Friday was a quieter day by volume but consequential for healthcare policy. The Senate killed five bills that had passed the House, ending efforts to require financial transparency from physicians, allow lawsuits against facilities that followed COVID-19 emergency directives, and streamline patient access to prescription-related medical devices. No recorded floor votes were held.
Killed
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HB1335 — Would have required healthcare providers to disclose indirect financial incentives they receive — such as bonuses for prescribing certain drugs or meeting utilization targets — so patients could evaluate potential conflicts of interest in their care. Killed by voice vote.
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HB1071 — Would have repealed legal immunity granted to healthcare facilities that followed state COVID-19 emergency directives, allowing families to seek legal recourse for harm caused during the pandemic even when facilities complied with state orders. Killed by voice vote.
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HB1249 — Would have allowed pharmacists to provide medical devices — such as glucose monitors, inhalers, or nebulizers — alongside a prescription, reducing extra trips and delays for patients who need complete treatment tools. Referred to interim study.
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HB1378 — Would have granted parents full access to their minor children’s electronic medical records. Proponents cited parental rights; critics noted it could deter teenagers from seeking confidential care. Killed by voice vote.
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HB1022 — Would have broadened the religious exemption from school immunization requirements, potentially reducing vaccination rates in schools and communities. Killed by voice vote.
On the Move
Three Education Freedom Account oversight bills showed updated status. All three had previously been killed 16-8 along party lines in the Senate, but their hearing records were updated in the system:
- SB532: Would have strengthened oversight of Education Freedom Accounts by expanding requirements for the oversight committee.
- SB533: Would have required competitive bidding every three years for the contract to administer the EFA program.
- SB576: Would have added clearer definitions and reporting requirements for EFAs to improve accountability over how funds are spent.
To see how your representatives voted, visit nhpolitics.org/find-your-rep.