N.H. News Recap

Voters to decide on school budget caps; debt levels rising

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 14:00:00 -0400

Voters will decide whether to cap school budgets in November elections and levels of outstanding debt for New Hampshire consumers are reaching notable heights.

Another hot summer; home construction permits up

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 09:25:00 -0400

New Hampshire saw another record-hot summer, and permits for new housing are up in southern NH.

Chief Justice resigns; the data on local police and immigration enforcement

Fri, 18 Sep 2026 08:54:00 -0400

State Supreme Court Chief Justice Gordon McDonald abruptly resigns, and what the data reveals about how local law enforcement is working with ICE in the Granite State.

New Hampshire News Recap 09/11/26

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 08:55:00 -0400

What's next after Tuesday's state primary elections, how voters are feeling, and honoring the victims of 9/11, 25 years ago.

New Hampshire News Recap 09/11/26

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 08:53:00 -0400

What's next after Tuesday's state primary elections, how voters are feeling, and honoring the victims of 9/11, 25 years ago.

What's at stake in the 2026 state primary

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 08:48:00 -0400

NHPR reporters Todd Bookman and Josh Rogers provide a comprehensive look at the candidates and issues in the midterm elections.

NH News Recap: A landmark social media protections settlement; spotted lanternflies

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 10:10:00 -0400

A $17 billion dollar settlement with the tech-giant META, good news from student surveys about mental health, and spotted lanternflies make their way to NH.

Cost of living issues and a new option for possible state prison revamp

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 09:23:00 -0400

Child care costs and access give young families doubts about Granite State; could a possible land swap move new prison plan forward?

Undecided voters loom over NH's CD1 primaries; how police deploy state loitering law

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 09:22:00 -0400

Democratic voters in NH's first congressional must soon decide; the ACLU challenges NH's policing of homeless under loitering law, and how to enjoy the Perseids meteor shower this month.

Teachers give cellphone ban thumbs up; new sharks spotted off NE coast

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 08:54:00 -0400

Nearly 80% of educators surveyed said a "bell-to-bell" cellphone ban reduced distractions; warming ocean waters prompt at least three new species of shark to show up in New England.

Electricity price hike explainer; a new baseball league of their own

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 07:50:00 -0400

On Aug. 1, electricity prices are set to go up in New Hampshire, and the Boston Hunters women's baseball league kick off their inaugural season.

‘Chronic dysfunction’ at YDC; the high court hires a political operative

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 09:41:00 -0400

The NH News Recap catches up on the latest in a probe of alleged abuse at the Sununu Youth Services Center in Manchester.

NH News Recap: The future of nuclear development in NH; GOP candidates for US Senate debate

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 08:49:00 -0400

Energy industry representatives and state officials gathered this week in Portsmouth to begin to shape a plan for more nuclear development in New Hampshire. And Republican candidates for the U.S. Senate met this week for their first debate.

NH News Recap: Lakes fight against invasive aquatic plants; a check in with NH World Cup fans

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 15:52:00 -0400

These invasive aquatic plants can threaten native wildlife, harm water quality and make lake recreation difficult. Dozens of lakes across the state are trying to keep the plants at bay.

Habeas Corpus petitions from ICE detainees increase in NH

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 08:56:00 -0400

Education reforms dominated the state Legislature this year. Most efforts failed, though a few bills await action from Gov. Kelly Ayotte. Lawmakers rejected bills mandating new public school courses, open enrollment expansion, and increased oversight of the state’s school voucher program.

The federal courthouse in Concord handles all kinds of cases, but over the past year one particular type of case has shot up: Habeas Corpus petitions by people detained by ICE. Lawyers say filing these petitions is a way for detainees to get due process, but the sheer number is putting a strain on the system.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the NH News Recap with NHPR reporters Annmarie Timmins, Lau Guzmán and Imaan Moin.

Final State House votes, 2026 hopefuls, and an exploding meteor

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 11:08:00 -0400

State lawmakers wrapped up their session in a series of high-stakes votes this week. Some priorities were pushed across the finish line, while others failed to win support in either the New Hampshire Senate or House.

State senators voted to table a Republican-backed bill for open school enrollment, which would let New Hampshire students enroll in any public school in the state. Among other things, the House and Senate agreed to legislation that will require towns and cities to consider capping local property taxes spent on school and district administrative costs.

Meanwhile, 2026 political hopefuls are streaming into the State House, with the state candidate filing period open until June 12.

And a meteor exploded over New England before crashing into Cape Cod Bay. Astronomer John Gianforte puts this space rock into perspective for us.

NH News Recap: Lawmakers ask DCYF to respond to youth detention center report Friday

Fri, 29 May 2026 10:30:00 -0400

Lawmakers have released a 12-page report detailing how failures by the state’s top child protection agency contributed to a crisis at the Sununu Youth Services Center in Manchester. Leaders from the Division for Children, Youth and Families are scheduled to tell lawmakers later today how they are responding to the report’s findings.

And a proposal to build a data center in Nottingham has been withdrawn after statewide backlash over the plan. NHPR reporters Annmarie Timmins and Kate Dario discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

State DCYF director disputes allegations at youth detention center

Fri, 15 May 2026 08:24:00 -0400

The director of the New Hampshire Division for Children, Youth and Families is disputing many recent allegations at the state’s youth detention center. Marie Noonan testified before lawmakers this week after concerns of abuse or improper restraint were detailed in reports by the Disability Rights Center and the Office of the Child Advocate.

Noonan sent a letter to the Disability Rights Center late last week arguing that the Center’s investigation and visits to the facility are having a negative impact on the kids and staff there.

And New Hampshire is full of historic homes, barns and churches that are at risk of falling apart. But there’s a shortage of people who know how to repair them. On this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap, we discuss an effort to preserve the state’s landmarks by building up the workforce.

Guests:

Jeremy Margolis, Concord Monitor
Jackie Harris, NHPR

State prisons struggle with staffing; House moves to censure state rep

Fri, 08 May 2026 09:05:00 -0400

New Hampshire Corrections Commissioner William Hart says his department is struggling to find enough people to staff the state's positions. Currently half of the positions in the corrections department are vacant. The state Executive Council voted Wednesday to approve $12 million to cover overtime for guards currently working at the state prisons.

Gov. Kelly Ayotte says she’s committed to making sure young people at the state’s youth detention facility are properly treated. That comes as the state Attorney General continues to investigate claims of physical abuse at the Sununu Youth Services Center.

And state lawmakers are moving ahead to formally censure state Rep. Travis Corcoran for inflammatory social media posts, including referencing the Holocaust in response to a Jewish colleague's invitation to a bipartisan Karaoke event.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Steven Porter, Boston Globe
Annmarie Timmins, NHPR

A failed bid to put Holocaust denial in schools; a state win over car inspections

Fri, 01 May 2026 10:16:00 -0400

President Donald Trump has been outspoken about fighting antisemitism, but it continues to creep into politics nationally and here in New Hampshire. That’s according to a new NPR investigation of a state lawmaker who tried to get a holocaust denial conspiracy theory into public school lesson plans.

And a federal judge ruled that she will not hold New Hampshire officials in contempt for suspending the state’s motor vehicle inspections program. The vendor, Gordon Darby Holdings, that oversaw those inspections sued the state in December for ending the annual inspections.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Tom Dreisbach, NPR
Todd Bookman, NHPR

Local police and ICE funds; more YDC scrutiny; good news in Franklin

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:41:00 -0400

It’s been a little over a year since New Hampshire police departments started signing agreements with federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement to help enforce immigration law in the state.

ICE now has 15 local partnerships, which are encouraged by Gov. Kelly Ayotte, and these so-called 287g agreements have contributed to a notable uptick in arrests here. Immigration arrests have doubled in the last 15 months. Of 429 people arrested, local agencies made 51 of them.

What’s in for local police? In part, money. ICE offers at least $100,000 in stipends, and local police departments are using that money to pay for operating expenses.

We talk about this on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Also, the state’s youth detention center continues to make headlines. Authorities are investigating recent allegations of abuse against children at the Sununu Youth Services Center in Manchester. Lawmakers and advocates are also raising concerns about leadership of the center.

In other news, there’s good news for Franklin. In a bit of a comeback story, the city’s high school was just named the top high school in the state.

Guests:

Lau Guzmán, NHPR reporter
Annmarie Timmins, NHPR Youth and Education reporter

Lawmakers respond to new abuse allegations at youth detention center

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 09:56:00 -0400

The Office of the Child Advocate says it is increasing oversight of the Sununu Youth Services Center in Manchester following new allegations of abuse and neglect of children in the state’s care. The state health department and Attorney General’s office say they are investigating.

And the oyster industry in New Hampshire has grown, but across New England, oysters have been dying at alarming rates during the winter months. Scientists are trying to figure out why.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe
William Skipworth, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Sununu Youth Services Center faces new reports of abuse and neglect

The Sununu Youth Services Center, which for years has been embroiled in perhaps the largest youth detention center abuse scandal in U.S. history, is facing new concerns about abuse and neglect.

N.H. child advocate alleges abuse, neglect at state-run youth detention facility

State Child Advocate Cassandra Sanchez said her office reported that the use of physical restraint at the facility broke one of the children’s bones in March.

National report estimates 14k to 29k could lose Medicaid in New Hampshire due to recent law

A new national report estimates that between 14,000 and 29,000 people in New Hampshire could lose Medicaid because of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the signature legislation of President Donald Trump’s first year back in the White House.

North Country health center CEO says new rural health funds not enough to counteract Medicaid cuts

Edward Shanshala, CEO of Ammonoosuc Community Health Services, said when Congress passed its massive tax cuts and spending law last year, he and his colleagues made the difficult decision to shut down the organization’s clinic in Franconia in anticipation of the law’s impacts.

New England oysters are dying over the winter. N.H. scientists are trying to figure out why.

The oyster industry has grown tremendously in New Hampshire in recent years, but mass die-offs during the cold winter that can derail the business.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Family sues over 2023 death inside NH prison psychiatric unit

NH lawmakers move to scale back a ban on school vaccine clinics

Bill to end gun restrictions at NH colleges comes in for criticism at public hearing

New Hampshire police departments have made 51 immigration arrests in the past year

Ayotte and Trump admin push for more nuclear power development

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:25:00 -0400

Gov. Kelly Ayotte has expressed interest in expanding nuclear development in New Hampshire with the help of the federal government. But there are still questions about the local effects of nuclear power, including how to safely handle nuclear waste. And the crew aboard NASA's Artemis II mission is due to splash down to Earth following a record-breaking trip around the moon. What can we learn from this mission? We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap with New Hampshire Bulletin's Molly Rains and UNH's John Gianforte.

NH Secretary of State pushes back on Trump over control of local elections

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 08:45:00 -0400

President Trump issued an executive order this week aimed at limiting voting by mail. New Hampshire’s Secretary of State David Scanlan says he won’t change state election practices to follow that order. A number of states across the Northeast joined a public health collaborative this fall in response to turmoil within federal health agencies. New Hampshire was the only New England state that opted not to join, but the New Hampshire Bulletin reports the state has been involved behind the scenes. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap with NHPR's Josh Rogers and New Hampshire Bulletin's Will Skipworth.

Carroll police department receives funds from ICE following cooperation agreement

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 08:24:00 -0400

The New Hampshire Legislature is about halfway through its current session. Thursday was crossover day with both the Senate and House holding floor sessions for final votes on bills originating in their chambers. What are the top issues and bills arising in the State House now?

Immigration and Customs Enforcement sent $122,515 to the town of Carroll this month. The payment follows Carroll’s decision to be part of the Department of Homeland Security's Task Force Model, also known as the 287(g) program.

Their participation means its four full-time police officers are committed to assisting ICE in federal immigration enforcement. They did just that in December when they detained seven people in Twin Mountain for ICE.

Guests:

Sammy Sussman, Wired
Anna Brown, Citizens Count

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH lawmakers approve bill that would make judge’s job evaluations public

First Amendment lawsuit seeks to end Nashua’s policy of requiring name and address during public comment

A new statewide initiative aims to improve communication during labor

Trump administration returns NH’s TRIO money. But the program’s future remains uncertain.

Will federal funds for rural health care make up for Medicaid cuts?

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 08:44:00 -0400

This week the Executive Council approved over $100 million in federal funding to go toward health care access in rural New Hampshire.

The state Attorney General's office is reviewing North Country Healthcare, which operates hospitals in Berlin, Lancaster and Colebrook.

And the New Hampshire Supreme Court ruled this week that the way police obtained cellphone location data without a warrant to track down murder suspect Logan Clegg was unconstitutional. Clegg was convicted and sentenced to at least 100 years in prison for allegedly killing a Concord couple in 2022.

Guests:

Steven Porter, Boston Globe
William Skipworth, New Hampshire Bulletin

More New Hampshire headlines:

Could prediction markets deflate ‘March Madness’ revenue for NH?

AG says federal judge exceeded her authority in NH vehicle inspection ruling

‘Like the Mariana Trench’: Potholes are bad this year. Here’s why.

With no ICE facility on the horizon, Merrimack gets back to normal

NH Attorney General opposes CHARLIE Act over constitutional concerns

Why it's so hard to police bad behavior in the NH House

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:32:00 -0400

Town meeting season is well underway in New Hampshire, and voters across the state cast their ballots on a number of local issues this week.

Increased polarization and eroding social norms is making is harder to police bad behavior in the New Hampshire House.

And majority of the state has been in a drought this winter. Will the snow melt help? We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Kate Dario, NHPR

More New Hampshire headlines:

Kamen resigns from FIRST robotics in wake of Epstein files

Nine NH towns reject tax caps as lawmakers push towns to consider them

Voters reject GOP lawmakers’ efforts to take control over who attends their local schools

‘The center of NH political thought’: Free Staters celebrate successes at Liberty Forum

NH House advances bill that would gut refugee program, restrict rentals for undocumented immigrants

Stranded Granite Staters face challenges evacuating from Middle East

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 09:36:00 -0500

The U.S. Senate voted down a war powers resolution this week that would have blocked the US military from continuing attacks on Iran without Congressional approval.New Hampshire Sen. Jeanne Shaheen voted in favor of the resolution, telling NHPR, “There was real concern about having the sole authority to go to war vested in the president of the United States.”Shaheen said Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was a dictator who was responsible for American and Iranian deaths, but she’s concerned about how the war has escalated and the loss of lives, including six American service members.On this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap, we hear more about her position on the war.Guests:Sen. Jeanne Shaheen Todd Bookman, NHPRTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:Shaheen fears escalating war in Iran, cites safety concerns for AmericansSen. Jeanne Shaheen questions the Trump administration’s strategy in Iran: “There’s not a real endgame for what we’re trying to accomplish.”NH National Guard activated in connection with Iran warGov. Kelly Ayotte shared Thursday that airmen from the 157th Air Refueling Wing had been deployed in late February.Proposed investigation into NH's chief justice divides House RepublicansIn recent months, there’s been a series of headlines involving the justices on the New Hampshire Supreme Court: Not for their decisions on the bench, but instead for their actions off of it.Republicans vote to end use of school IDs for NH electionsCollege and high school students would no longer be able to use photo identification cards issued by their schools to obtain a ballot, under a proposal that cleared the New Hampshire Senate on Thursday on a 16-8 vote.More New Hampshire headlines:It's town meeting time in NH. Here's what's at stake, how it works and how to voteAyotte says she was unaware of legal sanctions against the husband of her child advocate pick in guardianship caseNH Libertarian Party says ‘perfectly permissible to kill’ former Executive Councilor for income tax planNeed child care in NH? Here’s how to access state funds to pay for it

Emails released by federal government shed light on Dean Kamen's ties to Epstein

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 08:19:00 -0500

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is ditching its plan for an ICE detention facility in Merrimack. Emails released by the federal government shed further light on New Hampshire businessman Dean Kamen's ties to Jeffrey Epstein. And state lawmakers are considering a bill that would restrict abortions to 20 weeks.We talk about these stories and more on this edition of NHPR's New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Amanda Gokee, Boston GlobeTodd Bookman, NHPRTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:Plans for proposed ICE facility in Merrimack won’t move forwardLocal and state officials expressed shock and relief that the federal government is scrapping plans for an ICE detention facility in Merrimack, following an announcement from Gov. Kelly Ayotte Tuesday.New emails shed light on Kamen’s ties to Epstein and associate MarcinkoNadia Marcinko, a central figure in the allegations of abuse against Jeffrey Epstein, spent time in New Hampshire working for Dean Kamen. In a rare public statement, she’s defending the businessman: “Not everyone whose name appears in the files is guilty.”NH House committee hears testimony about restriction abortion access to 20 weeksThe House Judiciary Committee voted against recommending a bill that would further restrict abortions in the state from 24 weeks to 20 weeks.More New Hampshire headlines:Unsealed records show Nashua country club shooting suspect’s motive was to punish ‘elites’Manchester resident charged with attempted murder following Border Patrol shootingWith higher rates than utilities, the Community Power Coalition loses trust and some customers Legislation about gender identity is back on the table in the NH State House

NH governor and Senate races are shaping up heading into the 2026 Midterms

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0500

The Midterm elections will be upon us soon, and some campaigns are gaining traction here in New Hampshire.A federal court issued a ruling this week that ends the Trump administration's ban on diversity and equity initiatives in public schools, including here in New Hampshire. And Republican lawmakers are backing a bill that would allow students to attend any public school in the state.We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Josh Rogers, NHPRAnnmarie Timmins, NHPRTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:NH lawsuit ends Trump administration’s DEI ban in schools nationwideA federal judge on Wednesday dismissed a lawsuit challenging the federal ban on diversity and equity programs in schools after the federal government agreed not to enforce it in New Hampshire and the rest of the country.Open enrollment: school choice or a ‘wrecking ball’ for NH? Here’s what you need to know.Republicans are fast-tracking open enrollment legislation opposed by school district leaders that would allow New Hampshire students to attend any public school in the state – and take their community’s tax dollars with them. School districts would have to enroll them.Cinde Warmington launches second bid for New Hampshire governorCinde Warmington is an attorney and former member of the New Hampshire Executive Council.Energy officials challenge regulatory decision on Eversource rates at NH Supreme CourtA new regulatory framework would allow Eversource to charge the costs of investments to ratepayers before proving they're prudent. The state’s Department of Energy asked the justices to weigh in on whether that's unlawful.More New Hampshire headlines:NH House rejects bill to reinstate the death penaltyUncommon cold? This winter gives New Hampshire classic winter vibes, but no recordsNurse practitioner launches mobile clinic to improve access to pediatric care in NHNew England Yankee reserve or racial exclusion? A professor takes a look at the Upper Valley

Ayotte releases DHS documents on proposed Merrimack ICE site

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 10:42:00 -0500

Gov. Kelly Ayotte has long denied knowing anything about Immigration and Customs Enforcement's plan for a detention facility in Merrimack. But at a U.S. Senate hearing Thursday, ICE director Todd Lyons told New Hampshire Sen. Maggie Hassan his agency had been in contact with the governor.Thursday night, Ayotte released an additional statement that she now has documents on the facility from the Department of Homeland Security. These updates come after other communication gaps within Ayotte’s administration about the facility.We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the NH News Recap.Guests:William Skipworth, New Hampshire BulletinAnnmarie Timmins, NHPRTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:Ayotte denies ICE director’s claim federal officials talked to her about Merrimack facilityTodd Lyons, acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, confirmed Thursday that ICE was building an immigrant detention center in Merrimack and said that the Department of Homeland Security “has worked with Gov. Ayotte” on the economic impact of the project — a claim Ayotte denied.New Hampshire’s ‘bathroom bill’ vetoed for the third timeAyotte vetoed Senate Bill 268 Friday, a bill to allow transgender people to be excluded from restrooms, locker rooms, jails, and other spaces that don’t match their sex at birth.Vaccine skeptics renew efforts to rescind New Hampshire’s vaccine requirements in 2026A contingent of vaccine skeptics in the New Hampshire House of Representatives has again brought a slate of vaccine-related legislation to the State House in 2026. Some proposals go further than others.More New Hampshire headlines:State pushes back against Trump’s ‘unprecedented’ demand for NH voter dataGoodlander says grand jury refused to indict her and other Democrats over ‘illegal orders’ videoTrail safety: Lawmakers mull plan for a security task force for 2028 presidential primaryNH lawmakers nix proposal to tax second homesDaniel Will confirmed to New Hampshire Supreme Court

ARMI launches investigation into Dean Kamen's connections to Epstein

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 08:01:00 -0500

The latest batch of Epstein files include dozens of records about the relationship between Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender, and New Hampshire businessman Dean Kamen. The board of directors for ARMI, the government-funded Manchester research project led by Kamen, says it will investigate its founder.Newly revealed documents show some state officials had known for weeks about federal plans for an immigrant detention facility in Merrimack.And the Gov. Kelly Ayotte gave her second State of the State address this week. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Todd Bookman, NHPRKate Dario, NHPRTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:Ayotte calls for review of state agency after documents show communication with ICE about detention facilityAt a special Executive Council meeting Wednesday, Ayotte and executive councilors questioned the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources commissioner about failure to alert other state officials about talks with ICE.ARMI launches ‘independent review’ of Kamen following Epstein revelationsDean Kamen will recuse himself from leadership at ARMI while a review is conducted related to his repeated contacts with Jeffrey Epstein.Ayotte’s State of the State highlights nuclear power, housing and child care prioritiesIn Gov. Kelly Ayotte’s address Thursday, she pushed for continued housing development and childcare affordability, while proposing an expansion of nuclear power in the state.Nashua students say protest against aggressive immigration enforcement is personalA few hundred Nashua high school students staged a walkout Wednesday, despite warnings that they would face consequences because the school district had not approved the event.More New Hampshire headlines:Who is representing NH at the Winter Olympics? Meet the Granite Staters going for gold.House committee overwhelmingly rejects bills to bring back capital punishmentStudents ask governor and lawmakers to make NH more affordable so they can stayWhite House says it won’t withhold funding from NH schools with DEI programs

NH delegation responds to ICE crackdown across the country

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 09:29:00 -0500

Senators reached a deal Thursday to avoid a government shutdown. The deal funds most of the government, and also gives Republicans and Democrats time to negotiate on future funding for the Department of Homeland Security. At the center of the negotiations is the federal immigration crackdown across the country and criticisms of Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers, who shot and killed a U.S. citizen, Alex Pretti, in Minneapolis last weekend.We hear how New Hampshire’s congressional delegation is responding to the immigration crackdown around the country. In New Hampshire, Gov. Kelly Ayotte said this week she's reached out to the White House and the Department of Homeland Security, saying the town of Merrimack should have a say on ICE's alleged proposal to establish a detention facility there.And a federal judge blocked New Hampshire from ending annual mandatory auto inspections, which were supposed to permanently end starting in February.We discuss these stories on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Josh Rogers, NHPRMara Hoplamazian, NHPRTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:Ayotte tells Trump, DHS that Merrimack should weigh in on potential ICE facilityIn Merrimack, the Washington Post reported an internal ICE document calls for converting an industrial building into a so-called “processing site,” which could hold up to 1,500 detainees before shipping them to larger warehouses with 5,000 to 10,000 beds.Republicans scramble to limit NH's car inspection mandate as judge keeps it in place for nowTop Republicans in the New Hampshire State House say they are working on multiple fronts to thwart the federal injunction that's now blocking the state from ending mandatory auto inspections at the end of the month.NHPR Presents: Safe to DrinkA New Hampshire town finds out its water has been contaminated by a chemical. The most basic question — whether the water is safe to drink — doesn’t have a clear answer. Nobody seems to know much about this so-called forever chemical, which is weird because . . . this has all happened before.More New Hampshire headlines:‘Your voice does matter': Concord High students organize walkout to protest ICETrump administration scrubs info on NH woman who escaped slaveryLondonderry announces plans to expand public water access nearly a decade after contamination discovery‘I touch the future. I teach.’: A science teacher’s quest to honor Christa McAuliffeAyotte taps Superior Court judge, Daniel Will, to join NH's highest court

Manchester School District says it will watch for any potential ICE activity

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 08:39:00 -0500

Reports of Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Manchester schools spread across social media and within local communities this week. The Manchester School District says it has not received any substantiated reports of ICE activity, but would continue to monitor the situation.And earlier in January, federal officials dropped the number of vaccines recommended for children. Now it's up to the state as to whether it will adopt those same recommendations. At the same time, New Hampshire lawmakers are considering proposals to eliminate some or all vaccination requirements for children.We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Lau Guzmán, NHPRAmanda Gokee, Boston GlobeTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:How to find shelter and stay safe as NH braces for extreme coldTemperatures in some parts of New Hampshire may stay in double digits below zero on Saturday and Sunday, according to the National Weather Service. State officials are urging people to stay indoors as much as possible, and have an emergency plan in place.‘They don’t know the damage they’ve caused me’: NH family navigated ICE detentionImmigration and Customs Enforcement has arrested more than 270,000 people nationwide since President Trump took office a year ago. For one Manchester family, an arrest by ICE has meant the loss of a husband, father, and caretaker.No confirmed reports of ICE activity at Manchester schoolsSchool officials in Manchester received reports of potential ICE activity in the city on Wednesday and Thursday.NH considers eliminating childhood vaccine requirementsAt the same time, health care providers warn of confusion from federal changes to vaccine requirements for children.More New Hampshire headlines:Bill to require NH voters to decide on local tax caps gets a hearing – and lots of criticismJudge rules the Trump administration illegally defunded academic support for nearly 1,200 NH studentsJudge expected to rule quickly on fate of NH motor vehicle inspectionsNH GOP has a new leader – again – after RNC rules against previous election

How active is ICE here in New Hampshire?

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 08:33:00 -0500

Protests have erupted in Minneapolis and across the country this week in opposition to tactics used by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or ICE. How active is the federal agency here in New Hampshire?State lawmakers repealed the death penalty in New Hampshire in 2019. Now some lawmakers are looking to bring it back.We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Josh Rogers, NHPRSteven Porter, Boston GlobeTop headlines from around New Hampshire this week:Bills to restore death penalty in NH are debated, as capital punishment on rise nationallyLawmakers repealed the state's death penalty law in 2019, but Gov. Kelly Ayotte says she'd like to bring it back. Meanwhile, several states have expensed their use of capital punishment in recent years.13th police force in NH signs ICE cooperation agreement: ‘We just want to lend a hand’The agreements allow local officers to interrogate people suspected of being present in the country illegally and arrest those accused of violating immigration laws.Goodlander says she’s under investigation over ‘illegal orders’ videoThe video, posted on social media in November, featured Goodlander and five other congressional Democrats, all with military or intelligence backgrounds, urging U.S. military members to not follow illegal orders.NH lawmakers consider proposals to tax second homes and rental housesBackers say the proposals aim to address housing shortages, but critics say they could do more harm than good.More New Hampshire headlines:Annual car inspections are ending in NH, but police will keep watchNH legislators propose bills to add transparency to immigration efforts in stateNH bishop urged clergy to meet the political moment, and ‘make sure they have their wills written’Whiplash for NH mental health providers as Trump admin cut then restored grants

NH lawmakers reject efforts to address court rulings on school funding

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 09:16:00 -0500

Two New Hampshire courts have told the Legislature that it needs to increase the amount of money the state spends per public school student. But in the first meeting of the legislative session this week, lawmakers voted against doing so.And the Trump administration has frozen child care funding in several states amid allegations of fraud in Minnesota, but Gov. Kelly Ayotte told child care providers this week funding hasn’t paused here in New Hampshire.We discuss these stories on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Annmarie Timmins, NHPREthan DeWitt, New Hampshire BulletinTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:Legislature declines court orders to increase school spending, at least for nowThe state Supreme Court ruled in July that the state must spend more on public education to meet its constitutional obligation to provide New Hampshire students an "adequate" education. A lower court ruled in August that the state must also increase spending on special education.Objecting to ConVal decision, House Republicans vote down school funding billHouse Republicans have questioned both the conclusions reached by the court about school funding adequacy and the court’s very authority to instruct the Legislature to spend more.Ayotte and state officials say NH’s federal child care funding is secureGov. Kelly Ayotte reassured New Hampshire child care providers and families this week that the federal money that helps cover child care costs for nearly 5,000 children in the state has not been frozen by the Trump administration, contrary to reporting by national media outlets.More New Hampshire headlines:'I can't just sit by': Protestors gather in Merrimack to oppose potential ICE facilityReturning to the scene of the Challenger explosion, with a NH journalist who was thereNH House approves bill ending use of student IDs for votingNH child vaccine recommendations remain unchanged, despite new CDC guidance

A review of some of the top stories from 2025

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 09:08:00 -0500

It's been a busy year in politics with Donald Trump's return to the White House bringing sweeping federal funding cuts and an aggressive anti-immigration agenda to New Hampshire. The state also saw the start of Kelly Ayotte's first term as governor.As we near the end of 2025, we're recapping the some of the year's top headlines.Guests:Josh Rogers, NHPRAnnmarie Timmins, NHPRLau Guzmán, NHPR

How reliable is the state's drinking water as drought conditions continue?

