Derek Horne

I am voicing my personal opposition to the non-germane amendment (2025-0721h) to HB 456 and the efforts to limit the free speech of towns, cities, counties, school districts, and professional associations lobbying on behalf of these entities. These associations allow towns, cities, counties, and school districts to pool resources to stay abreast of legislative changes in Concord and advocate for responsible legislative change. These associations and lobbying activities also enhance efficient communication about the potential impact to towns, cities, counties, and school districts when a bill is going through the legislative process. In addition to providing valuable testimony during the legislative process, lobbyists funded by professional associations keep towns, cities, counties, and school districts apprised of new and changing legislation. A similar bill (HB 314) trying to limit the voice of towns, counties, and school districts was retained in committee earlier this year. If not for these associations, this non-germane “replace all” amendment would have gone unnoticed; all notifications through the house website appear to be based on the original bill. Finally, corporations have the ability to engage in the legislative process with registered lobbyists. Additionally, corporations and political action committees have the ability to influence the legislative process by donating to campaigns. Towns, cities, counties, and school districts should not be denied their voice or ability to lend their subject matter expertise during the legislative process.