Gina Burke

Good afternoon Chair and members of the committee, My name is Gina Burke and I am writing to respectfully oppose SB 464. This bill raises the burden of proof for civil rights violations in a way that does not reflect how discrimination actually shows up in people’s lives. Bias is often subtle, patterned, and difficult to prove through a single incident. By requiring that harm be “substantially motivated by hostility,” SB 464 risks excluding many real and harmful experiences from protection under the law. We have seen situations in New Hampshire where families of color experience ongoing harassment and comments about not belonging, repeated intimidation, or unequal treatment. These cases do not always come with explicit statements, but the pattern is clear. Under current law, those patterns can be addressed. Under SB 464, they may not meet the threshold. This change could impact students facing bias in schools, workers navigating discrimination, and families seeking safe housing. It creates additional barriers at a time when communities need stronger protections, not weaker ones. I urge you to consider the real-world consequences of this bill and to vote Inexpedient to Legislate on SB 464. Thank you for your time and consideration.