Beth Page | Oppose HB314

Dear Representatives, I strongly oppose HB 314, which broadly prohibits a huge number of individuals from engaging in the legislative process, and therefore limits democracy, the bedrock of our nation. This language goes well beyond prohibiting “lobbying” as defined in RSA chapter 15, preventing ANY local official, whether a paid employee or an elected official receiving a stipend, from any form of advocacy or speech on legislation on behalf of a city, town, or school district. These elected officials specifically work in a capacity to advocate and support the needs of their city, town, or school district. This responsibility is a part of the job description. It is inappropriate to put laws in place to limit what a city, town, or school district can do to advocate for their needs and priorities, and feels anti-democratic honestly. And above and beyond that, to impose serious penalties (Class A misdemeanor, getting fired for violations, etc.) for an individual to engage in free speech, regardless of who they are representing, is unconstitutional, regardless of profession or environment. Please oppose this bill. Respectfully, Beth Page Andover