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New Hampshire Veterans Home NEWS RELEASE
139 Winter Street FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tilton, NH 03276 October 28, 2008
Contact: Jackie Bonafide, Program Information Officer
Phone: (603) 527-4400
SUBJECT: NH Veterans Home Will Hold Candidates’ Forum on Wednesday, October 29
TILTON, NH – The New Hampshire Veterans Home (NHVH) will hold a Candidates’ Forum on Wednesday, October 29, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM in the Home’s Great Room. The program is open to the public and there is no admission fee.
Candidates for congressional seats (US Senate; US House of Representatives), state offices (Governor, Executive Council, and candidates for NH State Senate, the House of Representatives, as well as candidates for County Attorney and Sheriff in districts serving Belknap and Merrimack counties) have been invited. NHVH residents, staff, family, friends, and community members are welcome.
Each candidate will have a chance to speak for two minutes, a question and answer period will follow, and then audience members and candidates will be able to talk informally and enjoy refreshments. The Forum will be moderated by Pat Clark. For more information on the Candidates’ Forum, please contact the New Hampshire Veterans Home at 527-4400.
The following candidates plan on attending the Candidates Forum:
Candidate for United States Senator: Jeanne Shaheen will be represented by her husband, Bill Shaheen
Candidate for United States Senator: John E. Sununu will be represented by his father, former NH Governor John H. Sununu
Candidate for United States Senator: Ken Blevins
Candidate for Representative in Congress: Carol Shea-Porter
Candidate for Representative in Congress: Jeb Bradley is unable to attend but will be represented by Rep. Al Baldasaro.
Candidate for Representative in Congress: Chester Lapointe II
Candidate for Representative in Congress: Jennifer Horn is unable to attend but will send a representative.
Candidate for Executive Councilor: Raymond S. Burton
Candidate for Executive Councilor: John D. Shea
Candidate for State Senator: Kathleen Sgambati
Candidate for State Senator: Harold Janeway
Candidate for State Senator: Gregory Knytych
Candidate for State Senator: Andy Sanborn
Candidate for State Rep from Belknap County: Liz Merry
Candidate for State Rep from Belknap County: Stan Robinson
Candidate for State Rep from Belknap County: Dennis Fields
Candidate for State Rep from Belknap County: R. Larry Scott
Candidate for State Rep from Merrimack County: Tim Chrysostom
Candidate for State Rep from Merrimack County: Claire Clarke
Candidate for State Rep from Merrimack County: Joy Tilton
Candidate for State Rep from Merrimack County: Deborah Wheeler
Candidate for State Rep from Merrimack County: Jennifer Coffey
Candidate for State Rep from Merrimack County: Priscilla Parmenter Lockwood will be represented by her husband, Robert Lockwood
Candidate for State Rep from Merrimack County: Jared King
Candidate for Merrimack County Sheriff: Scott Hilliard
Candidate for Belknap County Attorney: James Carroll
Candidate for Merrimack County Attorney: Katherine Rogers
Candidate for Merrimack County Attorney: Tom Reid
The New Hampshire Veterans Home was established in Tilton in 1890 as the Soldier’s Home for Civil War Veterans. One of just four New Hampshire nursing homes to win the 2007 Quality of Life Award from the NH Department of Health & Human Services, the modern facility is home to men and women who have served their country and fellow New Hampshire citizens. The mission of NHVH is to provide high quality, professional long-term care services to the Granite State’s elderly and disabled veterans. NHVH is the only long-term care facility in the Granite State that is dedicated exclusively to veterans.
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Londonderry, NH – The Professional Fire Fighters of New Hampshire (PFFNH) endorsed Kathy Sgambati for Re-Election as New Hampshire's State Senator for District 4. At the Tilton Fire Station on Friday, firefighters from Gilford, Tilton and Laconia gathered for the announcement. "We will be there every step of the way for Kathy because she's always been there when the fire fighters of this district and state needed her," IAFF Local President Brad Ober said.
In his remarks PFFNH President Dave Lang said, "Kathy Sgambati has a proven record of support for New Hampshire's fire fighters and for protecting the communities they serve. We support those who support us, and Kathy Sgambati has always supported our fire fighters," PFFNH President Dave Lang said.
David Lang also spoke of a special connection with Senator Sgambati as they were both in Washington DC on September 11th. He said "Kathy and I were stranded in Washington, and spent long hours watching the news in the Watergate hotel, sharing quiet conversation and tears as we learned of how many firefighters and citizens were lost in the attack. Many more brothers would perish in trying to save others."
Senator Sgambati said that day we learned to appreciate the heroes that work in our fire stations. "While we can often take their services for granted, we are totally dependent on their skill when an emergency strikes." Five years ago, Kathy said, "It was a firefighter that pulled me unconscious from a car wreck and a year ago firefighters responded to a family medical emergency." Later she would learn that a firefighter standing behind her, holding a Sgambati sign during the event, was in fact the man that pulled her from the car after the crash.
Sgambati's record as State Senator includes providing funding for terrorism training to over 1,000 fire fighters; fighting HMO requirements that required pre-approval before 911 was called in an emergency; moving EMS under Fire Standards & Training to ensure quality; and providing health coverage for the spouse and dependents of fire fighters killed in the line of duty, providing a safety net after New Hampshire's bravest paid the ultimate sacrifice.
"I am honored to have the firefighters endorsement. We depend on them in emergency situations and they should be able to depend on elected leaders to support them," said Sgambati at the close of the event.
The Professional Fire Fighters of New Hampshire [PFFNH] Headquartered in Londonderry, NH, represents more than 2,000 full-time professional fire fighters and paramedics who protect the Granite State. More information is available at www.pffnh.org
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SENATOR SGAMBATI RECEIVES AWARD FOR ADVOCACY FOR CHILDREN
CONCORD – Family Support New Hampshire has selected Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton) to receive its 2008 Dr. Robert Chamberlin Award. The award will be presented to her on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at the organization’s annual meeting.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 7th, 2008
CONTACT:
Greg Silverman
603-768-1722 / gsilverman@nhdp.org
NH STATE SENATOR KATHY SGAMBATI TO HOLD A TOWN HALL MEETING
Senator Kathy Sgambati will host a series of town meetings to hear voter’s concerns and their ideas for New Hampshire’s future. The first session was held in Tilton and the second was in Barnstead. The third and final meeting before the election will be in Gilford at the recently opened public library. The Senator will offer brief statements and the remaining time will allotted to answering questions and hearing area residents’ issues and ideas.
Topics will include energy, the economy, health care and other issues of concern to voters. Energy conservation and assistance information will be available. The meeting will be held on October 14th from 6:00PM to 7:00PM at the Gilford Public Library.
The details of the events are:
October 14th
6:00pm – 7:00pm
Gilford Public Library
31 Potter Hill Rd
Gilford, New Hampshire
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17th, 2008
CONTACT:
Greg Silverman
603-768-1722 / gsilverman@nhdp.org
NH STATE SENATOR KATHY SGAMBATI TO HOLD TOWN HALL MEETING
Senator Kathy Sgambati will host a series of town meetings to hear voter’s concerns and their ideas for New Hampshire’s future. The first session was held in Tilton and the second will be held in Barnstead at the Town Office. The Senator will offer brief statements and the remaining time will allotted to answering questions and hearing area residents’ issues and ideas.
Topics will include energy, the economy, health care and other issues of concern to voters. Energy conservation and assistance information will be available. The meeting will be held on September 22nd from 6:30PM to 7:30PM at the Barnstead Town Office.
Senator Sgambati will be holding an additional Senate District 4 meeting during October in Gilford. Details on date and location to be announced.
The details of the events are:
September 22nd
6:30pm – 7:30pm
Barnstead Town Office
108 South Barnstead Road
Center Barnstead, New Hampshire
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 1st, 2008
CONTACT:
Greg Silverman
603-768-1722 / gsilverman@nhdp.org
NH STATE SENATOR KATHY SGAMBATI AND TILTON CANDIDATES FOR STATE REPRESENATIVE TO HOLD A TOWN HALL MEETING
Senator Kathy Sgambati will host a series of town meetings to hear voter’s concerns and their ideas for New Hampshire’s future. The first session will be held in Tilton and the Senator will be joined by State Representative candidate Stanley Robinson and write-in candidate Liz Merry. The candidates will offer brief statements and the remaining time will allotted to answering questions and hearing area residents’ issues and ideas.
