Relative to tenant and contract manufacturers of beer, wine, and liquor; allowing pharmacists to administer influenza, COVID-19, and other FDA licensed vaccines without explicit approval from the general court; and, restricting the purchase of real property on or around military installations.
Impact
The bill also includes provisions permitting pharmacists in New Hampshire to administer specified vaccines, such as those for influenza and COVID-19, without needing explicit approval from the legislature. This change is likely to improve public health responses by streamlining vaccination efforts, especially in rural or underserved areas where healthcare access may be limited. Additionally, the legislation imposes restrictions on real estate purchases by entities tied to the People's Republic of China, specifically within a ten-mile radius of military installations and critical infrastructure. This addresses national security concerns by preventing potential foreign control over sensitive areas.
Summary
House Bill 1358 addresses a variety of issues related to the production and distribution of alcoholic beverages, healthcare provisions, and real estate transactions near military installations. A significant aspect of the bill is the expansion of tenant brewing regulations, allowing not only breweries but also contract manufacturers of wines and liquors to operate under a tenant manufacturing framework. This aims to enhance local production capabilities while adhering to state licensing requirements, thus fostering a competitive environment for small producers in the alcohol industry.
Contention
Some points of contention surrounding HB 1358 may include debates over the implications of allowing contract manufacturing related to alcohol and the unqualified authorization for pharmacists to administer vaccines. Critics might argue that easing restrictions on alcohol production could pose regulatory risks or challenge existing state alcohol control laws. Additionally, opposition may arise regarding the real estate provisions, with some advocating for a less strict approach to foreign investments while others firmly support national security-oriented regulations.