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:35:00 -0500

Parts of New Hampshire have been under extreme drought conditions this year. This summer was the driest on record in the state, and that's led to more than 200 households with dry wells. What's the state doing in response?And state lawmakers won't officially head back to Concord until next month, but Gov. Kelly Ayotte and leaders in both parties are starting to lay out their priorities.We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Josh Rogers, NHPRMolly Rains, New Hampshire BulletinTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:Ayotte’s COGE committee issues government efficiency recommendationsThe ideas include ending work-from-home policies for state employees and reorganizing the Health and Humans Services Department.As emergency dry well assistance is reinstated, NH’s drinking water future still unclearMore than 200 wells went dry in New Hampshire during this year’s drought. As climatologists expect those conditions to continue, what does that mean for the reliability of drinking water in the state?Legislation aims to keep NH groundwater water out of plastic bottlesA new bill would prevent the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services from issuing new permits for groundwater extraction and bottling vessels that contain any plastic.More New Hampshire headlines:NH housing market remained tight in November, with slight improvements in supplyEmissions testing company sues NH over plans to get rid of annual vehicle inspectionsConfused about health insurance plans? There’s help for NH residents.Anheuser-Busch to shutter Merrimack brewery and offer relocation stipends to workers

Disability Rights Center investigates abuse in NH care system

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 08:46:00 -0500

The Disability Rights Center in New Hampshire is investigating the state’s disability care system following reporting from the New Hampshire Bulletin, which revealed allegations of systemic abuse and neglect.Congressional Republicans made some significant changes to Medicaid this year, but they need states like New Hampshire to figure out a system for implementing those changes.We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the NH News Recap.Guests:William Skipworth, New Hampshire BulletinKate Dario, NHPRTop headlines from around New Hampshire this week:Disability Rights Center launches investigation into New Hampshire’s disability care systemThe Bulletin’s reporting uncovered systemic abuse and neglect, sometimes fatal, within the state’s intellectual and developmental disability care system.NH Republicans seek to implement Medicaid changes as Democrats work to reverse themLawmakers in both Concord and Washington, D.C., spent much of 2025 debating cuts and changes to Medicaid, the nation’s public health care program for low-income people and those with disabilities. Now, state lawmakers are preparing to debate how to implement the changes in 2026.How is NH’s drought impacting Christmas trees?New Hampshire’s long-running drought has hurt many local seasonal traditions, from whitewater rafting in the summer to leaf-peeping in the fall. But how, now as the holidays approach, are local Christmas trees affected?More New Hampshire headlines:NH needs to find $5 million to cover overruns from design mistake at new psych hospitalFormer White Mountains trail director to plead guilty to fraud chargesFlakes out: NH sees first major snowfall of the season

NH's education system faces budgetary challenges at every level

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 07:49:00 -0500

The Trump administration has dismantled the U.S. Department of Education and its special education offices. What effect could this have on programs for children here in New Hampshire?And New Hampshire's education system is facing budgetary challenges at every level. How are these schools working to bridge gaps in funding?We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Annmarie Timmins, NHPREthan DeWitt, New Hampshire BulletinTop headlines from around New Hampshire this week:Goodlander stands by video urging service members to refuse ‘illegal orders’President Donald Trump responded to the video in a series of online posts on Thursday, calling that message, quote, “seditious behavior, punishable by death."NH Supreme Court considers state’s liability in Youth Detention Center abuse caseDavid Meehan was awarded $38 million by a jury for abuse he endured at the state’s former juvenile jail. The trial judge reduced it to $475,000, citing state law that caps the state’s civil liability. The court’s ruling in Meehan’s appeal could have implications for hundreds of survivors with similar lawsuits.Senators move forward on Claremont loan funding plan, with strings attachedThe Senate Education Committee approved new caveats to proposed legislation to allow struggling school districts access to a revolving loan fund. Among them is a provision allowing all parents in the district to obtain education freedom accounts even if otherwise not eligible.Parents tell Hassan special education is a ‘lifeline’ as federal protections remain at riskSpecial education protections under IDEA remain uncertain after mass layoffs by the Trump administration at the U.S. Department of Education, despite staff reinstatement through January.More New Hampshire headlines:NH State lawmaker arrested on allegation he posted ‘revenge porn’Shutdown vote revealed a big rift among NH Democrats, but it’s not the only oneWhere to give or find help in New Hampshire this ThanksgivingNH is axing vehicle inspections. To do so, it must withdraw from an agreement to limit pollution.

NH Congressional delegation divided over government shutdown deal

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 08:36:00 -0500

Congress voted this week to end the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. New Hampshire’s Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan helped negotiate the deal with Republicans. Representatives Chris Pappas and Maggie Goodlander voted against the measure in the House, dividing the state's all-Democratic congressional delegation.And an investigation by the New Hampshire Bulletin into a series of tragedies has exposed a pattern of abuse and neglect in the state's intellectual and developmental disability care system.We discuss these stories on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Josh Rogers, NHPRWilliam Skipworth, New Hampshire BulletinTop headlines from around New Hampshire this week:As U.S. House moves to end federal shutdown, NH's Pappas and Goodlander vote noThe narrowly divided House of Representatives voted Wednesday to end the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, with New Hampshire Representatives Chris Pappas and Maggie Goodlander joining all but six Democrats to oppose the stop-gap spending plan to fund the federal government through the end of January.Shaheen and Hassan defend the shutdown deal dividing their partyThe proposal, which failed to guarantee an extension of the expiring Affordable Care Act tax credits Democrats have prioritized, is dividing their party.NH residents, advocates breathe sighs of relief after SNAP benefits go outThe November payments came a week late, after being paused during the ongoing government shutdown and following federal court orders last week to fully distribute food assistance.A series of tragedies exposes patterns of abuse and neglect in New Hampshire’s disability systemWhile every story of abuse and neglect within New Hampshire’s intellectual and developmental disability care network is unique in the harm caused, collectively they point to the state’s systemic failures in oversight and accountability.More New Hampshire headlines:In North Conway, seniors and families share concerns about future of their health insuranceNashua program aims to address air traffic controller shortage amid nationwide flight disruptionsAyotte honors Veterans Day with speech and executive order prioritizing veteran hiring‘The stress is tangible.’ Demand remains high at NH food pantries amid shutdown

NH Attorney General reviews $50k payout to top Judicial Branch employee

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 08:22:00 -0500

The New Hampshire Department of Justice is reviewing a series of personnel maneuvers that allowed a top state court employee to collect nearly $50,000 in employment benefits following a layoff that lasted just 48 hours.And New Hampshire voters made their way to the polls in municipal elections this week. Several incumbent mayors were reelected. We talk through the results and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Todd Bookman, NHPRJosh Rogers, NHPRTop headlines from around New Hampshire this week:Voters reelect incumbent mayors across New Hampshire in municipal electionsSitting mayors in Manchester, Concord, Portsmouth, Keene and elsewhere were returned to office in Tuesday's elections.NH Attorney General launches ‘preliminary review’ of payout to top Judicial Branch stafferState prosecutors sent letters to a range of officials — including Chief Justice Gordon MacDonald — instructing them not to destroy any records related to a $50,000 payout.‘Love brings you home’: A 100-year-old family secret and the NH librarian refusing to bury itWhen Erin Moulton learned what really happened to her great-aunt, she couldn't ignore the echoes of today's fights over reproductive rights.State secures additional funding to feed women and children in need of assistanceThe federal funding should support recipients of WIC through the Thanksgiving holiday.More New Hampshire headlines:Kidney cancer rates are higher in Merrimack. Scientists say more research is warranted.Lebanon ‘very reluctantly’ repeals welcoming ordinance to comply with new state lawsSeacoast businesses offer support for shipyard workers as missed paychecks pile upAir Force details cover-up in shooting that spurred Sig Sauer investigation

Food pantries brace for surge in demand as SNAP benefits run out

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 08:54:00 -0400

Starting Saturday, federal nutrition benefits, also known as SNAP, will pause due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. Tens of thousands of Granite Staters are set to lose their benefits and local food pantries are bracing for a surge in demand.The U.S Drug Enforcement Administration claimed it arrested 171 high-level members of Mexico’s Sinaloa Cartel in New England this August. In Franklin, New Hampshire alone, there were 27 arrests. But an investigation from the Boston Globe’s Spotlight team found many of those arrested were instead low-level offenders with little to no link to the drug cartel.And voters in Manchester will head to the polls early next week to decide whether to re-elect incumbent Republican Jay Ruais for a second term as mayor. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Kate DarioJosh Rogers, NHPRSteven Porter, Boston GlobeTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:How to get food assistance, or help with neighbors in need, while SNAP is on hold in NHDue to the ongoing government shutdown, the federally-funded benefits aren’t being distributed. More than 75,000 Granite Staters rely on SNAP.The DEA said it arrested 171 ‘high ranking’ Sinaloa Cartel members. A Spotlight investigation found that’s not true.A Globe investigation found that the federal agency misrepresented the stature of its targets, claiming cartel ties at a time when the Trump administration is taking lethal military action against such groups.Geno Marconi, NH Port Director accused of retaliation, will plead guiltyMarconi is accused of leaking confidential boating records against a rival. Jury selection in his criminal case was set to begin next week.Seeking re-election, Ruais argues Manchester is on right trackRuais’ approach to leading New Hampshire's largest city has mixed traditional boosterism, partnership with Gov. Kelly Ayotte, and marginalizing local antagonists.More New Hampshire headlines:Judge hears evidence to decide if Medicaid class action case will go to trialActivists announce creation of ‘sanctuary communities’ to monitor ICE activity across NHOne of the country’s few rare earth processing plants opens in ExeterWhy researchers are drawn to Mt. Washington, ‘home of the world’s worst weather’

State, colleges step in to help Granite Staters amid federal shutdown

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 08:29:00 -0400

As the federal shutdown continues, people across the country, including here in New Hampshire are feeling the effects. To make up for delayed funds, the state is planning to provide support for the 75,000 residents who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP.Dartmouth College has rejected a compact with the Trump administration. It was one of nine colleges and universities asked to sign the agreement. The school said it wouldn’t trade academic freedom for federal funding.We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Kate Dario, NHPRAnnmarie Timmins, NHPRTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:NH to help SNAP recipients if government shutdown halts November benefitsWith a resolution to the government shutdown seemingly not coming any time soon, the state is planning on providing support to the more than 75,000 state residents who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP, in the likely event November benefits are impacted.Typical NH family does not have enough money to cover basic living expenses, report findsThe median household income in New Hampshire falls nearly $2,000 short of covering annual necessities, according to a new report from the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute.Shutdown halts tuition aid for some military students. Several NH schools are stepping in.The federal government shutdown has frozen some tuition assistance for active duty military students, making it harder for them to pay for college.Dartmouth rejects Trump’s compact, saying it won’t compromise its academic freedomThe college said it will not trade academic freedom for preferential access to federal funding. The college had until Monday to make its decision.More New Hampshire headlines:In midst of budget crisis, an unusual move helped ally of NH Chief Justice collect $50KFewer options, more confusion for Medicare enrollment in New Hampshire this yearHanover, Lebanon consider updating policies ahead of new statewide ‘sanctuary city ban’John E. Sununu jumps into Senate race, setting up GOP primary with Scott BrownKeene State students say goodbye to one president and have suggestions for the next

Executive councilors hold up millions of dollars in contracts to protest Ayotte

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 08:30:00 -0400

Tensions between Gov. Kelly Ayotte and members of the state’s Executive Council boiled over this week, as the council tabled more than 20 state contracts to protest what they say is a withholding of information by the governor.And the Claremont School District continues to grapple with $5 million budget deficit. Republicans in Concord debated this week over how much the state should step in to help out.We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Rick Green, Keene SentinelEthan DeWitt, New Hampshire BulletinTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:Executive councilors hold up millions of dollars in contracts to protest AyotteCouncilors on Wednesday accused Gov. Ayotte’s departments of withholding documents from the contract packets. In protest, Republicans voted to table a wide range of contracts, seeking to disrupt Ayotte administration priorities until agencies agree to provide the information.Claremont School District budget woes prompt GOP calls for more state oversightAs the Claremont School District reels from a $5 million budget deficit, reducing staff, shutting schools, and fighting to get through the school year, Republicans in Concord are split over how much they should help out.NH bill would prohibit masked police officers during ICE raidsThe legislation is one of several Democratic proposals aimed at bringing greater public accountability to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s 287(g) program, under which ICE partners with state and local law enforcement in New Hampshire.More New Hampshire headlines:‘Wholly insufficient’: AG’s report finds Berlin police had 48 hours notice to prevent domestic violence homicideState’s chosen developer for Laconia site, Robynne Alexander, will spend 2.5 years in prison for wire fraudFather of Harmony Montgomery appeals his murder conviction to Supreme Court citing ‘prejudice’ in trialPortsmouth Naval Shipyard workers and others seek food, fuel aid during shutdown

Hantz Marconi case wraps up; how to solve school funding issue

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 10:37:00 -0400

New Hampshire Supreme Court Justice Anna Barbara Hantz Marconi has been found guilty of misusing her position. She pleaded no contest Tuesday to the allegation that she tried to improperly influence former Gov. Chris Sununu, but she’ll also be able to return to her seat on the state Supreme Court.And this year the New Hampshire Supreme Court ruled that the amount the state currently pays per student to public schools is not enough — not by thousands of dollars per student. The court didn’t say how the state should fix its funding problem or give a timeline for when that should happen. But some state lawmakers say they have ideas on how to solve the issue. One such idea includes increasing property taxes.We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Todd Bookman, NHPREthan DeWitt, New Hampshire BulletinTop headlines from around New Hampshire this week:Hantz Marconi cleared to return to the bench, capping whirlwind week for convicted justiceThis week began for Supreme Court Justice Anna Barbara Hantz Marconi with the announcement that she intended to enter into a plea deal on allegations she used her stature to try to score political favor on behalf of her husband. By Thursday, she learned that she would regain her law license and have her seat on the state’s highest court reinstated.Attorney General review of Chinese land purchase in Nashua finds no wrongdoingA review by the New Hampshire Department of Justice into the controversial purchase of an industrial property in Nashua by a China-based beverage company with alleged ties to the Communist Party has cleared a state employee who helped facilitate the transaction of any wrongdoing.After Supreme Court school funding decision, Republican floats fix: increasing property taxesIn the months since the New Hampshire Supreme Court ruled that the state is underfunding its public schools, lawmakers have been divided over how to respond. Now, one Republican says he has a possible answer: increase — and redistribute — statewide property taxes.Amid sagging revenues, New Hampshire Republicans to push for lowering business enterprise taxNew Hampshire’s two business tax rates have dropped steadily over the last decade, descending from 2015 to 2023 under a series of cuts brought by Republicans. Now, House lawmakers are seeking to make one more reduction to one of those two taxes.More New Hampshire headlines:Investigators found evidence of potential crimes by NH prison staff. They decided not to prosecute.Federal court upholds block in birthright citizenship lawsuit; may go to Supreme CourtACLU of NH is challenging the state’s loitering lawNew England’s last coal plant has stopped operating, according to its owners

How the federal shutdown is affecting New Hampshire

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 08:36:00 -0400

There are over 9,000 federal employees working here in New Hampshire, and a number of services and programs that could be disrupted under this federal government shutdown.At the heart of the shutdown is a fight over health policy. Democrats are seeking to continue health insurance subsidies established through the Affordable Care Act. Republicans say there’s time to negotiate on those subsidies later. In New Hampshire, marketplace experts are preparing people to expect higher health care premiums whether or not subsidies through the Affordable Care Act are extended.We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Amanda Gokee, Boston GlobeOlivia Richardson, NHPRTop headlines from around New Hampshire this week:How will the federal shutdown affect New Hampshire? Here’s what we know so far.A lingering shutdown could carry hardship for people who depend on federal assistance programs including the Head Start and food aid programs.Insurance subsidies a key issues in Washington, as NH navigators warn of increased costsFunding cuts have led organizations who help people find health insurance to cut staff and limit services, as premiums are expected to go up.School districts look at savings and hiring freezes to cover a $30 million health billSchoolCare, a nonprofit insurer, sent invoices to 65 school districts and about 25 other public employers or insurers Wednesday to cover a $30 million shortfall. It cited an unanticipated spike in health care claims and pharmacy costs.More New Hampshire headlines:Taylor Caswell, who oversaw billions in COVID relief air for NH, to resignMedicare Advantage coverage in New Hampshire will shrink for 2026Documents show heavy state involvement in Chinese land purchase in NashuaFederal energy funding cancellations hits two projects in New Hampshire

Why is the DOJ suing NH to get voter information?

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 08:36:00 -0400

The U.S. Department of Justice is suing New Hampshire and five other states for access to confidential voting records. Months ago the DOJ asked New Hampshire for the data and Secretary of State David Scanlan denied the request.And the Trump administration abruptly ended funding for two programs that are helping over 5,000 New Hampshire students pursue college and careers.We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Todd Bookman, NHPRKate Dario, NHPRAnnmarie Timmins, NHPRTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:Trump administration sues New Hampshire over access to voter dataThe suit seeks sensitive voter information including partial social security numbers. The Secretary of State has said New Hampshire law prohibits sharing such information.What we know so far about the shooting at Sky Meadow Country ClubThe 23-year-old man accused of opening fire inside a Nashua country club Saturday night, killing one person and injuring others, made his first court appearance Monday.As NH presses, Trump administration hasn’t budged on restoring programs for 5,200 NH studentsThe U.S. Department of Education said the college and career preparation advising is “not in the best interest of the federal government.” It would not say why.More New Hampshire headlines:2025 was NH’s driest summer ever recordedNH doctors say Trump's claims about autism and Tylenol use in pregnancy don't match scienceRegulators will reconsider controversial Eversource decision that raised feesRockingham County Jail could house ICE detainees: 'It's a service to the country'

Republicans propose the 'Charlie Act' in response to Kirk's assassination

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 08:29:00 -0400

The murder of right-wing political commentator Charlie Kirk has sent shockwaves across the country. Here in New Hampshire, his assassination is leading to a crack down from conservatives on what they perceive as left-wing ideology in public schools.We follow the local response to Kirk's murder on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Annmarie Timmins, NHPRSteven Porter, Boston GlobeTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:At campus vigil honoring Kirk, UNH conservatives say they’re eager to speak upThe event, organized by a Republican lawmaker who is also a UNH student, offered a gathering place for students who said they felt out of place on a liberal campus.New Hampshire Republicans target schools, teachers – in Charlie Kirk’s nameNew Hampshire Republicans are backing a bill that would limit how teachers could discuss the Constitution, LGBTQ+ issues, and the legal system. They named it the "Charlie Act" for slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk.Pease leadership says hands are tied over ICE flights; activists accuse agency of ‘complicity’The Pease Development Authority released a memorandum Tuesday outlining the legal reasons for why it believes it must allow ICE to continue operating deportation-related flights out of Portsmouth International Airport.More New Hampshire headlines:‘Emboldened and aggressive,’ top NH Republicans urge action in wake of Kirk killingNH Supreme Court to hear case of only person on death row in New EnglandRefresher Course: What is the Supreme Court’s ‘shadow docket’?Gould confirmed to seat on NH Supreme Court; Formella approved for another term

Breakthroughs in Bear Brook murders; state’s drought impacts farmers, foliage

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 10:48:00 -0400

After 40 years, the high-profile cold case known as the Bear Brook murders has now been solved. But in solving it, investigators have revealed new mysteries. The case has loomed large in the state for decades, baffling investigators, journalists and sleuths on the internet.

And much of New Hampshire is in a drought right now according to the latest report from the U.S. Drought Monitor. After a wet spring, the summer has been anything but. That’s led to some communities restricting water use, and farmers struggling to keep crops and animals watered and fed.We discuss these stories on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Jason Moon, NHPR

Kate Dario, NHPR

Claremont acquires bank loan amid budget crisis; judge blocks DEI ban

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 08:47:00 -0400

The Claremont School Board has authorized a bank loan that will cover some daily expenses as the district faces a $1 to $5 million deficit. Meanwhile another New Hampshire town, Pittsfield, is also facing a budget shortfall of over a million dollarsAnd a federal judge temporarily blocked a state law that would cut funding for schools that pursue diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. The decision pushes off a deadline the Department of Education set for when schools need to report if they’ve had any contracts or policies involving DEI.We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Jeremy Margolis, Concord MonitorSruthi Gopalakrishnan, Concord MonitorTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:Amid Claremont crisis, Pittsfield school district works to dig out of its own million dollar holePittsfield’s deficit, discovered early this year, is roughly $1.8 million and potentially bigger by percentage than Claremont’s. But as dire questions swirl in Claremont about whether schools will even remain open over the coming weeks, Pittsfield’s schools begin the year on less precarious footing.Federal judge temporarily blocks enforcement of New Hampshire’s DEI law for majority of districtsA federal judge on Thursday temporarily blocked the state of New Hampshire from penalizing school districts that fail to comply with the state’s new ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.Berlin murder to be first case reviewed by state’s domestic violence committeeThe committee’s role is to identify gaps in system responses and services, as well as key points for intervention, that—if addressed—could strengthen both the systemic and community response to domestic violence in New Hampshire.New Hampshire homes still expensive even as market begins to coolNew Hampshire’s housing market is slowly showing signs of cooling after years of being dominated by sellers, but even with the slowdown, record-high prices continue to put the dream of homeownership out of reach for many.More New Hampshire headlines:Whooping cough cases up in New Hampshire this yearJohn E. Sununu says he's considering another U.S. Senate runReport finds NH Army Nat'l Guard recruiter coerced young members into sexLawyers for NH Supreme Court justice facing charges wants AG removed from case, or be forced to testifyLabor Day protest in Concord fills downtown streets, State House lawn

State declines another request from the feds to turn over voter data

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 08:47:00 -0400

New Hampshire is among the states targeted by the U.S. Department of Justice seeking information about its voting system. That includes the state’s voter registration list. New Hampshire election officials have refused to hand over that information to the federal government, and now they are rejecting yet another request from the feds.As the Trump administration is weighing whether to deploy National Guard troops to additional American cities, Republican governors around the country are mobilizing troops at the president's request. What has Gov. Kelly Ayotte said about sending soldiers from New Hampshire?And a federal judge is weighing whether to block a new state law that would cut funding for schools that pursue diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Todd Bookman, NHPRAmanda Gokee, Boston GlobeTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:Trump administration and NH officials continue fight over access to state’s voter dataIn June, the federal government demanded that New Hampshire turn over sensitive voter files. State officials ignored a deadline, and on Thursday again denied the request.Ayotte says she would ‘evaluate’ NH Nat’l Guard deployment to cities, but no request has comeAs the Trump administration weighs sending National Guard soldiers to cities beyond Washington, D.C., Ayotte said troops from New Hampshire remain focused on preparing for other deployments.Federal judge in NH weighs the state’s new anti-DEI lawThe same judge blocked the Trump administration’s efforts to defund schools over diversity, equity and inclusion.Ayotte taps Bryan Gould, a lawyer with Republican Party ties, for state Supreme CourtAyotte also said she will re-nominate John Formella to serve as New Hampshire attorney general.More New Hampshire headlines:‘How did this happen?’ Uncertainty continues amid Claremont’s school funding crisisTariffs, labor costs and USDA changes are top of mind for New Hampshire farmersMassachusetts is emerging as a haven for trans youth seeking care as restrictions reach deeper in New EnglandAir Force review flags 191 Sig Sauer guns in need of repairs, clears remainder for use

Judge rules the state is not spending enough on education

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 08:33:00 -0400

A superior court judge ruled this week that the state is underfunding both general and special education. This follows another ruling by the state Supreme Court earlier this summer that also determined New Hampshire isn’t spending enough. But both that court and the judge in this case left it to the Legislature to take next steps. So what does this actually mean moving forward?We talk about this story and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:Annmarie Timmins, NHPREthan DeWitt, New Hampshire BulletinTop stories from around New Hampshire this week:Judge: NH is underfunding special educationThis is the second court in six weeks to conclude New Hampshire is failing to adequately fund public education. The state Supreme Court said the state is underspending on general education.Three years after launch of state police accreditation, departments’ interest growsThree years after the state accreditation process was created by executive order by former Gov. Chris Sununu, about 50 police departments are engaged in the process.Autopsy points to wife in Madbury murder-suicide that claimed four livesAuthorities believe Emily Long killed her husband and their two young children before shooting herself on Monday evening. A third child, a toddler, was unharmed.More New Hampshire headlines:Sununu lands top job at aviation industry lobbying groupNH plans to resume EV charging buildout based on new federal guidanceKarishma Manzur enters NH Senate race, joining Pappas in Democratic primaryTradition, family recipes and faith on the menu at Manchester food festival

Land purchase by Chinese company sparks rumors in Nashua

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 08:39:00 -0400

A land sale in Nashua earlier this year is now sparking rumors and misinformation online and across the city. A Chinese bottling company purchased an industrial property in January leading to speculation about the deal on social media.

And New Hampshire ranks last in the country in spending on public higher education. At the same time, universities and other education institutions are undergoing funding cuts from both the state and federal governments.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Kate Dario, NHPR
Annmarie Timmins, NHPR

More New Hampshire headlines:

New state law could power cryptomining, data centers in New Hampshire

Wildfire risk high in NH this summer due to dry conditions

As Social Security reaches its 90th anniversary, concerns linger about its future

Dartmouth PhD student drops lawsuit against Trump administration

Police investigate neo-Nazi group's activities in Concord

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 08:08:00 -0400

Concord Police are leading the investigation into a neo-Nazi group's actions in the city last weekend. The Attorney General's Civil Rights Unit is also monitoring as the group's appearance has been condemned by municipal and state political leaders.

