In a pivotal meeting held on February 11, 2025, the New Hampshire Senate Finance Committee gathered to discuss the future of a vital program aimed at addressing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Established in 2022 through Senate Bill 444, this initiative has been instrumental in providing prevention and treatment for the state's most vulnerable children, particularly those aged zero to six, who are at the highest risk for maltreatment.

The committee reviewed Senate Bill 238, which seeks to extend the successful pilot program through 2026 and 2027. Advocates for the bill highlighted the need for an annual budget of $150,000, primarily allocated for training professionals involved in the program. This funding is crucial for enhancing the skills of those working directly with children and their families, ensuring they receive the best possible support.

Dr. Cassie Ackley, a licensed psychologist with over three decades of experience in child maltreatment, testified in favor of the bill. She emphasized the effectiveness of Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), an evidence-based approach that has shown a remarkable 65% reduction in child maltreatment cases. Dr. Ackley noted that since its inception, the program has supported over a thousand children, significantly improving their mental health and educational readiness while also alleviating caregiver trauma.

The urgency of this initiative was underscored by the alarming statistic that nearly half of all maltreatment victims in New Hampshire are under the age of five. Dr. Ackley and other advocates stressed the importance of early intervention, arguing that investing in preventive measures now could save the state substantial costs in the long run by reducing the need for special education and involvement in the juvenile justice system.

As the meeting progressed, the committee heard from various stakeholders, including Deli Champagne, chair of the Center for Trauma Responsive Practice Change, who echoed the call for continued support of the CPP program. She shared her personal journey as an advocate for children, highlighting the transformative impact of early intervention on families grappling with trauma and addiction.

The discussions concluded with a sense of optimism about the potential for the bill to pass, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of addressing childhood trauma in New Hampshire. As the state looks to the future, the commitment to supporting vulnerable children and their families remains a top priority, promising a brighter path for those most in need.