The New Hampshire Senate meeting on January 15, 2025, featured an engaging presentation from a group of fifth graders advocating for the Virginia opossum to be designated as the state marsupial. This bipartisan initiative, led by Senator Fenton, aimed to involve young citizens in the legislative process and highlight the importance of civic engagement among students.

During the meeting, two students, Vera Cusimano and Vivian Diososa, presented their case for the opossum, emphasizing its resilience and ecological benefits, such as controlling tick populations that can spread Lyme disease. They noted that the opossum is the only marsupial native to New Hampshire and argued that recognizing it as the state marsupial could help raise awareness and protect the species.

The committee responded positively to the students' presentation, with members expressing appreciation for their efforts and the informative nature of their speech. Senator McGill proposed an amendment to the bill, suggesting that the opossums found within New Hampshire be referred to as "New Hampshire opossums." This amendment was accepted without objection.

The committee unanimously voted to move the bill forward, reflecting a strong support for both the students' initiative and the ecological significance of the opossum. The meeting concluded with a sense of accomplishment, as the students were commended for their contributions to the legislative process, reinforcing the value of youth involvement in state governance.