New Hampshire Senate Bill SB313

New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/14/21
• Refer: 12/14/21
• Report Pass: 3/16/22
• Engrossed: 3/28/22
• Refer: 3/28/22
• Report Pass: 4/12/22
• Refer: 4/21/22
• Report Pass: 4/27/22
• Enrolled: 6/22/22
• Chaptered: 7/7/22
• Passed: 7/7/22

Caption

Relative to the authority of the office of professional licensure and certification to establish fees.

Impact

The implementation of SB 313 is expected to streamline the fee-setting processes within the office of professional licensure. By granting the executive director the authority to establish fees, the bill aims to create a fair and predictable financial structure that aligns fees with operational costs. This move is intended to mitigate issues where certain boards generate excessive revenue while others struggle financially. The establishment of a committee to study and recommend funding strategies seeks to ensure equitable distribution of costs among the boards, which could lead to a more sustainable approach to professional licensing.

Summary

Senate Bill 313 aims to clarify the authority of the office of professional licensure and certification in New Hampshire to establish fees that support the operational costs of various boards, councils, and commissions under its administration. The bill addresses existing statutory conflicts regarding fee-setting authority, particularly the disparity in how different boards manage their finances—some not covering 100% of their operating costs while others exceed 125%. It emphasizes the need for a more structured approach to funding the licensure processes necessary for various professions in the state.

Contention

While the bill has been framed as a necessary update to improve the operational efficiency of professional boards, it may raise concerns among stakeholders regarding the affordability of licensure fees for certain professions. There exists the possibility that increasing fees to cover operating expenses could disproportionately impact emerging professionals and smaller organizations. Additionally, the bill’s provision for a committee to explore alternative funding approaches implies an acknowledgment of varying financial circumstances across different sectors, which may elicit debate over the nature of fees and access to professions. The composition and findings of the committee will be crucial in shaping any legislative adjustments that could result from this study.