Many families are taking interest in New Hampshire’s expanded school choice program as we near the upcoming school year. Fall enrollment has reached the 10,000 cap and nearly 300 students are on a waitlist.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Steven Porter, Boston Globe
Will Skipworth, New Hampshire Bulletin

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH complies with Trump admin request for SNAP recipients’ personal data

Most of this year’s air quality alerts in NH were because of wildfires. That’s likely the new normal.

Witness in trial of NH Supreme Court Justice could include big names in state politics and law

Years before Air Force base fatality, investigators found ‘failure’ in a Sig Sauer gun

How local law enforcement is rolling out agreements with ICE

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 08:29:00 -0400

A dozen local law enforcement agencies, including state police, have signed agreements with Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the last six months to add some of those federal duties on their beat. Federally, these agreements are part of a push to increase immigration enforcement.

And Gov. Kelly Ayotte's pick for New Hampshire's next education commissioner received broad political support during her confirmation this week. Caitlin Davis said she'd support public education and evaluate the programs established by outgoing Commissioner Frank Edelblut.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Lau Guzmán, NHPR
Steven Porter, Boston Globe

More New Hampshire headlines:

He bought the local paper to help his hometown. Now, he’s being blamed for its demise.

NH educators, parents work to build trust between schools and families

NH has taken a ‘housing first’ approach to homelessness. A new executive order could change that.

Residents in Manchester, Portsmouth raise concerns about ICE presence

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 11:17:00 -0400

Some Granite Staters are raising concerns about how ICE agents are operating in their communities. The concerns follow apparent detentions of people in Manchester and Portsmouth this month. A video circulating this week shows a man being arrested outside a Manchester courthouse this week, and in Portsmouth, four restaurant workers were detained by ICE agents earlier this month.

A new person will soon be deciding the settlement awards given to alleged victims of abuse at the state’s youth detention facility. Current state settlement administrator John Broderick recently announced he’ll be leaving the job.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Lau Guzmán, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Apparent ICE officers detain man near Manchester courthouse, community concerned

ICE arrests have tripled in New Hampshire since January, amid an enhanced immigration crackdown by the Trump administration. Monday’s arrest in Manchester is not the first time that someone has been detained near a New Hampshire courthouse.

Portsmouth residents concerned about community trust, worker safety after ICE actions

Several residents attended public meetings this week to voice their concerns about what they described as unidentified law enforcement officers in their community.

YDC fund administrator warns new N.H. law will remove him, amid concerns of fairness

The new legislation prompted the victims of abuse at the Youth Development Center to file a class action lawsuit last week, arguing the state was going back on its word.

Electricity costs in N.H. rising during hot summer months of peak usage

New Hampshire’s largest electricity company is warning residents that energy costs are about to go up during the hot summer months when consumers typically use the most energy to stay cool.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Air Force unit suspends use of Sig Sauer pistol after shooting death of airman

NH is the first state to require doctors to follow patients' wishes on sterilization

How to tell if your favorite NH swimming spot is safe from cyanobacteria

Ayotte picks fights with fellow Republicans carefully, both in Concord and Washington

New report shows Medicaid coverage decreased slightly in New Hampshire in 2024

Gov. Ayotte vetos a number of Republican-backed bills

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 10:11:00 -0400

Gov. Kelly Ayotte vetoed several Republican-backed bills this week that addressed key priorities for conservatives in her party. That includes a bill that would have rolled back civil rights protections for transgender people in the state and a bill that would have allowed parents to request books be removed from their child’s school.

New Hampshire real estate developer Robynne Alexander admitted in court this week that she had defrauded at least 25 investors of more than $3 million. One of those deals involved 217 acres in Laconia that former Gov. Chris Sununu had chosen to sell her for $21.5 million.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the NH News Recap

Guests:

Annmarie Timmins, NHPR
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Ayotte vetoes Republican-backed public school book ban bill

The Republican-backed bill targeted books, films, and other items that depicted nudity and sexual contact unless the school could show they had "serious" scientific, educational, artistic or political value.

Defying party, Ayotte vetoes school book removal bill, other Republican legislation

Gov. Kelly Ayotte vetoed seven bills Tuesday, many of which were intended to strengthen parental rights, bucking the conservative wing of her party over hotly contested legislation.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Portsmouth residents concerned about community trust, worker safety after ICE actions

Protesters rally in Concord as part of nationwide ‘Good Trouble’ events

Six months into the Trump administration, NH farmers continue navigating federal cuts, grant delays

NH Secretary of State rebuffs Trump administration request for state’s voter roll

Concord judge halts Trump's birthright citizenship order

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 08:31:00 -0400

A federal judge in Concord has blocked President Trump’s executive order restricting birthright citizenship nationwide. And funding cuts on the federal and state levels continue to threaten social programs. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Olivia Richardson, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

New Hampshire judge blocks Trump birthright citizenship order nationwide

A federal judge halted the government from enforcing the order denying citizenship to babies born to undocumented immigrants and people with temporary status.

Access to NH Medicaid coverage is changing. Here’s what you need to know.

New premiums and an effort to add work requirements are among the major changes coming to New Hampshire’s Medicaid program.

In Trump vs. Planned Parenthood, New England states brace for cuts

President Trump’s massive tax bill included a provision targeting Planned Parenthood that would stop the health care provider from receiving Medicaid funding for at least one year.

More New Hampshire headlines:

A new school year will bring cell phone bans, new classes and new education costs

Ayotte vetoes bill that would allow for partisan school board elections in NH

NH resident arrested for Jan 6. Riot moves forward with pardon denial request

New Hampshire’s congressional delegation condemns U.S. budget bill

What’s in the next state budget (and what lawmakers left out)

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 09:40:00 -0400

State lawmakers voted to pass a two year spending plan for the state on Thursday. They worked right up to the deadline to pass the budget after Gov. Kelly Ayotte and Republican State House leaders reached a deal to avoid a veto from the governor.

We discuss what’s in the budget — and what got cut — and more top headlines on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe
Josh Rogers, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Working until deadline, lawmakers and Ayotte reach deal to pass state budget

The deal that Gov. Kelly Ayotte and Republican State House leaders reached on the final day of the legislative session means New Hampshire will have a state budget in place July 1.

NH lawmakers spike plan for mandatory minimum sentences for fentanyl possession

Gov. Kelly Ayotte has prioritized toughening state drug laws. But a compromise plan that would do just that was tabled by the state Senate — effectively scuttling its chances for the year.

‘Our livelihood is in danger’: Lake Winnipesaukee has a bacteria problem, and locals are worried

For some, the high levels served as a wake-up call about water quality issues threatening New Hampshire’s largest lake, a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike and home to summer camps that families have attended for generations.

N.H. lawmakers send bills banning gender-affirming care, surgeries for minors to Governor Kelly Ayotte

If the governor signs either bill into law, New Hampshire would be the first New England state to enact such a ban.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Shaheen: ‘I'm pleased that we were involved in setting back Iran's nuclear program’

‘We’re not Nazi Germany': Protestors call on Ayotte to veto book ban bill

‘We’ll start from scratch again’: Changes to NH’s landfill rules will have to wait till next session

Scott Brown says he's running for U.S. Senate for 'a better America'

Ayotte disagrees with lawmakers over state budget

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 08:33:00 -0400

House and Senate negotiators completed work on a new state spending plan for the full legislature to vote on next week. As soon as they were done, Gov. Kelly Ayotte said she couldn't support it, and would veto the proposal.

As we near the end of the current legislative session, we have an update from the State House with NHPR's senior political reporter Josh Rogers.

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Republican negotiators agree on a state budget, but Ayotte promises a veto

House and Senate leaders scrambled Thursday to reach a final deal, adding polices to shore up support for their plan before key votes next week.

State House negotiators reach deal on mandatory minimums for some drug crimes in NH

Gov. Kelly Ayotte has prioritized stiffening criminal penalties for fentanyl. This deal would also reduce them for personal use of psilocybin.

Teachers, parents raise concerns of a literacy crisis in the Berlin school district

Roughly 70% of elementary school students in Berlin aren’t reading at their grade level. Some teachers are saying that’s because of how those students are taught to read.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Photos: On the Seacoast, Junteenth is a day of celebration and protest

Advocates challenge permit for Manchester’s wastewater system, citing PFAS concerns

NH students speak on the effects of school budget cuts

Bike Week 2025: Fewer Canadians, but still lots of leather and motorcycles

Ayotte makes gains on parental rights, school choice and more

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 08:10:00 -0400

As the New Hampshire Legislature approaches the end of this year's session, first-term Gov. Kelly Ayotte can point to political success on a number of issues, including parental rights, immigration enforcement and school choice.

The state Supreme Court has ruled that New Hampshire’s long-standing practice of using a statewide property tax to pay for education is largely legal. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Annmarie Timmins, NHPR
Josh Rogers, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Ayotte signs bills to eliminate school voucher income cap and codify parental rights

Both polices have been longstanding goals for New Hampshire conservatives.

NH Supreme Court’s decision upholding statewide education tax draws mixed reactions

Justice James Bassett dissented, saying the tax scheme is unconstitutional because it is not uniform across communities.

More New Hampshire headlines:

State tourism agency takes down Pride Month promo post following Republican pushback

What’s the connection between hotter, warmer summers in NH and climate change?

To protect against ticks, scientists say we need to get better at tracking them

Winter weather helped drive up business at NH ski slopes

What’s in the Senate’s budget proposal? We explain.

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 09:23:00 -0400

The state Senate passed its two year spending plan Thursday. The nearly $16 billion budget reverses several deep spending cuts made by the New Hampshire House, restoring some funds for Medicaid and the state’s public university system.

The Senate also voted to expand New Hampshire's school voucher program and ban state and local governments from having DEI policies.

We dive into the Senate’s budget on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Steven Porter, Boston Globe
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top headlines from around New Hampshire this week:

After ‘tough choices’ on spending, N.H. Senate approves budget with notable cuts

While this version restores much of the spending the House had cut, it still calls for the elimination of about 60 positions in the Department of Corrections, a 10.5reduction in funding to the university system, and many other trims.

The New Hampshire Senate is set to vote on a budget. Here’s what’s in it.

Senate President Sharon Carson praised the final budget, stressing that it came amid a difficult economic reality for the state.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Pro-Palestine Dartmouth protesters stage hunger strike

Canadian bookings at NH State Park campgrounds show big slide, as boycott persists

Republicans want to put the governor in charge of choosing YDC fund administrator

Manchester protesters urge boycott of Avelo Airlines over deportation flights

Market Basket CEO under investigation; Sig Sauer granted immunity by lawmakers

Fri, 30 May 2025 08:18:00 -0400

A new law signed by Gov. Kelly Ayotte grants the gun manufacturer Sig Sauer immunity from some lawsuits in New Hampshire.

Market Basket's board of directors is investigating its CEO, and has placed him on administrative leave.

And there's a lot happening at the State House in Concord right now as lawmakers near the end of the legislative session. We talk about some of the bills you might've missed on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Will Skipworth, New Hampshire Bulletin
Todd Bookman, NHPR

Top headlines from around New Hampshire this week:

Facing a wave of P320 lawsuits, Sig Sauer asked for immunity. NH lawmakers granted it.

The new law has drawn pushback from people who've been injured from unintentional firings of their Sig Sauer pistols.

Market Basket CEO on paid leave over allegedly plotting work stoppage

Family drama atop the famed New England grocery chain is spilling into public view again, more than 10 years after an employee- and customer-led boycott nearly crippled the company.

In New Hampshire, people with disabilities face challenges hiring the help they need

Amid New Hampshire’s tight labor market and low Medicaid reimbursement rates, people with disabilities face challenges hiring the help they need. And for people with unique needs, this can be difficult, isolating, and exhausting.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Lawyers want to question former NH corrections chief in trial over prison death

What work requirements would mean for people covered by Medicaid in New Hampshire

‘No surprise’ ambulance billing could be on the way for Granite Staters

New book reports Saint-Gobain was aware it could be spreading toxic chemicals in Merrimack

Top corrections official resigns; State expects dip in Canadian tourism

Fri, 23 May 2025 09:09:00 -0400

New Hampshire’s top corrections official resigned this week without explanation ending a more than two decade career with the department. Commissioner Helen Hanks oversaw the Department of Corrections for eight years until this week. Tensions had been brewing between Hanks and top New Hampshire Republicans.

And the number of Canadians visiting the U.S. declined in recent months and state officials are expecting a drop in tourists from our northern neighbors this summer. Parts of New Hampshire rely on tourist spending in the summertime. We discuss how a drop in Canadian tourists could affect local municipalities on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Charlotte Matherly, Concord Monitor
Josh Rogers, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Helen Hanks resigns as Department of Corrections commissioner

Head of police standards approved as interim leader of NH Corrections

By all appearances, Canadians are leery of coming to NH

Amid U.S.-Canada tensions, NH expects drop in cross-border summer tourists

New director of state aging commission fights to keep her agency alive

More New Hampshire headlines:

How a growing cohort of Black women are redefining doula care across New England

Emily started puberty blockers during a raging state and national debate

Senate budget writers move to nix New Hampshire’s arts council

Report finds no problems with management of state's YDC victim settlement fund

Judge rules Conway pastry painting can stay; town's argument crumbles

The push to make NH a haven for crypto businesses

Fri, 16 May 2025 08:27:00 -0400

Gov. Kelly Ayotte recently signed a law making New Hampshire the first state to authorize its treasury to purchase Bitcoin. What’s driving efforts here to make the state more attractive for cryptocurrency businesses?

And top House Republicans have accused New Hampshire’s public universities and colleges of admitting undocumented individuals as students at the exclusion of legal New Hampshire residents. But the most recent enrollment numbers show a total of three students — out of 22,000 —would be considered undocumented or part of the federal DACA program.

Guests:

Annmarie Timmins, NHPR
Josh Rogers, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Numbers don’t bear out lawmakers’ claims of vast undocumented student population on NH campuses

Top State House Republicans have accused public campuses of “harboring an unknown number” of undocumented students. In fact, there are three enrolled.

Bitcoin booster push to make New Hampshire ‘the granite cradle of crypto’

Top Republicans see cryptocurrency as an opportunity to transform New Hampshire’s economy. The momentum is driven in part by libertarian-minded lawmakers and activists connected to the Free State Project.

Testing reveals DNA evidence in alleged wrongful conviction in New Hampshire murder case

Jason Carroll has spent more than 30 years in prison claiming innocence in the murder of Sharon Johnson. Now, he could be one step closer to proving it.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Should NH students learn gun safety in school? A Republican lawmaker says yes.

Hanover voters encourage town officials to avoid contract with ICE

Faith, celebrations and community provide hope for NH Ukrainians

In Manchester, a funeral for an infant no one knew

Federal funding for health programs and university research at risk

Fri, 09 May 2025 08:10:00 -0400

The state could lose over $80 million in federal grant money for health programs, and funding for university research is also on the chopping block as the Trump administration continues to make cuts.

Gov. Kelly Ayotte and Republican lawmakers continue to be at odds over the next state budget as they work to resolve a shortfall. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Senate sets budget revenue targets below Ayotte’s, frustrating governor

In February, Ayotte presented an optimistic portrait of the state's economy and revenue forecasts. In April, the House took a less rosy approach. This week, the Senate recommended a middle ground.

Federal funds were the lifeblood of US scientific discovery. Where will the money come from now?

So far, officials say at least $2 million in research funding has been cut, and an additional $8 million grant has been identified as vulnerable.

Once dissed by DOGE, NH company now partnering with Musk on modernization project

Portsmouth-based Iron Mountain secured a $142 million contact with the U.S. Treasury less than three months after Elon Musk targeted the company’s operations as antiquated.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH Supreme Court strengthens protections for crime victims’ mental health records

Sununu to join venture capital firm run by former classmate

Proposed cuts to colleges, Medicaid draw crowd to NH State House

Want to start a garden in NH this spring? It’s not too late.

The politics of the YDC settlement fund

Fri, 02 May 2025 09:44:00 -0400

Lawmakers are crafting the state’s budget for the next two years, and one area facing a shortfall is the settlement fund for alleged victims of abuse at the state’s Youth Development Center.

How does that settlement process work, and what would happen if lawmakers don’t fund it? We hear from the settlement fund’s administrator, former New Hampshire Supreme Court Chief Justice John Broderick.

We also speak with NHPR’s Annmarie Timmins about some of the politics surrounding the fund during the budget process. She also discusses how a federal judge in Concord temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s restriction on DEI in schools.

We discuss these stories on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Justice John Broderick, YDC settlement fund administrator
Annmarie Timmins, NHPR Youth and Education Reporter

Top headlines from around New Hampshire this week:

‘Hanging on a rope’: Victims wait as lawmakers debate the future of the YDC fund.

Nearly 800 people with claims pending before the state’s Youth Development Center settlement fund. With the fund down to about $13 million, lawmakers who enthusiastically established it three years ago appear to be backing away over concerns about how victims’ lawyers are being paid.

New Hampshire federal judge partially blocks Trump administration DEI ban

A New Hampshire federal judge partially blocked a Trump administration directive forbidding diversity, equity and inclusion programming in schools that receive federal funding.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Judge grants preliminary injunction amid ‘constantly shifting ground’ for Dartmouth student

Most charges against protesters arrested at Dartmouth, UNH last spring have been dropped

Facing 30% budget cut, state university leaders say raising tuition is not an option

NH universities remain vigilant amid immigration records changes

Access to Medicaid, addiction treatment and more at risk amid proposed spending cuts

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 08:21:00 -0400

New Hampshire lawmakers have proposed significant spending cuts as the state faces a shortfall in the next budget. Among those cuts, is a proposal to eliminate the Office of the Child Advocate, an independent watchdog agency that oversees the state’s treatment of at-risk youth.

House budget writers have also proposed moving around funds originally meant for helping people living with opioid addiction. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

William Skipworth, New Hampshire Bulletin
Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR

Top headlines from around New Hampshire this week:

Money set aside to help NH’s opioid crisis could be steered elsewhere in the state budget

The money at issue comes from legal settlements with companies accused of fueling the opioid crisis.

As Senate takes up budget, state rep intensifies attacks on New Hampshire’s child advocate

What was initially pitched as purely a cost-cutting measure has morphed into attacks on the New Hampshire Office of the Child Advocate.

In Manchester, those treating substance use disorder fear the repercussions of Medicaid cuts

Nearly 10,000 people in New Hampshire receive medication treatment for opioid use disorder through Medicaid.

More New Hampshire headlines:

New Hampshire Catholics mourn Pope Francis

At Dartmouth, some focus on building ‘networks of care’ as risks to campus activists mount

Federal judge hears arguments over NH’s proof of citizenship voting law

Merrimack Station is exempt from new air pollution rules, as it moves toward closing in 2028

Ayotte's first 100 days as governor

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 08:06:00 -0400

Kelly Ayotte is approaching her 100-day mark as New Hampshire governor. What kind of a start has she made to her first term?

A New England real estate attorney and U.S. citizen says he and his wife are pursuing legal action after they were detained at the Vermont-Canadian border without explanation. Bachir Atallah says he was handcuffed and then held by Customs and Border Patrol for several hours last weekend. Bachir and his sister Celine Atallah joined NHPR's Rick Ganley to talk about his experience. Celine is an immigration attorney here in New England.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Bachir Atallah, New England real estate attorney
Celine Atallah, New England immigration attorney

Top headlines from around New Hampshire this week:

Republican leaders seek to ‘put a leash’ on towns and cities amid local control debate

The concept of local control — that political decision making is best when it's closest to the people — may be gospel in NH politics. But that same idea is also increasingly under threat in the State House these days.

Judge presses Trump administration to define DEI programs it seeks to ban

The National Education Association and its New Hampshire chapter are suing the U.S. Department of Education to stop its ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.

From stuffed animals to steel: How Trump’s tariffs are weighting on NH businesses

A toy importer is delaying a new warehouse in Keene, while a steel fabricator in Greenfield worries other projects could dry up if Trump’s tariffs stifle economic growth.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Parts of White Mountain National Forest included in move aimed at increasing timber harvest

Hospitals sue state over New Hampshire’s Medicaid tax

Bassett to retire from NH Supreme Court, opening a seat for Ayotte to fill

Displaced Ukrainians in NH are uncertain about the future of their protected status

House passes state budget that includes deep spending cuts

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 08:21:00 -0400

The New Hampshire House passed its version of the state budget this week that includes deep spending cuts and eliminates state jobs. The spending plan will now go to the Senate for review.

Students at universities across the country, and here in New Hampshire, have lost their immigration status abruptly in the last week, affecting their ability to work and conduct research. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Lau Guzmán, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH House passes budget plan that includes deep spending cuts, eliminates state jobs

The House’s budget now goes to the state Senate, which will spend weeks reviewing — and likely rewriting — the spending proposal.

Federal court issues order allowing Dartmouth Ph.D. student from China to continue research

A federal judge in New Hampshire said Wednesday she would block the Trump administration’s apparent revocation of the individual's F-1 student immigration status.

Still no answers about mistaken DHS email sent to Ukrainian evacuees in NH

Most Ukrainians who received the email weren’t expecting any changes to their immigration status.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH Chief Justice announces hiring freeze, warns of layoffs across branch if budget passes

School funding, and lots more, still on the table at midpoint of NH Legislature’s year

NH Republicans pursue more restrictions on trans rights, building on recent bans

Casella subsidiary sues NH over Dalton landfill denial

Pappas embraces fighting stance in Senate campaign launch

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 10:06:00 -0400

Congressman Chris Pappas announced this week he’s running for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Sen. Jeanne Shaheen. Shaheen announced last month that she won’t be seeking election.

The New Hampshire House Finance Committee voted this week to make steep cuts to government spending in its proposed state budget for the next two years.

And the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has tapped Mark Sanborn to be the next Regional Administrator for New England. Sanborn will be in charge of advancing the Trump administration’s environmental agenda across New England states and federally recognized Tribal Nations. Rick Ganley speaks with him about his goals in his new position.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Mark Sanborn, EPA Regional Administrator for New England

Top headlines from around New Hampshire this week:

Pappas promises to bring 'fight' to Trump in Senate campaign kickoff

Pappas’ decision to run for Senate is an obvious next step for the four-term congressman, and something he signaled was all but inevitable from the moment Shaheen announced she would not be seeking reelection next year.

NH Republicans add DEI limits to House budget proposal, as Democrats cry foul

The New Hampshire House’s Finance Committee voted Tuesday to cut roughly $300 million from Gov. Kelly Ayotte’s proposed state spending plan in a series of sweeping financial moves.

Former New Hampshire regulator tapped to lead New England’s EPA office

Mark Sanborn, who served as assistant commissioner of New Hampshire’s Department of Environmental Services between 2021 and 2023, has worked in several federal and state government positions.

More New Hampshire headlines:

As NH Republicans aim to ban DEI, disability advocates and others sound the alarm

Judge praises NH’s progress cutting down wait times for inpatient mental health care

Planned Parenthood says Trump officials froze family planning funding in NH, Maine

'COGE' members are taking a slower approach to cutting spending than 'DOGE'

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 08:19:00 -0400

As the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency, or DODGE, has made sweeping cuts to federal spending, members of New Hampshire’s Commission on Government Efficiency, or COGE, are beginning their work — though the panel says it’s taking a different approach than its federal counterpart.

New Hampshire libraries and arts organizations are bracing for possible funding cuts from both the state and federal governments. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Olivia Richardson, NHPR
Charlotte Matherly, Concord Monitor

Top headlines from around New Hampshire this week:

NH lawmakers back off plan to defund state library but propose other funding cuts

A wave of art organizations and libraries are rallying public support for continued funding amid potential state and federal cuts.

Food pantries across NH brace for shortfalls after federal budget cuts

Pantries are considering adjustments to where they source their food and income.

As Ayotte’s COGE digs deeper, here’s where they’re looking to save state money and time

The members of Gov. Kelly Ayotte’s Commission on Government Efficiency, tasked with evaluating state government and making recommendations on how to save money and streamline operations, were more detailed in their reports at their second public meeting this week.

His job is to settle fights over government transparency. Some say there’s room for improvement.

The state's right-to-know ombudsman position was created in 2022. Now, it could be in limbo.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Family planning program for low-income Granite Staters could be on the budget chopping block

Ayotte signs bail overhaul, giving judges more discretion to detain defendant's pretrial

In Manchester, an urgent call to address NH’s rising youth homelessness

What’s it like to work on Mount Washington with the world’s most extreme weather?

Immigration lawyers advise caution, preparation amid Logan Airport ICE detentions

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 10:17:00 -0400

Local immigration lawyers are raising concerns after two people with legal status were recently detained at Boston Logan Airport after traveling internationally. In one of those cases, a person was deported despite having a visa allowing her to work in the US. We hear how one New Hampshire immigration lawyer is advising clients to prepare if they have international travel plans.

And the number of ICE detainees at Strafford County Jail has increased since January as the Trump administration commits to mass deportations. We talk with a reporter who visited the jail and followed a program that assists people facing deportation.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Lau Guzmán, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Immigration lawyers concerned about scrutiny, civil rights for green card and visa holders

Two recent cases of people with legal status being detained or deported after arriving at Boston Logan Airport following international travel are raising concerns for immigration lawyers about enforcement at the airport.

Dartmouth urges travel precautions for immigrant, international students

School officials advised students to carry identification and immigration status documents, for international and domestic travel.

More NH law enforcement agencies agree to participate in federal immigration efforts

A growing number of New Hampshire law enforcement agencies have been approved to join a federal program that deputizes local officers to carry out federal immigration enforcement, including serving warrants and detaining people suspected of being in the country illegally.

‘You are not alone’: Inside jail, volunteers work to save ICE detainees from deportation

Volunteers with the New Hampshire Immigrant Visitation Program help with paperwork, the court process, or finding an attorney.

Amphibious migration underway in N.H., a sure sign of spring

Hundreds of wood frogs and spring peepers embark on their annual migration to the vernal pools where they mate and lay their eggs.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH schools advised to roll back transgender protections to comply with Trump mandates

House bill sparks controversy over Abenaki identity and NH Native American Commission

Portsmouth Naval Shipyard exempted from hiring freeze by the Pentagon

Insurers warn of increased premiums if NH vaccine program is gutted

Shaheen will not run for reelection, ending long political career

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 08:36:00 -0400

Democratic Sen. Jeanne Shaheen announced this week that she will not run for reelection in 2026. What's next for her and how could that decision affect the upcoming midterm elections?

And voters across the state went to the polls this week for town elections. We talk through some of those results.

Guests:

Felice Belman, New York Times
Abigail Ham, Keene Sentinel

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Shaheen says she won’t run for reelection, ending long political career

In a video released Wednesday, the senator and former New Hampshire governor said “it’s just time” to step away from elected office

NH’s new ID requirements send some would-be voters home to grab passports, birth certificates

The law requires all new voters to show proof of their U.S. citizenship. For some, that meant making multiple trips to and from the polls before finally casting a ballot on Tuesday.

After eight years, Edelblut will step down as NH’s top education official

He'll stay on in the role through the end of this school year, Gov. Kelly Ayotte announced Thursday.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH House okays tightened bail standards, with support of Ayotte and law enforcement

Steel tariffs could boost some NH manufacturers, but increase prices and hurt sales for others

Executive Council moves forward with promotion for trans National Guard captain after delay

It’s maple sugaring season in NH, and it’s not too late to produce your own syrup

How Trump tariffs could affect NH energy bills

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 10:16:00 -0500

President Trump’s tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico were slated to take effect earlier this week, but on Thursday Trump changed course, saying he would give a break to all goods covered by the United States-Mexico-Canada agreement. We hear if energy imports are covered in the exemptions and how tariffs could affect Granite Staters’ energy bills.

