Hannah Meiselman

Thank you for the opportunity to testify. I respectfully oppose HB 1447. This bill rewrites the statutory definition of “sex,” mandates sex-based classifications for restrooms, locker rooms, changing areas, and sleeping quarters in all state and municipal facilities, and authorizes private entities to adopt the same policies. By declaring that these classifications are not discrimination under RSA 354-A, HB 1447 creates broad exceptions within New Hampshire’s civil-rights protections and undermines the clarity and stability of existing nondiscrimination law. These changes risk exposing transgender and gender-nonconforming residents to exclusion and unequal treatment, while creating significant legal uncertainty for schools, municipalities, and businesses that must comply with overlapping state and federal requirements. Rather than improving safety or privacy, HB 1447 destabilizes long-standing protections and invites inconsistent enforcement across the state.