Stephanie Vazzano

I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor in the State of New Hampshire and have worked with children and families for 15 years. I oppose this bill. New Hampshire hates children and on spec, this bill is well intended and I think a version of it could be beneficial. However, New Hampshire has abysmal definitions and expectations around what is considered domestic violence, child abuse, and child neglect. Because of this, it's perfectly legal (and not a mandated report) to open hand slap a 12 year old across the face, however, if a husband open palm slaps his wife in front of his child- suddenly that's illegal. This bill would exacerbate the problem which already exists regarding the inequities because adults and children in this State. If you are interested in what legal changes might result in meaningful change for the protection of children in this state, I would be thrilled to sit down and explain the problems and possible solutions with House members.