Also: A new lawsuit out of New Hampshire is challenging the Trump administration’s ban on diversity, equity and inclusion programs in public schools. The lawsuit alleges the restrictions chill teachers’ free speech.

We discuss these stories with local reporters on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Jeremy Margolis, Concord Monitor
Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

What do Canadian tariffs mean for your energy bills?

Fuel oil is New Hampshire’s top Canadian import, according to a fact sheet produced last March by the Consulate General in Boston. Much of the gasoline and diesel used in the region also comes from our northern neighbor, according to the New England-Canada business council.

Teachers union sues Trump administration over DEI ban in schools

New Hampshire’s largest teachers union is challenging the Trump administration’s threat to withhold federal funding from schools that participate in diversity, equity and inclusion programming.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Trump's tariffs take aim at a key New England trading partner: Canada

Bills aimed at transgender rights move forward in NH State House

Lawmakers hear testimony on effort to dissolve NH's Office of the Consumer Advocate

Debate over NH's bail system returns to State House

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 09:15:00 -0500

New Hampshire's bail system has been the subject of debate among state lawmakers and municipal leaders since it was overhauled back in 2018. A recent case in Manchester has helped bring that debate to the forefront once again.

A prison in Berlin will potentially be one of five federal facilities used to hold immigration detainees in the U.S. And New Hampshire farmers are feeling the effects of the Trump administration's federal funding freeze.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Todd Bookman, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Manchester stabbing at the center of renewed bail reform debate in NH State House

Gov. Kelly Ayotte is highlighting a recent incident on Elm Street as proof the state’s bail laws are creating a public safety risk. The details of the case are more nuanced.

NH state troopers, local police seek to participate in immigration efforts

The New Hampshire State Police, the Gorham police department and the Belknap County Sheriff's Office are all seeking to join a program that deputizes local police officers to carry out federal immigration enforcement.

Plan to house hundreds of ICE detainees in Berlin draws pushback

The ACLU of New Hampshire filed a FOIA to confirm reports from several news outlets that claim that the Berlin Federal Correctional Institution will hold immigration detainees.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Some Medicaid recipients would pay premiums under Ayotte’s budget plan

Housing remains top concern for NH residents

Some federal climate funding unfrozen in New Hampshire

New exhibit features historical works by Black authors with ties to NH

How families are spending Education Freedom Account funds

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 08:59:00 -0500

The state’s Education Freedom Accounts program gives money to families for homeschooling costs or private school tuition. A recent analysis from the Concord Monitor found those funds can go toward a wide range of different expenses, including ski trips and horseback riding.

New Hampshire lawmakers are hoping to address a number of concerns related to maternal health this session. And businesses in the state could be losing millions of revenue to due a shortage of child care.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Jeremy Margolis, Concord Monitor
Will Skipworth, New Hampshire Bulletin

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Inside EFAS: From books to skiing, here’s how homeschooling families spend their Education Freedom Account dollars

The bill also instructs the state Insurance Department to examine barriers to sustainability for New Hampshire maternity wards.

Lawmakers introduce ‘Momnibus 2.0’ bill to address maternal health in New Hampshire

The bill also instructs the state Insurance Department to examine barriers to sustainability for New Hampshire maternity wards.

Dartmouth researchers brace for Trump’s NIH funding cuts

As President Donald Trump seeks to hack away at the federal budget, removing programs that don’t align with his agenda, researchers backed by the National Institutes of Health, the world’s largest medical research funder, stand to lose $4 billion — a fact that’s struck fear into New Hampshire’s medical research community.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Citing Harmony Montgomery case, NH lawmakers want to keep murderers from profiting off victim’s death

White Mountain National Forest employees among federal staffing cuts

NH school athletic association tells districts to enforce Trump’s transgender sports ban

NH Congolese community raises awareness about ongoing violence

Ayotte presents her budget proposal to lawmakers

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 08:16:00 -0500

Two New Hampshire high school students are challenging President Trump’s transgender sports ban. The students are also fighting the state’s version of the ban in federal court.

Gov. Kelly Ayotte presented her budget proposal to the New Hampshire Legislature this week. And a new state law allows New Hampshire voters to cap school funding in their local districts. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Annmarie Timmins, NHPR
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH high school students challenge Trump’s transgender sports ban in federal court

Two high school athletes have asked a federal judge to expand their lawsuit challenging the state’s transgender sports ban to include President Trump and his recent order banning transgender girls from playing on girls’ sports teams.

Ayotte calls for state budget writers to ‘recalibrate’ in face of financial headwinds

In her budget address to lawmakers, Ayotte proposed cutting state spending by $150 million or roughly 3%, a reduction she said was undertaken “with a scalpel, not a shovel.”

Republicans say out-of-state college students should vote back home. Students disagree.

State lawmakers are considering a number of bills that, if passed, could make it more difficult for college students to vote in New Hampshire.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH cities and towns are supposed to clean their own sidewalks. This winter, that’s been a challenge

‘Right-to-work’ legislation stalls again in NH House

NH officials suspended activity on state program to build EV chargers

NH doctors warn against bill that could gut childhood vaccine-buying program

Gov. advisory panels on police accountability and diversity eliminated

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 09:20:00 -0500

State advisory panels on policing and diversity initiatives are no more after former Gov. Chris Sununu rescinded over a hundred executive orders before he left office.

And a state lawmaker is apologizing after making derogatory comments about victims of abuse at the state’s youth detention facility. Republican Rep. Ken Weyler said victims may have brought abuse on themselves and didn’t deserve settlement payments from the state to compensate them.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Steven Porter, Boston Globe
Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR

Top Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Advisory panels on diversity and policing eliminated during N.H. gubernatorial transition

Shortly before he left office, Gov. Chris Sununu rescinded 145 executive orders at once, including some signed by his predecessors and many he had issued himself.

N.H. state lawmaker apologizes for ‘insensitive’ comments about abuse victims

A state lawmaker facing criticism from both sides of the political aisle for derogatory comments he made about victims of physical and sexual abuse in state-run youth detention facilities apologized Wednesday in a statement released by the New Hampshire House.

No further police investigation is needed into crackdown on pro-Palestinian protest, says UNH president

University of New Hampshire President Elizabeth S. Chilton has rejected calls for a further police investigation into the crackdown on pro-Palestinian protesters last year that resulted in a dozen arrests on UNH’s Durham campus.

What to know about bird flu in New Hampshire: From backyard flocks to waterfowl

New Hampshire health officials say they are continuing to monitor for bird flu activity, as the disease spreads across the country and in nearby states, including Massachusetts. Here’s what you need to know about the risk levels — for humans and animals — in New Hampshire.

More New Hampshire headlines:

How schools and hospitals are preparing for possible encounters with ICE

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 09:11:00 -0500

New Hampshire schools and hospitals are figuring out how they’ll respond if immigration enforcement comes to their grounds. This comes after the Trump administration lifted protections on schools and other areas from immigration operations, including arrests.

And a Trump administration directive that would freeze federal grants and assistance was rescinded this week. We hear about New Hampshire nonprofits who would have been affected by the order.

Guests:

Olivia Richardson, NHPR
Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

How New Hampshire schools are preparing to respond if ICE shows up at their door

Some schools have told staff to contact the superintendent if ICE or other law enforcement officials arrive with a judicial warrant.

NH Medical Society speaks out against policy allowing ICE arrests at hospitals

The New Hampshire Medical Society is speaking out against the Trump administration’s decision to allow immigration arrests at hospitals, saying it could deter patients from seeking care.

Trump’s attempted funding freeze creates a day of ‘anxiety and chaos’ for NH nonprofits

The pace of changes around the funding freeze order created confusion and anxiety for many New Hampshire nonprofits, which rely on federal funds to provide addiction treatment and recovery programs and a vast array of other social services.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH Republican legislators support more local cooperation with ICE

In first full session, GOP-led state Senate moves fast on Ayotte's priorities

NH refugees reeling from Trump order: 'It's impossible for them to find that hope they used to have'

Trump used his first week to make big energy moves. How will those affect NH?

How Trump’s immigration policies could affect NH

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 08:38:00 -0500

A New Hampshire nonprofit is one of three organizations suing President Donald Trump and other government agencies over efforts to end birthright citizenship. The ACLU of New Hampshire, as well as the groups affiliates in Massachusetts and Maine, are representing the plaintiffs.

And the cost of public education in New Hampshire is rising, even as student enrollment continues to decline. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Lau Guzmán, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH ACLU, local Indonesian community sue over Trump effort to end birthright citizenship

The organizations argue that the Trump administration’s move to end birthright citizenship for the children of some immigrants is unconstitutional.

NH faith leaders support immigrants, host vigil at ICE building in Manchester

As the Trump administration begins to carry out promises to tighten immigration enforcement, some New Hampshire faith communities are trying to show their support for immigrants.

Why is public education so expensive in New Hampshire?

The cost to educate public school students in New Hampshire is rising, even while enrollment continues to decline.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH Medical Society speaks out against policy allowing ICE arrests at hospitals

NH’s all Democratic delegation joins GOP to pass Laken Riley Act

Ayotte announces state hiring freeze, citing budget deficit

NH warming shelters face challenges at temperatures fall and demand grows

Lawmakers focus on immigration enforcement ahead of Trump inauguration

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 08:42:00 -0500

New Hampshire legislators are considering immigration enforcement as the incoming Trump administration promises to carry out a mass deportation of immigrants when he’s in office. How could these state proposals affect New Hampshire’s labor force?

And Granite Staters rallied outside the State House earlier this week, calling on lawmakers to fund special education programs.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Annmarie Timmins, NHPR
Lau Guzmán, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Amid public outcry, Edelblut pledges state support for rising special education costs

Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut says he is now working with lawmakers to cover nearly $16 million unanticipated special education costs. Two months ago, Edelblut told school leaders they would be shouldering that expense.

Judge says state committed 'gross negligence' in Sanborn casino fraud case

A state superior court judge has disqualified a state prosecutor and financial expert from the Attorney General's office’s fraud case against Concord Casino Andy Sanborn, after finding the office committed “gross negligence” during its investigation.

NH legislators address national debate around immigration, mass deportations

Some New Hampshire Republican legislators are aiming to add new rules focused on immigrants and immigration enforcement, particularly for undocumented residents.

NH foster kids don't keep their Social Security benefits. That may change.

A new report says it is legal for New Hampshire use Social Security payments for foster kids' daily care, but not in their best interest.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH Chief Justice refutes Hantz Marconi's account of key meeting with Sununu

With a ban looming, NH TikTok creators look for backup plans

Rye Harbor restaurant sues over alleged mistreatment and illegal tax on sales

Gov. Kelly Ayotte pushes for limiting state government in inaugural speech

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 09:16:00 -0500

Gov. Kelly Ayotte officially took office this week and gave her first inaugural address. She touched on many different issues in her speech – from the state budget, to education and housing. We discuss her message to Granite Staters.

And state officials have approved the acquisition of Catholic Medical Center by HCA Healthcare. We hear what this means for the state of the healthcare industry in New Hampshire.

Guests:

Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin
Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

In inaugural address, Ayotte warns of budget cuts, talks up EFAs, sanctuary city ban

Gov. Kelly Ayotte delivered an inaugural address Thursday that sought to carve out what the state should do during her term, including reducing state government.

Republicans return to Concord in firm control – and facing steep budget challenges

The GOP’s stronger hand in the State House this year coincides with some significant financial challenges.

Respiratory illnesses are on the rise in New Hampshire

Health experts say vaccination is the "best line of defense," along with other precautions.

In NH, some advocates welcome Surgeon General's call for cancer warnings on alcohol

The U.S. Surgeon General’s call for cancer warnings on alcohol is being welcomed by some substance-misuse prevention advocates in New Hampshire.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH lawmakers will again try to expand school meal programs, as food insecurity grows

PDA announces Geno Marconi’s retirement. Marconi says that’s not true.

Facing theft charges, Sanborn makes first trip to court

How N.H. catapulted an unknown Jimmy Carter to the White House

NH News Recap for Dec. 20, 2024: A review of some of the top stories from 2024

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 08:45:00 -0500

Voters turned out in record breaking numbers in New Hampshire's general elections this November. Students across the country and here in New Hampshire took to college campuses this spring to protest Israel's war in Gaza. Communities across the state continue to recover from multiple flooding events.

We look back on these top stories and more from 2024 in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Olivia Richardson, NHPR
Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR

NH News News Recap for Dec. 13, 2024: They needed psychiatric care. Instead, they died after confrontations with corrections officers.

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 06:41:00 -0500

In the new year, a former New Hampshire prison guard will stand trial for murder. State prosecutors say he killed a man in a prison psychiatric unit by restraining him in a dangerous way. But this wasn’t the first time someone in this unit with serious mental illness died after being held down by officers. And in that case, the state denies any wrongdoing. NHPR reporter Paul Cuno-Booth digs into the case on a special edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

NH News Recap for Dec. 6, 2024: How lawmakers plan to address the housing crisis next session

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 10:10:00 -0500

The Republican-controlled New Hampshire Legislature picked its leaders this week. And House representatives voted this week to create a new committee dedicated to the state's housing crisis.

Lawyers for state Supreme Court Justice Anna Barbara Hantz Marconi asked a lower court judge this week to toss out her corruption case.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Steven Porter, Boston Globe
Michaela Towfighi, Concord Monitor

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Governor’s appearance at closed door meeting sheds new light on his role in Marconi case

Gov. Sununu and members of the Pease Development Authority board met in private with the Attorney General shortly before Geno Marconi was placed on administrative leave. Criminal charges for him — and his wife, Supreme Court Justice Anna Barbara Hantz Marconi — followed.

Republican Sherman Packard wins third term as NH House Speaker

Packard told lawmakers they will face a tough two years, particularly when it comes to the state budget.

Councilors hit pause on Dartmouth Health takeover of psychiatric hospital for kids

The deal is backed by Gov. Chris Sununu and state health officials, but questions emerged about oversight of Hampstead Hospital.

One thing lawmakers can agree on? New Hampshire’s in a housing crisis.

Advocates and many lawmakers hoped 2024 would be the year of housing in the Legislature… as there were a record number of bills introduced on the issue, but most failed. They are hoping this next session could be different.

NH News Recap for Nov. 22, 2024: What budget cuts to Fish and Game could mean for outdoor recreation

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 08:35:00 -0500

New Hampshire agencies are facing potential funding cuts in the next state budget. That includes Fish and Game, which is already facing significant financial challenges. And it's unusually dry in New Hampshire this November, a time of year when drought is relatively uncommon. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap with NHPR's Mara Hoplamazian and New Hampshire Bulletin's Claire Sullivan.

NH News Recap for Nov. 15, 2024: Lawmakers renew push for gun reform, security upgrades a year after NH Hospital shooting

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 14:09:00 -0500

One year ago this Sunday, Bradley Haas, a security guard at New Hampshire Hospital, was killed when a former patient walked into the lobby and opened fire. Moments later, a state trooper shot and killed the gunman, John Madore.

The tragedy prompted calls to reform New Hampshire's gun laws and security measures at public buildings. In this edition of the NH News Recap, we look at where those efforts stand now.

Guests:

Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR
Annmarie Timmins, NHPR

Top stories stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH gun reform failed after hospital shooting. Advocates will try again in 2025.

A push to add mental health records to the federal background check system fell short this year in the Legislature.

Security improvements remain a work in progress, one year after NH Hospital shooting

New Hampshire has completed some upgraded safety measures at the state hospital, but officials are only just beginning to take on most of the other recommendations, including a professional safety assessment of all state facilities.

More New Hampshire headlines:

New Manchester coalition tackles rising demand for adult English classes

Four people plead guilty to damaging NH building owned by Israeli defense contractor

Recent Republican gains in Manchester reflect party's statewide wins

Judge gives NH more time to end ER boarding of psychiatric patients

NH News Recap for Nov. 8, 2024: The election results are in. So what's next for New Hampshire?

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 08:04:00 -0500

Voters turned out in record numbers this week to cast their ballots. New Hampshire Democrats won the federal races, while Republicans claimed victory at the State House. We dive into the election results on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Ayotte wins race for governor with promise to keep NH on the ‘Sununu path’

The race pitted two experienced campaigners against each other in a contest that attracted lots of national attention — and national money.

NH Republicans claim big State House wins and strengthen majorities in House and Senate

While New Hampshire Democrats won the federal races, Republicans claimed victory nearly everywhere else on the ballot: in the state House of Representatives, the state Senate and the Executive Council.

Pappas, Goodlander both win, as NH Democrats maintain hold on Congressional seats

Democrats appeared to sweep New Hampshire’s congressional district races on Tuesday.

At a post-election peace vigil in Nashua, some express concern and a need for honesty

The event was planned before the election results were called, anticipating a need for people to reflect on a long election season.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Sanborn goes around AG, asks court for help selling casino

Climate change could affect fall colors. 35 years of data from NH might provide insights on how.

Some NH communities are turning to ‘housing navigators’ for help with the housing crisis

NH News Recap for Nov. 1, 2024: Live from Airport Diner in Manchester

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 09:43:00 -0400

Voters across New Hampshire will head to the polls on Tuesday to cast their ballots for president, the state’s next governor and more.

In this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap, we discuss the top issues on voters’ minds ahead of the election. We also discuss the latest updates from the campaign trail.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Anna Brown, Citizens Count
Carol Robidoux, Manchester Ink Link

Other election news from around New Hampshire:

Plenty at stake, including State House control, in NH’s down ballot races

Democrats are hoping to flip control of the NH House, as Republicans works to hold their legislative majorities.

Follow the ballot: What happens after you vote in NH?

Votes will be cast and counted on Nov. 5, but final results for New Hampshire’s elections won’t be ready immediately, as recounts and the formal certification process take time to complete.

Where they stand: Candidates for NH governor, CD1 and CD2

Get caught up on where the top-of-the-ballot candidates stand on issues that matter to Granite Staters, such as housing, abortion, immigration, and addiction.

Split decisions: NH election outcomes could hinge on voters who cross party lines

Ticket splitting has played a major role in recent New Hampshire politics. It's likely to shape this year's election as well.

Should NH judges retire at 70 or 75? Some aren’t sure that’s the right question

Plus: Explore the data on how raising the judicial retirement age to 75 could affect New Hampshire courts.

NH News Recap for Oct. 25, 2024: Candidates race to mobilize voters ahead of Election Day

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 09:58:00 -0400

As Election Day nears, candidates are trying to mobilize voters with campaign events and high profile endorsements. President Joe Biden made a stop in Concord at NHTI with Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders at the New Hampshire Democratic party headquarters. U.S. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries also visited the state this week to support Maggie Goodlander in her bid to represent New Hampshire’s 2nd Congressional District.

And Gov. Chris Sununu says new allegations about Donald Trump’s support for authoritarians don't change his support for the former president. We discuss these stories and more on this edition of the NH News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Paula Tracy, Indepth NH

Top stories from around New Hampshire:

Biden, Sanders Tout Success in Bringing Down Drug Prices at NHTI Event

President Joe Biden and U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders came to New Hampshire Tuesday to tout “consequential progress” in taking on what Sanders called “the greed of the pharmaceutical industry” through the Inflation Reduction Act.

Housing Is Big Issue in Race for Governor: Ayotte, Craig Weigh In

With estimates that the state will need close to 90,000 new affordable housing units by 2040 to address the state’s needs and it is already 23,000 units behind, housing is a big issue in the upcoming governor’s race.

As Ayotte and Craig clash, race for NH governor expected to break spending record

The New Hampshire governor's race in 2024 is on pace to top the previous record for fundraising among the candidates.

Top stories from around New Hampshire:

Hantz Marconi says Chief Justice MacDonald approved her meeting with Sununu

Portsmouth bank executive sues ex-police officer over November 2023 assault

EPA fines NH developer for violating lead paint rules

NH News Recap for Oct. 18, 2024: State Supreme Court Justice and former state Senator indicted

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 09:56:00 -0400

The longtime head of New Hampshire’s Port Authority, Geno Marconi, has been indicted for alleged witness tampering, retaliation and other charges. His wife, Anna Barbara Hantz Marconi was also indicted this week for allegedly trying to intervene in that investigation. She is a New Hampshire Supreme Court Justice. And former state Sen. Andy Sanborn was also indicted this week for allegedly stealing pandemic relief funding. We talk about these stories and more with New Hampshire Bulletin's Ethan DeWitt and Boston Globe's Amanda Gokee.

NH News Recap for Oct. 11, 2024: Candidates for governor work to sway voters on top issues

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 09:39:00 -0400

In less than a month Granite Staters will elect a new governor. Former Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig and former US Senator Kelly Ayotte are vying for the corner office, and we hear the top issues they’re campaigning on as they work to sway voters.

And the Keene Board of Education met this week to discuss possible changes to its lunch debt policy. Advocates have raised concerns that Keene’s middle and high schools could withhold food from students who have lunch debt.

We discuss these stories on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
James Rinker, Keene Sentinel

Top stories from around New Hampshire:

Ayotte and Craig keep focus on their core issues, as governor race enters home stretch

With less than a month until Election Day, both candidates appear locked in on their chosen issues and are largely talking past each other — and spending less time on issues of most concern to voters, like housing and the broader economy.

KBOE stresses need for better communication in lunch debt, bullying discussions

Amid public scrutiny on how the Keene School District addresses bullying and lunch debt, the Keene Board of Education discussed next steps and potential community solutions for both issues at its meeting at Keene High School Tuesday.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Do you know if your water service lines contain lead? Watch for a letter from your water system.

Two Republican candidates sue Goffstown library over election questionnaire

NH Sec. of State orders use of affidavit ballots on Election Day, despite law’s conflicting dates

Hundreds gather for vigil marking first anniversary of Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel

NH News Recap for Oct. 4, 2024: Syringe service programs show signs of success in Manchester

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 09:53:00 -0400

A group of parents is suing the Bow School District after officials barred two of them from school grounds for protesting transgender athletes’ participation in girls’ sports.

And the city of Manchester has passed an ordinance regulating syringe service programs. It’s the first municipality in the state to do so. Manchester Public Health Director Anna Thomas says harm reduction initiatives have reduced overdoses by 25% and fatalities by 44% over the past two years.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Lau Guzmán, NHPR
Sruthi Gopalakrishnan, Concord Monitor

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

As Bow parents protesting trans athletes take legal action, others plead for them to stop

“We don't want you supporting our girls the way you are,” Alex Zerba, a parent of a girls varsity soccer player, said of the protests.

Manchester passes first-in-state ordinance about syringe service programs

The ordinance requires programs to register with the city, share more data with city officials and places limits on where mobile exchanges can operate.

As regulators scrutinize Exeter Hospital cuts, patients brace for the consequences

The cuts are on hold for six months. But they've already left some patients feeling betrayed and uncertain about what comes next.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH hospitals face shortage of IV fluids, but say patient care is unaffected

Scientists are teaching NH kids how to test wells for water contamination

UNH research shows how carbon might move around in New England forests as climate change continues

NH News Recap for Sept. 27, 2024: Latest in the battle over the state's school funding model

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 08:24:00 -0400

The legal fight over how the state funds its schools continues as the New Hampshire Supreme Court takes up two separate lawsuits. The plaintiffs claim claim the current funding model is unfair to school districts and taxpayers and that the state is not providing an "adequate education." Republican and Democratic lawmakers are also weighing in.

And with the cost of buying or renting a home in New Hampshire more expensive than ever, affordable housing is a top issue in the state political races this year — especially in the race for governor.

Guests:

Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin
Josh Rogers, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Democratic lawmakers ask Supreme Court to implement need-based school funding model

In the brief filed to the court this week, the lawmakers are asking for a “needs-based arrangement,” in which the state distributes funding based on what each district needs to succeed.

Housing is big in the NH governor race – and Ayotte and Craig both have skin in the game

As New Hampshire faces a shortfall in affordable housing, candidates for governor promise action but fixes are complicated.

Exeter Hospital cuts are postponed for 6 months, after pressure from AG’s office

State officials said the hospital will keep neurology, pediatric dentistry and other services open for six months while regulators review the planned cuts.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Top NH National Guard general defends response in wake of harassment investigation

Manchester community has mixed reactions to officers involved in ‘manhunt’ incident

NH Food Bank hopes new Berlin warehouse will bring ‘systemic change’ to North Country food access

The role of school meals when nearly half of NH children live with food insecurity

NH News Recap for September 20, 2024: Voter ID law faces legal challenge; Exeter Hospital cuts alarm patients

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 07:38:00 -0400

A new voter ID law has already faced its first legal challenge. Gov. Chris Sununu signed the law just a week ago. It would require people to show proof of citizenship and residency when they register to vote at the polls.

Exeter Hospital says it will stop offering certain services in just a couple weeks. The state attorney general says the hospital isn’t being fully transparent about the decision. We hear how this is affecting patients on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Todd Bookman, NHPR
Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Concerns about noncitizen voting drive sweeping new restrictions in New Hampshire

A new law in New Hampshire will require anyone registering to vote for the first time in the Granite State to provide documentation they are U.S. citizens, like a birth certificate or passport, a noteworthy win for conservatives who argue, without evidence, that elections nationwide may be tainted by noncitizen voting and therefore need more restrictions.

NH Youth Movement sues to overturn new voter ID law

The new lawsuit from the New Hampshire Youth Movement, filed in federal court on Tuesday, alleges that the law violates the U.S. Constitution by making it “substantially harder—and in some cases impossible—for many New Hampshire citizens to register and vote.”

NH attorney general demands answers on Exeter Hospital cuts

In a statement Monday, New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella said his office is “carefully reviewing” whether the planned cuts violate the terms of Exeter Hospital’s merger with Beth Israel Lahey Health last year.

Exeter Hospital delays closure of paramedic intercept program, after AG steps in

The hospital’s Advanced Life Support program sends paramedics in a specially equipped “intercept” vehicle to emergencies that call for more advanced care than EMTs can provide. Local fire chiefs say it’s critical for smaller towns that don’t have their own paramedics on staff 24/7.

More New Hampshire headlines:

In Keene, students who owe more than $20 could miss lunch. Some say that should change.

CNN investigation finds rampant sexual harassment, assault in NH National Guard

In wrongful death lawsuit, Harmony Montgomery's mother alleges negligence by NH officials

NH Libertarian Party's post on 'assassination' of Harris attracts attention of state, federal law enforcement

NH News Recap for Sept. 13, 2024: Candidates look to November, the latest on the YDC abuse scandal

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 10:22:00 -0400

The race for governor, congressional seats and offices at the state and local level are now set; we have a look ahead to the November election. Also: a criminal trial tied to the YDC abuse scandal ends with a hung jury- and new reporting from NHPR reveals one of the witnesses who testified is himself accused of abuse. NHPR's Josh Rogers and Jason Moon report.

NH News Recap for Sept. 6, 2024: Harris stumps in NH, competitive races in the upcoming state primary

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 09:10:00 -0400

Vice President Kamala Harris made a campaign stop in North Hampton this week. It's her first visit to New Hampshire since President Joe Biden dropped out of the race and she became a presidential candidate.

And the New Hampshire state primary is coming up this Tuesday. There are many competitive contests on both the Democratic and Republican sides of the ballot. We run through the latest in those races.