Topics will include energy, the economy, health care and other issues of concern to voters. Energy conservation and assistance information will be available. The meeting will be held on September 8th from 7:30PM to 8:30PM at the Tilton Coffee and Tea House on 256 Main St in Tilton.
Senator Sgambati will be holding two additional Senate District 4 meetings during September in Gilford and Barnstead. Details on dates and locations to be announced.
The details of the events are:
September 8th
7:30pm – 8:30pm
Tilton Coffee and Tea House
256 Main St
Tilton, NH
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Contact: Senator Kathleen Sgambati
(603) 271-3074
BILL TO ELIMINATE FEES FOR VETERANS LICENSE PLATES BECOMES LAW
CONCORD – Senators celebrated today as Governor John Lynch signed into law a bill to eliminate the fee for special number license plates for veterans.
Senate Bill 490 was sponsored by Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton). Under the law, veterans will no longer have to pay a one-time $25 fee for the special number plates. The governor signed the legislation before a group of lawmakers and veterans in the Council Chambers.
“The bill is a simple token of our appreciation. Veterans’ plates allow those who serve to mark their service. The least we can do it to provide those plates without cost to them,” Sgambati said.
The law also clarifies that disabled veterans do not have to pay to register their vehicles in New Hampshire and adds former prisoners of war to the list of those who will not have to pay state registration fees.
The legislation received unanimous support in the Senate.
Senator Robert Clegg (R-Hudson) agreed the bill was just a small token of gratitude to veterans but added: “We’re not going to stop at this. We’re going to honor you at every chance we get,” he said.
Last year, the Senate also advanced legislation, signed into law by the governor, to establish a New Hampshire Medal of Honor for military members killed in action.
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Release Date: May 28 2008
Media Advisory
Contact: Senator Kathy Sgambati
Phone: 286-8931
Tilton - Senator Kathy Sgambati today announced her intention to seek re-election in state Senate District 4.
“The voters of District 4 trusted me to represent them and I have worked hard to honor that trust. I first ran for office to increase access to affordable health care, to protect New Hampshire’s natural assets and to support small businesses. We have made substantial progress on all of these fronts. ”
Sgambati has successfully worked to expand access to health care coverage and to make health insurance more affordable for small business owners. As a result of legislation she sponsored a new insurance product, HealthFirst, will reduce costs to small businesses while requiring insurance companies to develop a more cost-effective product.
She also noted progress in environmental protections and energy policy. “The legislation passed last session will serve to protect our environment while creating incentives for alternative energy production and economic development. “
“There is more that needs to be done” Sgambati added. “I am seeking reelection to continue to our progress on economic development, education and health care while working to help address growing budget concerns. I look forward to working with Governor Lynch and the Senate to meet the needs of District 4 and the state.”
Senator Sgambati serves on the Finance, Energy, Environment and Economic Development, and Public and Municipal Affairs committees and serves as the vice chair of the Health and Human Services committee. She was also appointed to the joint legislative Fiscal Committee and the Healthy Kids Board of Directors.
During her first term Sgambati has was honored by the American Medical Association as the nation’s outstanding state Senator for her work in health care. She has also received national and state awards from groups such as the Afterschool Alliance, the NH Health Care Association and the NH Women’s Lobby for her efforts in health policy, budgeting and children’s services.
Senate District 4 includes Barnstead, Belmont, Gilford, Gilmanton, Laconia, New Durham, Strafford and Tilton.
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May 14, 2008
CONTACT: Gretchen Wright, 202/371-1999
New Hampshire State Senator Honored as an Afterschool Champion in Nation’s Capital
Parents, Educators, Students, Afterschool Leaders, City and State Leaders Urge Congress to Reject Proposed Funding Cut
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Afterschool Alliance today honored New Hampshire State Senator Kathleen Sgambati for her support for afterschool programs at the “Breakfast of Champions,” a gala event in Washington, D.C. Senator Sgambati was one of 16 individuals and four organizations honored for their tireless work on behalf of afterschool programs. She was nominated by PlusTime New Hampshire.
As former Deputy Commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Senator Sgambati supported the development of PlusTime New Hampshire and the Governor’s Commission on Childcare. She was instrumental in designing and launching Governor Jean Shaheen’s Kids’ Cabinet, on which she also served. Since leaving the department, Senator Sgambati has worked as a consultant on many children’s issues including foster care, developmental services, and afterschool care, including starting a program for middle school students.
She continues to advocate for children and afterschool care in the New Hampshire Senate and works closely with PlusTime New Hampshire, a state organization that provides the training, advocacy, financial and human resources critical to afterschool program success.
The “Breakfast of Champions” is part of the seventh annual Afterschool for All Challenge which brings together hundreds of parents, educators, children, program directors and advocates from around the country for a series of events and meetings with Members of Congress. The 2008 Challenge is co-sponsored by the National League of Cities and the Afterschool Alliance. Following the “Breakfast,” the advocates fanned out across Capitol Hill for meetings with their U.S. Senators and Representatives, and congressional staff.
“Parents, children and communities rely on afterschool programs to keep kids safe, inspire them to learn and help working families,” said Afterschool Alliance Executive Director Jodi Grant. “But federal funding isn’t keeping up with the demand for afterschool, and President Bush proposes to cut federal afterschool funding even further. We’re in our nation’s capital this week to honor afterschool champions and remind lawmakers that these cuts are short-sighted and counterproductive. All kids need the opportunities that afterschool programs provide. Bipartisan support in Congress defeated the last proposed cut to afterschool programs, and we are seeking bipartisan support again this year so we can counter the President’s proposal and bring quality afterschool programs to all children who need them.”
This year, President Bush proposed cutting the federal budget for afterschool programs by $281 million and converting the successful 21st Century Community Learning Centers afterschool initiative (21st CCLC) into a risky voucher system. If Congress agrees to his proposal, 300,000 students would lose access to afterschool programs.
Other city champions honored at the Afterschool for All Challenge are: Boise Mayor David Bieter; Columbia Mayor Bob Coble; Kacy Conley, YMCA of Central Maryland in Baltimore; St. Paul Mayor Christopher Coleman; Omaha Mayor Mike Fahey; Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell; Savannah Mayor Otis Johnson; Morgantown Mayor Ron Justice; Charlotte City Council Member James Mitchell; Missouri State Representative Daniel Moore; New York City Commissioner of the Department of Youth and Community Development Jeanne Mullgrav; San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom; Linda Robinson, Kentucky Department of Education; Maxine Quintana, Denver Mayor’s Office for Education and Children; and Pennsylvania State Representative Jake Wheatley.
The Afterschool Alliance and MetLife Foundation also presented the first-ever MetLife Afterschool Innovator Awards at the “Breakfast of Champions” to four organizations that have developed and implemented innovative afterschool practices. The awardees are profiled in Afterschool Innovations in Brief, a series of Issue Briefs developed by the Afterschool Alliance with funding from MetLife Foundation. They are: The After-School Corporation in New York; LA’s BEST in California; The Native Youth Club in South Dakota; and Lincoln Community Learning Centers in Nebraska.
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April 10, 2008
Contact: Communications Director
Office of the Governor
603-271-2121
Bipartisan Legislation Aimed at Making Health Insurance More Affordable for NH Small Businesses
CONCORD – Gov. John Lynch today urged the House Commerce Committee to support legislation implementing New Hampshire HealthFirst, a bipartisan initiative to help New Hampshire small businesses better afford health insurance for their workers.
Gov. Lynch unveiled the proposal, which will help reduce costs by making wellness insurance plans available to small businesses, during his State of the State Address last month.
The Senate passed the measure last month 21-3.
“New Hampshire HealthFirst will help New Hampshire small businesses better afford health insurance coverage for their workers,” Gov. Lynch said. “It will give small businesses access to the same types of innovations that large employers, including state government, are using to control the growth in their health care costs. That will help keep workers healthier and keep health insurance in reach of employers.”
