February 2024 NHPA Updates
Brothers and sisters,
The NHPA has continued to represent and advocate for you behind the scenes and at the State House. Our work on your behalf continues.
We held our monthly in person meeting last Tuesday February 20th in Salem. Legislative topics included the recent hearing on Qualified Immunity which went well for law enforcement. An NHPA representative testified and there was a good turnout overall speaking against the bill which would abolish Qualified Immunity in New Hampshire. In fact, there was overwhelming opposition to the bill in the hearing. While the effort to prevent changes to current law seems to be going well again this year, we need to remain vigilant as qualified immunity will likely continue to be threatened.
The NHPA also continues to closely monitor a number of other bills and subjects affecting us including retirement, police details, the misconduct committee, and first responder mental health.
The President of the NH Group II Retirement Coalition was present again to speak about their current position regarding their possible lawsuit.
The remainder of the meeting was spent discussing housekeeping topics such as police memorial week and scholarships.
As always, feel free to contact a board member if you have any questions, thoughts, or are interested in getting more involved. Involvement is vital in an association like ours.
Take Care and stay safe!
Mike Geha
President, NHPA
November 2023 NHPA Updates
Brothers and sisters,
The NHPA held it regular monthly meeting on Tuesday November 21, 2023.
The board met with Representative Kimberly Abare who is seeking an endorsement for Donald Trump and Russell Prescott who spoke about his run for Congress. Officials and members in attendance questioned him about his position on qualified immunity, the retirement system, and law enforcement support among other topics. Leaders of the newly formed NH Group II Retirement Coalition were in attendance to speak about the coalition’s origins, intent, and answered questions. Much of the night was taken up with conversation regarding retirement issues and the committee which has recently concluded their meetings regarding the current state of the retirement system for the “middle tier” affected in 2012 as well as the overall system.
Ken Chamberlain was presented with a plaque in recognition of his work and dedication to the NHPA and NH law enforcement. Ken is a Retired Manchester Police Officer, Former president of the Manchester Police Patrolmans Association, is a past president of the NH Police Association, and he has continued to work with and support the NHPA and all law enforcement since his retirement.
NHPA Attorney Marc Beaudoin gave a legal update and NHPA lobbyist James Demers gave legislative updates on a variety of topics to include retirement, qualified immunity, HB 526 (traffic details), and SB 134 (disability for LE seriously injured in the line of duty).
****************The NHPA meets monthly advocating for and representing all NH law enforcement in the courts and at the State House. Please support us by becoming a member and getting involved. For more information, visit our website and contact a board member for details. ************************