Guests:

Todd Bookman, NHPR
Anna Brown, Citizens Count

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

In North Hampton campaign stop, Harris touts small biz plan

Vice President Kamala Harris rolled out a plan to support entrepreneurs with expanded tax credits and streamlined tax filings during a campaign stop in North Hampton on Wednesday.

Disclosures show significant financial holdings for Democrats in 2nd Congressional District race

A new financial disclosure filed by Democratic congressional candidate Maggie Goodlander shows investments and holdings that could be worth more than $30 million.

As NH primary day nears, accusations fly in key Democratic races

With New Hampshire’s primary election just a week off, candidates in competitive races are doing all they can to get voters’ attention.

NH Supreme Court rules in favor of opinion piece writer in defamation case

The New Hampshire Supreme Court dismissed a defamation case Wednesday against the Union Leader and an op-ed writer who penned a piece about racism and the classroom.

More New Hampshire headlines:

How to stay safe from Triple E and other mosquito-borne illnesses

As NH's Latino population grows, campaign outreach is still catching up

Some Manchester residents demand city change approach to homelessness

Hung jury forces mistrial in first YDC criminal trial

NH News Recap for Aug. 30, 2024: Resumes of Democratic candidates in 2nd Congressional District race come into focus

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 08:16:00 -0400

The Democratic primary for New Hampshire's 2nd Congressional District has largely been about the biographies and competing resumes of the two leading candidates, Colin Van Ostern and Maggie Goodlander. What are they choosing to say, emphasize and deemphasize as they campaign?

And New Hampshire has seen increasingly dangerous flooding events in recent years, placing financial strain on towns and cities, especially those that have sustained damage multiple times. Financial assistance is available through the federal government, but some communities are falling through the cracks.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Sophia Keshmiri, Keene Sentinel

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Assistance elusive for Keene community devastated by storm

While most of Keene was largely unscathed by the heavy winds and rain on July 16, the city estimated a Tanglewood Cooperative, a manufactured home community, sustained more than $1.5 million in damage.

Attacks over opioid lobbying rise to fore in Democratic race for NH governor

Joyce Craig has criticized Cinde Warmington for her past work for clients tied to the opioid industry. Warmington says the attacks are a distortion of her record.

Republican candidates for NH governor taking different paths in primary

Chuck Morse is courting GOP activists on the trail, while Kelly Ayotte is hoping the "Sununu Path" will seal the nomination.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Jury begins deliberating in first YDC criminal trial

Fish and Game catches criticism from fly fishermen concerned about rule changes

NH’s state fish find refuge in the White Mountains amid threats from climate change

NH News Recap for Aug. 23, 2024: Takeaways from the 2024 DNC with a delegate representing NH

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 09:11:00 -0400

Democratic National Convention delegates celebrated in Chicago last night as Vice President Kamala Harris officially accepted the party’s nomination for president. JJ Dega, a rising junior at Dartmouth, tells us about his experience at the DNC as a first-time delegate representing New Hampshire.

The families of two transgender teenage girls are suing the state over a law preventing them from playing on girls sports teams. A judge ruled this week that one of the girls can continue playing on her soccer team for now.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

JJ Dega, New Hampshire delegate at the Democratic National Convention
Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH AG urges Supreme Court to uphold transgender sports bans

Attorney General John Formella joined an amicus brief in support of a West Virginia law that excludes trans students from playing girls’ sports.

Judge temporarily blocks NH's trans sports ban, allowing one student to rejoin her team

Judge Landya McCafferty of the U.S. District Court of New Hampshire ruled this week that neither the state nor any school district could stop Parker Tirrell, 15, from participating in practices or games for the Plymouth Regional High School girls’ soccer team, until the court meets again in a few weeks.

More New Hampshire headlines:

New Hampshire's still an expensive rental market. A new law aims to prevent extra fees from adding up.

Report: NH Hospital gunman lied about mental health history on federal firearms application

Telecom company that sent Biden ‘deepfake’ calls to NH voters hit with fine

Nashua nonprofits train childcare providers as industry faces staffing shortages

NH News Recap for Aug. 16, 2024: How much authority does the state have over local school board decisions?

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 08:05:00 -0400

A school board in Lempster has filed suit against the state of New Hampshire, alleging it has established a pattern of overstepping its authority.

And the housing market continues to be a nightmare for buyers in New Hampshire with the latest median home price at over $500,000. Manufactured housing is supposed to be a more affordable option for those looking to own, but those associated costs are also going up.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Steven Porter, Boston Globe
Michaela Towfighi, Concord Monitor

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

How a school-choice request in NH led to questions about the state board’s authority

The state Board of Education argues it has complete authority over local school boards, but a New Hampshire judge seems skeptical.

Manufactured housing was an affordable homeowner option. Now, investor-owned parks are pricing residents out.

Residents are banding together in some parks to buy and own the land as a cooperative, giving themselves control over decisions like lot rent.

Coos County residents experience the highest rates of food insecurity in NH

Roughly 13% of the people in the area struggle to get enough food consistently. An Errol food pantry is trying to address the need.

NHPR's coverage of the 2024 election:

Conversations with the candidates running for NH’s 2nd Congressional District

Candidates in NH’s 1st District Republican primary look to break through with voters

As Goodlander touts D.C. work, Van Ostern stresses local connection in 2nd District primary

NH News Recap for Aug. 9, 2024: New law will ban PFAS products in NH; NH border data shows no apprehensions this spring

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 09:01:00 -0400

A new law will ban products for sale in New Hampshire that intentionally include PFAS chemicals, starting in 2027. The man-made chemicals have been linked to adverse health effects, including certain kinds of cancer.

And new data requested by the ACLU of New Hampshire shows almost no illegal migrant crossings at the New Hampshire-Canada border in recent months. The group says the data show ramped up law enforcement at the border is unnecessary. Attorney General John Formella called the data a “tunnel vision approach.”

We discuss these stories and more on this week's edition of the New Hampshire Recap.

Guests:

Claire Sullivan, New Hampshire Bulletin
Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Sununu signs one bill targeting ‘forever chemicals’ but vetoes another

Certain products with PFAS intentionally added will be banned in 2027. The new law also aims to hold PFAS polluters accountable.

New data shows no apprehensions at NH’s northern border, as illegal immigration remains a hot-button issue

The ACLU of New Hampshire says the data show ramped up law enforcement at the border is unnecessary. Attorney General John Formella called the data a “tunnel vision approach.”

Thousands of NH children to benefit from summer food assistance program

The program aims to give families more money towards food during the summer when kids aren’t getting their meals from school.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Sununu backs Ayotte in race for next NH governor

Why nurses from North Carolina are trying to stop a New Hampshire hospital merger

Some changes evident as Manchester enforces new camping ban

New Hampshire law requires more transparency in AI-generated political ads

‘A huge relief’: a treatment on Lake Kanasatka successfully eliminates cyanobacteria blooms

NH News Recap for Aug. 2, 2024: How support for Trump is playing a role in the Republican primary race for governor

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 08:34:00 -0400

New Hampshire voters will elect a new governor this fall, and the campaigns are heating up as we near the state primary in September. Chuck Morse and Kelly Ayotte are seeking the Republican Party nomination. They both have endorsed — and have said they'd welcome being endorsed — by Donald Trump. But their support of the former president hasn't always been so strong.

The state has long dealt with a shortage of mental health care providers, but that shortage is really taking a toll on children who need help. And Planned Parenthood of Northern New England announced this week that it's facing financial challenges. What could this mean for access to the services they provide in the future?

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

For many New Hampshire families, finding a therapist for their kid is ‘like a part-time job’

New Hampshire needs more mental health professionals overall. But providers say the need is especially acute for children and youth.

Planned Parenthood of Northern New England faces multimillion-dollar deficit, warns of potential cuts

The organization says cuts to family planning grants in New Hampshire have contributed to the deficit.

More NH families than ever are opting into school choice, prompting questions about how to measure success

For lawmakers, the debate over these programs is mostly a partisan fight over parental freedom versus accountability. But many families say the issue is far more personal.

More New Hampshire headlines:

League of NH Craftsmen board sees wave of resignations, says annual fair will still go on

Grand jury looking into questions around NH Ports head Marconi

Record heat, lifeguard shortages: NH pools try to stay afloat this summer

UNH drops charges against 7 out of 12 people arrested during pro-Palestine protests

NH News Recap for July 26, 2024: The state's Democratic delegates endorse Harris for president

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 08:37:00 -0400

How are voters and Democratic leaders responding to Joe Biden's decision to drop out of the presidential race and endorse Vice President Kamala Harris?

And civil rights groups are responding to bills recently signed by Gov. Chris Sununu that restrict the rights of transgender youth in New Hampshire. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire:

LGBTQ rights groups: NH’s trans sports ban, other restrictions could be challenged in court

Civil rights groups in New Hampshire say they’re prepared to go to court to challenge laws that place new restrictions on trans students’ participation in sports, access to gender-affirming surgeries and classroom discussions of gender and sexual orientation.

‘It’s like they took away a part of me:’ A student athlete on NH laws targeting trans youth

Parker Tirrell is a sophomore at Plymouth Regional High School, and a starter on the girls’ varsity soccer team. She and her mother, Sara Tirrell, spoke with NHPR about how these new laws are affecting their family.

New Hampshire Democratic officials unite around Harris, seeking smooth convention vote

In a closed-to-press meeting Sunday evening, the entire slate of 25 New Hampshire pledged delegates to the Democratic National Convention agreed to endorse Harris.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Settlement fund payouts for YDC abuse now top $95 million

Facing enrollment drops and new law, New Hampshire colleges rush to team up

With the moose population on the declines, it’s getting harder to spot them in NH

NH News Recap for July 19, 2024: Takeaways from the Republican National Convention

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 09:12:00 -0400

The National GOP unveiled its platform this week at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, and former President Donald Trump officially accepted the GOP nomination Thursday night. How is the convention resonating with New Hampshire voters?

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
James Pindell, Boston Globe

Top stories from this week:

The RNC is over. Here are 5 things you need to know.

With Trump’s speech Thursday night, Republicans capped off a four-day celebration in Milwaukee that established the future of the party as completely in the MAGA mold.

Record-breaking heat wave provides glimpse of NH’s possible climate future

Concord and Manchester both saw the longest run of days in the 90s since recordkeeping began.

As measles outbreak grows, health officials warn of more potential exposures

Health officials say five cases are now tied to the outbreak, including two New Hampshire residents.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Nosh Hampshire: New kosher cafe brings NY-style bagels to Granite State

High (altitude) school: Grant helps North Country students rebuild and fly an airplane

As ticket scams frustrate fans and artists, one local venue wants a change

NH News Recap for July 12, 2024: How Northern New Hampshire towns are recovering after this week’s historic flooding

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 09:20:00 -0400

Multiple roads in northern New Hampshire were washed out by torrential downpours on Wednesday night and Thursday morning. We hear more from residents about the impact of the storm.

And how are local Democrats responding to concerns following President Joe Biden’s first debate performance? We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR
Josh Rogers, NHPR

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Flooding sweeps through northern NH following overnight storms

Parts of Coos and Grafton counties are still recovering after Wednesday night’s thunderstorms that flooded many main roads, including Route 135.

How Biden’s shaky debate is sitting with NH Democrats

New Hampshire Democrats are thinking about President Joe Biden and his future leading the country, following his shaky performance during his first 2024 debate with former President Donald Trump.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH teacher facing scrutiny for helping student get an abortion drops lawsuit against state

Truck driver involved in Randolph collision gets maximum license suspension

As a NH group plans an Abenaki cultural center, First Nation leaders have questions

Controversial Nashua asphalt plant called off, for now, after company drops lawsuit

Sununu vetoes bill addressing drivers licenses for immigrants

Health officials ID measles case in New Hampshire resident

NH News Recap for June 28, 2024: State political parties leverage issue of abortion access with voters

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 09:12:00 -0400

This week marked two years since the Supreme Court removed federal protections for abortion. How is the issue of abortion access shaping messaging from Republicans and Democrats in New Hampshire ahead of the upcoming election?

After years of debate and disagreement, a new bail reform bill is heading to Gov. Chris Sununu’s desk. And NHPR’s Document team has a new investigative podcast out now. It’s called “The Youth Development Center.” We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin
Jason Moon, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Two years after federal abortion protections removed, the issue remains front and center

Both political parties in New Hampshire are trying to leverage the issue this election year. Each held events on the issue this week.

Documents detail U.S. soldiers shot by their own Sig Sauer guns; military says no reason for concern

On military bases from Virginia to the Middle East, pistols made by NH-based Sig Sauer have unintentionally fired, seriously wounding soldiers in some instances.

Lawyers debate YDC abuse verdict; millions in taxpayer money at stake

The fate of a disputed $38 million verdict is still unclear as parties on both sides of the landmark lawsuit over abuse at NH’s juvenile jail remain at an impasse.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Attorney for hate group tells justices that government ‘selectively enforcing’ civil rights law

NH Electric Co-op resignations spotlight alleged culture of sexism and bullying

‘They recognize us’: A herd of miniature donkeys is bringing NH comfort and joy

NH News Recap: The future is uncertain for a key source of funding for hospitals

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 08:09:00 -0400

Tens of millions of dollars are at stake as Gov. Sununu and the state's hospitals battle over a key source of health care funding — the Medicaid enhancement tax.

And New Hampshire saw its first heat wave of the summer this week. What's causing these extreme temperatures? We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR
Rob Carolan, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Celebrating Juneteenth across NH, ‘rooted in African American culture’

People gathered across the state this week to enjoy food, perform and listen to live music, and celebrate Black history and culture during Juneteenth festivities.

Riverbend Community Mental Health to end adult outpatient counseling, citing finances

Riverbend Counseling Associates is slated to close in August. Other services won’t be affected.

New daily heat record set atop Mount Washington

As a heat wave with temperatures in the 90s rolled through the area this week, a daily record for June 19 was broken atop Mount Washington.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH lawmakers up max payouts to alleged victims of abuse at YDC

NH outlaws child marriage, raising the legal age to 18

Digital archive chronicles centuries of Black history in southwestern New Hampshire

In a new novel, ‘All the World Beside,’ two men fall in love in Puritan New England

NH News Recap for June 14, 2024: Hundreds of NH homes were seized by local governments during the pandemic

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 07:06:00 -0400

According to an analysis from the Concord Monitor, New Hampshire municipalities seized the property of Granite Staters who were behind on property taxes during the pandemic, despite an emergency order by Gov. Chris Sununu that suspended such seizures.

And how best to introduce yourself to voters? It’s a question any candidate seeking public office faces. And for the Democrats now running in New Hampshire’s 2nd Congressional District, it’s being answered through competing claims of rootedness in the state they're seeking to represent.

We dig into these stories on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Michaela Towfighi, Concord Monitor
Josh Rogers, NHPR

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Despite governor’s order, hundreds of properties seized for unpaid taxes during pandemic

At the start of the pandemic, New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu wanted to make sure no one lost their home. He ordered municipalities to stop taking ownership of homes for unpaid taxes. Most obeyed; others didn’t.

Taken for taxes and ‘waiting to die’: A N.H. homeowner struggles to keep his home

While John Jones recovered from a stroke at home with his partner by his side, the Franklin City Council voted to seize his double-wide manufactured home valued at $49,600 – and nine others in the community – for a fraction of their worth.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Why are NH’s white pines turning orange? Signs point to last year’s wet spring

Former NH state rep expected to plead guilty to wrongful voting

‘A bit of a roller coaster’: NH ski industry looks back on challenging winter season

Sununu asks federal government to declare April nor’easter a major disaster

Pamela Smart, serving life, accepts responsibility for her husband's 1990 killing for the first time

NH News Recap for June 7, 2024: Lawmakers consider stricter requirements for registering to vote

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 08:19:00 -0400

State lawmakers are considering a group of bills that would create new requirements for people looking to register to vote. If they become law, New Hampshire would be among the strictest states in the country when it comes to voter registration.

New Hampshire saw a significant increase in food insecurity between 2021 and 2022. That’s according to a new report from Feeding America, a national anti-hunger nonprofit. And after a tough year in 2023, New Hampshire farmers are more optimistic about this growing season.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Todd Bookman, NHPR
Kate Dario, NHPR

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Major NH voting law change nears finish line despite objections

A pair of proposals backed by Republicans would end the system of sworn affidavits for new voters. Opponents say the change will disenfranchise qualified residents from voting.

'It's looking like a much better year than last': NH farmers optimistic about 2024 season

After extreme weather events caused significant losses for many farmers in 2023, some are hopeful they can rebound this summer.

Arrested Dartmouth seniors permitted to participate in college’s graduation this weekend

Underclassmen and faculty who were arrested in May during a pro-Palestinian protest are still barred from parts of campus.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for May 31, 2024: Fact checking Gov. Sununu on NH electricity prices

Fri, 31 May 2024 09:40:00 -0400

Gov. Chris Sununu’s office recently celebrated some data that, according to them, showed that New Hampshire’s electricity prices are low compared to other states, thanks to state energy policies. But the numbers raised eyebrows among some reporters.

And a federal judge ruled this week that a law restricting how New Hampshire schools teach about racism and sexism is unconstitutional. The ACLU and state teachers union sued over this law, and this is the first court ruling to strike down a law of this kind in the nation.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Sarah Gibson, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH officials mulling next steps after federal court says new teaching restrictions are unconstitutional

New Hampshire is one of at least 25 states that passed laws in recent years restricting certain K-12 lessons or books addressing racism and other forms of oppression. This week's court ruling is the first where such a law has been declared unconstitutional.

Funny math garbles N.H. governor’s take on electricity rates

Gov. Sununu’s office distributed data May 22 purportedly showing New Hampshire’s approach to energy policy on his watch has benefited the state by keeping electricity prices relatively low.

Move over filet mignon, meet the man who wants to make ostrich meat a staple

A self-described “city boy” created an ostrich farm in rural New Hampshire. He believes it will be a winning business that can help the environment and people’s health.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Food insecurity in NH saw big jump from 2021 to 2022, according to new report

NH House rejects Senate marijuana legalization plan

Trucker involved in deadly crash found negligent as he seeks return of driver’s license

As it considers a merger, Catholic Medical Center faces questions about religious identity and abortion

NH News Recap for May 24, 2024: How North Country communities are navigating flooding recovery

Fri, 24 May 2024 10:11:00 -0400

Several bills that would restrict the rights of trans people in public spaces, school sports, and other areas are now headed to Gov. Chris Sununu for his consideration. And North Country communities are still rebuilding after intense rainfall in December caused some of the worst flooding the region has experienced.

We discuss these stories on this week's edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR
Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR
Julia Furukawa, NHPR

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Advocates urge Sununu to veto bills restricting trans rights

LGBTQ rights groups are urging Gov. Chris Sununu to veto a set of bills that would limit the rights of transgender Granite Staters, particularly trans youth.

NH missed a court deadline to end ER boarding. But it's making some progress.

For the past year, New Hampshire has been staring down a deadline for ending a persistent problem: patients languishing in emergency rooms for days or weeks, due to a lack of inpatient mental health care.

Half a year after floods, three North Country residents are still wading through recovery

It’s been almost half a year since heavy rainfall and snowmelt on a record-warm December day sent water cascading through New Hampshire's North Country. The storm cut people off from emergency services, washed out roads and bridges, and wrecked homes.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Political operative linked to AI Biden robocalls facing charges in NH, FCC fines

Under a new NH voting law, the right to a secret ballot is no longer guaranteed

Dartmouth faculty censure President Beilock for ‘pattern’ of calling police on protesters

Sununu, hospitals fight over proposed changes to state Medicaid payments

NH News Recap for May 17, 2024: Senate passes bill that would legalize recreational marijuana

Fri, 17 May 2024 08:22:00 -0400

The New Hampshire Senate passed a number of bills on Thursday, including one that would legalize marijuana for recreational use. New Hampshire remains the only state in New England that has yet to legalize recreational cannabis.

And a series of forums this week focusing on childhood wellbeing in New Hampshire offered a preview of what’s to come in the race for governor this fall. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin
Josh Rogers, NHPR
Julia Furukawa, NHPR

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Bills limiting transgender rights, boosting parental rights head to Sununu’s desk

One bill would ban trans girls from competing on girls sports teams in public schools. Another bill would allow parents to opt their children out of any lessons on gender and sexuality.

How the candidates for NH governor say they’ll address issues affecting children

NHPR’s senior political reporter Josh Rogers spoke with All Things Considered host Julia Furukawa about how the candidates are positioning themselves on issues affecting children.

NH Senate backs stricter proof of eligibility rules for new voters

The Republican measure would require new registrants to show a passport, birth certificate or naturalization papers instead of signing an affidavit.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for May 10, 2024: Jurors speak out after state says it will cap award in landmark YDC lawsuit

Fri, 10 May 2024 08:46:00 -0400

A jury found that the state enabled child abuse at a former youth detention center. The jurors awarded a New Hampshire man $38 million dollars in the landmark lawsuit. Now they are speaking out after the state announced it would cap that award amount.

Dozens of New Hampshire college students were arrested last week at pro-Palestinian protests at Dartmouth College. Among them were two student journalists who were covering the event. Will the college drop the charges?

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Jason Moon, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Judge won’t reconvene jury after disputed verdict in NH YDC abuse case

The judge who oversaw a landmark trial over abuse at New Hampshire's youth detention center won't reconvene the jury but says he will consider other options to address the disputed $38 million verdict.

Facing national scrutiny, Dartmouth agrees student journalists ‘should not have been arrested’

Dartmouth President Sian Beilock’s statement came after an organization that rates universities on free speech wrote to the college this week, asking the charges be dismissed.

For nine Indigenous protesters at Dartmouth, arrest carries an extra consequence: No powwow

As a condition of their bail, the students are not allowed to enter the college’s central Green where the annual powwow will be held.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for May 3, 2024: How administrators and students are responding to protests at Dartmouth, UNH

Fri, 03 May 2024 08:55:00 -0400

Students across the country are protesting Israel’s war in Gaza, and many colleges are bringing in police to respond to demonstrations. In New Hampshire, police arrested over 100 people on Wednesday at Palestinian solidarity protests on the Dartmouth College and UNH campuses.

We discuss how students and school officials are responding to the arrests in this edition the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Olivia Richardson, NHPR
Steven Porter, Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Students, faculty react after tense night on college campuses in NH

Members of the Dartmouth faculty are voicing concerns about the college's response to Wednesday evening’s pro-Palestinian rallies that resulted in the arrest of 89 people on the Hanover campus.

Leaders at Dartmouth and UNH defend police response to pro-Palestinian encampments

The colleges’ presidents said free speech is protected but argue the protestors on Wednesday did not follow campus guidelines for peaceful protest.

Police break up Palestinian solidarity protests, arrest dozens at Dartmouth, UNH

The move comes six months after Dartmouth College administrators arrested two students for an earlier Palestinian solidarity protest, and as students across the country mount similar demonstrations, many of which have also been met with strong police response.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for April 26, 2024: What's the NH National Guard doing at the Texas border?

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 08:51:00 -0400

A group of New Hampshire National Guard soldiers are in Eagle Pass, Texas to assist with that state's border control efforts. New Hampshire Bulletin's Annmarie Timmins is reporting from the southern border in collaboration with NHPR. We talk with her about what she's seen this week.

And a joint investigation from NHPR and APM Reports has found that New Hampshire's Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut has used his office repeatedly to elevate conservative complaints against the education system. That's despite his pledge to keep the job nonpartisan when he took over in 2017.

We talk about these stories on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin
Sarah Gibson, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH soldiers’ first impressions from Texas: It’s busy

Two weeks into their mission in Eagle Pass, NH National Guard soldiers said they are seeing more attempts to cross the border illegally than expected. That’s true even for those who’ve been deployed to the border before.

How NH Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut used his office in the culture war

Frank Edelblut pledged to stay “nonpartisan.” But as head of New Hampshire’s education department, he’s used his platform to pursue conservative grievances against the education system and individual educators.

A trans teacher asked students about pronouns. Then the education commissioner found out.

Commissioner Frank Edelblut seized upon the controversy as a symbol of public schools gone awry — part of a larger battle his department has been waging for years.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for April 19, 2024: The state attempts to address rising extremism and acts of bias

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 09:38:00 -0400

The New Hampshire Department of Safety is holding community conversations across the state on combating hate crimes. How is the state attempting to addressing rising extremism and acts of bias in New Hampshire?

The state Senate recently approved a bill that would require abortion providers to share data on procedures they perform with state public health officials.

And not everyone gets the prom night they may have wanted, but a group of college students are giving their peers a do-over. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Christopher Cartwright, Keene Sentinel
Todd Bookman, NHPR
Olivia Richardson, NHPR

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

At Keene event, residents and community leaders build connections against hate

Sponsored by the New Hampshire Department of Safety, the event included several talks by local and state officials and a discussion forum to brainstorm ways to respond to prejudice.

Abortion data collection bill latest flare up over reproductive rights in NH

New Hampshire is one of just four states that doesn’t mandate the collection of abortion data. But Democrats and reproductive health care providers are questioning the motive of a GOP-backed bill now moving through the State House.

‘It all feels so magical’: New England college students celebrate an LGBTQ prom at Dartmouth'

The intercollegiate prom was created so students who missed out on prom because of the pandemic or didn’t get to attend with their date of choice could experience it.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for April 12, 2024: First civil trial against the state for alleged abuses at YDC begins

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 08:26:00 -0400

More than 1,000 people have sued the state alleging they were abused at a government-run youth detention facility. The first civil trial against the state for those alleged abuses at the former Youth Development Center in Manchester began this week.

New Hampshire Congresswoman Annie Kuster recently announced that she will not run for reelection this year, and candidates are already stepping into the race for that 2nd Congressional District seat.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Jason Moon, NHPR
Josh Rogers, NHPR

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Reporting YDC abuse led to retaliation, former staffers tell jurors

Two former staff at NH’s Youth Development Center (YDC) testified management at the facility ignored complaints of abuse and enabled a culture of violence and retaliation.

One day after totality, many North Country leaders say eclipse planning paid off

April is normally a quiet tourism month for New Hampshire's North Country, so many residents said they were grateful for the opportunity to capitalize on the crowds.

More NH water systems need to treat for PFAS chemicals under new federal rules

The new rules could double the number of water systems and private wells that are out of compliance with limits on PFAS. Longtime advocates for more testing and treatment say it’s a major step towards healthier communities.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for April 5, 2024: First group home dedicated to LGBTQ youth opens in NH

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 08:01:00 -0400

A group home in New Hampshire dedicated to LGBTQ youth opened this week. Unity House in Keene is the first of its kind in the state.

New Hampshire lawmakers are considering a number of bills that would restrict the rights of transgender youth. The state's child welfare advocate Cassandra Sanchez spoke out this week against those bills. What support do they have in the Senate?

And a solar eclipse will be visible from the Granite State in just a few days. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

James Rinker, Keene Sentinel
Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

New group home for LGBTQ youth opens in Keene

The Unity House will provide a safe and supportive living environment for up to eight youths, ages 12 to 19, who identify as LGBTQ+ and are in the custody of the New Hampshire Division for Children, Youth and Families.

NH Child Advocate voices opposition to bills targeting rights of trans youth

The independent state watchdog said efforts to limit school sports participation, bathroom access and gender-affirming health care for transgender young people threaten the health and well-being of an already vulnerable group.