New Hampshire HealthFirst was developed in conjunction with the state Insurance Department, lawmakers, and other stakeholders. It will provide comparable coverage to existing health insurance plans, and reduce premiums by addressing the underlying cost drivers of health care increases through better prevention, better care management and more efficient use of health care services.
“This is a plan focused on the patient and on keeping the patient healthy. That translates into better, more cost-effective care,” Gov. Lynch said. “HealthFirst’s aim is to make it possible for all workers and their employers to access more affordable, comprehensive coverage. But it also requires all of us to take more responsibility for our own health, to make sure we are taking preventative measures and doing what we can to stay healthy.”
Rhode Island passed similar legislation last year and reports a savings to small businesses of more than 15 percent when compared to similar coverage available in the market.
“Small business owners I have spoken with are excited about HealthFirst and what it could mean to their businesses and to their employees,” Gov. Lynch said. “It could mean the difference between small business owners continuing to offer quality health insurance, or choosing to reduce or eliminate benefits. It could mean the difference between decreasing our numbers of uninsured, or adding to the problem.”
The HealthFirst legislation is part of a comprehensive effort being undertaken in the State of New Hampshire to help ensure that more citizens have access to quality, affordable health care. The Citizens Health Initiative, created by Gov. Lynch, is working to make more information about health care costs available, to expand the use of electronic medical records and to make New Hampshire the first state where all providers can prescribe medications electronically.
“HealthFirst is the next step in helping to stabilize health care costs here in New Hampshire and in helping our small businesses continue to offer health insurance to its workers,” Gov. Lynch said.
Senate Bill 540 is sponsored by Sens. Kathy Sgambati, Joe Foster, Maggie Hassan, Iris Estabrook, Deb Reynolds, Bob Odell, John Gallus, Jack Barnes, Jackie Cilley, Martha Fuller Clark, Molly Kelly, Lou D'Allesandro, David Gottesman, Sylvia Larsen and Harold Janeway; Reps. Martha McLeod, Sharon Nordgren, Peter Bergin, James Pilliod and Ed Butler.
http://www.nh.gov/governor/news/2008/041108healthfirst.html
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Thursday, April 10, 2008
Contact: Senator Kathleen Sgambati (603) 271-3074
CONCORD - Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton) testified before the House Commerce Committee today in support of HealthFirst, legislation to provide new and cheaper alternatives for small business health insurance.
Senate Bill 540 passed 21-3 in the Senate in March and has the support of Governor John Lynch, who also testified today.
"This plan makes coverage affordable, not by diluting benefits, but by addressing the underlying drivers of health care spending," said Sgambati, the prime sponsor.
The legislation would require major insurance carriers in the state to offer a standard wellness plan for small businesses with up to 50 employees. Premium costs would be controlled by focusing on prevention, managing chronic conditions and promoting best practices. Similar legislation in Rhode Island produced a savings of more than 15 percent for small businesses compared to other forms of coverage available in the market.
"Senate Bill 540 is intended to address the rising costs of health insurance that more and more small businesses are struggling to pay," said Senate President Sylvia Larsen (D-Concord) who also testified in support of the bill today.
"Your constituents need something better than what's available to them now," agreed state Insurance Commissioner Roger Sevigny. "I believe there's a way to do it."
The legislation would require the state Department of Insurance to set up an advisory committee to develop the specifics of the plan, with incentives to promote efficiency, health and wellness. The target premium price would be 10 percent of the prior year's median wage, currently about $262 per month.
Safeguards protect insurance companies from having to absorb a loss if the premium price is not adequate to cover their costs. The advisory committee would rework the plan if no insurance carriers can meet the target price. In addition, the legislation calls for plan requirements to be reviewed and revised every three years.
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2008/HealthFirst%20presented%20to%20House.htm
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April 1, 2008
Pia Carusone
(603) 225-6899
(Concord) Senator Kathy Sgambati (Tilton) will be presented with the American Medical Association's Dr. Nathan Davis Award for Outstanding Government Service tonight in Washington, DC. She is being named the nation's Outstanding State Senator for 2008 by the AMA.
"On behalf of the New Hampshire Democratic Party, I want to extend my congratulations to Sen. Sgambati on receiving this prestigious award," said New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair Ray Buckley. "No one is more deserving of this national award as Sen. Sgambati has devoted decades of her life working on healthcare issues both before she was elected and while serving her first term in the New Hampshire State Senate. Sen. Sgambati has quickly established herself here in NH and nationally as a highly respected leader who works in a bipartisan manner to get results."
Sen. Sgambati was selected as the winner for her role in designing and implementing the Children's Health Insurance Program and the Kid's Cabinet; managing the Citizen's Health Initiative and securing over a billion dollars in federal aid; and, as a State Senator, by successfully sponsoring legislation to create a volunteer outreach program, to reduce costs, to expand access to health insurance and to fully fund services for people with developmental disabilities.
Sen. Sgambati's selection by the AMA marks a first for any public official from the state of New Hampshire. She will receive the award on Tuesday April 1st at the American Medical Association's 2008 National Advocacy Conference in Washington DC.
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April 1, 2008
WASHINGTON – New Hampshire State Sen. Kathleen Sgambati will be honored tonight with the American Medical Association’s (AMA) highest award for a public official. She will be presented with the award by veteran broadcast journalist Forrest Sawyer at an awards dinner tonight in Washington, D.C. as part of the AMA’s National Advocacy Conference.
Sgambati was one of eight honorees chosen this year to receive the Dr. Nathan Davis Award for Outstanding Government Service. The award, named for the founding father of the AMA, recognizes elected and career officials in federal, state or municipal service whose contributions have promoted the art and science of medicine and the betterment of public health.
“This award reflects Senator Sgambati’s tireless commitment to issues that impact the health and well-being of women and children,” said AMA Board Chair Edward Langston, M.D.
“She led one of the most successful public-private partnerships in the history of New Hampshire, which cut the uninsured rate for children in half.”
“Through the Nathan Davis Award, the American Medical Association salutes government officials that go above and beyond the call of duty to improve public health. Award winners come from every branch of government service, and are a testament to the important role public officials play in creating and implementing health policy that benefits Americans,” said Dr. Langston.
She was nominated for the award by New Hampshire State Senator and Majority Leader, Joseph A. Foster.
This year marks the 19th anniversary of the Dr. Nathan Davis Awards. Recipients of this year’s awards also include Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA), House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD), and Connecticut Gov. M. Jodi Rell.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Contact: Senator Kathleen Sgambati (603) 271-3074
Senator Deborah Reynolds (603) 271-3569
CONCORD - The Senate voted today to adjust the implementation date for new rules that place tighter restrictions on shorefront development.
The Shoreland Protection Act was due to go into effect on April 1 but today's vote in the Senate seeks to push that back to Oct 1. The House must concur with the new date or request a committee of conference for further negotiations with the Senate.
Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton) and Senator Deborah Reynolds (D-Plymouth) both support the new shoreline protection measures but want to make sure landowners aren't hurt by the transition to new permitting rules.
They voted in support of the Oct. 1 dates to give the state Department of Environmental Services more time to educate landowners and builders about them.
"It is important that we afford the public, and particularly the building community, sufficient time to get familiar with the new permitting process. Delaying the implementation date to Oct. 1 is more than reasonable given the complexity of the process," said Reynolds.
"My goal was to make sure people who have started the building process know what they need to do to successfully complete their projects," Sgambati said. "The new implementation date gives building officials and others more time to learn the new rules and find out whether they might need a waiver to complete a project that's already been started."
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2008/HealthFirst%20Senate%20vote.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Contact: Senator Kathleen Sgambati (603) 271-3074
CONCORD - The Senate voted 21-3 today in support of a new health insurance program for small businesses called New Hampshire Health First. The legislation now heads to the House.
"This plan makes coverage affordable, not by diluting benefits, but by addressing the underlying drivers of health care spending," said Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton), who sponsored Senate Bill 540 at the urging of Governor John Lynch.
