Carleigh Beriont

To Chairman Roy and the Members of the House Committee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety, My name is Carleigh Beriont, and I am a resident of Hampton. I strongly support House Bill 1570, which establishes an important mechanism for fiscal oversight and local accountability when law enforcement agencies are considering entering into federal immigration enforcement partnerships. By requiring approval and continued review from the governmental budget authority, this legislation ensures that the significant costs and potential impacts on local resources are thoroughly examined and debated by the officials directly accountable to the community. This transparency is crucial, as participation in programs like Section 287(g) can have far-reaching financial, operational, and social implications for local jurisdictions. HB 1570 empowers local residents and their representatives, giving us a direct voice in decisions that affect our safety, budget priorities, and reflect our values as a community. The provisions for cost reporting, public notification, and the ability for local authorities to terminate these agreements if they become too burdensome protect municipalities from unfunded mandates and ensure that local law enforcement remains focused on the needs of our communities. HB 1570 models New Hampshire’s tradition of local control, fiscal responsibility, and government accountability, and I urge its passage. Thank you.