This Concord man loves eclipses so much, he turned his car into an "Eclipse Mobile"

Rik Yeames is always thinking about how to engage and educate Granite Staters about the upcoming eclipse on Monday, April 8.

NH News Recap for March 29, 2024: Police respond to calls at Hampstead Hospital; House passes changes to gun background checks

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 09:09:00 -0400

Local police were called to Hampstead Hospital multiple times to respond to recent incidents when staff were working with combative patients. The hospital serves children and teens in need of acute and long term psychiatric and behavioral health care. State officials bought the hospital last year and enlisted an outside firm to help staff the facility.

And lawmakers passed a bill this week that would add certain mental health records to gun background checks.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Morissa Henn, New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services
Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Gun-rights Republicans split, pass bill adding mental health records to gun checks

The bill is a response from lawmakers to the fatal shooting of security officer Bradley Haas at New Hampshire Hospital in November.

State says its buyer has four weeks to ‘put up or shut up’ and close Laconia land deal

The state is giving a developer a deadline to complete the purchase of 220 acres in Laconia after repeated delays.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Rep. Annie Kuster says she will not run for reelection in 2024

New England’s last coal plants will close by 2028

Extra porta-potties? Check. Eclipse prep is well under way in Coos County

Manchester Airport hopes new flights bring new passengers — and a return to earlier heights

N.H. House narrowly backs bill blocking school districts from requiring masks

NH News Recap for March 22, 2024: Local farmers struggle with crop loss; how zoning affects the housing crisis

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 09:54:00 -0400

New Hampshire farmers have struggled with crop losses after flooding and late spring freezes last year. The state rolled out a relief program with $8 million dollars in aid to cover farm losses, but some farmers say they’re frustrated with it.

This year is also the warmest winter in New Hampshire history, challenging maple syrup producers.

And if you’ve been having a hard time finding a place to live or affording your current home, you’re not alone. The state’s vacancy rate is consistently low – under 1% – while the average cost of rent is climbing higher. Lawmakers have proposed changes to zoning laws to address the tight market in New Hampshire.

Learn more about these stories on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap

Guests:

Kate Dario, NHPR
Rob Dapice, New Hampshire Housing

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Jasper Tells Angry Farmers They Can Reapply for $8M in Grants Due To Weather Losses

Agricultural Commissioner Shawn Jasper held a webinar Wednesday to explain farmer relief details to frustrated farmers.

Maple Month in a warm winter: How climate change is reshaping NH's syrup season

Maple syrup producers have some anxiety this year, as declining snow cover and record warmth have thrown the normal rhythms of sap season out of whack.

More New Hampshire headlines:

For years, soccer has been her lifeline. But she's worried politicians could take it away.

NH House votes to ban trans girls from girls’ sports teams

These students want to learn more about climate change. Some NH lawmakers disagree.

Judge dismisses lawsuit challenging removal of Gurley Flynn historical marker

Teenager who carried out vandalism spree in Portsmouth gets fine, community service

Paris Hilton urges NH to approve reforms to out-of-state placements for kids in state custody

NH News Recap for March 15, 2024: Granite Staters will have more data privacy rights under new law

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 09:09:00 -0400

As Town Meeting season begins, a conservative group is leading an effort for towns to ban voting machines. And Gov. Sununu has signed a bill into law that could give Granite Staters more control over what happens to their data. We talk about these stories and more in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for March 8, 2024: NH, ME lawmakers consider gun reform; a new guide to Town Meeting Day

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 08:47:00 -0500

Last fall, in Maine and New Hampshire, there were two deadly shootings that left communities shaken. In Lewiston, a gunman killed 18 people and injured 13 others during a rampage. Four weeks later, a man walked into a psychiatric hospital in Concord and opened fire, killing a security guard. A state police officer was on scene and shot the gunman. Lawmakers in both states vowed to respond to both acts of violence, and that work is happening now.

And Town Meeting Day is coming up on Tuesday. It’s that time when voters weigh in on local issues, and Hanover’s Town Manager Alex Torpey has created a new guide for towns and voters to better understand the process in their community.

More on these stories on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Top stories from this week:

How NH and Maine lawmakers are responding to recent gun violence in their states

New Hampshire Democrats have rolled out a package of gun reform efforts, but nothing backed solely by Democrats has passed yet. However, both parties support funding mental health care in response to the shootings.

Maine Democrats continue rollout of gun safety bills, but some activists want to go further

Maine Democrats are hoping to pass a gun reform package that includes a three-day waiting period for most firearm sales and a ban on bump stocks. Gun safety advocates say the package should include magazine size limits and a ban on assault weapons.

More New Hampshire headlines:

How New Hampshire is weathering a short and sparse ski season

NH lawmakers vote on changes to bail reform, marriage age and other issues

NH Senate advances plan tying Northern Border enforcement to land use law

Dartmouth basketball players reflect on historic union vote

NH News Recap for March 1, 2024: Trial begins for Dartmouth students arrested during protest for Palestine

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 08:18:00 -0500

The trial began this week for two Dartmouth College students who were arrested on campus last fall during a pro-Palestinian protest. As protests continue on campus, how are students getting involved and how is the college responding?

And climate scientists predict flooding events will become more common in New Hampshire in the future. How will municipalities be able to keep up with increased repair costs?

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Olivia Richardson, NHPR
Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Major disaster declaration opens federal assistance to NH communities affected by December flooding

The federal declaration will allow communities to apply for funding to repair infrastructure and mitigate possible future hazards.

Lawyers for YDC victims want sealed search warrant released

Attorneys say the search warrant, filed in 2020, exposes “in great detail” a culture of abuse and corruption by state employees and agencies.

As NH’s childcare worker shortage continues, immigrant women train to become the next providers

An organization says immigrant women could help fill the state’s shortage of childcare providers, but more outreach is needed.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Feb. 23, 2024: DOC officer charged with patient death in psychiatric unit

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 08:51:00 -0500

The New Hampshire Department of Justice announced earlier this month that a former prison guard was charged with second degree murder. He is accused of causing the death of a patient at the state prison system’s Secure Psychiatric Unit last year.

And over a thousand people have sued the state, alleging abuse at the state-run Youth Detention Center over decades. The state has set aside money to settle lawsuits with victims, but with caps as to how much a victim can receive. But this week, lawmakers united with victims’ lawyers to back potential changes to the settlement process.

We dive into these stories on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin
Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH Corrections Dept. says it did not complete internal review after death, revising earlier statement

In the two weeks since a former prison guard was charged with second-degree murder, the New Hampshire Department of Corrections has given conflicting statements about its internal review of the incident.

Victims’ attorneys who objected to YDC settlement fund support proposed changes

In a remarkable change, attorneys representing nearly 1,100 clients in lawsuits against the state for abuse while at the Youth Development Center said they will encourage them to pursue a state settlement instead under a bill that would significantly expand who is eligible for compensation.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Feb. 16, 2024: Gov. Chris Sununu's final State of the State

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 08:22:00 -0500

Gov. Chris Sununu gave his final State of the State address this week. State lawmakers consider ways to enforce immigration laws at New Hampshire’s northern border.

And the state Senate voted on three different gun bills on Thursday. All three measures were backed by Democrats, and were voted down by Republicans. Is there any chance for bipartisan gun legislation this session? We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Todd Bookman, NHPR
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

In his final State of the State address, Sununu seeks to frame his tenure on his own terms

Sununu described his record as one marked by prosperity and urged lawmakers to stay the course.

Proposed change to land use law could empower immigration enforcement along NH-Canada border

The legislation would allow certain landowners to post "No Trespassing" signs, allowing local police to arrest suspected migrants on state-level criminal charges.

NH Senate Republicans block gun bills, including ‘red flag’ law and waiting period

One measure would have permitted relatives or police to ask a judge to temporarily remove firearms from someone deemed dangerous.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Feb. 9, 2024: NH Democrats are divided on the northern border

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 08:01:00 -0500

New Hampshire’s attorney general has issued cease and desist orders against two Texas companies. The firms are allegedly connected to robocalls that discouraged Democrats from voting in last month’s presidential primary.

Gov. Chris Sununu and state Republicans have been calling for more patrols along the state's northern border with Canada, but New Hampshire Democrats are divided on the issue.

And lawmakers are considering a bill that would add certain mental health records to gun background checks. This proposal stems in large part from a shooting that took place at New Hampshire Hospital in November.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin
Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe

Top headlines from around New Hampshire this week:

NH attorney general, FCC trace AI robocalls impersonating Biden back to Texas company

Attorney General John Formella says the calls violated voter suppression laws.

A divide among Democrats on New Hampshire’s border

State Democratic lawmakers say the North Country doesn’t need more patrols. But for New Hampshire's congressional delegation in Washington, border security is a major political issue.

‘It was genuinely one of the worst moments of my life.’ Hospital staff recall shooting

In State House testimony, new details emerge of failed alert system after fatal state hospital shooting.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Feb. 2, 2024: Transgender students’ access to sports teams debated in State House

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 12:22:00 -0500

This week New Hampshire lawmakers heard testimony on bills that would bar transgender students from participating on sports teams that align with their gender identity.

Lawmakers also voted this week on bills that would expand the state’s school voucher program. We discuss these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin
Sarah Gibson, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

MORE NH HEADLINES

NH News Recap for Jan. 26, 2024: What the results of the NH Primary tell us ahead of the general election

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 08:22:00 -0500

Former President Donald Trump and current President Joe Biden were the winners of the New Hampshire Primary this week. We talk about through the results and what's next on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Anna Brown, Citizens Count
James Pindell, Boston Globe

New Hampshire Primary News:

In NH, people of all political stripes send a message: ‘Every vote matters’

The significance of the actual votes in this year’s New Hampshire primary remains an open question. But at the polls, voters from all sides reaffirmed their commitment to civic participation.

Trump marches to victory in New Hampshire, solidifying his grip on the Republican base

The former president secured his third consecutive win in the New Hampshire primary, fending off a spirited challenge from Nikki Haley.

Biden wins NH primary through a write-in effort after declining to campaign there

It’s been nearly two years since he set foot in the state and his name was nowhere to be found on the ballot, but President Joe Biden won a rare write-in campaign in New Hampshire’s Democratic presidential primary.

Other headlines from this week:

NH News Recap for Jan. 19, 2024: NH Primary updates live from the Tilt'n Diner

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 15:00:00 -0500

Voters across New Hampshire will head to the polls Tuesday to cast their ballots in the state's presidential primary.

In this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap, we hear from Lakes Region voters about their top issues ahead of the election. We also discuss the latest updates from the campaign trail.

Guests:

Adam Drapcho, Laconia Daily Sun
Josh Rogers, NHPR
Anna Brown, Citizen’s Count

Other New Hampshire Primary news:

In NH primary's waning days, voters size up the field. Not everyone likes what they see.

With less than a week until Primary Day, many voters say they're committed to a candidate. Plenty of others, however, say they're feeling more anxiety and apathy than passion.

In NH, the opioid crisis hasn’t faded. But its role in the primary campaign has.

Ahead of the 2016 primary, candidates from both parties made a point of talking about addiction. This year, Republicans are largely tying the issue to China and the southern border.

NH's shifting population could shake up the presidential primary, a new analysis finds

Researchers from the University of New Hampshire say more than 200,000 new voters could be heading to the polls.

Biden supporters want NH Democrats to write-in Biden. How did that go for LBJ?

Biden’s supporters are launching a write-in campaign encouraging Granite Staters to still choose him as their nominee since he won't be on the ballot. In 1968, Democrats also ran a write-in campaign for then-President Lyndon B. Johnson.

NH News Recap for Jan. 12, 2024: How winters are changing in the Granite State

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 08:29:00 -0500

A snowstorm swept through New Hampshire last weekend dumping up to 12 inches in some parts of the state, and then heavy rains and wind came through on Tuesday flooding the Seacoast. What was the impact of these storms, and how winters are changing here in the Granite State?

The town manager in Littleton resigned this week. It’s the latest turn in a debate over public art and censorship taking place in the town. And former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie dropped out of the race for the Republican presidential nomination on Wednesday.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Hadley Barndollar, New Hampshire Bulletin
Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

How Christie’s sudden departure from the NH primary could sway the GOP campaign

Christie had faced repeated questions about dropping out from voters and from the press. His answer has tended to be, “I'll be staying in this race because no Republican is really running against Donald Trump.”

When El Niño and climate change collide: What it means for a New Hampshire winter

The Granite State may have been pummeled by a snowstorm on Sunday, but the 50-degree temperatures, rain, and flooding emergencies that followed a few days later were quick reminders that winters here are changing.

Littleton town manager resigns over select board's anti-LGBTQ+ comments

At a meeting Monday, some Littleton residents hoped for an apology after months of turmoil over public art projects and the local LGBTQ+ community.

Ignored by Biden, NH Democrats still working to give him a lift on Primary Day

The president's decision to skip the NH Primary has shaped, maybe even warped, the 2024 race here for months, including the launch of a rare write-in campaign.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Jan. 5, 2024: GOP lawmakers try to revive parts of ‘parental bill of rights’

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 10:18:00 -0500

Lawmakers are back in the State House for the start of the 2024 session. In its first week the House passed a bipartisan bail reform package as well as a bill that prohibits some gender-affirming surgeries for minors.

In this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap, we get into the bills’ details and lawmakers’ strategy for passing elements of a so-called "parental bill of rights."

Guests:

Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, The Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

What to watch as NH lawmakers head back to the State House this week

State lawmakers will kick off their 2024 session this week by polishing off 2023’s leftovers — the more than 300 bills slated for action last year that were retained over the summer.

Effort to ban gender-affirming surgeries for minors moves forward at NH State House

The bill would outlaw gender-affirming genital surgeries before age 18. Medical providers say such surgeries are rarely, if ever, done on minors.

Bipartisan bail reform passes NH House

The new bills would increase training and pay for bail commissioners, provide notice to victims, hire new magistrates, and create a centralized database.

After a parental rights bill was defeated, lawmakers look for a new way to pass the same concepts

Last year, the New Hampshire House rejected a bill that would have required schools to disclose information about a child’s gender identity to their parents upon request. Republican lawmakers are trying a new strategy to pass several key components of last year’s sprawling bill by breaking it into separate proposals.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Dec. 22, 2023: State and federal officials respond to increased reports of hate and extremism

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 07:38:00 -0500

Communities across the state are assessing the damage following a storm on Monday. Heavy rain and winds led to flooding in many areas.

New Hampshire saw a rise in the number of people experiencing homelessness in 2022. And state and federal officials are responding to an increase in reported acts of hate and extremism.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR
Todd Bookman, NHPR

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH synagogues targeted with bomb hoax; US Attorney vows ‘zero tolerance’ for acts of hate

The threats made against five synagogues in the state were part of a nationwide wave of similar hoaxes in recent days.

Homelessness rose across the country last year, and NH saw one of the largest spikes

New Hampshire saw one of the largest percentage increases in homelessness between 2022 and 2023, according to federal data.

Water rescues, flooded roads and a near record on the Saco: NH surveys the fallout from Monday’s storm

Temperatures reached record highs on Monday in New Hampshire. Rivers rose after melted snowpack combined with an unusual amount of rainfall, according to the National Weather Service.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Dec. 15, 2023: State was 'not aware' of child abuse accusations against former head of youth advisory board

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 09:54:00 -0500

The head of a state advisory board focused on quality of life for children, youth and families has resigned following an investigation by NHPR that revealed multiple accusations of child abuse against him.

At least six people accuse Michael Adamkowski of physical assault and sexual misconduct. All of them are former campers at a wilderness therapy program in Colebrook where Adamkowski worked in the 1990s and 2000s.

Senior Reporter Jason Moon with NHPR’s Document team discusses his reporting and the state's response on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Jason Moon, NHPR
Josh Rogers, NHPR

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Chair of NH youth advisory board resigns after accusations of child abuse

The accusations of physical and sexual abuse against Michael Adamkowski come from anonymous plaintiffs who are among the more than 1,100 people who have filed suit against the state for alleged abuse at the Sununu Youth Services Center (formerly YDC) and related facilities spanning about 60 years.

Adamkowski is not named as a defendant in these civil lawsuits. He is also not charged with any crimes. Both the governor’s office and the Department of Health and Human Services responded by saying they were unaware of the allegations until NHPR reached out to them.

New Hampshire Attorney General files second complaint against white nationalist group

The New Hampshire attorney general is again accusing a white nationalist group of civil rights violations, this time in response to a demonstration outside a Concord café hosting a drag story hour event.

What Sununu's support could mean for Haley's 2024 primary campaign — and his own future

Sununu has repeatedly promised to throw his political weight behind the Republican candidate who he believes is best equipped to derail former President Donald Trump, who he insists “can’t win” in a general election in 2024.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Dec. 8, 2023: Department of Education weighs in on local book banning debates

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 09:29:00 -0500

Schools across the country, and here in the Granite State, continue to face pressure to remove titles that have LGBTQ+ characters or deal with mature themes. Now, the New Hampshire Department of Education is getting involved in book banning debates.

New Hampshire’s updated climate change plan is due early next year. Granite Staters gather to give their input.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Sarah Gibson, NHPR
Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH Department of Education’s book inquiries raise alarm among school officials, civil liberties advocates

In the last year, Commissioner Frank Edelblut and his deputies have repeatedly pressed one district to explain its decision making around library content.

First engagement sessions for New Hampshire’s climate change plan begin

Participants in the first community meeting, held on Zoom this week, focused on making sure climate solutions were accessible to renters and others who have been historically left out of some projects.

As winters warm, ski hills are making changes. But tourism projections remain up.

While federal projections show New Hampshire is in for a warm winter, state officials estimate about three million people will visit the state.

Franconia Police ask for public’s help after mailbox defaced with slur, swastika

Franconia Police and the New Hampshire Attorney General's Civil Rights Unit say they are investigating after a residential mailbox was defaced with a homophobic slur and a swastika.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Dec. 1, 2023: A close look at the state's gun regulations after NH Hospital shooting

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 08:58:00 -0500

Details are still emerging following a shooting in November at New Hampshire Hospital. We discuss a patchwork of state and federal gun regulations, and the gunman's access to firearms after a history of criminal charges and serious mental health concerns.

The Department of Safety is also recommending changes to security at state buildings following the shooting. We discuss these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Todd Bookman, NHPR
Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Questions linger about intersection of guns, mental health policy in wake of NH Hospital shooting

New Hampshire is one of just a handful of states that don’t require notification to a federal gun background check database when a person is committed to a psychiatric facility.

Hospital shooting prompts recommendations for security enhancements at state buildings

The Department of Safety has recommended several security improvements at all state buildings in response to the Nov. 17 shooting at the New Hampshire Hospital that killed a security officer.

Executive Council Republicans again reject family planning contracts

For the fifth time in three years, the four Republicans on the Executive Council voted Wednesday to reject contracts with three organizations that had provided the majority of the state’s low-cost basic reproductive health care.

More New Hampshire headlines:

Citing a surge in complaints, NH expands civil rights unit

The Big Question: What is your relationship with guns?

Free State Project taps Maine state senator as its next leader

Former NH state lawmaker arrested and charged with wrongful voting, other charges

Former Sununu staffer who resigned amid personnel investigation tapped for state advisory committee

Police files are subject to public records requests, NH Supreme Court rules

North Country group asks state regulators to suspend review of Dalton landfill permit applications

Countway, nominee for NH Supreme Court, says she will bring open mind and impartiality to decisions

In split ruling, NH Supreme Court says it can't review partisan gerrymandering claims

NH News Recap for Nov. 17, 2023: State leaders defy DNC in scheduling NH presidential primary date

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 08:01:00 -0500

New Hampshire will hold its 2024 presidential primary on January 23rd, defying the Democratic National Committee’s plan to have the state vote later in the primary calendar next year.

The state Supreme Court heard oral arguments in a case this week over whether a former Claremont police officer’s disciplinary records should be made public. And House lawmakers are putting together a new proposal to amend the state’s bail reform law.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin
Steven Porter, Boston Globe

Stories from around New Hampshire this week:

New Hampshire sets Jan. 23 as presidential primary date, bucking Biden’s preference

President Biden's supporters are running a write-in campaign to ensure he still gets votes even though his name won't be listed on the state's primary ballot.

House committee unveils new bail reform proposal, after clash with Senate

A House committee is proposing nine violent offenses that would be disqualified from speedy bail. The committee is also suggesting changes to how the state administers and tracks bail.

Ex-cop asking NH Supreme Court to keep certain personnel records private

The former officer, who now serves as a state lawmakers and city councilor, has spent years making his case.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Nov. 03, 2023: NH House lawmakers propose a ban on some gender-affirming surgeries for minors

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 09:10:00 -0400

Republican lawmakers in the New Hampshire House are proposing a ban on some gender-affirming care surgeries for minors in the state. People gathered outside the State House Tuesday to protest the legislation.

Municipal elections for several New Hampshire communities take place on Tuesday. We discuss the mayoral race in Manchester — the state’s largest city — and how candidates at both the state and local level are addressing its troubles and successes in their campaigns.

We discuss these stories and more in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR's Health & Equity Reporter
Josh Rogers, NHPR's Senior Political Reporter

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH Republicans revive effort to ban some gender-affirming surgeries for trans youth

After putting the policy on hold earlier this year, Republican lawmakers are proposing a narrower version of a bill that would restrict access to gender-affirming care for transgender youth in New Hampshire.

It's time to sign up for health insurance. Here's what to know about your options in NH.

Nov. 1 is the start of the annual open enrollment period, when people without employer-sponsored health insurance can shop for subsidized coverage on the individual marketplace.

In statewide political debates, Republicans find Manchester a favorite punching bag

New Hampshire’s largest city is looming large in state politics these days.

Biden supporters launch write-in campaign, after president decides to skip NH primary

New Hampshire Democrats have formalized an effort to persuade voters to write-in President Biden during New Hampshire’s presidential primary.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Oct. 27, 2023: NH officials offer support as search continues for suspected mass shooter in Maine

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 08:24:00 -0400

At least 18 people were killed and 13 injured during a mass shooting Wednesday in Lewiston, Maine. Officials here in New Hampshire are offering support as authorities continue to search for the suspected shooter.

Immigration advocates are calling on the federal government to deny Gov. Chris Sununu’s pending request to give local and state police the power to enforce federal immigration laws.

And lawmakers met in Concord this week for Veto Day. They voted to uphold Sununu's veto on a bill meant to help a biomass plant in Berlin continue operation. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Todd Bookman, NHPR
Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

'No matter where it is, it's just horrible': NH responds to mass shooting in Maine

Safety Commissioner Robert Quinn urged residents to “stay vigilant” and report any suspicious activity to local police or 911.

After Lewiston shootings, New Hampshire lawmakers are divided on the need for gun policy changes

State leaders in New Hampshire reacted to Wednesday's mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine with shock and horror. But while Democrats reiterated calls for stricter gun policies in the wake of the violence, Republicans largely said the status quo was sufficient.

As NH expands surveillance along the Canadian border, immigration and civil liberties activists push back

Critics of the state’s new plan point to a lack of details about the number of crossings into New Hampshire.

New energy efficiency plan gets first hearing in front of state regulators

The plan doesn’t change much about current offerings through NH Saves. But it does include a new program specifically for municipalities, and opens up a pilot program for demand response to all customers.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Oct. 20, 2023: How Frank Edelblut provided support for PragerU behind the scenes

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 08:10:00 -0400

The conservative media organization PragerU won state approval last month to offer online classes to high school students in New Hampshire. Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut has publicly supported PragerU, but he’s also been active behind the scenes.

Catholic Medical Center in Manchester recently announced that they could become part of Tennessee-based hospital giant HCA Healthcare. What could this deal mean for patients.

We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Sarah Gibson, NHPR
Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire:

While PragerU sought state approval, Education Commissioner provided support behind the scenes

As PragerU was seeking the green light to operate in New Hampshire, state Education Commissioner Edelblut lent a hand to the conservative media group’s expansion efforts.

New England’s population is graying, but its homes are less “age-ready” than rest of U.S.

A report from the US Census Bureau found that only 20 percent of New England homes meet housing standards for seniors.

What should the future of NH’s charitable gaming look like? A state panel tries to figure it out

A committee composed of lawmakers and industry representatives will spend the next year looking into the fast-shifting landscape of casino betting in New Hampshire.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Oct. 13, 2023: Community power program gears up in Cheshire; lawmakers weigh in on student literacy challenges

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 09:15:00 -0400

Cheshire County is about to become the first county in New Hampshire to launch a community power program. That will allow the county to buy electricity directly for residents, rather than go through a utility company.

Recent test scores show reading proficiency is lagging for young elementary school students in New Hampshire. As concerns about student literacy grow, lawmakers are introducing legislation that would require public schools to use curriculum based on the “science of reading” research.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Cheshire is the first NH county to launch community power

Supporters say community power offers more climate-friendly energy sources and is cheaper than traditional utilities.

As the science shifts, lawmakers consider changing how students are taught to read

Lawmakers propose changing reading instruction requirements amid concerns about student literacy.

In wake of lawmaker resignation, Democrats push for transparency bill

New Hampshire House Democrats introduced a bill that would require the Attorney General’s office to tell lawmakers if it believes a representative moved out of their district.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Oct. 6, 2023: Groups urging Democrats to change voter registration ahead of primary

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 08:12:00 -0400

Multiple groups are targeting Democratic voters in the state — asking them to switch their party affiliation ahead of the New Hampshire Primary.

The trial of a man accused of killing a married couple in Concord began this week.

Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani filed a defamation lawsuit in New Hampshire against President Joe Biden. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe

Top headlines from around New Hampshire this week:

Groups pushing anti-Trump message urge NH Democrats to vote in GOP primary

NH voters have until Friday to change their registration status to vote in a different party's primary. Several outside groups are hoping to drive a swell of votes against Trump in the GOP primary.

Key moments from the first day of witness testimony in Logan Clegg murder trial

Logan Clegg, who was living in the woods near the apartment of Stephen and Wendy Reid, is accused of shooting the couple last year on a nearby hiking trail.

Giuliani sues Biden in NH court over defamation claim from 2020 debate

Giuliani alleges Biden defamed him when he referred to Giuliani as a “Russian pawn” during a presidential debate in Nashville in 2020.

Why Maria Perez was the latest NH lawmaker to leave the Democratic Party

Perez decided to leave the Democratic Party and is now officially listed as an Independent.

More New Hampshire news:

NH News Recap for Sept. 29, 2023: The New Hampshire Primary is not what it used to be

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 08:21:00 -0400

This is the time of year when the New Hampshire Primary usually heats up. As the leaves change, presidential candidates are seen across the Granite State. But how real is the New Hampshire Primary these days?

New Hampshire’s first-in-the-nation status has been under threat, especially with plans from the Democratic National Committee to move South Carolina first. But that’s not the only threat to what we think of as threat New Hampshire Primary.

Guests:

Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin
James Pindell, Boston Globe & MSNBC

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

How robust and real is the NH Primary these days? The final votes are still being counted.

From the New Hampshire Bulletin, nine experts assess the health of the first-in-the-nation presidential race.

Grading the debate performances of the Republican candidates

From the Boston Globe, seven Republican presidential candidates met in their second debate this week. Donald Trump, the front runner, was absent again.

NH joins suit against Amazon in monopoly case that could be existential for the retail giant

The Federal Trade Commission and 17 states, including NH, accuse Amazon of suffocating rivals and raising costs for both sellers and shoppers. The lawsuit could be existential for the company.