The legislation would require major insurance carriers in the state to offer a standard wellness plan for small businesses with up to 50 employees. Premium costs would be controlled by focusing on prevention, managing chronic conditions and promoting best practices. Similar legislation in Rhode Island produced a savings of more than 15 percent for small businesses compared to other forms of coverage available in the market.
"We have heard repeatedly, especially from the small business community, about the need for this kind of help," said Senator Maggie Hassan (D-Exeter), a co-sponsor. "We are putting pressure on carriers to do cost containment and we're asking consumers to do the same by providing incentives for them to take better care of their health."
Senate Bill 540 calls for the state Department of Insurance to set up an advisory committee to develop the specifics of the plan. The target premium price would be 10 percent of the prior year's median wage, currently about $262 per month.
Safeguards protect insurance companies from having to absorb a loss if the premium price is not adequate to cover their costs. The advisory committee would rework the plan if no insurance carriers can meet the target price. In addition, the legislation calls for plan requirements to be reviewed and revised every three years.
"We have an opportunity to develop a product that helps our small business owners who've been struggling with sharply rising insurance costs for years now. If this allows more of them to keep their employees covered, we all benefit," said Senator David Gottesman, (D-Nashua) chairman of the Commerce Committee, which recommended passage of the bill.
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2008/HealthFirst%20Senate%20vote.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Contact: Senator Kathy Sgambati (603) 271-3074
CONCORD - The Senate voted 15-9 to defeat a parental notification proposal that would have required that parents be notified if their minor daughter seeks an abortion unless she gets permission from a judge.
The proposal was identical to the parental notification requirements in Senate Bill 302 but was offered as an amendment to Senate Bill 527. It differed only slightly from the parental notification law that was found unconstitutional and repealed last session but added an exception to the notification requirements if a delay would lead to irreversible damage to a girl's major bodily functions.
"Parental notification requirements even with judicial bypass can lead to delays that cause true harm to our young people's physical health," said Senator Maggie Hassan (D-Exeter). "We all hope we have a relationship with our children so they will come to us in moments of crisis but we have a higher obligation to protect the health and safety of all children."
Hassan did support Senate Bill 527 without the amendment. That bill requires that a trained counselor provide information and support to pregnant teens under age 17. Where appropriate, counselors would encourage teens to involve their parents or other family.
"This bill is not about limiting choice or placing obstacles in the path of young women. It does not require parental notification. It mirrors what's already being done in most of our state's doctor offices and clinics. It's about making sure an adult is involved in protecting the health and safety of our adolescents," said Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton), who sponsored the bill.
The legislation had the support of Planned Parenthood of Northern New England, the largest reproductive health care organization in New Hampshire.
Senate Bill 527 failed by a vote of 10-14 but a second motion sent it to interim study today.
"I believe this is a new and different approach to protecting our youth," Sgambati said. "And I believe that the health and well being of our young people is worth a continuing conversation," Sgambati said.
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2008/adult%20involvement%20Senate%20vote.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, March 10, 2008
Contact: Senator Kathleen Sgambati (603) 271-3074
CONCORD - The Senate Commerce Committee heard testimony today in support of a new health insurance program for small businesses, called New Hampshire Health First.
The goal of Senate Bill 540, sponsored by Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton) and supported by Governor John Lynch, is to provide a more affordable health insurance product for small businesses by requiring major insurance carriers in the state to offer a wellness plan for small business customers with up to 50 employees.
"New Hampshire Health First is made affordable, not by reducing the benefits, but by directly addressing the underlying drivers of health care spending," Sgambati told the committee today.
The plan would provide many of the same innovations that large companies use to control costs, including a focus on prevention, managing chronic conditions and promoting best practices. Similar legislation in Rhode Island produced a savings of more than 15 percent for small businesses compared to other forms of coverage available in the market.
Senate Bill 540 calls for the state Department of Insurance to set up an advisory committee to develop the specifics of the plan to provide essential insurance coverage while promoting employee health. The target premium price would be 10 percent of the prior year's median wage, currently about $262 per month.
Several small business representatives spoke in support of the legislation. "This is a great start," said Jackie Cowell, who spoke on behalf of child care providers. "We're looking for anything….If it saves 15 percent, it would be fabulous."
Safeguards ensure that insurance companies would not be forced to absorb a loss if the premium price is not adequate to cover their costs. The advisory committee would rework the plan if no insurance carriers can meet the target price. In addition, the legislation calls for plan requirements to be reviewed and revised every three years.
"We have accomplished a great deal on behalf of the citizens of New Hampshire in the area of health care. This has included making sure that our children have access to health insurance, extending benefits to dependents up to the age of 26 and providing a bridge in coverage for individuals who divorce," said Senate President Sylvia Larsen (D-Concord), a co-sponsor. "This bill takes another important step in ensuring our residents have access to affordable healthcare."
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2008/Healthfirst%20hearing.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, March 10, 2008
Contact: Senator Kathy Sgambati (603) 271-3074
CONCORD - The Senate Health and Human Services Committee voted 4-1 today to send a bill to the full Senate that would ensure that young teenagers facing an unexpected pregnancy get information and support from a trained counselor.
Senate Bill 527 would require clinics and doctors to provide information and counseling for pregnant teens under age 17 as they grapple with the decisions that follow from an unintended pregnancy. Where appropriate, counselors would encourage teens to speak to their parents or other family.
"This legislation is not about limiting choice or placing obstacles in the path of young women. It does not require parental notification. It mirrors best practices in most of our state's doctor offices and clinics. It's about making sure an adult is involved in protecting the health and safety of our adolescents," said Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton), who sponsored the bill.
The legislation has the support of Planned Parenthood of Northern New England, the largest reproductive health care organization in New Hampshire. It is co-sponsored by senators Bob Odell, Maggie Hassan, Jacalyn Cilley, Deborah Reynolds, Joseph Foster, and Betsi DeVries.
The committee members were not unanimous in their support for the legislation but agreed the bill deserved to advance to the Senate floor for a full discussion.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Contact: Senator Kathy Sgambati (603) 271-3074
CONCORD - Legislation to ensure that young teenagers facing an unexpected pregnancy get information and support from an adult is not a political maneuver - it's an attempt to protect adolescent health.
So testified supporters of Senate Bill 527 speaking before the Senate Health and Human Services Committee today. Senate Bill 527 would require clinics and doctors to provide information and counseling for pregnant teens under age 17 as they grapple with the decisions that follow from an unintended pregnancy. Where appropriate, counselors would encourage teens to speak to their parents or other family.
"It's not a compromise; it's not a political solution. It's an insurance policy for young people," said Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton) who proposed the legislation.
"This counseling is already made available to teens at clinics all over the state. But I believe there is value in taking our best practices and making them state policy. The state has always protected children and set standards for their care. This is no different," she said.
"It protects our most vulnerable teens," testified Ann Larney of Planned Parenthood of Northern New England, which supports the legislation. While most teens are able to talk about an unplanned pregnancy with their parents, Planned Parenthood has counseled many others who have compelling reasons not to involve their parents, she said.
The legislation has divided members of the pro-choice community and even health care providers. Two doctors testified today - one in support and one in opposition.
Good information about available choices is vital if patients are to feel good about the decisions they make whether that's in reproductive health or other medical procedures, said Dr. Patrick Olson, who supports the bill. Olson is an orthopedic surgery resident at the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center who's involved with Dartmouth's Center for Informed Decision Making.
"Adults always seem to focus on their own needs, then on those of young people. This is an opportunity to put the needs of our young people first," said Senator Maggie Hassan (D-Exeter), a co-sponsor.
"I think this is the best policy for our state, its teens and its parents," said Senator Joe Foster (D-Nashua), father to three girls and another co-sponsor.
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2008/adult%20involvement%20hearing.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Contact: Senator Kathleen Sgambati (603) 271-3074
CONCORD - The Senate voted today in favor of legislation to consolidate substance abuse services within the state Department of Health and Human Services. Senate Bill 324 has already been approved by the Senate Finance Committee and now heads to the House.
The legislation was sponsored by Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton), who was elected as a senator after a long career as an executive in the Department of Health and Human Services.
"This bill is intended to improve our use of state resources in addressing the growing problem of drug and alcohol abuse," she said. "It creates a more efficient and accountable method of serving individuals in need of services."
