New Hampshire committee addresses domestic violence and false reporting concerns

The New Hampshire Senate Committee on Children and Family Law convened on April 3, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding domestic violence and child protection laws. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding the legal framework's effectiveness in addressing false allegations and ensuring the safety of children.

One of the primary topics of discussion was the testimony from a member of the public who shared a personal experience of attempted molestation at a young age. This testimony underscored the importance of recognizing children's ability to report abuse and the need for a legal system that supports their voices. The speaker argued against making individuals who are not government officials mandatory reporters of child abuse, labeling such a requirement as unconstitutional. They emphasized that while decent individuals would intervene in cases of child abuse, the current legal system often fails to prosecute offenders effectively.

The committee also addressed the issue of the "chilling effect" on testimony, where individuals may hesitate to speak out due to fear of being labeled with negative intentions. The chair of the committee reiterated the importance of focusing on factual testimony without assigning motives to individuals, including lobbyists and public members.

Another representative, Kelly Potenza, shared a troubling case involving a father who faced multiple unfounded allegations during a contentious divorce. Potenza highlighted the financial and emotional toll these false allegations took on the father, emphasizing the need for reforms that provide swift and certain justice in cases involving children.

The discussions revealed a consensus among committee members and public witnesses on the necessity for legislative changes to strengthen protections for children and ensure accountability in cases of domestic violence. The committee is expected to consider these testimonies as they move forward with potential reforms aimed at improving the legal landscape for families in New Hampshire.