New Hampshire Senate Bill SB30

New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/7/25
• Refer: 1/7/25
• Report Pass: 1/16/25
• Engrossed: 3/28/25
• Refer: 3/28/25
• Report Pass: 5/6/25

Caption

Proclaiming the Virginia opossum the state marsupial of New Hampshire and relative to the penalty for incorrect application of fertilizers.

Impact

The adoption of SB30 would not only officially declare the Virginia opossum as the state marsupial but would also contribute to state law by adding a new section to the Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA). This change could facilitate education efforts about the opossum's ecological role and its status within the local environment, potentially influencing conservation awareness and practices among the public.

Summary

Senate Bill 30 seeks to designate the Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) as the official state marsupial of New Hampshire. This move is part of a broader initiative to recognize the importance of state symbols in fostering a sense of identity and pride among residents. The bill reflects a growing interest in promoting state wildlife and enhancing public awareness about the species native to New Hampshire.

Contention

While the bill is likely to have broad support given its relatively non-controversial nature, there may be some discussion surrounding the implications of designating a state symbol. Critics might argue that more pressing issues exist requiring legislative attention, while proponents emphasize the educational and cultural significance of having a state marsupial. The potential for discussions around the broader implications of wildlife representation and conservation in state policy may surface during deliberation.