Kim Lawrence

Dear Members of the House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee, I am compelled to voice my vehement opposition to New Hampshire House Bill HB 1754. This legislation represents a direct assault on our communities' safety and well-being, and we cannot afford to stand idly by while it threatens to erode the very foundations of justice and public health. A Reckless Misstep HB 1754 seeks to expand punitive measures without addressing the root causes of crime or the needs of our most vulnerable populations. Instead of investing in solutions that rehabilitate, this bill proposes to further entrench a system that relies on fear and punishment. We should be investing in prevention and community support—not adding to an already overburdened criminal justice system that fails to protect our communities effectively. The Cycle of Harm By focusing on punitive measures, this bill overlooks critical evidence showing that harsh penalties do not reduce crime rates. Instead, they perpetuate a cycle of harm, pushing individuals deeper into the justice system rather than providing the help they desperately need. Targeting symptoms instead of causes will only exacerbate the crises we face. Prioritize Compassion and Support Our focus should be on rehabilitation, mental health support, and community resources that empower individuals instead of driving them further away from recovery. This bill misrepresents public safety by promoting isolation and punitive action rather than connecting individuals with the support systems that actually work. I implore you to recognize the importance of thoughtful, compassionate approaches to public safety. Reject HB 1754 and work toward legislation that uplifts and strengthens our communities rather than tearing them apart. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. Sincerely, Kimberly Lawrence