Health and Human Services staff who are responsible for prevention and treatment services have been split between three divisions and two offices, making coordination difficult, she said. Under Senate Bill 324, all the services will be gathered under the auspices of the Office of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention. The legislation also requires coordination of substance abuse resources and policy between the state health department and the Governor's Commission on Alcohol & Drug Abuse Prevention, Intervention &Treatment. No additional funding is required for this legislation.
"While reorganization bills may not be the most exciting issues we deal with, I believe that passing this legislation is one of the most important things we can do this session. Unresolved substance abuse issues affect our criminal justice system, our schools, our hospitals, our workplaces and most of all, our families. We need to make the most of the resources we allocate to prevent and treat drug and alcohol abuse. The human costs are too great to do otherwise." Sgambati said.
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2008/substance%20abuse%20consolidation.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Contact: Senator Jack Barnes (603) 271-6931
CONCORD - The Senate is drafting letters to members of the New Hampshire congressional delegation following a unanimous Senate vote this week on two resolutions calling for federal action to benefit veterans.
Senate Concurrent Resolution 7 calls for the U.S. Department of Defense and Congress to restore full services to the Manchester Veterans Administration Medical Center.
"New Hampshire is the only state that doesn't have a full service Veterans Administration Medical Center and this is unacceptable. It's been far too long -- our veterans have to go to Massachusetts or Vermont for procedures and those trips are 8-10 hours long. New Hampshire veterans should have the services here," said Senator Jack Barnes (R-Raymond), prime sponsor of SCR 7 and SCR 8.
"We have a growing number of returning veterans and aging veterans with special medical needs - as do our neighboring states. The VA medical centers in Massachusetts and Vermont cannot continue to absorb all of our people. New Hampshire needs and deserves its own full-service health care center to serve our veterans," said Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton).
Senate Concurrent Resolution 8 urges the federal Department of Defense to restore the designations of "Prisoner of War" and "Missing in Action" to servicemen and servicewomen missing or captured in operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.
"With passage of this resolution the designation of POW-MIA can be a concrete symbol that we support all who have served this great nation," said Senator Joseph Kenney (R-Union), who has served in the Marine reserves in Iraq.
"This is a duty of honor we owe to the people who have served us," said Senator Peter Burling, D-Cornish.
Barnes also urged New Hampshire's roughly 120,000 veterans to contact their congressional delegation to show their support for these resolutions.
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2008/Veterans%20SCRs.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Contact: Senator David Gottesman (603) 271- 4152
CONCORD - Senators praised the House today for voting to limit the interest rates charged on payday and title loans.
House Bill 267 passed by a vote of 207-124. Senator David Gottesman (D-Nashua) was a co-sponsor of the bill, which sets a 36 percent cap on interest rates for small loans. The legislation now heads to the Senate.
"I think it is time we put some limitations on an industry that has descended upon our state and taken advantage of our vulnerable citizens to make an unreasonable profit for their shareholders. Not only do the cash-strapped borrowers pay the costs of these loans, but our local and state welfare offices also absorb these costs, so in a sense, we are all paying," Gottesman said.
"It's just taking advantage of people who can ill afford to pay these usurious rates," said Senator John Gallus (R-Berlin). "We have to do some kind of cap. We need to remedy the unintended consequences when we removed our state's 24 percent interest rate cap in 1999."
The legislation has the support for the Attorney General, the state Banking Commissioner and the New Hampshire Local Welfare Officers Association.
"This is an important consumer protection measure that will help families avoid getting trapped in a cycle of debt," said Senator Deborah Reynolds (D-Plymouth).
"Payday lenders target those who can least afford to pay back the extraordinary fees and interest charges. Consumers can too easily get trapped in a never-ending cycle of debt," said Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton).
Gottesman is sponsor of a Senate version of the same legislation, Senate Bill 472, which has bipartisan support with 14 senators named as co-sponsors.
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2008/House%20vote%20on%20payday.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Contact: Senator Kathleen Sgambati (603) 271-3074
CONCORD - Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton) is taking her expertise to the national level -- Sgambati was selected to serve as vice-chairwoman of the National Conference of State Legislatures Standing Committee on Health.
Sgambati has garnered national recognition for her leadership in health and human services during her 25 years as an administrator for the state Department of Health and Human Services, including two stints as acting commissioner. She was very active in setting up New Hampshire's Children's Health Insurance Program and in implementing welfare reform. Those efforts, including her recent contributions as senator to crafting a leaner state budget and improving access to health insurance in New Hampshire, led to a recommendation that she be appointed to the national committee, officials said.
"Senator Sgambati brings a great deal of knowledge and experience to the table," said NCSL President Donna Stone, a state representative from Delaware. "I look forward to her valuable contributions to state public policy over the next year."
Senate President Sylvia Larsen (D-Concord) was required to approve the nomination.
"We know we have a wonderful resource in Senator Sgambati and it was only a matter of time before lawmakers outside New Hampshire would recognize and seek to benefit from her experience with creative and cost-effective programs in health and human services," Larsen said.
NCSL's Health Committee is one of its 11 national standing committees, all of which are responsible for developing policies that guide NCSL's activities on Capitol Hill and within the administration. The NCSL Standing Committee on Health also fosters information sharing among states to help policymakers learn from each other about best practices.
NCSL is the bipartisan national organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the states, commonwealths and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system.
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2007/Sgambati-NCLS.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Contact: Senator Sylvia Larsen (603) 271-2111
CONCORD - Senate President Sylvia Larsen (D-Concord) and Governor John Lynch joined parents and children at the Dame School today to support the school's efforts to enroll more eligible children in the state children's health insurance program known as Healthy Kids.
"Reaching out to families is our most important job if we're going to have our children grow up healthy in this state. Outreach is critical and Healthy Kids has proven effective once kids are enrolled. We know a healthy child becomes a healthier adult," said Larsen, who served on the board for Healthy Kids for many years.
The elementary school has joined with Concord Hospital and Healthy Kids in an outreach effort known as the 100 Percent Schools initiative, which seeks to identify uninsured children and help their parents enroll in the program.
This is one of several initiatives intended to reduce the number of uninsured children in the state. The Governor and the Legislature set a goal of insuring 10,000 more children in New Hampshire. But new and restrictive limits on the program set by the Bush administration could jeopardize that effort.
Lawmakers, including Lynch, are urging President Bush and congressional leaders to undo the new restrictions so states have the freedom to provide coverage for children according to the needs of their own communities.
Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton) led the fight this year to launch a new outreach effort that calls for trained volunteers to help parents complete the required paperwork to enroll their children in the program. That initiative is now underway.
"Healthy Kids has been an essential program for families throughout the state. It certainly is one of the best designed, most cost-effective partnerships that I have been involved in during my 25 years in government," said Sgambati, who worked for many years for the state Department of Health and Humans Services, including a stint as acting commissioner.
"Parents who have enrolled their children tell powerful stories of the benefit that the program has provided their children. Covering these children will pay long-term dividends in healthy children and in reduced health care costs to the state," she said.
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2007/Larsen-Lynch%20Healthy%20Kids.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Contact: Senator Kathleen Sgambati (603) 271-3074
CONCORD - The House and Senate today approved funds to allow for work to continue on the new Laconia District Court building.
A portion of the $4.7 million intended for the courthouse project had inadvertently been left out of the state Capital Budget approved in June. The Legislature took action today to fix the oversight on the same day it met to take up the Governor's vetoes.
"Having worked with the Capital Budget Committee to pass this originally, I'm glad we were able to correct the oversight today. Getting the new courthouse finished is important because of its historic and economic value to downtown Laconia and to the state. Any further delays would only increase the cost of this project," said Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton).
The House and Senate did not vote to overturn any of Governor John Lynch's vetoes.
One of the vetoes was requested by lawmakers to eliminate a duplication relating to the new Cancer Plan Fund. The Cancer Plan Fund was included in the state budget but previously had been established in a separate bill. Governor Lynch was asked to veto the separate bill (SB213) to avoid the duplication. The New Hampshire Comprehensive Cancer Plan Fund remains part of the state budget and will be funded from the tobacco master settlement agreement payments. The goal is to reduce tobacco use and expand cancer screening programs and survivor support services around the state.
