while attracting further investment in the biotech sector. The bill was not without critics, though. The New Hampshire Medical Society raised concerns about patient safety and the use of treatments with limited evidence of effectiveness. While the House has consistently supported such measures, the Senate has traditionally taken a more cautious approach and is expected to deliberate further before deciding its fate.
Week Ahead
The first full week of April is shaping up to possibly be one of busiest remaining of the 2026 Legislative Session. House policy committees will have just two more weeks to act on bills going to a second committee for further review. The Senate will continue to work through House passed legislation, a workload that is close to double the total number of bills that originated in their chamber. Both bodies will be back in session on Thursday with relatively lighter calendars. The House plans to use their time to also address concurrences on Senate amendments to their bills and to consider two vetoes related to paint stewardship and optometry practices.
About Rath, Young and Pignatelli
Capitol Insight is produced with the support of the Chamber’s government relations consultant: Rath, Young and Pignatelli (RYP). RYP merges traditional legal practice areas with legislative and public policy expertise. They have earned a reputation for achieving client success through skillful and creative advocacy in private party negotiations, before courts, regulatory agencies, and legislatures.
Their professionals are leaders in key sectors of the economy where business and government intersect including business and finance, energy, tax, health care, environmental, and insurance.
About The Greater Manchester Chamber
Incorporated in 1911, the Greater Manchester Chamber (GMC) is the largest business organization in New Hampshire, focusing its efforts primarily on Manchester and the surrounding communities of Auburn, Bedford, Candia, Derry, Goffstown, Hooksett, Litchfield, Londonderry, and Merrimack. It is the Chamber’s mission to bring together business and community to enhance economic success and quality of life in our region. For more information visit www.manchester-chamber.org.
