New Hampshire House Bill HB615

New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/23
• Refer: 1/12/23
• Report DNP: 3/14/23
• Report Pass: 3/14/23

Caption

Requiring independent audits of reproductive health care facilities.

Impact

If passed, HB 615 would alter the existing framework governing state support for reproductive health facilities. The bill's provisions would limit funding and introduce external audits aimed at ensuring compliance with its stipulations. The results of these audits, along with corrective action plans, would have to be reported to the Commissioner of Health and Human Services prior to any state contract action. This could potentially restrict the financial operations of reproductive health facilities and family planning projects that provide or are associated with abortion services.

Summary

House Bill 615-FN aims to impose strict regulations on reproductive health care facilities in New Hampshire by requiring independent audits to monitor the use of state funds. The bill stipulates that any state funds awarded to these facilities must be the minimum necessary for compliance with Medicaid participation requirements. Additionally, it mandates that contracts with family planning projects adhere to provisions ensuring that state funds cannot be utilized to subsidize abortion services, directly or indirectly. This reflects a significant regulatory tightening around state support for reproductive health services.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HB 615 appears to be divided among legislators and constituents. Supporters argue that these measures are necessary to ensure financial accountability in how public funds are used in reproductive health care. They claim that the bill is designed to protect taxpayer dollars from being indirectly used to fund abortions. Conversely, opponents criticize the bill as an attempt to undermine reproductive rights and limit access to essential health services, viewing the independent audits as an invasive measure that could financially cripple organizations that provide comprehensive reproductive health care.

Contention

Debate over HB 615 has highlighted a fundamental conflict regarding reproductive health funding. Proponents see the bill as vital for maintaining transparency and preventing the misuse of state funds, while opponents argue that these audits may pressure facilities to distance themselves from essential services due to fear of losing funding. The bill's requirements regarding audits and the financial disconnection from abortion services create a contentious environment wherein reproductive health providers could potentially struggle to maintain their operations if they are found to be non-compliant or linked, even indirectly, to abortion services.