The New Hampshire House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee convened on January 30, 2025, to discuss House Bill 56, which proposes implementing universal background checks and a mandatory waiting period for firearm purchases. The meeting featured a range of testimonies reflecting the ongoing debate over gun control measures in the state.

One of the most poignant testimonies came from Donna Moore, who shared a heartbreaking account of her son Nathan's suicide, which occurred shortly after he purchased a firearm. Moore emphasized that a waiting period could provide individuals in crisis with critical time to reconsider their decisions, potentially saving lives. She urged the committee to support the bill, highlighting the need for a balance between Second Amendment rights and public safety.

Conversely, representatives from the National Rifle Association (NRA) and local gun businesses opposed the bill, arguing that it would infringe on individual rights and economic interests. Justin Davis, representing the NRA, criticized the proposed waiting period as an arbitrary measure that could hinder self-defense, particularly for vulnerable individuals. He also pointed out that New Hampshire has one of the lowest gun death rates in the country, suggesting that stricter regulations may not correlate with increased safety.

Supporters of the bill, including Dr. John Henke from the New Hampshire Psychiatric Society, argued that background checks and waiting periods are essential for reducing gun violence and suicides. Henke noted that a significant percentage of gun deaths in the state are suicides, and studies indicate that waiting periods can decrease impulsive actions leading to such tragedies.

The committee's discussions reflect a broader national conversation about gun control, individual rights, and public safety. As New Hampshire continues to grapple with these issues, the outcome of House Bill 56 could have significant implications for both gun owners and the community at large. The committee is expected to deliberate further on the bill, weighing the testimonies and data presented during the meeting.