2020
HB1659, “An act relative to patient directed care and patient’s rights with regard to end-of-life decisions”, was introduced on January 8, 2020, by Representatives Catt Sandler, George Saunderson, Gerri Cannon, Kenneth Vincent, Matthew Towne, Gary Woods, Sherry Frost, Christy Bartlett, Martha Hennessey. This bill would authorize medical aid in dying in the state.
The bill was first heard by the House Judiciary Committee on February 12, 2020. Compassion & Choices staff participated among many other during several hours of testimony.
On March 4, 2020, the House Judiciary Committee referred HB 1659, The New Hampshire Death With Dignity Act, for further study during an executive session.
2019
HB 291 was introduced January 9, 2019 and is sponsored by Rep. Butler, Rep. Knirk, Rep. Van Houten, Rep. M. Smith and Sen. Hennessey. House Bill 291 would establish a legislative committee to study end-of-life care in New Hampshire and across the country. HB 291 moved to the full Senate where it passed with amendments on May 23. The House non-concurred with the Senate version on June 13.
2018
State Senator Martha Hennessey introduced SB490 in 2018, a bill to establish a commission to study end-of-life choices. A hearing was held before the Health & Human Services Committee and passed by a 3-to-2 vote, but was defeated on the Senate floor.
