LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE

Schedule

(subject to change)

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8:00 AM

Registration, Breakfast, & Networking

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9:00 AM

Welcome

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Superintendent Jason Henry, Rockingham County 

 

9:05 AM

Session 1: Federal Update from Senator Shaheen’s Office ​

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Chris Scott, Senator Shaheen’s Office 

 

Join this session for an overview of current federal and congressional activity and its implications for New Hampshire. The discussion will cover recent legislation, funding decisions, and policy priorities, highlighting areas of opportunity and concern for the state and outlining what to watch in the months ahead. 

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9:30 AM

Session 2: NH Revenue and Budget Update 

 

Senator Tim Lang, District 2 

Senator David Watters, District 4 

Representative Ken Weyler, Rockingham County 

Representative Laura Telerski, Hillsborough County  

Commissioner Lindsey Stepp, Department of Revenue Administration 

moderated by Administrator Ray Bower, Strafford County

 

This session will provide county officials with an overview of New Hampshire’s current budget and revenue outlook, with a focus on issues that may impact county operations and local services. Panelists will review revenue trends, budget priorities, and fiscal challenges facing the state, and discuss potential implications for state–county partnerships, funding streams, and shared responsibilities. The panel will feature state senators, members of the House of Representatives, and representatives from the executive branch, offering a cross-branch perspective to help county leaders better understand the state’s fiscal direction and plan.

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10:15 AM

Session 3: Rural Health Transformation Grant Update ​

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Whitney Hammond, Interim Deputy Director for Public Health Services, DHHS 

 

This session will provide an update on the Rural Health Transformation Grant from the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (NH DHHS). Participants will receive an overview of the grant’s goals, current status, and key accomplishments to date, as well as insights into how the funding is supporting efforts to strengthen rural health systems across the state. The presentation will also highlight upcoming priorities, timelines, and opportunities for stakeholder engagement, followed by time for questions and discussion. 

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11:00 AM

Session 4: Role of Local Government in NH 

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Representative Joe Sweeney, Rockingham County 

Representative Tracy Bricchi, Merrimack County 

Administrator Chris Coates, Cheshire County 

Margaret Byrnes, Executive Director, NH Municipal Association 

moderated by Superintendent Jason Henry, Rockingham County 

 

In recent years, increasing attention has been placed on the expanding role of county government, including proposals and discussions around counties assuming responsibility for school administrative units. These developments raise important questions about governance, accountability, service delivery, and the future structure of local government across the state. 

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This panel will bring together county officials, municipal leaders, and state representatives to explore the evolving responsibilities of local government in New Hampshire. Panelists will examine the drivers behind the push for expanded county roles, the potential impacts on municipalities and school districts, and the opportunities and challenges associated with restructuring service delivery at the local level. Attendees will gain insight into current policy considerations, practical implications for communities, and perspectives from different levels of government on what lies ahead for New Hampshire’s local governance framework. 

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12:00 PM

Closing Remarks

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Superintendent Jason Henry, Rockingham County ​

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