Bill > SB251

This bill establishes a commission to study and improve public health services in New Hampshire through regional public health networks (RPHNs). The commission will consist of 17 members, including a state senator, a state representative, representatives from each of the 13 RPHNs, the director of the division of public health, and a member of the New Hampshire Public Health Association. The commission's responsibilities include reviewing the operations of current public health networks, monitoring regional health priorities, developing sustainable and evidence-based programs to improve health outcomes, tracking public health emergency management, and reviewing service coordination among local public health partners. Legislative members will receive mileage reimbursement, and the commission will elect a chairperson and hold its first meeting within 45 days of the bill's effective date. The commission is required to submit a comprehensive report with findings and legislative recommendations by November 1, 2026, to various state officials and institutions. The bill repeals the previous version of this commission and will take effect upon passage, with Section 2 specifically taking effect on November 1, 2026.