Other vetoes left standing include Senate Bill 109 which would have expanded the emergency powers of the state Supreme Court and House Bill 143 which would have changed the apportionment of damages in civil cases.
A motion that would have allowed the Senate to correct an effective date that conflicted with another bill did not get the two-thirds majority vote needed to pass. An incorrect date on House Bill 87 inadvertently moved up the effective date on Senate Bill 18, which raised the compulsory school attendance age to 18 as of 2009. Lawmakers can still fix the problem in January when the regular session begins.
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2007/Veto%20Day.htm
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CONCORD - Gov. John Lynch today signed a law aimed at eliminating over the next three years the waiting list for services for people with developmental disabilities and acquired brain disorders.
Senate Bill 138 increases the availability of community-based services for New Hampshire citizens with developmental disabilities and acquired brain disorders, and helps ensure are agencies will have staff in place to provide those services.
“Currently, we have hundreds of our citizens who are eligible for critical services, but who have been for waiting months to get the care they need. By increasing our capacity to help care for people with developmental disabilities we are giving them the opportunity to live their lives to the fullest,” Gov. Lynch said.
Senate Bill 138 was sponsored by Sens. Iris Estabrook, Maggie Hassan and Kathy Sgambati; and Rep Tom Donovan.
http://www.nh.gov/governor/news/2007/071207lead.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Contact: Senator Lou D'Allesandro (603) 271-2600
CONCORD - The Senate passed a $10 billion budget today that holds the line on tax increases while investing in education, the economy and services to the state's most vulnerable citizens.
By a 16-8 vote, the Senate adopted a spending plan that sets aside $15 million for the state's rainy day fund and is projected to end with a $10 million surplus at the end of the biennium.
"We've produced a balanced budget with a surplus. That's a credit to everyone on the Finance committee. The budget is solid, it's well thought out and we're in a good position when it's time to negotiate with the House," said Senator Lou D'Allesandro (D-Manchester), chairman of the Senate Finance Committee.
The Finance Committee looked all state departments and identified new efficiencies to control spending and encouraged creative and innovative ways to fund essential programs. The final product includes money to aid the disabled, protect natural and historic resources, increase the number of children with health insurance and revamp cost-sharing with the counties to save millions in billing expenses.
"This is a fiscally responsible spending plan that implements many of the initiatives of Governor Lynch and the House," said Senate President Sylvia Larsen, (D-Concord).
The Senate Finance Committee had more recent data than the House on revenue and spending trends, which explains most of the difference between the House and Senate spending plans. Senate Finance members were able to look at fiscal year 2006 spending patterns and revenue estimates as of May 2007, which helped in crafting a responsible and responsive budget.
The Senate budget plan eliminates a House-proposed increase in the real estate transfer tax that was targeted to help the Land and Community Heritage Investment Program. Under the Senate plan, LCHIP would get $6 million next year from general funds and a committee would be formed to recommend a dedicated fund for the future.
-more- The Senate version of the budget also keeps a proposed increase in the cigarette tax increase at 28 cents per pack instead of the 45 cents in the House budget and reduces proposed fees on truckers by half.
The Senate budget includes funds to get more children covered under the Healthy Kids program and creates an outreach program that will include volunteers to help qualified parents complete the required paperwork.
The Senate spending plan includes funding to take care of the waitlist for the developmentally disabled over the next three years and adds a requirement that the state provide for incontinence supplies for disabled adults on Medicaid. That is expected to save money in hospitalizations and treatment for bedsores and other complications.
With the Department of Health and Human Services representing the largest part of the budget, the committee was helped especially by the insights and hard work of Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton) who previously served as acting commissioner of the state Department of Health and Human Services.
With Sgambati's help, the committee reconstructed the health and human services budget to identify efficiencies and get more money into direct services to people. Among other things, the Senate budget has counties taking financial responsibility for their nursing homes and home care while the state takes charge of the rest of the joint federal-state-county programs such as youth and juvenile justice. That shift is projected to save the state $1.3 million and the counties an equal or greater sum in administration costs.
The Senate yesterday approved a capital budget that funds important improvements to the state's highways, dams and state parks.
"This capital budget represents significant investments in the state's infrastructure and future. It also responds to unforeseen emergencies caused by storms and flooding," said Senator Maggie Hassan (D-Exeter), chairwoman of the Capital Budget Committee.
The capital budget includes $1 million for workforce housing, which is expected to leverage another $7 million from other sources to build affordable homes for working families around the state. The New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority will oversee distribution of the funds.
The capital budget sets aside matching funds for rail and provides $500,000 for the Groveton Branch rail line. For the first time in 20 years, the capital budget includes money to address the long deferred needs of state parks and historical sites, providing a total of $6 million.
It appropriates funds to repair and upgrade nine dams and puts up $1 million to start work repairing the Hampton seawall, protecting a major evacuation route for the community.
"We had a difficult task before us and the end result is a balanced budget that spends less than the governor's budget and less than the House budget," D'Allesandro said.
http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2007/Senate%20budget%20vote.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Contact: Senator Lou D'Allesandro (603) 271-2600
CONCORD - The Senate Finance Committee closed in on a balanced budget today that cuts back on House-proposed tax increases and adjusts for lower revenue projections in the next two years.
"We've produced a balanced budget with a surplus. That's a credit to everyone on this committee. The budget is solid, it's well thought out and we're in a good position when it's time to negotiate with the House," said Senator Lou D'Allesandro (D-Manchester), chairman of the Senate Finance Committee.
The roughly $10 billion spending plan includes money to aid the disabled, protect natural and historic resources, increase the number of children with health insurance and revamp cost-sharing with the counties to save millions in billing expenses.
"This is a fiscally responsible spending plan that implements many of the initiatives of Governor Lynch and the House while cutting back on tax and fee increases," said Senate President Sylvia Larsen, (D-Concord) who serves on the Finance Committee.
The Senate budget plan eliminates a House-proposed increase in the real estate transfer tax that was targeted to help the Land and Community Heritage Investment Program. Under the Senate plan, LCHIP would get $6 million next year from general funds and a committee would be formed to recommend a dedicated fund for the future.
The Senate version of the budget also keeps a proposed increase in the cigarette tax increase at 28 cents per pack instead of the 45 cents in the House budget and reduces proposed fees on truckers by half.
The Senate budget includes funds to get more children covered under the Healthy Kids program and creates an outreach program that will include volunteers to help qualified parents complete the required paperwork. It also increases reimbursement rates to many health care providers, including community mental health centers, and hospitals and facilities that provide neonatal and pediatric specialty care. -more- One major change to the Senate budget is the way counties and the state would share certain costs that range from nursing homes to juvenile justice. Currently counties bill the state in nine different cost categories. Streamlining the administration of these programs will reduce paperwork to create a $1.3 million savings for the state in administrative costs. Counties also are expected to save a similar sum.
"This budget is going to help a lot of people. In some cases, it changes the way we do business to be more efficient. By reorganizing, we were able to provide very specific aid to certain people who have been underserved for years," said Senator Kathleen Sgambati, (D-Tilton). Sgambati, a former acting commissioner of the Department of Health and Human Services, led the way for the Finance Committee in making cuts and adjustments to improve the Department of Health and Human Services budget for the next two years.
The Senate spending plan includes funding to take care of the waitlist for the developmentally disabled over the next three years and adds a requirement that the state provide for incontinence supplies for disabled adults on Medicaid. That is expected to save money in hospitalizations and treatment for bedsores and other complications.
The Senate budget preserves many of the key aspects of the Governor's proposed budget, including directing $15 million into the Rainy Day Fund, providing more money for alternative education, shoring up the Fish and Game Department, repairing key bridges and paying for new state troopers.
The full Senate has yet to vote on the proposed spending plan. Once a Senate version passes, the House and Senate will have to negotiate to develop a final budget for the start of the new biennium on July 1.
