New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB1019

Introduced
10/29/21  
Refer
10/29/21  

Caption

Establishing a committee to study the replacement of certain professional licenses with mandatory minimum liability insurance requirements.

Impact

The bill's impact could reshape existing state laws regarding professional licensure. By exploring the option of mandatory insurance rather than licenses, the proposal may provide a more flexible regulatory environment. This change could affect various professions that currently require state licensure, such as certain trades or services where liability insurance might adequately protect consumers while lessening the bureaucratic burden on practitioners.

Summary

House Bill 1019 aims to evaluate the current system of professional licensing by establishing a committee tasked with studying the feasibility of replacing certain professional licenses with mandatory minimum liability insurance requirements. The bill's intent is to streamline regulatory frameworks, potentially reducing red tape for professionals while ensuring adequate liability coverage for public protection. This approach is seen as a way to simplify the licensing process and encourage more individuals to enter various professions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1019 appears to be cautiously optimistic. Proponents acknowledge the potential for increased accessibility to professions without compromising consumer protection, seeing it as a positive step towards modernizing regulations. However, there are concerns among some stakeholders regarding the adequacy of liability insurance in ensuring professional standards and public safety, which could spark debate among lawmakers and affected parties.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the reliability and sufficiency of liability insurance as a replacement for formal licensure. Opponents of the bill may argue that professional licenses ensure a specific standard of competency, which may not be matched by simply requiring insurance. The discussion on whether mandatory insurance can effectively safeguard public interests while allowing for greater market entry is central to the ongoing legislative discourse surrounding HB 1019.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH SB325

Establishing a committee to study the issue of insurance appraiser licensing.

NH SB220

Relative to establishing a committee to study licensure of mental health professionals.

NH HB128

Establishing a committee to study unemployment insurance.

NH SB243

Establishing a committee to study implementing a state-based health insurance exchange.

NH SB330

Establishing a committee to study and make recommendations relative to the office of professional licensure and certification and the licensure of professions under boards, councils, and commissions within the office and relative to the expiration of terms of the board of foresters members.

NH SB41

Establishing a committee to study age discrimination by auto insurance companies.

NH HB46

Establishing a committee to study replacement of bail commissioners with court magistrates and relative to delinquent payment of accounts by on premises and off premises licensees and relative to electronic payments to employee debit cards.

NH HB319

Establishing a committee to study an all-payer system of insurance for hospital services.

NH HB319

Establishing a committee to study an all-payer system of insurance for hospital services.

NH HB1274

Establishing a committee to study the solid waste practices of state agencies.

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