Officials say any federal shutdown will hurt NH more the longer it goes

A top state official says some federally funded program would be curtailed, and jobs would likely be cut, if the shutdown goes beyond October.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Sept. 22, 2023: Special election narrows the already tight partisan split in the House

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 11:04:00 -0400

Democrats won a seat in the New Hampshire House in a special election Tuesday. Democrat Hal Rafter’s victory in Northwood means the Republicans’ majority in the New Hampshire House is down to just one seat.

Voters in Manchester, New Hampshire's largest city, picked their top two choices for mayor this week. Republican Jay Ruais and Democrat Kevin Cavanaugh will face off in the November general election. The city's elections are technically nonpartisan, but party politics still inevitably play a role.

We discuss these stories and more in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Andrew Sylvia, Manchester Ink Link
Josh Rogers, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

AG investigation finds NH lawmaker lived outside of his district for more than a year

Former Rep. Troy Merner claimed there are “multiple” other state lawmakers also living outside their districts but declined to provide details or evidence.

In NH swing, Haley looks for momentum — and consensus — from Republican voters

Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley used the first stops on her two-day trip to New Hampshire to stress that supporting Ukraine’s resistance to Russia is vital to America’s national security, emphasize that the GOP’s future needn’t involve Donald Trump, and suggest that abortion policies don’t have to be a pitched battle.

High cost of living in NH drives more people to get welfare assistance for the first time

Local welfare administrators say high rental, child care and utility costs in New Hampshire are driving an increase in first-time and elderly clients seeking assistance.

How undocumented immigrants in NH make a living without the right to drive

This summer, neighboring Massachusetts became the fourth state in New England to grant driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants. In New Hampshire, not having that simple form of ID weighs on thousands of people, complicating work and family life.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Sep. 15, 2023: Trump is eligible for the ballot; board of education to allow conservative media group to provide online classes to New Hampshire high schoolers

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 10:46:00 -0400

The attorney general and secretary of state say former President Donald Trump is eligible to run as a candidate in New Hampshire’s presidential primary- despite his involvement in the events leading to the January 6th insurrection. Also- the state board of education considers whether to allow a conservative media group to provide online classes to New Hampshire high schoolers.

NH News Recap for Sept. 8, 2023: State unveils plan to end ER boarding of psychiatric patients

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 07:33:00 -0400

The state is facing a court-imposed deadline to eliminate the practice of holding psychiatric patients in hospital emergency rooms. It's known as ER boarding and has been a long time issue in New Hampshire. So what's the state's plan?

Nursing homes are pushing back on a new Biden Administration proposal to establish minimum staffing requirements. And there's been an increase in harm reduction programs across New Hampshire in recent years as a different approach to addressing the opioid crisis.

We talk about these stories and more in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

New England workers face extra hazards from heat and few specific workplace protections

As a heat wave sweeps through New England, many of us are feeling the effects of sweltering weather. But people who work outside, or in hot indoor environments, are particularly at risk for heat illnesses.

Bettencourt and backers stress personal growth at hearing for state’s top insurance job

Gov. Sununu's pick to be NH's insurance commissioner defended a resume marked by both ambition and scandal during his confirmation this week.

Advocates rally against ordinance allowing police to sweet homeless encampments in Manchester

From Boston Globe's Amanda Gokee: The alderman who proposed the ordinance wants police to be able to hand out citations for public camping even if no shelter beds are available.

NH organic certification program at risk of shuttering

From Boston Globe's Amanda Gokee: Local farmers say the loss could harm their businesses, forcing them to pay more on out-of-state certification or lose their organic certification all together.

NH News Recap for Sept. 1, 2023: Will Trump be eligible for the NH presidential primary ballot?

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 08:44:00 -0400

Legal scholars are debating whether the 14th amendment could disqualify former President Donald Trump from appearing on the presidential primary ballot in New Hampshire. The state Attorney General and Secretary of State say they haven’t taken a position.

Labor Day weekend is usually a turning point for campaigning ahead of the presidential primaries. Candidates’ efforts to win over voters intensifies around this time. Voters tell NHPR’s Josh Rogers that the mood is gloomier than usual this year.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Steven Porter, The Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

More environmental news from NHPR:

Other New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for August 25, 2023: What’s next for NH residents after Saint-Gobain closure?

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 09:27:00 -0400

Manufacturing company Saint-Gobain is closing its plant in Merrimack. That facility has been at the center of a long-running controversy over PFAS contamination in the area.

The company may be closing the plant, but the PFAS contamination left behind isn’t going away. We hear what’s next for residents in the wake of the plant’s closure on this week’s New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Hadley Barndollar, New Hampshire Bulletin
Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

‘Our work is not done’: Advocates and lawmakers say goodbye to Saint-Gobain

Saint-Gobain has been at the center of concerns over contamination from PFAS — a group of harmful man-made chemicals — for years. The French manufacturing company announced the closure of their Merrimack plant Wednesday morning, citing a larger restructuring effort.

Going out to swim or hike this weekend? Here are some tips to stay safe.

New Hampshire Fish and Game is warning Granite Staters that water conditions are more dangerous than usual.

Flooding wrecked Acworth’s roads twice in two years. Now, leaders are calling for change.Small towns in New Hampshire are still rebuilding from the floods this summer. And as climate change drives more intense rainfall and flooding, some say the process for responding to these disasters needs to change.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for 8/18/23: Federal funding for addressing the opioid crisis in question

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 08:08:00 -0400

The state will see tens of millions of dollars from legal settlements tied to the opioid crisis. At the same time, some federal funding for substance use disorder services will end in the next year or two. How could this affect systems of care the state has built over time?

Guests:

Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

Strafford County sheriff charged with theft, perjury and falsifying evidence

Sheriff Mark Brave has been arrested and charged with eight felonies as part an investigation into his misuse of county credit cards, the state attorney general announced Thursday.

Saint-Gobain in Merrimack approved for new state operating permit

The permit comes after criticism from Merrimack residents, town officials and environmental activists, many of whom said the company’s record of pollution disqualified it from expansion.

Dartmouth Hitchcock researchers working on nasal vaccine for COVID

The lead researcher says the vaccine would be easier to store and administer and could boost immunity in new ways.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for August 11, 2023: Board of Education considers contract with far-right nonprofit

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 09:04:00 -0400

The New Hampshire Board of Education tabled a contract with far-right nonprofit PragerU after hearing public testimony. The group’s application was recommended to the board by Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut.

The Attorney General’s Office is asking a judge to reconsider his decision to dismiss a case against white supremacist group NSC-131. State prosecutors made their argument in court this week.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin
Todd Bookman, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

State board tables effort to approve PragerU financial literacy course after pushback

Educational leaders, teachers, parents and elected officials spoke against PragerU’s bid to offer a financial literacy course. The far-right nonprofit's application was recommended to the board by Education Commissioner Frank Edelblut.

Commission to study state-run cannabis retail model moves ahead

Gov. Chris Sununu signed a bill this week creating the study commission that will explore a state-run approach to legalizing cannabis. That model is the only legalization approach that Sununu has indicated he would support.

For Manchester arts community, uncertainty after New England College shuts down its city campus

New England College announced it would shut down its Manchester campus earlier this year. For some, the end of the arts program in Manchester feels like a broken promise.

More New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for Aug. 4, 2023: What Trump's latest indictment means for the NH presidential primary

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 08:21:00 -0400

Former President Donald Trump plead not guilty in court on Thursday to federal charges related to the efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. Trump is also the frontrunner in the Republican presidential primary here in New Hampshire.Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis wrapped up his latest visit to the Granite State this week as he also campaigns for the Republican nomination. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Steven Porter, Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH Republicans size up DeSantis, as he offers harsh rhetoric in primary campaignEvery Republican running for president not named Donald Trump has to hope they benefit from the former president’s latest criminal indictments. But no candidate may need the lift more than the one every poll shows in second place: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

NH had more flash flood warnings in July than any full year on record

According to data from the National Weather Service, the state issued 38 flash flood warnings in July. Until now, the weather agency has never recorded more than 36 flash flood warnings in a year.

Study finds wealth students have admissions advantage at Dartmouth, other Ivies

A new study finds students from the wealthiest families are far more likely to attend Ivy League schools than less affluent peers — and that advantage was especially pronounced at Dartmouth.

More environmental news from New Hampshire:

Other New Hampshire headlines:

NH News Recap for July 28, 2023: Many Granite Staters are struggling with the rising cost of living

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 07:17:00 -0400

It’s been a tough few years for Granite Staters with the pandemic and inflation. Now, a new study shows one in three New Hampshire adults say they’re struggling to pay for basic household expenses.

And climate experts predict more severe heat waves and more extreme precipitation in New England in the future. What does this mean for farmers?

Guests:

Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR
Amanda Pirani, New Hampshire Bulletin
Kate Dario, NHPR

NH News Recap for July 21, 2023: What Gov. Sununu’s absence could mean for the next gubernatorial race

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 08:53:00 -0400

Gov. Chris Sununu announced this week that he will not be running for reelection in 2024. We discuss how Sununu’s absence could shape the race for New Hampshire's next governor.

And communities across the state are recovering after the last round of heavy rain damaged roads and other infrastructure. We cover these stories and more on this week’s New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, The Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for July 14, 2023: Forecasters predict more rain and flash flooding for NH this summer

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 07:16:00 -0400

This week, heavy downpours led to flooding in western New Hampshire and most of Vermont, and forecasters are predicting more rain leading into the rest of this summer. We talk about the local effects of this extreme weather on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Trisha Nail, Keene Sentinel
Hadley Barndollar, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for July 7,2023 : How local officials are planning for a very hot summer

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 09:42:00 -0400

Public health officials are urging people to be careful with hot temperatures across the state this week. The state is seeing more very hot days due to the effects of climate change. We hear how local officials are planning for extreme heat.

And adults on Medicaid are now eligible for dental benefits in New Hampshire, but low reimbursement rates and workforce shortages mean few dentists are actually available for appointments.

We discuss these stories and more on this week’s New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin
Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for June 30, 2023: A new fund is helping with the cost of gender-affirming care

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 08:23:00 -0400

The New Hampshire House and Senate wrapped up their legislative sessions voting on final versions of several high-profile bills. The state will soon expand Medicaid coverage for new mothers, and organizers are working across the state to help with the cost of gender-affirming health care. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR
Josh Rogers, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for June 23, 2023: Lawmakers race to tie up loose ends at State House before the end of this year’s session

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 10:11:00 -0400

Lawmakers still need to resolve plenty of issues before the end of this year’s State House session. Elsewhere, regional leaders met in Maine this week to discuss New England’s energy future. We discuss these stories and more with NHPR's Mara Hoplamazian and The New Hampshire Bulletin's Ethan DeWitt on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

NH News Recap for June 16, 2023: What NH's historically low unemployment rate could mean for the state's economy

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 08:26:00 -0400

A dispute over the state’s settlement with a victim of abuse at the former Youth Development Center has revealed some of how private lawyers are handling cases brought against the state.

New data released this week show New Hampshire’s unemployment rate is at a historic low. And researchers are scrambling to preserve history along New Hampshire's coast.

We talk about these stories and more on the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Todd Bookman, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, The Boston Globe

Top stories from around this week:

NH News Recap for June 9, 2023: In an unexpected move, House passes Senate budget proposal with no negotiations

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 09:22:00 -0400

Gov. Chris Sununu has been on a national media tour for months teasing a possible run for president. This week, he announced he will not enter the race for the White House.

The New Hampshire State House endorsed the Senate’s two-year budget, foregoing usual negotiations. We dig into what’s included in the budget and the 2024 GOP presidential primary on this week’s edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

GUESTS:

Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire News Bulletin
Josh Rogers, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for June 6, 2023: The state's biggest season for tourism begins

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 08:18:00 -0400

Summer is near, and tourists are already flooding the Granite State. While Franconia Notch and the Mount Washington Valley are popular destinations, the state is encouraging visitors to explore other parts of New Hampshire. We also talk about some environmental stories you might have missed.

Guests:

Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR
Hadley Barndollar, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for May 26, 2023: Tough local housing market prices out health workers; Sununu takes in “The View”

Fri, 26 May 2023 10:07:00 -0400

New Hampshire’s health care system is understaffed and struggling to meet demand, and the state’s tough housing market is part of the problem. Low salaries and a lack of affordable housing are pushing some health care workers to look outside of the state or turn down essential jobs.

Gov. Chris Sununu has not announced he’s a candidate for the 2024 presidential race, but he did continue his national media tour with a segment on ABC’s “The View” Thursday.

We discuss these stories and more in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR
Josh Rogers, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for May 19, 2023: House rejects 'parental bill of rights'; Delaney withdraws nomination to federal appeals court

Fri, 19 May 2023 08:15:00 -0400

It’s been a busy week at the State House in Concord with key bills going before state lawmakers, including a so-called parental bill of rights, Medicaid expansion and more. We talk about the latest news in politics on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for May 12, 2023: Democratic voters challenge NH's gerrymandered political maps in court

Fri, 12 May 2023 08:04:00 -0400

A coalition of Democratic voters is challenging the state’s gerrymandered political districts. Their case against the state is before the New Hampshire Supreme Court. And with the New Hampshire House so closely divided this session, attendance has played a major role in key votes on policy. Most representatives are showing up consistently, but not all of them are able to make it to the State House.

Guests:

Todd Bookman, NHPR
Beatrice Burack, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for May 5, 2023: The downfall of a NH megachurch; Granite Staters remember the Old Man

Fri, 05 May 2023 09:03:00 -0400

This week marked 20 years since the Old Man of the Mountain collapsed.

Next Level Church, based in New Hampshire, became one of the fastest growing megachurches in the entire country. Now the church and its founding pastor are under scrutiny. We discuss these stories and more in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Todd Bookman, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, The Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for April 28, 2023: Trump takes aim at Sununu, energy costs in Manchester campaign speech

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 09:52:00 -0400

Former President Donald Trump campaigned in Manchester Thursday. NHPR's Todd Bookman was there, and tells us what happened: how the former president was received by the crowd, how his latest legal troubles surfaced during the speech and what he had to say about his potential presidential opponent, Gov. Chris Sununu.

Later, NHPR's Mara Hoplamazian also joins to share the latest on New Hampshire's community power program.

We discuss this story and more in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Todd Bookman, NHPR
Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for April 21, 2023: The latest in the fight against the state's public school funding model

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 08:05:00 -0400

How much should the state pay to provide an adequate education for New Hampshire students? That’s the central question in a lawsuit brought forth by school districts in the latest lawsuit challenging the state’s model for funding public education. We discuss this story and more in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin
Amanda Gokee, Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for April 14, 2023: How NH providers are responding to court rulings on abortion pills

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 09:58:00 -0400

A federal appeals court will allow partial access to the abortion drug mifepristone, but there are limitations on how the drug can be dispensed. How could this affect medication abortion services in New Hampshire?The state Department of Health and Human Services also plans to distribute over 700 overdose reversal kits across the state, and we hear more about harm reduction strategies around the state in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.Guests:

Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR
Hadley Barndollar, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for April 7, 2023: How Trump's criminal charges could play a role in the presidential primary

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 08:03:00 -0400

Now that former President Donald Trump is facing criminal charges, what’s the reaction from Republican leaders here in New Hampshire? And how might this legal case play a role in the next presidential primary?

Ahead of the primary and the 2024 presidential election, the state is trying out new ballot counting machines. And the New Hampshire House passes their version of the state budget. We cover these stories and more in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Steven Porter, Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for March 31, 2023: What's next for the Sununu Youth Center

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 09:09:00 -0400

Budget writers in the New Hampshire House have adopted a proposed two year state spending plan. The House Finance Committee voted this week to increase Medicaid rates and raise wages for state workers. The House has also backed a plan to replace the Sununu Youth Services Center with a smaller facility. We talked about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for March 24, 2023: How local leaders are addressing the housing crisis

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 08:25:00 -0400

New Hampshire lawmakers are considering a bill that would make it easier for landlords to evict tenants. At the same time local leaders around the state are looking for ways to create more affordable housing.

Republican lawmakers are pushing for a parental bill of rights over their children's education. The New Hampshire House voted down the latest effort this week, but the debate isn’t over yet.

Guests:

Jeongyoon Han, NHPR
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for March 17, 2023: Lawmakers pass parental bill of rights, ban racial profiling

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 08:26:00 -0400

The New Hampshire House and Senate met to vote on a number of bills this week. The House passed a bill that would prohibit racial profiling by law enforcement and in sentencing. The state Senate also passed a bill that would require schools to tell parents about a student’s behavior if asked, including what pronouns they use and how they identify their sexuality. Opponents of the bill argue that this singles out LGBTQ students and could violate their rights. More than 70 New Hampshire towns postponed elections this week due to a nor'easter. We review the ballot results from some of the towns that still voted in the snow.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Paula Tracy, InDepth NH

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for March 10, 2023: Local doctors push back against proposals to ban gender-affirming care

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 09:06:00 -0500

Large crowds showed up at the State House this week to push back on a number of Republican-sponsored bills that advocates say would curtail the rights of LGBTQ youth. The proposals include bills that would restrict access to gender-affirming care and updated versions of a so-called parental rights bill that failed to pass last year.

Guests:

Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR
Sarah Gibson, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for March, 3, 2023: The state pursues legal action against NSC-131 members

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 08:27:00 -0500

It’s been three years since state officials announced New Hampshire’s first case of COVID-19, and there are lingering effects on state’s healthcare systems.

The New Hampshire Department of Justice is pursuing a civil rights case against a white supremacist group active in New England, NSC-131. The group appeared in court this week.

We cover these stories and more in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Paul-Cuno Booth, NHPR
Todd Bookman, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for Feb. 24, 2023: How the narrow partisan divide in the House is taking shape

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 08:58:00 -0500

New Hampshire Democrats picked up a seat in the House this week following a special election in Rochester narrowing the chamber’s already slim Republican majority. And state lawmakers met this week in Concord to vote on a number of bills. It's all politics on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Sarah Gibson, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for Feb. 17, 2023: Lawmakers consider abortion bills; Sununu gives state budget address

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 09:13:00 -0500

Gov. Chris Sununu presented his state budget proposal to lawmakers this week. Sununu emphasized education, licensing reform and pay raises for state employees. Lawmakers heard testimony on a number of bills related to abortion. This is the first legislative session since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade eliminating federal protections for abortion services. We cover these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, The Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for Feb. 10, 2023: Sununu's on a national media tour as he considers running for president

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 08:03:00 -0500

Gov. Chris Sununu has said he's considering a run for president in interviews with national media outlets. Now, he's launched the "Live Free or Die" committee, a fundraising vehicle that would allow him to solicit unlimited contributions from national donors. We talk about the governor's ambitions on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
James Pindell, The Boston Globe

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for Feb. 3, 2023: Mental health providers asking state to help with dire staff shortages

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 08:29:00 -0500

A cold front is heading our way this weekend bringing dangerously low temperatures. And the state has spent millions to expand mental health services in New Hampshire, but providers still are struggling to meet demand.

Guests:

Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin
Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for Jan. 27, 2023: Trump visits the Granite State; an animal tranquilizer is showing up in street drugs

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 08:22:00 -0500

Former President Trump is visiting the Granite State this weekend as he ramps up his 2024 presidential campaign. Gov. Chris Sununu cast doubts on marijuana legalization this week. And how is an animal tranquilizer is adding new risks to street drugs in the state? We cover these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for Jan. 20, 2023: NH News Recap: The number of evictions has increased as the housing crisis continues

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 08:12:00 -0500

City officials in Manchester evicted people experiencing homelessness from a downtown encampment this week. The ACLU of New Hampshire and other local advocates fought against the eviction, but a judge ruled in the city’s favor. Meanwhile, Gov. Chris Sununu responded to mayors across the state asking for more support with New Hampshire’s housing crisis.

Guests:

Jeongyoon Han, NHPR
Carol Robidoux, Manchester Ink Link

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for Jan. 13, 2023: What lawmakers are proposing on housing, marijuana legalization and more

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 08:14:00 -0500

Housing, the state budget, marijuana legalization — those are just a few of the priorities House leaders have outlined for this legislative session. But what are the actual policies lawmakers are proposing? We dig into those proposals on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Anna Brown, Citizens Count
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

NH News Recap for Jan. 6, 2023: Gov. Sununu enters his fourth term and the 2023 legislative session begins

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 09:03:00 -0500

Gov. Sununu gave his inaugural address on Thursday beginning his fourth term as New Hampshire governor, and state lawmakers met for the first time in 2023. Now that the State House is almost evenly divided along party lines, what can the governor and lawmakers accomplish in the new year?

We talk about those stories and more in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for Dec. 16, 2022: A review of the top news stories of 2022

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 07:35:00 -0500

This year, Granite Staters saw historic inflation rates and rising energy costs. There were some competitive races in the runup to the 2022 election, which ended with voter turnout reaching a record high.

New Hampshire's 24-week abortion ban went into effect and the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.

We discuss the biggest stories of 2022 and look ahead to 2023 in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR
Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin
Anna Brown, Citizens Count

Top stories from 2022:

N.H. News Recap for Dec. 9, 2022: Lawmakers return to the State House

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 08:23:00 -0500

Lawmakers officially gathered for the first time at the State House this week following the Midterm Election. The closely divided New Hampshire House selected a Speaker for the next legislative session, and lawmakers voted on the next Secretary of State.

And energy costs could continue to rise making it difficult to know just how expensive electricity will become this winter. What's driving the unpredictability of energy prices right now? We discuss these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Amanda Gokee, New Hampshire Bulletin
Paula Tracy, InDepthNH

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for Dec. 2, 2022: New Hampshire first-in-the-nation primary in question

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 11:21:00 -0500

Top national Democrats are meeting to decide which states should lead off the 2024 presidential primary. What could this mean for New Hampshire's first-in-the-nation pride? New numbers from the New Hampshire department of education show an increase in enrollment at the state's public charter schools. At the same time, the trend of declining school enrollment continues overall across the state.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Sarah Gibson, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for Nov. 18, 2022: Election recounts for State House races

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 08:24:00 -0500

Election recounts are underway for State House races, and with the closely divided New Hampshire House, the outcomes could be crucial in determining policy and which party will hold the majority in the Legislature.

The federal government won a lawsuit against the New Hampshire-based company LBRY last week. LBRY is a blockchain-based publishing company co-founded by Jeremy Kauffman, a Manchester man who ran for U.S. Senate this year as a Libertarian.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around N.H. this week:

N.H. News Recap for Nov. 11, 2022: The 2022 Midterm Results in New Hampshire

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 08:00:00 -0500

Voters across the country and here in New Hampshire went to the polls this week to decide who should represent them in Congress and at the State House. We talk about the results of the 2022 Midterms on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

You can find a break down of the results for each race in New Hampshire here.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for Nov. 4, 2022: The state of American democracy and the 2022 Midterms

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 10:07:00 -0400

On this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap, NHPR's Rick Ganley is in the Monadnock Region broadcasting live from Keene State College.

We’re in the final stretch ahead of Election Day, and NHPR has been reaching out to voters all election season to understand what’s on their minds and what questions they have before heading to the polls.

Many of our listeners expressed concerns about the state of American democracy. We talk about what the outcome of this election could mean for democracy in the U.S. and how the topic has come up on the campaign trail.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
James Rinker, The Keene Sentinel
Dr. Phil Barker, Keene State College

Top stories from this week on the N.H. Midterm Elections:

Other stories from around N.H. this week:

N.H. News Recap for Oct. 28, 2022: What the data says about gerrymandering in the state Senate

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 07:59:00 -0400

Redistricting happens every 10 years, when politicians redraw voting districts to reflect population change. 2022 was a redistricting year, and since Republicans hold the majority in both the House and Senate in New Hampshire, it meant Republicans decided where to draw the legislative district lines. NHPR took a look at voting data to explore the effects of redistricting in the New Hampshire Senate.

NHPR in collaboration with the New Hampshire Bulletin and New Hampshire PBS hosted debates with candidates this week. We heard from them on the economy, abortion, climate and more.

Guests:

Dan Barrick, NHPR

Top stories from this week on the N.H. Midterm Elections:

Other top stories from around N.H. this week:

N.H. News Recap for Oct. 21, 2022: Candidates debate ahead of the Midterms

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 08:12:00 -0400

With only a few weeks left before Election Day, candidates are hitting the campaign trail here in the Granite State. Democratic incumbent Rep.

Chris Pappas and his Republican challenger Karoline Leavitt met to debate for the first time this week. So did incumbent Sen. Maggie Hassan and retired Army Gen. Don Bolduc.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Todd Bookman, NHPR

Top stories from this week on the N.H. Midterm Elections:

Other top stories from around N.H. this week:

N.H. News Recap for Oct. 14, 2022: More candidates running in support of 'right to work'; Sununu and Sherman on abortion

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 08:46:00 -0400

Reproductive rights are a central issue in this year's election amid a shifting landscape on abortion at the state and federal level. How do incumbent Gov. Chris Sununu and his Democratic challenger state senator Tom Sherman differ on abortion access? There have been many attempts to pass right-to-work legislation in New Hampshire over the years, but they’ve always failed. That could change depending on the outcome of this upcoming election. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

You can learn more about how NHPR is covering the 2020 elections in New Hampshire here.

Guests:

Amanda Gokee, New Hampshire Bulletin
Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for Oct. 7, 2022: Executive Council rejects sex ed funding; gubernatorial and senate races

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 08:34:00 -0400

We’re a month out from Election Day, and with the state primary behind us, how are the top races across the state shaping up? Voters are looking to get attendance records for state lawmakers ahead of the election. And Executive Councilors voted for a second time to halt funding for an after-school sexual health program. We talk about these stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Top stories from this week on the N.H. Midterm Elections:

Other top stories from around N.H. this week:

N.H. News Recap for Sept. 30, 2022: Energy costs on the rise ahead of this winter

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 08:45:00 -0400

All four major electric utilities in New Hampshire are increasing their rates. We’re also headed into the cold season, which means many Granite Staters will have to pay more for their heating this winter. We talk about that story and more in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for Sept. 23, 2022: State argues "divisive concepts" law in court

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 07:57:00 -0400

The first official complaint against a teacher for violating New Hampshire's so-called "divisive concepts" law has been filed with the state. The state is defending the law in court as a group of public school employees argue it has had a chilling effect on classroom discussions.

State health officials are encouraging Granite Staters to get their flu shot and an updated COVID booster shot this fall. They say this could be the worst flu season in several years. We talk about those stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Sarah Gibson, NHPR
Paul Cuno-Booth, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for Sept. 16, 2022: What the state primary results mean for the general election

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 08:26:00 -0400

New Hampshire voters went to the polls this week to decide which Republican and Democratic candidates will represent each party on the ballot in the general election this fall. In this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap, we discuss the results from the state primary and how they might shape the general election.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Kevin Landrigan, Union Leader

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for Sept. 9, 2022: Crunch time for candidates ahead of state primary

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 08:02:00 -0400

The state primary is coming up this Tuesday, Sept. 13. Races for party nominations are heating up with candidates meeting for debates and political ads flooding our televisions and social media feeds.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Anna Brown, Citizens Count

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for Sept. 2, 2022: State primary races heating up; Sununu pushes back on state Libertarian Party

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 08:08:00 -0400

We're less than two weeks out from the state primary, and races for U.S. Senate and New Hampshire's congressional districts are heating up. Gov. Sununu criticizes the state's Libertarian Party over recent inflammatory posts on the party's Twitter account. And a lawsuit filed against Sununu and legislative leaders seeks to block electronic voting machines in New Hampshire. We talk about all that and more in this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Kevin Landrigan, Union Leader

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for Aug. 26, 2022: State appoints election monitors; efforts to bring back seed saving

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 08:03:00 -0400

The state primary is approaching, and a U.S. senate seat and two congressional district seats are on the ballot. The state has appointed election monitors to oversee the primaries in Bedford, Windham and Laconia Ward 6 after the Attorney General investigated how those towns ran elections in 2020. And a group in New Hampshire is looking to restore the lost art of seed saving. We talk about those stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for Aug. 19, 2022: GOP Senate candidates debate; Mike Pence visits the Granite State

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 08:04:00 -0400

The five main Republican candidates vying to take on Democratic Sen. Maggie Hassan met to debate ahead of the state primary.