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2007/Senate%20budget%201.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Contact: Senator Sheila Roberge (603) 271-2166
Senator Kathleen Sgambati (603) 271-3074
CONCORD - The longest-serving sitting senator and a freshman senator will both receive awards tonight from the New Hampshire Women's Lobby.
Senator Sheila Roberge, a Republican from Bedford, has served in the Senate since 1984, representing the towns of Bedford, Greenfield, Lyndeborough, Merrimack, Mont Vernon and New Boston. In honoring her with a Meritorious Service Award, the NH Women's Lobby cited her sponsorship of a bill this year enabling divorced spouses to remain covered through their family health insurance policies. Also cited was her support for services to women offenders, including co-sponsorship of a bill that passed last year creating a position for an administrator of women offenders and family services as well as an interagency council on women offenders.
Senator Kathleen Sgambati, a Democrat from Tilton, was elected to her first term in the Senate last year to represent the communities of Alton, Barnstead, Belmont, Gilford, Gilmanton, Laconia , New Durham, Stafford and Tilton. Sgambati served as Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Health and Human Services under Gov. Jeanne Shaheen. In honoring her with a Meritorious Service Award, the NH Women's Lobby cited her contributions to improving the lives of children and families for more than a quarter century. Also cited was her leadership in health care reform and her role in designing the state Children's Health Insurance Program and Kid's Cabinet.
Sens. Sgambati and Roberge will be recognized tonight by the NH Women's Lobby at an event at the Capitol Center for the Arts in Concord.
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2007/senator%20awards.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Contact: Senator David Gottesman (603) 271-4152
CONCORD - The Senate voted 13 to 10 today to require insurance companies offering family health plans to extend coverage to dependents through age 25. House Bill 790, as amended by the Senate, is very similar to a Senate bill passed earlier but makes some improvements to the legislation and is expected to replace the Senate version.
"Extending health insurance coverage to all of our young adults is practical and it is cost-effective. HB 790 represents a sound public investment for everyone in New Hampshire," Senator David Gottesman (D-Nashua) said.
Because young people are one of the healthiest groups to insure, it is not expected to add significantly to family health premiums. But providing health care when it's needed should save money in the long run as well as expand the base of healthy contributors to the health insurance system, according to Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton) who sponsored the Senate version of this bill (SB183).
"This is a matter of equity. Full-time college students already get coverage under their parents' family health plans. This extends that benefit to young people who are working part-time and going to school part-time, or who are living at home, starting their careers in low-wage jobs without insurance," Sgambati said.
House Bill 790 includes some changes sought by the health insurance industry to streamline enrollment, making it easier on insurers and employers. It also clarifies certain elements of the bill relating to who qualifies for coverage.
"A very high percentage of young adults are uninsured, but they are among the healthiest and least costly in the health care system," said Rep. Martha McLeod (D-Franconia), prime sponsor of the bill. "This legislation provides continued coverage to many young adults to attend college part time and work part-time, ensures that costs will be kept down, and encourages young people to stay in New Hampshire."
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2007/House%20Bill%20790.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, April 30, 2007
Contact: Senator Lou D'Allesandro (603) 271-2600
CONCORD - If communities and conservationists are going to do their part to save valuable natural resources and historic buildings in New Hampshire, they need to know they can count on the state's Land and Community Heritage Investment Program to help, representatives of the preservation program told the Senate Finance Committee today.
Without consistent long-term funding at the state level, fewer towns are now committing their own resources to preservation, according to data from LCHIP. Town funding for land conservation dropped from a high of more than $35 million in 2003 when LCHIP was funded at $6 million per year to less than $4 million this year as LCHIP's grant monies fell to $750,000.
"Many projects cannot get off the ground until funding sources are identified," Craig Welch, chairman of the Board of Directors for LCHIP, told the Senate committee. And while LCHIP money on average pays less than 20 percent of a project's costs, it is critical to leveraging other funding such as federal grants, private donations and town funds, he said.
"We're going to look carefully at ways to fund LCHIP. Keeping the program going is important for New Hampshire," said Senator Lou D'Allesandro, (D-Manchester) chairman of the Senate Finance Committee.
The Governor's budget included $6 million per year for the next two years for LCHIP. The House budget provided instead for an additional fee on real estate transactions that's expected to raise $6 million per year for LCHIP. The state budget is now under review by the Senate, which could come up with a different plan to fund LCHIP.
"LCHIP grants help protect the legacy we need to leave future generations. But in the near term, it is also important to tourism and economic development both in the Lakes Region and the state as a whole," said Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton), a member of the Finance Committee. "We're looking to identify a stable funding source so LCHIP doesn't have to compete with other essential funding sources in the budget."
LCHIP received $12 million in the two-year budget cycle for 2002-2003. That dropped to $1.5 million for 2004-2005 and went up only slightly to $2 million in the last budget cycle. LCHIP Executive Director Rachel Rouillard told the Senate Finance Committee if funds are restored to the $12 million mark, the agency will be able to provide grants for roughly 35 to 45 new conservation and preservation projects in the next budget cycle compared with only 17 in the past four years.
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2007/Finance-LCHIP.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday April 12, 2007
Contact Senator Iris Estabrook (603) 271-3042
CONCORD - The Senate voted today for a plan to eliminate lengthy delays in providing services for people with developmental disabilities. The bill now heads to the House, which already has included funding in its budget for this plan.
"This bill helps us to fulfill our promises to people with disabilities who have been waiting for services for far too long," said Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton).
The bill not only provides additional funds for people on a longstanding waitlist, it also aims to build up the infrastructure of services that are available to the developmentally disabled. The legislation provides gradual raises for direct care workers and increases the reimbursement rate for family care providers. It also includes a plan to evaluate programs to ensure they are professionally managed and that workers are appropriately trained and supervised.
"No one disputes our longstanding failure as a Legislature to fully fund the waitlist, but the other problem that has developed over the years is a shortage of support services available to the developmentally disabled. Low wages and high turnover have made it hard to find and keep experienced workers, leading to a lack of services and programming. Senate Bill 138 addresses the problems affecting the area agencies and the workforce needed to provide these services," said Senator Iris Estabrook (D-Durham), prime sponsor and chairwoman of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee.
The legislation calls for children exiting the school systems to receive services automatically upon exit. It calls for existing clients whose needs change significantly to receive appropriate services within 90 days. And it calls for the "priority one" waitlist to be fully funded within three years as improvements are made to the community programs and services.
"Under Senate Bill 138, we have three years to build up the infrastructure and reduce the delays for services permanently," Estabrook said.
The legislation also sets up a committee to develop long-term solutions to the workforce and quality issues so the developmentally disabled can continue to be supported in their communities.
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www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2007/DD%20waitlist%20vote.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Contact: Senator Maggie Hassan (603) 271-4153
CONCORD - Continuing its efforts to improve access to health care in New Hampshire, the Senate today approved a bill to guarantee that young children who show signs of development delays get the health services they need to prevent more serious problems in the future. Several other health-related bills also passed the Senate today.
Senator Maggie Hassan (D-Exeter) is prime sponsor of Senate Bill 93, which requires insurance companies to cover early intervention therapy for children who show evidence of developmental delays between birth to age 3. It would cover services such as occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy. The bill now passes to the House.
"Research has demonstrated that every dollar spent on early intervention therapy saves $5 in medical and special education costs in the future," she said. The benefit is limited to no more than $3,200 per child per year and does require families to pay some co-pays and deductibles.
Hassan noted currently that youngsters who don't have access to such services before age three do qualify for assistance from local school systems. But early treatment can avoid or reduce the need for special services from the schools, she said.
The Senate also passed Senate Bill 215, which restores lost federal funding for community organizations that provide services to New Hampshire residents living with AIDS. The money, about $1 million, is included in the governor's budget plan.
The Senate also passed Senate Bill 92 to establish an outreach program for the state children's health insurance program. Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton), who was prime sponsor of the legislation, said volunteers would be used to help eligible families having trouble filling out the paperwork to become enrolled in Healthy Kids. The bill now heads to the House.
"Seventeen thousand children remain without insurance in New Hampshire, and it is in everyone's best interest to ensure children get the care they need to grow up to be healthy and productive citizens," she said.
