The House Commerce and Consumer Affairs Committee of the New Hampshire Legislature convened on May 21, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding municipal insurance assessments and the responsibilities of risk management organizations. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding the handling of insurance claims and the financial implications for local towns.

A key point of discussion centered on the challenges towns face when assessments are subject to fluctuations, particularly in the aftermath of crises such as pandemics or natural disasters. One committee member expressed skepticism about the practicality of managing these assessments, emphasizing that unpredictable events could complicate the situation further. This member argued that the current system does not align with the fundamental principles of insurance, advocating for an amendment to address these concerns.

Another committee member voiced frustration over the differing interpretations of RSA 5-B, which governs the responsibilities of risk management organizations like HealthTrust. This member criticized HealthTrust's assertion that they bear the risk for towns paying premiums for claims. Instead, they argued that if HealthTrust runs out of funds, it is the towns that would be left to cover the costs, placing an undue burden on local taxpayers.

The committee underscored its role in overseeing pooled risk organizations, stressing the importance of clarity and accountability in the insurance process for municipalities. The discussions revealed a significant divide in understanding the statutory obligations of these organizations and the potential financial risks to towns.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members acknowledged the need for further examination of these issues to ensure that local governments are adequately protected and that the insurance system functions as intended. The outcome of these discussions may lead to legislative changes aimed at improving the stability and reliability of municipal insurance assessments in New Hampshire.