Former Vice President Mike Pence made a stop in New Hampshire this week urging Republicans to stop lashing out at the FBI over the search of former President Donald Trump's Florida home.

New Hampshire’s Attorney General John Formella has demanded the resignation of an elections official in Laconia. This follows a state review that found some ballots were double counted and others were not counted at all during the 2020 election in Laconia's Ward 6.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Nancy West, InDepthNH

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for Aug. 12, 2022: Lawmakers deny plans for YDC settlements; eligibility for monkeypox vaccines

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 08:05:00 -0400

A group of New Hampshire lawmakers denied the Attorney General’s proposed settlement process for victims of abuse who were held at the former Youth Development Center as children. State legislators have set aside $100 million to compensate victims, and the Attorney General’s Office is tasked with creating the settlement process.

A new dental residency program aims to bring dentists to rural New Hampshire health clinics, just as more folks become eligible for dental care under Medicaid.

The state is making arrangements to distribute its limited supply of monkeypox vaccines.

We cover those stories and more in this week's edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Alli Fam, NHPR
Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for Aug. 5, 2022: Gunstock reopens; new recommendations for those exposed to PFAS

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 08:15:00 -0400

Belknap County-owned Gunstock Mountain Resort reopened after weeks of controversy between the Gunstock Area Commission and the mountain's management team.

The manufacturing company Saint-Gobain shut down operations in Merrimack this week after the system it used to limit PFAS contamination failed. Meanwhile, the National Academy of Sciences has provided new recommendations for how doctors should treat patients who have been exposed to PFAS. We cover those stories and more in this week's edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR
Paula Tracy, InDepthNH

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for July 28, 2022: Executive Council rejects family planning funding again

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 09:20:00 -0400

Republicans on New Hampshire’s Executive Council have blocked state funding for reproductive health centers for the fourth time in a year. Separately, the council approved funding for a vaping prevention campaign. Elsewhere, some Granite Staters participated in a photography project that aims to uplift trans and non-binary youth. We talk about all that and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Alli Fam, NHPR
Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for July 22, 2022: New England summers to get hotter; state strategy on rising energy costs

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 07:57:00 -0400

It’s hot out there this week. Temperatures have reached the mid-90s in many parts of the state, and the forecast shows we’re in for similar weather this weekend. Meanwhile, a recent report from state officials and UNH scientists projects summers in New England are going to continue to get hotter.

And the state has released its 10-year energy plan. What does this mean for rising energy costs in New Hampshire? We talk about all that and more on this week's New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR
Amanda Gokee, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for July 15, 2022: Shibinette to resign as top state health official; new number for suicide prevention hotline

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 08:12:00 -0400

The national suicide prevention lifeline is adopting a new number in the Granite State. Starting Saturday, people with a 603 area code can call 9-8-8 for help during a mental health crisis. New Hampshire's top health official, Health and Human Services Commissioner Lori Shibinette, announces plans to resign later this year. And Gov. Chris Sununu says state officials are preparing for another COVID-19 surge this winter.

Guests:

Alli Fam, reporter, NHPR
Paula Tracy, reporter, InDepth NH

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for July 8, 2022: N.H. might not enforce federal gun restrictions; thousands could lose Medicaid

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 08:09:00 -0400

President Biden signed a package of firearms regulations last month. But how smoothly will those federal rules roll out in New Hampshire? A new state law bars local officials from helping to enforce new federal firearms laws. And people will now be able to access dental care under Medicaid coverage in New Hampshire, but tens of thousands of Granite Staters could lose their Medicaid coverage this fall. We cover that and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Alli Fam, NHPR
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for July 1, 2022: A closer look at the Supreme Court's abortion ruling, with Civics 101

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 09:29:00 -0400

This week, we’re partnering with our colleagues at NHPR's Civics 101 podcast to dive into the Supreme Court’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade. The United States Supreme Court takes its own precedent very seriously — and rarely overturns major decisions. But the court did something different last week, revoking abortion access as a protected right. What makes this moment unique, and what does it suggest about the future of Supreme Court precedent? Civics 101, an NHPR podcast, has explored these questions in recent episodes on precedent and the Supreme Court. Host Hannah McCarthy and Nina Varsava, a law professor at University of Wisconsin, joins Rick Ganley to talk more about this.

N.H. News Recap for June 24, 2022: Electric costs going up, voting law challenged in court

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 08:04:00 -0400

New Hampshire’s largest utilities have announced that prices for electricity are expected to spike later this summer. What’s causing the price hikes and what are state officials doing about it? Also, Gov. Chris Sununu recently signed a bill into law that would create affidavit bills for the first time in New Hampshire, and it’s already seeing legal changes from voting rights groups. We talk about all that and more on this week's edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Amanda Gokee, New Hampshire Bulletin
Paula Tracy, InDepth NH

Top stories from around N.H. this week

N.H. News Recap for June 10, 2022: What to watch for in this fall's political races

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 08:02:00 -0400

Campaign season is underway in New Hampshire, as candidates continue to file for federal, state and county offices this week. And after an investigation, the Attorney General has decided not to bring charges against a group of anti-vaccine protesters who disrupted an executive council meeting last year. We talk about all that and more on this week's edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Josh Rogers, NHPR
Dan Tuohy, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for June 3, 2022: The State House session winds down, and campaign season kicks off

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 09:40:00 -0400

This week, we look back at the big issues that New Hampshire lawmakers and Gov. Chris Sununu dealt with over the past few months, and how that could impact the coming campaign season. Rick Ganley talks with Anna Brown, Director of Research and Analysis at Citizens Count and NHPR’s Senior Political Reporter, Josh Rogers.

N.H. News Recap for May 27, 2022: The latest on gun laws, COVID levels and more

Fri, 27 May 2022 08:04:00 -0400

New Hampshire is seeing another COVID surge, but public health officials are wading through murky data in their efforts to respond to the virus. At the State House, Republicans are seeking to block local enforcement of federal gun laws amid renewed calls for reform. And some New Hampshire school districts have been inundated with Right-to-Know requests, many of them related to hot-button political and social issues.

We talk about all that and more on this week's edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Alli Fam, NHPR
Todd Bookman, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for May 20, 2022: Breaking down a busy week of negotiations at the State House

Fri, 20 May 2022 08:10:00 -0400

Lawmakers are looking to finalize a number of bills as we head into the end of the legislative session. That includes measures on redistricting, masks in schools, and an effort to establish a “parental bill of rights” in schools.

We get the latest from the New Hampshire State House on this edition of the N.H. News Recap.

Guests:

Sarah Gibson, NHPR
Josh Rogers, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for May 13, 2022: ‘Parental bill of rights’ in schools, police records and traffic stops

Fri, 13 May 2022 08:53:00 -0400

A judge has ordered New Hampshire State Police to release personnel records on a former state trooper who was fired for misconduct. In the past, personnel records for police officers were almost always exempt from public disclosure in the state, but that’s starting to change.

The New Hampshire Senate passed a “parental bill of rights” this week that would require schools to tell parents if their child has requested to use a different name or pronouns in school. Critics are warning that the bill could harm LGBTQ students.

We get the latest news from around New Hampshire on this edition of the N.H. News Recap.

Guests

Paul Cuno-Booth, Granite State News Collaborative
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week

N.H. News Recap for May 6, 2022: Abortion, Executive Council News

Fri, 06 May 2022 08:06:00 -0400

The leaked draft of the U.S. Supreme Court opinion targeting Roe v. Wade has led organizers and lawmakers across the country and in New Hampshire to take action. What’s the response been like in the Granite State?

And earlier this week, New Hampshire’s Executive Council voted to move forward with Gov. Chris Sununu’s $100 million dollar housing plan and a $52 million dollar contract for children’s psychiatric services at Hampstead Hospital. We get the latest news from around New Hampshire on this edition of the N.H. News Recap.

Guests

Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin
Todd Bookman, NHPR

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week

N.H. News Recap for April 29, 2022: Congressional maps, new election commissions

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 07:25:00 -0400

New Hampshire's House Republicans have taken another stab at redrawing the state’s congressional maps. The state’s top election official is creating a new commission aimed at bolstering voter confidence in elections and the state Senate met this week to vote on a number of bills. We review all that news and more this week on the N.H. News Recap.

Guests

Amanda Gokee, New Hampshire Bulletin
Todd Bookman, NHPR

Top stories of the week from New Hampshire

N.H. News Recap for April 22, 2022: President Biden visits Portsmouth; long-COVID cases on the rise

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 08:18:00 -0400

President Joe Biden was in Portsmouth this week to talk about repairing the global supply chain and investing in infrastructure. COVID hospitalizations remain low, but long-COVID cases are on the rise in New Hampshire. And it's Earth Week. How are people across the state taking action against climate change? We get to those stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR
Teddy Rosenbluth, Concord Monitor

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for April 15, 2022: COVID at the State House, mental health care

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 06:56:00 -0400

This week, we saw some changes in New Hampshire's mental health system. How is it going and what challenges remain? And once again, COVID-19 has been a major topic at the State House, but efforts to vaccinate and test have been winding down across the state and country. What happens to the uninsured?

Top stories

Guests

Alli Fam, NHPR
Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin

N.H. News Recap for April 8, 2022: Climate change in N.H., Mowers votes twice

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 08:40:00 -0400

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, or IPCC, released a report this week showing we are currently headed for disastrous levels of climate change, but it also said that leaders have the tools to act quickly in response. What will more than 1.5 degrees of warming, which the report warns is ahead, look like in New Hampshire?

And the state Department of Justice is investigating Republican congressional candidate Matt Mowers for voting in two presidential primaries in 2016. A group at the State House discusses how to police poor behavior from lawmakers online. And Gov. Chris Sununu says his comments about former President Donald Trump at a political roast were all a joke.

Guests

Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR
Josh Rogers, NHPR

Top stories of the week from New Hampshire

N.H. News Recap for April 1, 2022: New Laurie List release, latest news in education

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 08:04:00 -0400

The Attorney General’s office has released the second half of the Laurie List, which includes the names of police officers with possible credibility issues. What does this mean for police transparency and accountability in New Hampshire?

The state of New Hampshire responded to a lawsuit this week over a law that prohibits certain kinds of teaching on racism, sexism and oppression in schools. Now the state is asking a federal court to dismiss the lawsuit.

We get to those stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests:

Nancy West, founder of the New Hampshire Center for Public Interest Journalism
Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top stories from around New Hampshire this week:

N.H. News Recap for March 25, 2022: BA.2 and new redistricting maps

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 08:04:00 -0400

Lawmakers continue their work on redrawing the state's election maps. Gov. Chris Sununu proposed a map of his own this week. COVID hospitalizations continue dropping here in New Hampshire, but state officials have also detected a new COVID variant. What does that mean for this current phase of the pandemic? And is there a chance the state could finally legalize marijuana? We have those stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap with NHPR's health and equity reporter Alli Fam and senior political Josh Rogers.

N.H. News Recap for March 18, 2022: State House Roundup

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 08:07:00 -0400

It was a big week at the State House. New Hampshire lawmakers killed several high profile education bills. Many of those proposals revolved around allegations by some lawmakers and parents that public school teachers are indoctrinating students. The New Hampshire House also voted on a number of reproductive health care and COVID-related bills. And criminal justice reform advocates were unhappy that representatives passed a bill that would make significant changes to the state’s bail reform law.

Guests

Anna Brown, Citizens Count
Alli Fam, NHPR

Top stories from New Hampshire this week

N.H. News Recap for March 11, 2022: Town meetings and more

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 07:58:00 -0500

It’s town meeting season in New Hampshire and voters made some big decisions across the state in local elections this week. A statewide task force released a report with recommendations for courts on how they handle domestic violence cases. And House Democratic speaker Renny Cushing died on Tuesday at age 69.

We cover all those stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests

Casey McDermott, NHPR
Todd Bookman, NHPR

N.H. News Recap for March 4, 2022: 2 years since the first COVID cases, Ukraine demonstrations

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 12:34:00 -0500

This week, Granite Staters showed their support for Ukraine after Russia’s invasion. And it’s been just over two years since New Hampshire's first cases of COVID in New Hampshire and cases are now declining after the omicron surge. Plus, Manchester Police are receiving training on responding to calls involving people with autism. NHPR's Alli Fam and Concord Monitor's Teddy Rosenbluth join Morning Edition host Rick Ganley.

N.H. News Recap for Feb. 25, 2022: Invasion of Ukraine, latest environmental news

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 08:06:00 -0500

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began with attacks on several major cities, including the capital Kyiv. We hear from people in New Hampshire who have connections to what’s happening in eastern Europe.

And dozens of refugees from Afghanistan have resettled in the state over the last few months. What has it been like rebuilding life here in New Hampshire?

And finally, we review a quick roundup of the latest news on the environment, energy and climate beats.

Guests

Amanda Gokee, New Hampshire Bulletin
Mara Hoplamazian, NHPR

N.H. News Recap for Feb. 18, 2022: State of the State address, Legislature votes

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 08:08:00 -0500

Gov. Chris Sununu gave his third State of the State address on Thursday. Tax policy and tax cuts got plenty of attention in his speech. He also introduced a plan to create $100 million in new incentives designed to build more housing.

New Hampshire lawmakers voted on a number of bills during House and Senate sessions this week, including those on the state's new vaccine registry and GOP-created legislative maps.

Guests

Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin
Josh Rogers, NHPR

N.H. News Recap for Feb. 11, 2022: Abortion, Black History Month curriculum

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 09:15:00 -0500

New Hampshire’s abortion ban continues to take center stage at the State House. Bills on both sides of the aisle tried to further restrict abortion rights or repeal the 24-week abortion ban. Videos commissioned by the Department of Education for Black History Month drew criticism from some teachers and revealed a long-standing lack of support for social studies in the state.

Get NHPR's reporting about politics, the pandemic, and other top stories in your inbox — sign up for our newsletter (it's free!) today.

Guests

Ethan DeWitt, New Hampshire Bulletin
Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin

Top New Hampshire stories of the week

Bills to further limit abortion rights in N.H. taken up by House committee

‘It’s such an impossible decision’: Fatal fetal diagnoses and the state’s abortion ban

Facing increased scrutiny, N.H. social studies teachers say support and standards are scarce

Department of Education Black History Month videos touch on deeper debates

Bill to require civics test to graduate from public colleges heads to Sununu’s desk

Democrats introduce efforts to pare back or repeal ‘divisive concepts’ law

N.H. News Recap for Feb. 4, 2022: Immigration, Laurie List cops still in law enforcement

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 08:17:00 -0500

There are a few immigration bills making their way through the legislature this session, including one that would make it easier for immigrants to obtain driver's licenses. And some cops on the Laurie List no longer have badges, but they’re still involved in policing.

Plus, there was some firey rhetoric at the State House this week over a bill that would re-litigate the 2020 election, although there's no evidence to support claims that the general election was fraudulent. We get to those stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests

Gaby Lozada, Report for America Corps Member at NHPR
Todd Bookman, NHPR

N.H. News Recap for Jan. 28, 2022: Shortages edition

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 11:28:00 -0500

Some schools are having a hard time staying open as they struggle with staffing shortages. The Executive Council has approved the state’s purchase of a psychiatric hospital. And at-home COVID tests are soon to be available at a state liquor store near you.

We get to those stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests

Sarah Gibson, NHPR
Todd Bookman, NHPR

N.H. News Recap for Jan. 21, 2022: Abortion rights, health care worker absence

Sat, 22 Jan 2022 10:48:00 -0500

The New Hampshire House and Senate are revisiting the state’s new limits on abortion. New data shows a dramatic spike in hospital worker absence. And some lawmakers are calling for changes to the vaccine registry.

We talk about those stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

Guests

Alli Fam, NHPR

Annmarie Timmins, New Hampshire Bulletin

Host: Rick Ganley

Producer: Jackie Harris

N.H. News Recap for Jan. 14, 2021: Omicron, 'Divisive concepts' at college

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 08:53:00 -0500

New Hampshire health care facilities are having to make tough decisions between staffing shortages and limited availability for some COVID-19 treatments. New Hampshire House lawmakers are debating whether to extend the new so-called “divisive concepts” law to include colleges and universities, while they continue to disagree about COVID protocol.

And the Executive Council voted down another round of contracts for reproductive care for historically low-income patients across the state.

N.H. News Recap for Jan. 7, 2021: Laurie List, Bill Gardner resigns

Tue, 11 Jan 2022 12:31:00 -0500

This week, state lawmakers met for the first time since 2022. What do this week’s sessions tell us about the year ahead in the State House? Get NHPR's reporting about politics, the pandemic, and other top stories in your inbox — sign up for our newsletter (it's free!) today. At least eight police officers on the Laurie List remain active in the state, including two police chiefs. And Secretary of State Bill Gardner stepped down after over 40 years in office. Plus, COVID case numbers reach record highs, but hospitalizations don't appear to follow that trend. We talk about those stories and more this week on the New Hampshire News Recap.

N.H. News Recap: 2021 Edition

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 10:42:00 -0500

The year began with the roll-out of COVID-19 vaccinations and renewed hopes. And it’s ending with some of the highest coronavirus numbers since the first patient in New Hampshire was identified in March of 2020.

To reflect on the year in local news, NHPR Morning Edition host Rick Ganley invited a few reporters whose beats dominated the headlines. Health reporter Alli Fam, education reporter Sarah Gibson, education reporter and Josh Rogers, political reporter, reviewed the defining moments of 2021.

N.H. News Recap for Dec. 16, 2021: Omicron in N.H., energy efficiency at the PUC

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 14:08:00 -0500

NHPR's Alli Fam discusses the first cases of the Omicron variant in New Hampshire and NHPR's Mara Hoplamazian updates us on the Public Utilities Commission’s order to decrease funding for energy efficiency programs.

N.H. News Recap for Dec. 10, 2021: Record COVID levels, health care worker shortage

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 17:03:00 -0500

New Hampshire has the highest rate per capita of COVID-19 infections in the country. Gov. Chris Sununu announced the state is bringing in FEMA and the National Guard to help health care facilities, which are struggling with a labor shortage, while cases and hospitalizations are at an all-time high.

How are health officials fighting this wave?

And looking ahead to the new year, a law banning abortion after 24 weeks will take effect in January, just a few weeks away. How are reproductive health care providers preparing for the change?

N.H. News Recap for Dec. 3, 2021: Record COVID hospitalizations, the omicron variant and more

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 17:38:00 -0500

The omicron variant of COVID-19 arrived in the United States this week. What do we know and what is New Hampshire doing to prepare? Meanwhile, COVID cases and hospitalizations are at an all-time high in the state.

Gov. Chris Sununu says the state will hire more out-of-state health care workers to combat persistent staffing shortages and free up space for COVID patients in hospitals.

What else are public officials doing to help stop the spread of COVID?

N.H. News Recap for Nov. 19, 2021: Housing crisis and COVID-19 hospitalization spike

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 17:35:00 -0500

The continued rise in COVID-19 infections in New Hampshire is putting even more pressure on the state’s hospital system. A State House committee has approved a plan that would make dramatic changes to the state’s congressional districts. And renters are continuing to struggle under the state’s housing crisis.

N.H. News Recap for Nov. 5, 2021: Redistricting, COVID vaccines for kids, Election Day

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 17:10:00 -0400

Voters across New Hampshire participated in city elections this week. Republicans in the New Hampshire House proposed new Congressional district voting maps.

And the state’s vaccination data has been inaccurate since June. But Department of Health and Human Services Commissioner Lori Shibinette said this week that she thinks the CDC’s data is becoming increasingly inaccurate as well.

We get into those stories and more.

N.H. News Recap for Oct. 29, 2021: Kids and COVID vaccines, city elections

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 17:08:00 -0400

This week, New Hampshire is getting ready to roll out the COVID vaccine for children ages 5 to 11, pending CDC approval. The state also provided some more information this week about issues with the state’s vaccine data.

And voters all across the state are heading to the polls next week in city elections. The mayoral race in Manchester, the state’s largest city, is a rematch between incumbent Joyce Craig and Victoria Sullivan.

We get to all those stories and more on this edition of the N.H. News Recap.

N.H. News Recap for Oct. 15, 2021: Evacuee resettlement and the Executive Council rejects millions in federal contracts

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 16:58:00 -0400

This week, the Executive Council rejected $27 million dollars in federal funding for COVID vaccination efforts. Police removed several protestors from that meeting.

These vaccination contracts sparked a disruptive protest that shut down an Executive Council meeting two weeks ago. Wednesday’s meeting was held at the New Hampshire Police Standards and Training Council, but there were still nine protesters who were arrested by police.

The U.S. is in the process of resettling thousands of Afghan evacuees. Some of them will be coming to New Hampshire.

And the state’s housing crisis continues. An agency responsible for coordinating the arrival of Afghan evacuees to the Concord area is struggling to find them places to live. The rental and housing crunch in New Hampshire is a longstanding issue, and it’s only gotten worse in the last few years.

And a new study says the state’s rising housing costs can in part be blamed on local residential regulations.

N.H. News Recap for Oct. 8, 2021: Weyler stripped of his post, parents push school boards to reconsider mask requirements

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 16:55:00 -0400

This week, state Rep. Ken Weyler resigned from his position as chairman of the House Finance Committee after sharing a report with House colleagues that contained COVID-19 conspiracy theories. Gov. Sununu and Democrats have been calling for Weyler to resign.

School boards across the state are receiving petitions to hold special meetings to revisit mask requirements.

And there's been an increase in incidents of anger and harassment at public meetings throughout the state, especially where COVID-19-related policies are discussed.

N.H. News Recap For Oct. 1, 2021: Protesters Stop Executive Council Meeting, COVID-19 Updates

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 16:53:00 -0400

This week, the Executive Council was forced to postpone their meeting due to fears about the safety of state officials. The Executive Council was set to discuss contracts that would help the state expand its COVID-19 vaccine contracts.

On Thursday, New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella promised a review of the "facts and circumstances" surrounding the event at the New Hampshire Institute of Politics, with the intent to discover whether any individuals violated criminal law, according to the press release.

Democratic Councilor Cindy Warmington called the behavior of protesters "insurrectionist."

State officials also announced that four new COVID-19 testing sites would come to New Hampshire in the coming weeks.

N.H. News Recap For Sept. 17, 2021: Local Pushback To Federal COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 16:52:00 -0400

Every Friday we dig into the week’s top headlines. This week, opponents to President Biden’s new vaccine mandate rallied outside the State House on Tuesday.

As demonstrators heckled speakers, Republican House Speaker Sherm Packard yelled at the crowd, “we’re out here to try to help you, and now you’re attacking us.”

Gov. Chris Sununu announced he’ll work with other governors to challenge the federal mandate. And the Executive Council voted to block contracts for health centers that provide abortion services.

And Sununu said up to 200 refugees will come to New Hampshire after they were evacuated from Afghanistan.

N.H. News Recap For Sept. 10, 2021: Politics, COVID And COVID Politics

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 16:49:00 -0400

Health officials are noticing a sharp uptick in COVID-19 cases among New Hampshire children recently. Amid the overall spike in cases, hospital officials are encouraging New Hampshire residents to keep emergency room usage to emergencies only.

And Gov. Chris Sununu was also feeling ill last week. He was taken to Portsmouth Regional Hospital on Friday where doctors found he had a bleeding ulcer. We review the latest on the governor's health, the state's ongoing response to COVID-19, and unpack whether Sununu's “Super 603 Thank You Tour” suggests he's aiming to run for Senate.

N.H. News Recap For Sept. 3, 2021: Back To School

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 16:47:00 -0400

This week, New Hampshire students headed back to classrooms across the state. After more than a year of the COVID-19 pandemic, we review the latest masking guidance and what parents need to know about keeping their kids safe at school.

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and former Education Secretary Betsey DeVos visited New Hampshire this week to promote "education freedom accounts," New Hampshire's school choice bill, which was approved this week. That piece of legislation is one of the most expansive in the nation.

N.H. News Recap For Aug. 27, 2021: Police Accountability, State Begins Redistricting

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 16:40:00 -0400

It's the last week of August in New Hampshire. It's hot. Governor Chris Sununu signed several bills this week, including a few regarding the recommendations put forward by LEACT, a statewide commission on police accountability and transparency.

Meanwhile, a special New Hampshire House committee met to being the process of redrawing lines on election maps. We review those stories and other top news from the Granite State.

N.H. News Recap For August 20, 2021: Vaccination Rates And Third Shots

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 16:36:00 -0400

Just over half of New Hampshire residents are fully vaccinated, as hospitalizations continue to increase. This week, the Executive Council approved a new contract that aims to spread the word about the importance of getting vaccinated.

Meanwhile, some Granite Staters are lining up for a third dose of their Pfizer or Moderna shot, as another dose for some immunocompromised people has been recommended by the CDC.

We review those stories and more on this edition of the New Hampshire News Recap.

N.H. News Recap For August 6, 2021: Eviction Ban Expands, Vaccination Mandates And 'River Dave'

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 16:14:00 -0400

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reinstated its eviction ban covering parts of New Hampshire, including Belknap, Cheshire, Grafton, Hillsborough, Rockingham and Strafford Counties. Meanwhile, like other parts of the United States, COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in New Hampshire and transmission rates are going up too. The Manchester Police Department took down a recruitment post that advertised qualified immunity as a perk of the job.

Track star and UNH alumna Elle Purrier St. Pierre is set to compete in the Olympic finals on Friday in the 1500 meter race. And the U.S.-Canadian border will reopen on Monday. Plus, we have followed the story of 81-year-old David Lidstone, otherwise known as “River Dave,” whose plight has received national attention after he was jailed for refusing to leave his cabin in Canterbury. The cabin has subsequently burned down.

N.H. News Recap For July 23, 2021: COVID And The State Economy

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0400

This week, the number of COVID-19 cases in New Hampshire since last March reached 100,000. That grim milestone comes amid a small increase in cases related to the more contagious Delta variant, though all available evidence suggests that the COVID-19 vaccines are performing well against the variants.

These effects also extend to N.H.’s economy. As expanded child tax credits hit the bank accounts of New Hampshire families last week, the state is also touting its summer employment stipend program.

N.H. News Recap For July 16, 2021: Stress In The Housing And Rental Market

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Two new reports on affordable housing in New Hampshire are out. Both illustrate how critical the housing situation in the Granite State has become —for renters, those looking to buy and people who are unhoused. And we’re not just talking about the market in cities like Concord or Manchester. It’s everywhere.

Zoning policies have also been a contributing factor in the lack of affordable housing in New Hampshire. But New Hampshire’s Council on Housing Stability released a new plan to increase available housing by over 13,000 units in the next three years. How will they accomplish that lofty goal?