The New Hampshire House Judiciary Committee convened on January 27, 2025, to discuss House Bill 476, which proposes a 15-week abortion ban. The meeting featured a series of testimonies from various stakeholders, reflecting a deep divide on the issue.

The session began with a passionate address from an older woman from Nashua, who expressed her opposition to the bill. She emphasized the potential dangers of such a ban, stating that it could lead to dire consequences for women and restrict doctors from providing necessary reproductive health care. She urged committee members to consider the implications of their vote, particularly for young women like her 13-year-old daughter, whom she brought to the meeting.

Caitlin Matthews, the Chief Operating Officer of Second Step, a nonprofit focused on domestic violence, followed with her testimony against the bill. She highlighted the intersection of domestic violence and abortion access, arguing that restrictive abortion laws could exacerbate domestic violence situations. Matthews warned that such legislation could increase isolation and health risks for survivors, making it harder for them to seek help.

Jonathan Kimbell, a 24-year-old resident of Hampton, spoke in favor of the bill but opposed an amendment being proposed. He framed the bill as a pivotal moment for the rights of the unborn in New Hampshire and urged lawmakers to prioritize what he described as a moral obligation to protect life. Kimbell drew historical parallels to slavery, arguing that the current fight against abortion is a continuation of the struggle for human rights.

The meeting concluded with further testimonies, including one from Sue Allen, who also expressed her views on the bill. The discussions highlighted the contentious nature of the abortion debate in New Hampshire, with strong sentiments on both sides regarding the implications of the proposed legislation.

As the committee continues to deliberate, the outcome of House Bill 476 remains uncertain, reflecting broader national conversations about reproductive rights and health care access. The committee is expected to reconvene to further discuss the bill and its potential impacts on the community.