Kristine Allen

Dr. Kristine Allen Private Citizen Goffstown, NH February 4, 2025 Chairperson McDonald, Vice Chairperson Mazur, and Representatives of the House Committee on Health, Human Service, and Elderly Affairs, My name is Kristine Allen, and I am writing to you to oppose HB 392, which directs the dissolution of the Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Health Equity, the Department of Environmental Services' functions for civil rights and environmental justice, and the Governor's Council on Diversity and Inclusion. These departments provide protective measures to ensure that all citizens of New Hampshire, regardless of race, color, national origin, age, sex, marital status, religion, gender identity or gender expression, income, disability, sexual orientation, citizenship status, status as a veteran, or any other legally protected status, are safeguarded from discrimination. It is unfathomable that elected individuals entrusted to represent all individuals within their district feel emboldened to act against the betterment of all constituents by calling for the dissolution of bodies seeking to enact equity. The concept of health equity demands that we address conditions that are remediable, unfair, and avoidable to eliminate barriers to healthcare and wellness. In New Hampshire, this should not be up for debate and the desire to dismantle this office serves to highlight its very need. Research has convincingly shown that the wealthiest 1% of Americans live on average ten years longer than the poorest 1%. Where a person lives predicts the likelihood of developing such conditions as high blood pressure, diabetes, and various cancers. It is in everyone’s best interest that all citizens in New Hampshire have access to quality preventative and acute care. Health equity leads to healthier, happier, and more productive citizens. Groups of individuals facing barriers to access include older adults, children, those living in poverty, the unhoused, women, men, LGBTQIA+, rural residents, refugees, people of color, and those with chronic illness or disabilities. Those most vulnerable come from every corner and every group in NH. 47% of NH residents live in rural areas with limited access to services such as radiation therapy for cancer care, fewer primary care doctors, and even fewer specialists. Currently, 20% of the population is 60 and older, and this percentage is expected to increase by 130% over the next 15 years. 25% of older adults report feeling discrimination in their health care, citing ageism and racial discrimination. Our aging population not only deserves quality care, but by increasing health and vitality, older adults can continue to contribute positively to their communities and local economies. It is estimated that addressing health equity gaps could increase GDP in the US by $2.8 trillion by 2040, while currently, the cost of health inequities is around $320 billion (Deloitte, 2024). A small investment in an office of health equity can positively impact the economics in NH and reduce costly care for families and individuals. Where a person lives is a predictor of healthy outcomes. Factors such as noise pollution, water quality, air quality, the built environment, and housing impact our health. The mission of the Department of Environmental Service is to protect the health of all citizens by protecting and restoring our environment and public health. The functions of civil rights and justice protect a young family who has filed a complaint against a large property owner for failure to disclose lead in its apartment complex housing small children. It protects families along the river from filing complaints against manufacturing facilities regarding PFAS in their drinking water. The citizens of New Hampshire deserve the right to fight wealthy companies without fear of retaliation or discrimination. Therefore, I am opposed to dismantling this function of the environmental services department. Finally, the Governor’s Council on Diversity and Inclusion was implemented by a Republican governor due to several high-profile incidents of clear racial bias. As human beings, we all hold biases that impact positively and negatively our judgment and decision-making. Because the citizens of NH represent diverse experiences and situations, this non-paid council reviews policies and practices through multiple lenses, thus informing decision-making towards improving the lives of all citizens. Thank you for your time. I highly encourage this committee to oppose HB 392 for the betterment of New Hampshire and its beautiful diverse people. Sincerely, Dr. Kristine Allen