HB 1431 Committee of Conference

We at New Futures are tremendously disappointed that the Committee of Conference has reversed course and chosen to move HB 1431 forward.  To be clear, the amended version of this harmful bill does nothing to address concerns raised and continues to put New Hampshire’s most vulnerable children at risk.  At its roots, HB 1431 elevates parental rights over children’s rights, which, as we’ve seen, can negatively impact our children, especially those exploring their sexual orientation and gender identity.  If passed, this bill will undermine the important work our state has done building a comprehensive System of Care for children with behavioral health needs, and it will rob our youth of needed community supports.  New Futures supports and appreciates the Governor Sununu’s pledge to veto this harmful bill, and we look forward to working with him and lawmakers to support our children and families.