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http://www.google.com/search?q=site%3Ahttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.nh.gov%2Fgovernor%2Fnews%2F2007+sgambati&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Contact: Senator Kathleen Sgambati (603) 271-3074
CONCORD - The Senate voted 12 to 10 today to require insurance companies offering family health plans to extend coverage to dependents through age 25. Senate Bill 183 now advances to the Senate Finance Committee.
"It's a matter of equity for all our young people," said Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton), prime sponsor of the bill.
Sgambati said her goal is to expand to all young adults the benefits of a bill passed last year, known as Michelle's Law. That law protects full-time college students who are covered under their parents' health insurance from losing coverage if they suffer a medical emergency that forces them to leave school temporarily. This bill would extend coverage to those age 25 and under who remain dependents, for example working part-time to earn money for college or recent graduates starting their careers.
Because young people are one of the healthiest groups to insure, it is not expected to add significantly to family health premiums, Sgambati said. But providing health care when it's needed could save money in the long run as well as expand the base of healthy contributors to the health insurance system, advocates say.
"This bill says to all of the 'Michelles' that work part time and go to school at night, that your health is just as important as the full-time college students," Sgambati said.
"Senate Bill 183 does not repeal Michelle's Law, rather it builds upon it," said Senator David Gottesman (D-Nashua).
Expanded access to health care is a leading policy goal for the Democratic Senate majority. The Senate this year already has passed legislation that allows a divorced spouse to stay covered under a family health policy (SB197). Other bills passed by the Senate this session require insurers to cover early intervention therapy for children birth to age 3 at risk for developmental disabilities (SB93) and set up a study committee to help small businesses reduce the cost of providing health insurance (SB135).
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www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2007/insurance%2025.htm
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Contact: Senator Iris Estabrook (603) 271-3042
CONCORD - The Senate voted 17 to 7 today to raise the compulsory attendance age from 16 to 18 and provide more support to at-risk youth. The bill now advances to the House.
"It's all about helping students succeed," said Senator Iris Estabrook (D-Durham) prime sponsor of Senate Bill 18. "The bill doesn't just raise the drop out age, it creates a new process for those over 16 to receive a waiver by creating an alternative learning plan - not forcing students to stay in school - but forcing students to have a plan for getting their diploma or GED."
Senate Bill 18 has strong support from Governor John Lynch, who has included money in his budget plan to provide more opportunities for students who are not successful in traditional classroom settings.
"It's the governor's leadership and vision that has brought this bill forward," Estabrook said. "I am more confident than ever that this bill and its accompanying effort will be one of the best things we do for the future of our state."
State education officials say drop out rates have been decreasing in the last few years, but records still show 2,146 high school students left school without a diploma in the 2005-06 school year. Almost 60 percent of those were students under age 18.
"Passing this legislation sends a signal to our young people that we're not going to give up on them," said Senate President Sylvia Larsen (D-Concord.) "It allows us to promote and expand successful programs that are already in place."
"I think it provides important alternatives for students that have not been included in previous legislation," said Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton).
"If our young people, especially in the North Country, are going to be successful in life, they need to graduate - whether that means they stay in school or work out an alternative plan to get their degree," said Senator John Gallus (R-Berlin), a co-sponsor of the bill.
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www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2007/SB18%20vote.htm
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Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Contact: Senator Kathleen Sgambati
(603) 271-3074
CONCORD - The Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee voted 5-0 today to recommend passage by the full Senate of two bills that would expand access to healthcare - one of the leading policy goals of the Senate Democrats.
The committee voted to support Senate Bill 197, sponsored by Senator Sheila Roberge (R-Bedford), which would allow a divorced spouse to stay covered under a family health policy. The committee also voted in support of Senate Bill 135, establishing a commission to study ways to lower the cost of health insurance for small businesses.
"It's intended to be short-term and intensive," said prime sponsor Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton). The study group would be asked to develop proposed legislation to address the challenges small businesses face in negotiating for competitive health insurance rates, she said.
A third bill, Senate Bill 183, expanding family plans to cover to dependents up to age 25, remains in committee to give lawmakers time to refine the language of the legislation.
"It is important that all of our young people have access to coverage under family plans, not just those who are full-time college students" said Sgambati, who also is prime sponsor on that bill.
Sgambati said her goal is to extend coverage to all young adults, building on the benefits of a bill passed last year, known as Michelle's Law. That law now protects college students who are covered under their parents' health insurance from losing coverage if they suffer a medical emergency that leaves them unable to attend school full time. Senate Bill 183 requires that all dependents through the age of 25 be included in their families' plan, whether they are students or not.
"All our young people, including those who are working to earning money for college or beginning new jobs require health care. It is an equity issue and it makes economic sense to provide care in low cost settings," said Sgambati.
Because young people are one of the healthiest groups to insure, it is not expected to add significantly to family health premiums, several speakers testified. But providing health care when it's needed could save money in the long run as well as expand the base of healthy contributors to the health insurance system.
"I believe this is excellent public policy," said Senator Martha Fuller Clark (D-Portsmouth). "For young people and the families who worry about them, this is an enormous step forward."
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www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2007/health%20care%20bills%20hearing.htm
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Wednesday, February 7, 2007
Contact: Senator Sylvia Larsen (603) 271-2111
CONCORD - Allowing power plants to burn construction and demolition debris would jeopardize the health of New Hampshire citizens and cause the state to become a magnet for hazardous waste from other states, several Senators testified today.
The House Science, Technology and Energy Committee heard extensive testimony today on a bill to permanently ban the burning of construction and demolition debris. House Bill 428 has the support of many lawmakers including Governor John Lynch and Department of Environmental Service Commissioner Tom Burack.
"New Hampshire's strong economy and reputation as a healthy place to live requires our vigilance. We don't want to become a state that disposes of other people's toxic waste," Senate President Sylvia Larsen (D-Concord) testified.
Senator Harold Janeway (D-Webster) reminded committee members that New Hampshire and the Northeast continue to be on the receiving end of airborne pollutants from power plants and industry in the Midwest. "Why would we add to this toxic mix through our own actions when that can be avoided," he asked?
Senator Martha Fuller Clark (D-Portsmouth) said there are better ways to stimulate the development of new energy sources. "We do not need construction and demolition waste burning for that to be a successful segment of our economy," she said. Instead the state should encourage green construction, recycling, renewables and re-use of old building materials where possible.
Senator Kathleen Sgambati (D-Tilton) said the bill represented a step forward in the state's continuing effort to protect children. "For a child that has to breathe in lead dust or arsenic or any of the other toxins, the burning of construction and demolition debris is a threat to their developing nervous system," she said.
The bill's prime sponsor is Representative Christine Hamm (D-Hopkinton). Senate co-sponsors include Sylvia Larsen, Peter Burling, Martha Fuller Clark and Harold Janeway.
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http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2007/C&D%20debris%20hearing.htm
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Friday, January 26, 2007
CONCORD - With the start of the 2007 legislative session, newly elected Sen. Kathleen Sgambati is bringing her expertise in health and human services to bear on issues of small business health insurance and improving government efficiency.
Sgambati is proposing legislation to set up a committee to identify ways to make insurance more affordable to small businesses.
"I see this as a jumping off point for some cost initiatives and some better purchasing arrangements for small businesses," she said.
Sgambati, the former deputy commissioner for the state Department of Health and Human Services, said she plans to champion efforts to simplify government by looking at outdated regulations that add unnecessary cost. Her long tenure with the state, working under several different governors, has given her experience in building bipartisan support for her ideas.
Sgambati also has introduced legislation requiring a Healthy Kids outreach program. Sgambati said 17,000 children remain without insurance in this state and more can be done to let parents know about the cost-effective state children's health insurance program.
Concern for the state's lakes and open spaces is another key issue for Sgambati, who has been appointed to the state's Watershed Advisory Committee. She also plans to advocate for expanded funding for the state's Land and Community Heritage Investment Program and supports a bill calling for the study of shoreline leases by the state.
"I hope to play a major role in protecting New Hampshire's lakes and my district's historic and natural resources. It's not just important to my constituents, but it's essential to our state's economy," she said.
www.gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/press/2007/sgambati-intro.htm