Debora Hatcher

I oppose this amendment for several reasons: 1. It seems unconstitutional to call free speech by citizens who are public servants 'electioneering', and to deny them a basic right. I think the NH legislature should have more respect our laws and the rights of NH citizens. Citizens should not have to give up their right to free speech when they take a job serving their community. 2. I am also concerned that passing an unconstitutional law will invite more unnecessary lawsuits for the state. This will waste not only the time of our state attorneys but will also waste public money by incurring easily avoided legal expenses. 3. By silencing NH citizens who serve the public you will not just harm them: You will harm our state. These people have valuable knowledge and insights which should be shared with the public and our elected officials so we can all make make good, well-informed decisions. Making decisions without the input of experts is poor governing. You should instead be soliciting their input when relevant. 4. Finally, I am just a citizen, and not very familiar with the legislative process. But I like to follow what you do, and I can't help but feel suspicious about what you are doing with this bill: It started out as a requirement for citizens to have to obtain notarization on their absentee ballot applications, but now a 'non-germane amendment' takes away the 1st amendment rights of public servants. The bill has changed completely. This seems like dirty politics to me, as if you are trying to sneak something by NH citizens. It is disappointing to see the NH legislature starting this legislative session in this manner. I encourage to please conduct yourselves in a more transparent, ethical manner going forward. Thank you.