Julie Lago | Support HB1438

My name is Julie Lago, a Seabrook, NH resident and longtime mental health professional. I respectfully submit this testimony in strong support of HB 1438. As a mental health professional, I am guided every day by ethical obligations rooted in protection from harm, professional integrity, and responsibility to the broader community. HB 1438 aligns with those values by recognizing the clear connection between animal abuse, human safety, and mental health by establishing a duty to report when credible concerns arise. Animal abuse must be recognized as a reportable form of abuse and as a potential warning other significant areas of concern and opportunity for meaningful intervention. Mental health caseworkers and clinicians may be the first or only individuals to hear about these situations through client disclosures. This bill provides clear guidance for acting in good faith, allowing professionals to respond responsibly without fear of violating confidentiality or facing liability. HB 1438 does not ask clinicians to investigate or criminalize clients. It asks us to act ethically when there is reasonable knowledge or suspicion of harm. Much like existing mandates related to child abuse or imminent risk, this bill establishes a balanced, preventative approach that protects animals, while also creating opportunities for additional supports and interventions for individuals who may be struggling. I also view this bill as an opportunity to model ethical leadership. Our actions as professionals set an example not only for our colleagues, but for the communities we serve. They also set an example for our children. I want my children to grow up seeing that when we have knowledge of harm, we do not look away because of fear. We act with compassion, courage, and accountability. Clear statutory guidance helps remove uncertainty and fear from ethical decision-making, most importantly, mandated reporting. By protecting licensees who report in good faith, HB 1438 strengthens trust in the mental health system and reinforces a shared standard of care across New Hampshire. For these reasons, I urge the committee to recommend Ought to Pass on HB 1438. This bill reflects ethical responsibility, community safety, and a commitment to prevention and care.